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On September 22nd the Initial Formation Candidates of the Vietnam Mission volunteered at a charitable event to minister to children suffering from leprosy. Tinh, Khương, and Blir worked hard at setting up the tents to host the event, and then ministered to the children by playing games and singing songs with them. The candidates enjoyed working with a religious brother and some nuns on this joyous occasion celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival. Tinh was actually one of the leaders of this fun event for the children.
The Mid-Autumn Festival is a harvest festival celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar with full moon at night. It is a time for gathering, giving thanks for harmonious unions, and praying for a good future. It is known as Children’s Festival in Vietnam because of the event’s emphasis on children.
In the Vietnamese tradition, it was believed that children, being innocent and pure, had the closest connection to the sacred and natural world. Being close to children was seen as a way to connect with deities. Upon hearing of the happiness expressed by our Initial Formation Candidates in serving these physically challenged children, it is obvious to me that the Vietnamese people still feel connected to God through the innocence and purity of children. We join them in prayer for a promising future for these children.
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