Tam Ha (Vietnam). On 16 July 2022, on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the foundation of the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, the FMA of the Province of Mary Help of Christians (VTN) had an encounter at the Provincial House of Tam Ha with their parents and relatives living in southern Vietnam, where the “History and Spirit” exhibition hall was inaugurated.
The Eucharistic Celebration, in gratitude to God and to Mary Help of Christians for what has been accomplished in 150 years of history, was presided over by Fr. Joseph Nguyen Kim Khanh, Salesian of Don Bosco, Vicar of St. John Bosco Province of Vietnam (VIE) and concelebrated by two priest relatives of the Sisters. In the homily, with simplicity and fraternity, Fr. Joseph thanked the parents for having given their daughters to God, thanking them for the good examples of life with which they laid the foundations of the faith of the FMA. With some anecdotes, he made the homily cheerful, meaningful, and profound.
After the Holy Mass, Fr. Joseph and the Provincial, Sr. Maria Hoang Thi Thu Ha, with Sr. Maddalena Ngo Thi Minh Chau, the first Vietnamese FMA, cut the ribbon, inaugurating the “History and Spirit” exhibition hall, which all were able to visit.
On behalf of the FMA of the Province, the Provincial then expressed her gratitude to the parents for their presence, the love and care they showed to the Institute and the Province. In the family atmosphere that was created, she also shared some reflections regarding the celebrations of the 150th anniversary of the FMA Institute.
Subsequently, Sr. Maria Hoang Ngoc Yen, Provincial Councilor, through a presentation enriched by dances and small representations, invited the participants to make a trip to Mornese, in Northern of Italy, the land where Mother Mazzarello was born, retracing the highlights of her life. The artistic presentation also highlighted the role of Providence in the Foundation of the Institute, through the Holy Founders.
The day ended with a time of celebration with the families, who received a small souvenir gift from the event. May Mary Help of Christians always walk in the home of every family, protect it and keep parents and relatives in peace.
