On July 26, four men professed vows with the Society of the Divine Word. The event was held in the new Wendelin Hall at Techny. We invite you to get to know our newest members. Today, we feature Hoang Son Vu SVD.
Age: 40
Hometown: Vung Tau, Vietnam
Languages: Vietnamese and English
Ministries during novitiate: Food preparation at Phở Tâm restaurant in Niles, Ill., for feeding the homeless. Ministry of Care at St. Norbert parish.
Favorite book: “Ethics in Pastoral Ministry by Richard M. Gula and “Stories of the Saints: Bold and Inspiring Tales of Adventure, Grace, and Courage” by Carey Wallace
Will you tell us about a time when you felt God’s presence?
Most of the time I feel God’s presence is when I attend Mass. Mainly, I feel God more closely when offering prayers to God between Masses. During this time, I and others bring their needs and concerns to God, and I can also pray for people who ask me to pray for them. I believe that God can hear my prayers. I also feel God when I engage in ministries, especially the homebound ministry; I brought the Body of Christ to them. I feel their happiness when they receive the Body of Christ, and at that moment God’s presence is truly between us.
When did you first feel the call to be a missionary?
After I graduated from the University of Architecture HCMC in Vietnam in 2014, I volunteered with the Saint Paul Sisters in Vietnam during my summer vacation. The most attractive thing to me is that of a smiling elderly sister when she is serving others. They took care of patients in the hospital preparing food for the poor patients. Their positive energy and actions inspired me. At that time, I realized the religious life is a special lifestyle. I believe that at that moment God planted a seed in my heart.
How has living with the SVD brothers and priests at Techny inspired you?
During the novitiate year, I had a whole year to live with the retired SVD members at Techny. They each had a different story to share, and their wisdom and advice is precious to me. I learned a lot. Their lives and holiness support and inspire me. Through their sharing, I also understand more about the SVDs and the missionary life. I was so lucky to receive their advice.