His Mission, Our Mission

80 His Mission, Our Mission My initial postings in Ban Saint Mary and the Udon Thani cathedral allowed me to assist established priests, gaining valuable insights into pastoral work in Thailand. Subsequently, I filled temporary vacancies in Poncharon and Ponpisay, offering support to remote communities facing the absence of their regular priests. These experiences exposed me to the diverse needs and realities of rural Thailand, fostering a deep sense of connection with the people. For the next four years, I served as the parish priest of Ponsungnoi. Witnessing the faith and resilience of the community during this period remains a cherished memory. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a change of direction in my journey. I returned to the SVD Bangkok community, and currently, I am pursuing further studies in the Philippines. Throughout my time in Thailand, the greatest joy stemmed from connecting with the warm and welcoming people. Despite the cultural differences, particularly the prevalence of Buddhism compared to my Vietnamese background, I found a sense of belonging and purpose. Engaging with the parishioners, witnessing their growth in faith, and sharing their joys and sorrows brought great satisfaction. Collaborating with fellow missionaries from diverse backgrounds proved to be another enriching aspect of my experience. The spirit of collaboration, mutual support, and shared purpose fostered a strong sense of community amongst us. Additionally, the great support of the Bishop and local priests made my mission all the more fulfilling. Even though I am currently away, the memories of my time in Thailand continue to inspire me. Seeing individuals I encoun-

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