Belief Practices

Dear Readers,

This issue of the Journal of Catholic Studies in Life presents a collection of research articles that focus on both the practical and spiritual dimensions of the religious and lay Catholic life in Vietnam. The authors have conducted studies involving various groups such as religious men and women, postulants, theology students, and Catholic youth, aiming to clarify the factors that influence vocational choices, faith practices, prayer life, participation in the Eucharist, catechetical learning, and missionary activities. These studies not only illustrate current conditions, strengths, and challenges in spiritual life, but also offer constructive recommendations, such as renewing formation methods, enhancing pastoral accompaniment, and strengthening community life. This compilation contributes meaningfully to enriching faith and evangelization in today’s context.

Ngô Thanh Hải and colleagues (2025) surveyed 43 religious members at the Eucharistic Academy to explore the benefits, challenges, and strategies for community life development. Results highlight the spiritual, human, and vocational enrichment that community living offers, while also pointing out tensions caused by personality and cultural differences. The study proposes prayer, dialogue, reflection, and spiritual accompaniment as remedies.

Trần Văn Chung and co-authors (2025) examined daily Mass attendance among 60 young people in Cần Thạnh Parish, Archdiocese of Saigon. Most participants showed devotion and faithfulness, but many lacked liturgical understanding and spiritual depth. The authors recommend faith formation, pastoral support, and liturgical awareness enhancement.

Vũ Quốc Hưng and his team (2025) studied factors influencing the vocational choice of 55 Redemptorist aspirants in Saigon. Key influences included the example of religious life, family environment, prayer, and personal experience, with spiritual witness playing a central role. The study suggests increasing vocational accompaniment and experiential programs.

Đặng Thái Thiết and colleagues (2025) investigated the role of silence in the spiritual life of 48 religious from various congregations. Findings show that silence deepens prayer and community relationships, but is challenged by modern life and technology. Suggested practices include regular reflection, personal discipline, and spiritual guidance.

Lê Đức Anh and collaborators (2025) explored the challenges in living the vow of poverty among 45 Franciscan students. Major difficulties involve consumer culture, academic pressure, digital distractions, and cultural differences. The study recommends initial formation, spiritual accompaniment, and supportive communities for authentic poverty living.

Nguyễn Kỳ Oai and team (2025) examined changes in the religious life of 50 Catholics after joining the Legion of Mary. Participants reported enhanced prayer life, Marian devotion, liturgical participation, and service spirit. The study suggests regular spiritual training, group meetings, and pastoral accompaniment.

Nguyễn Quốc Việt and colleagues (2025) assessed the catechetical learning status of 52 pre-postulants and postulants of the Missionaries of Faith Vietnam. While most were eager to learn, they faced difficulties due to weak foundations and passive methods. Recommendations include interactive pedagogy, curriculum reform, and regular catechetical activities.

Trần Triệu Vĩ and collaborators (2025) surveyed 50 members of the Dehonians Youth on their rosary practice. The rosary fostered prayer, Marian devotion, and communal bonding, though perseverance and understanding of mysteries were issues. The authors propose Scripture sharing, spiritual guidance, and group activities.

Đinh Quốc Việt and team (2025) explored why 60 lay Catholics enrolled in the Level 1 Catechist Training Program (2024–2025) in the Archdiocese of Saigon. Key motivations included a love for teaching, service to the Church, deepening faith knowledge, and personal growth. Recommendations involve spiritual formation, updated content, and interactive learning environments.

Phan Tiến Dũng and colleagues (2025) studied the mission activities of 50 first-year philosophy students at Saint Alphonsus Theologate. While students showed enthusiasm and commitment, challenges included time management, practical skills, and adaptability. The study proposes integrating mission training into the curriculum with pastoral accompaniment.

This collection reveals encouraging signs of vitality in Vietnamese Catholic life, particularly among youth, religious, and lay leaders. Despite many challenges, each study reflects ongoing efforts to live and witness to the Gospel. Moving forward, deep spiritual formation, personalized pastoral care, and vibrant faith communities will be essential foundations for the Church’s growth in today’s world.

For the Greater Glory of God!
Editor-in-Chief
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Joseph Phạm Vũ Phi Hổ
Journal of Catholic Studies in Life