Tam Ha (Vietnam). On 8 November 2020, the young women of the Period of Assessment and Guidance (PAG) of Mary Help of Christians Province (VTN) met in the Provincial House of Tam Ha, Thu Duc, for a day of formation.
The theme – “The family spirit in the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians” – accompanied the participants beginning with their arrival in the Provincial House where they were warmly welcomed by the Provincial, Sr. Rosa Vu, by the Provincial Councilor for Formation, Sr. Teresa Nguyen, by the Assistants and Animators of some Communities.
The meeting was eagerly awaited by the young women, who enthusiastically welcomed the initial learning activities and games. After the greeting from the Provincial and the presentation of the day by Sr. Teresa Nguyen, Sr. Maria Hoang, Provincial Councilor introduced the theme. Starting from the family atmosphere experienced in Mornese at the origins, Sister Maria spoke of the family as a characteristic of Salesian spirituality, in which time, energy, affection, availability for mutual help and sacrifice are invested and everything is given to build a happy house. The family teaches how to love and how to experience love. It is a place of unconditional acceptance and mutual forgiveness, a school that educates to face problems and conflicts. After listening, time was left for personal prayer, followed by sharing, and group work.
A moment of prayer concluded the meeting and the young women returned to their communities recharged by the experience:
“The words and witness of the FMA are a living expression of the spirit that Don Bosco and Mother Mazzarello left to the Institute. After this day, we are more aware of our choice, which the Province and the Institute take loving care of. We were able to know precious aspects of the Salesian spirit. In sharing and studying the theme of the family spirit, we felt closer to each other, united by the call to be FMA that resounds in our hearts. We are grateful for this experience and for the accompaniment on the part of our sisters”.
