by Sr. Sarah Harbaugh, ASC
I have sat down so many times to try to put into words my experience visiting our sisters in Vietnam in February; however, I have been struggling with the words to describe this amazing opportunity. During the trip, I was offered numerous amazing opportunities that I never thought I would have the chance to participate in. I want to take the time to share two big highlights of the trip.
The first would be the celebration of Sr. Ha’s perpetual profession. It was a privilege to help prepare the day before and enjoy the community of sisters, family, and friends all helping to make the event special. As I watched them put together the flower arrangements that adored the altar, I remember thinking about how this event wasn’t just special for the ASC sisters. It was also
special for Ha’s family and friends who love and cherish her. The Mass was a beautiful example of Church. The church was filled with love and support for Sr. Ha and I was just one of many people there to celebrate. As I sat in the pews, I found it very moving to see Srs. Michelle, Mai, and Hang all support Ha as she signed the document marking her forever yes to live as an Adorer of the Blood of Christ. The celebration after the Mass was filled with food, fun, laughter, singing, and dancing. Again, the love and support for Sr. Ha shone brightly. It was honor to be a small part of the celebration.
The second noteworthy event was welcoming Giang into candidacy with the Adorers of the Blood of Christ. By this point in the adventure, I found myself reflecting on my journey that brought me to this point in preparation for my own perpetual profession. Giang’s entrance into candidacy was about nine years after my own, and I couldn’t help but imagine all the potential Giang has as she grows into living life as an ASC. It was special to have the chance to meet and get to know Giang during my time in Vietnam, and I will continue to pray for her as she continues on her formation journey. The evening celebration ended with a lively dinner with Giang’s family, the boarding girls at Thai Binh, and the ASC sisters.
There are so many other experiences that I had while in Vietnam, from sightseeing adventures to experiences of community. Each one is special, and I will hold the experience of this trip close to me as I continue my own journey of preparing for perpetual profession.
