Consecrated vocations are confronting the challenges of the modern era. Social media and materialistic values are gradually becoming the norm among young people. Yet, in Southern Vietnam, amidst the relentless pace of life and the powerful draw of consumerist culture, a spiritual “nursery” is quietly sprouting.
Rooted in the spirit of Synodality, the Vocation Promotion Network in Saigon seeks to create a space for listening to and accompanying young people. Since its founding in 2023, the network has extended beyond the Society of Jesus to 22 religious congregations, gathering about 40 male and female religious. Despite carrying different spiritualities and charisms, they share one mission: bringing the light of vocation to young people through the lens of Ignatian spirituality and kindling joy in consecrated life.
The network emphasises mutual support, especially in professionalism and pastoral safety. Besides the daily practice of examen and other forms of prayer, the network highly prioritises safeguarding. Members receive thorough guidance on images, words, and behaviours to ensure a healthy, transparent, and absolutely safe environment for youth discernment.
To streamline its efforts, the network employs a parish-centric approach, whereby parishes or dioceses assign contacts to the Jesuit Vocation Promotion Committee. This fosters diverse membership within the network and vibrant energy in every vocation promotion activity.
The network works alongside parishes to train catechists and youth groups. Beyond organising events, its bigger goal is to empower parishes to confidently organise their own vocation festivals in the future. Members from other congregations serve as an “extended arm,” gently guiding young people who desire to explore the Jesuit vocation.
The Jesuit Vocation Promotion Network in Vietnam is a multi-coloured tapestry in which differences in spirituality blend into a common calling: to guide young people in today’s world to discover the beauty of becoming disciples walking in the footsteps of Jesus.
John Baptist Nguyễn Phi Long SJ
