Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Nha Trang (Fides Service) – “We are very happy. This means we will soon have new co-operators in the Church’s pastoral work”, Bishop Nguyen Van Hoa, Bishop Nha Trang told Fides. The Bishop, also President of the Vietnamese Bishops’ Conference was referring to a special two year theology course at Stella Maris major seminary in Nha Trang.
The course is for former seminarians unable for various reasons to complete their studies for the priesthood. This special two year course will mean they can be ordained and be at the disposal of their respective bishops for pastoral work. The course is also open to formerly clandestine priests, now free to carry out their ministry, whose formation was incomplete.
The courses consist of biblical and pastoral theology Bishop Nguyen Van Hoa told Fides, voicing the satisfaction of the Bishops of Vietnam who wish to inform the Pope of this good news: “This is an injection of confidence and hope for the Church in Vietnam”.
The official ceremony for the inauguration of the Course on 30 January was attended by bishops, professors and students and also government representatives. The 102 students are 60 former seminarians and 42 priests from various diocese Vietnam.
(PA) (Fides Service 6/2/2004 Lines: 28 Words: 278)
