In Memory of Fr. Paul Nguyen Van Dong

This morning, Monday December 5, our Vietnamese brothers are gathered in Ba Ria (Vietnam) for the funeral Mass of Fr. Paul NGUYEN VAN DONG (37 years old) who was killed in a motor bike accident. He was one of the founding members of our Assumptionist mission in Vietnam and Master of novices.

It is a sad moment for his family, for his young Vietnamese brothers and for our Assumptionist mission in Asia.

Thank you for your prayers for Fr. Paul, for his family and for our frail communities in Asia.

Emmanuel d’Alzon community in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo had the joy of welcoming 12 new members, brothers who are joining the community in order to pursue their formation in Theology. Their number reminds us of the 12 apostles, chosen by Jesus Christ as his closest collaborators in announcing the Gospel.

As the Assumptionist Center in Brighton, MA continued its Sunday ‘conversations’ series, the most recent topic explored media and Assumptionist publications as a ministry serving the Church.

Historically, Church leaders have always had a special mandate from Jesus to proclaim, “that the Kingdom of God is at hand,” in every possible way, including and especially for us through the printed word. In today’s world of rapidly expanding means of technological communication, the publishing world is facing very difficult challenges.

The Assumptionists have always had a strong commitment to the ministry of the press in communicating the Good News. Since our earliest beginnings in France, our own publishing house, Bayard Press, has grown throughout the world, including here in the U.S.

“Sing and play music in your hearts to the Lord, always giving thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Ephesians 5:19-20)

Good and gracious God, we set aside this day to celebrate in a special way with all  who give You thanks for your many blessings, both spiritual and physical.
You have graced us abundantly during the past year and throughout our lives.
You have given us life to enjoy and to share in service to our brothers and sisters, especially with those who are in most need of Your blessings.
And so it is fitting that we give you praise and thanks today and everyday.
We pray this in the name of Jesus, Your Son.
Amen.