THE FIRST WEEK OF NOVEMBER marks National Vocation Awareness Week, a time when the Church reflects on the gift of consecrated life and prays for an increase in holy vocations. This year, the Diocese of Orange had a special reason to celebrate: the dedication of two new convents, each bringing unique charisms and ministries that will enrich the local Church.
LOVERS OF THE HOLY CROSS OF NHA TRANG: WITNESSES OF JOYFUL LOVE
On Oct. 25, Bishop Kevin Vann dedicated the new convent of the Lovers of the Holy Cross of Nha Trang, officially named the John Paul II Community, in Garden Grove. The liturgy, attended by more than 150 friends and supporters, was held under a tent in the convent’s backyard. During the ceremony, Bishop Vann blessed the convent and chapel, and the Blessed Sacrament was reserved in the convent’s chapel so the sisters may draw strength for the religious life and mission from the Eucharist.
THE DEDICATION OF THE NEW CONVENT OF THE LOVERS OF THE HOLY CROSS OF NHA TRANG WAS HELD ON OCT. 25 UNDER A TENT IN THE CONVENT’S BACKYARD. PHOTOS BY IAN TRAN/DIOCESE OF ORANGE
The Lovers of the Holy Cross was founded in the 17th century by Servant of God Bishop Pierre Lambert de la Motte in Vietnam. Their charism is to live the mystery of the Cross in daily life, combining deep contemplation with active service. While the congregation began in Vietnam, the Nha Trang branch has been present in the United States since 2007 and has served the Diocese of Orange for over a decade. Since 2013, the sisters have operated a Vietnamese daycare and preschool in Garden Grove, commuting daily from Norwalk. They also assist with faith formation at St. Polycarp parish in Stanton, where one sister serves as Confirmation coordinator. The new convent will house four sisters, enabling them to live their religious life more fully while continuing their apostolate in the diocese. Their presence strengthens family life, supports parish catechesis and offers a joyful witness of consecrated love.
SISTERS OF THE BLESSED KOREAN MARTYRS: SERVING WITH SELFLESS LOVE
Just a week later, on Nov. 4, Bishop Vann dedicated the “Mu-a Nanumteo” (Selfless Sharing Center) convent of the Sisters of the Blessed Korean Martyrs, also in Garden Grove. Due to limited space, the liturgy was held on the patio, where Bishop Vann blessed the convent and its small oratory, and the Blessed Sacrament was reserved. Two sisters will reside in this convent, focusing on ministry to Korean senior citizens. Through daily activities, Bible studies, and pastoral care, they provide companionship and spiritual nourishment to elders who might otherwise feel isolated. Their charism flows from the heroic witness of the Korean martyrs, inspiring a life of sacrifice and evangelization.
ON NOV. 4, BISHOP KEVIN VANN DEDICATED THE “MU-A NANUMTEO” (SELFLESS SHARING CENTER) CONVENT OF THE SISTERS OF THE BLESSED KOREAN MARTYRS IN GARDEN GROVE.
Founded in Korea in 1946, the Sisters of the Blessed Korean Martyrs have grown into a missionary congregation with communities across Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas. Their new convent in the Diocese of Orange expands their U.S. presence, which already includes Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas and New York. Their ministry will strengthen the Korean Catholic community and deepen the religious witness in our diocese.
A GIFT FOR THE LOCAL CHURCH
The timing of the dedication of these two convents stands as a tangible sign of God’s providence.
“We are so blessed to have the opportunity to welcome two new convents in our diocese within a month,” reflected Bishop Vann. “I am grateful for the many ways the Lord will work through the sisters’ ministry in our diocese.”