By VIE SocCom
HCM, Vietnam - 31 May 2024 -- Five deacons and four priests were ordained at Xuan Hiep Church, Ho Chi Minh City, on 28 May 2024. Bishop Dominic Hoang Minh Tien, Bishop of Hung Hoa Diocese, was the ordaining prelate, with over almost two hundred Salesians, other members of the Salesian Family in Vietnam and many other Congregations in attendance.
Bishop Dominic encouraged the newly ordained to thank God for calling them and showering bountiful grace on them, so that they may become truly Salesian, as well as being faithful with those blessings.
In his homily, the Bishop reminded the entire community, especially the candidates, to be more convinced about the Salesian vocation. He stressed the spirituality of education and mission in Don Bosco’s life, the way our Founder dedicated his entire life to the mission, especially to young people. This commitment is a difficult task that requires the Salesians to be generous and self-sacrificing, devoted and holy to always serve in love, all for the salvation of souls, as the Salesian motto: “Give me souls, take away the rest.”
He mentioned the silent and fruitful works of the Salesians in Hung Hoa Diocese. Although the work is difficult and challenging, the weather is harsh, but the Salesians are always peaceful and cheerful. He invited the community to pray for the Salesians to overcome the difficulties. He related the reaction of Moses in the Bible that he cried out to God because the difficulties were beyond his strength, but God comforted him and granted him the Holy Spirit.
The sacred and solemn liturgical ceremony showed that God's grace is always poured out abundantly on each ordination of Deacons and Priests.
At the end of the Mass, Father Barnaba, the Provincial, thanked Bishop Dominic for presiding over the Mass. He expressed his gratitude to all the community present.
In his response, Bishop Dominic congratulated the Province, especially the newly ordained deacons and priests. He also thanked the parents and families for their generosity and for dedicating their children to God.
After the Mass, a photo was taken with Bishop Dominic and the concelebrants, and a fraternal meal was shared.
