» 02/06/2010 11:45 VIETNAM Formation for a new role for Catholics in Vietnamese society by J.B. Vu The archdiocese of Saigon organizes informal classes for Bible studies, catechism, pastoral and social activities. The meetings are also opportunities to deepen their personal spirituality.
Hi Chi Minh City (AsiaNews) - Bible, catechism, pastoral and social activities: they are the "subjects" of informal classes organized by the archdiocese's Pastoral Center, proposed to the faithful and young people, half of which are lay people. It is the Church answer in what once was the capital of South Vietnam to the challenges of today’s "modern culture"; consumerism, the loss of the religious spirit.
The classes, which also pose practical objectives, are an investment designed to make it possible for Catholics to live in accordance with their faith. "I come here - confirms a woman, Le Thi Mung - to listen and study the issues related to the Catholic spirituality in the context of life today. The topics and content of the seminars are practical and profound; we have the opportunity to share the values of life. Participation is positive for life. "
The teachers bring different human experiences: they are bishops, priests, nuns, Protestant pastors, lay Catholics, non-Catholic experts, university professors. They have different qualifications and contribute to family education in the diocese.
Another lady, Nguyen Binh Minh, expresses her support for teaching and learning. "Those teaching the courses have life experience; they are also social researchers and psychologists. We learned a lot from excellent presentations, in particular, good examples of ethical training. The subjects taught are varied and interesting. Some are also linked to everyday life in society. And 'learning that helps me look at myself and live, my role of Vietnamese Catholics and citizens".
Teachers from different backgrounds use the same "participatory approach", such as discussion groups that shared experiences and pose questions to be resolved together. With this informal education, Catholics strengthen their faith and the ability to bear witness to life in the context of today's society. A young woman, Thao Uyen, says: "My mother asked me to take part in the workshops of the pastoral center. So as not to spend my Saturday’s wandering the streets. I come here not only to 'study' but also for practice behaviour with others. My class is really friendly; we assist and help each other in our spiritual life. "
The organizers have welcomed the results of these educational activities, which sees the presence of 48% of lay people. This has surprised many people. The organizers of the Center have encouraged and intensified the role of Catholics in the areas of informal education. Governmental and non-governmental organisations and other religions have made their contribution.
The parishioners are usually the core of the activities of churches and associations of the archdiocese, but because, more than 200 parishes lack the resources and staff to organize the training, the Pastoral Center is responsible for the education of the Christian family in the archdiocese of Saigon. Moreover, in the current situation in the country, the role of the lay faithful does not fully follow the directives of the Second Vatican Council. It is for this purpose that Cardinal Jean-Baptist, Cardinal Pham Minh Man and the Auxiliary Bishop Pierre Nguyen Van Kham are making a major effort to redefine the role of the laity in the Church and society.
