Left: Sr. Kim Xuan with three San Antonio C.C.V.I.s at the Convocation. Right: Sr. Kim Xuan with two other new Vocation Directors. Bottom: Sr. Kim Xuan with other NRVC Convocation participants.

BY SISTER KIM XUAN THI NGUYEN

Thank you for supporting and praying for vocation ministry! I had the opportunity to attend the National Religious Vocation Conference (NRVC) Convocation called “Call Beyond Borders” on November 3-6, 2022, in Spokane, Washington. There were about two hundred people who attended, mostly vocation ministers and NRVC members from different religious orders in the United States and Canada. The workshops, liturgies, keynote presentations, and networking possibilities were excellent. The convocation provided educational opportunities, resources, and supportive services for those serving in vocation ministry. I found the experience helpful and inspiring with all the input for spiritual, professional, and personal growth I received.

Most of the vocation directors attending the convocation are seasoned in vocation ministry. I was one of the youngest vocation directors there! I officially assumed the role on November 1st, only three days prior to this event, while others have been in vocation work for many years. I had a chance to learn from their experiences as vocation directors, such as how to network and create good working relationships. After the convocation, I felt hopeful and was reminded of what Pope Francis said in Fratelli Tutti “HOPE is Bold; it can open us up to grand ideals that make life more beautiful and worthwhile. Let us continue, then, to advance along the paths of HOPE.” My heart is filled with hope for the future of religious life. May each of us take the opportunity to answer the call beyond our borders to rejuvenate our lives and help the young people we encounter Prayer for Vocations
discover their calling.