“The love of God has been poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit whom he has given us” (Romans 5:5).
Memories of the day I received the sacrament of Confirmation remain deeply etched in my soul—not only for the sacramental character which marked my full Christian initiation, but also for the transformation of heart which I experienced. As the sacred oil dripped down the sides of my face, the Gift of God—the Holy Spirit—purged my heart of its worldly ambitions and set it aflame with something new. I discovered that my heart yearned for something more than what this world alone could offer. With the excitement of new love pervading my soul -- and by the grace of God -- I discerned a vocation to the religious life with the Sisters whom I knew best--the Vietnamese Dominican Sisters of Mary Immaculate Province. Since then, a world of grace has opened to me in this Dominican family, and the mystery of God’s infinite love continues to unfold each day. My goal is to live to the fullest this vocation of love.
It is an exciting adventure to awaken each morning in thanksgiving for a new day to love and to serve as a bride of Christ. At present, I am pursing a doctoral degree in Systematic Theology at the Catholic University of America. This mission has stretched my horizons and brought me to a deeper contemplation of sacred truths. One of my greatest joys is to share with my students the fruits of this contemplation.
To those considering a religious vocation, my word of advice is to dare to embark on this wondrous journey with God; do not hesitate to give Him your all. Throughout all the joys and the challenges, seek God alone, for He alone satisfies every true and good desire of our heart.