“These vows express a complete love, as Jesus Christ, our Lord, has taught us.”

With these words, Bishop Peter Nguyễn Văn Khảm, President of the Commission for Religious of the Episcopal Conference of Vietnam, presided over the Holy Mass in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary Immaculate. This celebration was also an occasion to give thanks for the establishment of the Camillian Vice-Province in Vietnam. The Mass took place on December 7, 2024, at the Tân Định Church, in the presence of many religious, benefactors, and faithful.

The Thanksgiving Mass

The celebration began with the procession of the concelebrants, including Fr. John Baptist Phương Đình Toại, provincial delegate of the Vietnamese Delegation, Fr. Baby Ellickal, member of the General Council, and Fr. Paolo Cherdchai Lertjitlekha, Provincial Superior of Thailand.

During his homily, Bishop Peter reflected on three great joys that characterized the event. The first was the joy of gratitude, inspired by the words of the Virgin Mary at the Annunciation: “My soul magnifies the Lord.” He explained how the Camillians can now give thanks for the fruits of their 20 years of mission in Vietnam. The second joy was the joy of service: just as Mary hastened to visit Elizabeth, the Camillians dedicate themselves tirelessly to the sick, finding deep spiritual satisfaction in their mission. Finally, the third joy was the joy of self-giving: “When they renew their vows, the Camillians declare their total and unconditional commitment, following the example of Christ.”

Addressing the community, the Bishop posed a question about the future of the Order in Vietnam, inviting everyone to trust in the Lord and support the Camillians in their mission.

The Elevation to Vice-Province

Following the homily, the official proclamation of the Decree of the Superior General took place, formally elevating the Vietnamese Delegation to Vice-Province. The decree was read by Fr. Baby Ellickal in English and by Fr. Giuse Trần Văn Phát in Vietnamese.

The new Council of the Vice-Province was then introduced: Fr. John Baptist Phương Đình Toại as Superior, Fr. Vincent Vũ Quốc Toản, Fr. Giuse Phan Anh Dũng, Fr. Paul Nguyễn Như Hiếu, and Fr. Giuse Hoàng Quốc Huy, who also serves as secretary and financial administrator.

Shortly afterward, the Camillian religious renewed their solemn vows, reaffirming their commitment to live in chastity, poverty, and obedience, and to serve the sick even at the risk of their lives.

Gratitude and Congratulations

At the end of the celebration, Fr. John Baptist Phương Đình Toại expressed his gratitude to Bishop Peter, the parish priest of Tân Định Church, and all present for their support. Fr. Paolo Cherdchai Lertjitlekha, Provincial Superior of Thailand, extended his congratulations to the new Council of the Vice-Province. Bishop Peter also addressed the assembly, emphasizing the significance of this event for the future of the Camillian mission in Vietnam.

The celebration concluded with a group photo featuring the Bishop, the concelebrants, the new Council, and the Camillian religious, all united in a spirit of joy and fellowship.

Words of Sharing

Brother Joseph, a Camillian currently completing his studies in Thailand, shared his enthusiasm: “Returning to Vietnam, this celebration has given me renewed strength to face challenges and continue my path of consecration.”

Ms. Phụng, a businesswoman close to the Order, added: “I have always supported Fr. Toại for his dedication to the poorest of the sick. Seeing his work recognized today fills me with joy.”

After the celebration, a simple banquet gathered all attendees in the church courtyard, where Bishop Peter once again highlighted the significance of the event: “This day embodies three joys: gratitude, service, and self-offering. These are the foundations of the Camillian mission, which today sees its efforts rewarded for the benefit of the poor and the sick in Vietnam.”