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Asian American Vocation Rally March 18, 2001, New York City
One of the highlights of 2001 took place on March 18: the Asian American Vocation Rally (AAVR). This event was organized through a combined effort of 16 religious communities and 2 laity groups, including the Filipino Youth Apostolate of New York Archdiocese, and Emmanuel Crusade. The mission of the AAVR was to promote vocations to the priesthood and religious life among young people in the Asian American communities. Two hundred fifty young Asian Americans, and more than 100 adults (vocation ministers, parents, and leaders of the Asian communities) from throughout the northeast converged on Fordham University for a joyous celebration of our Call, and Vocation..
The theme "the harvest is rich" (Mt. 9:38) was manifested by the enthusiasm, spirit, singing, liturgies, interaction and witnessing to Christ.
We began in the Assembly Room with welcome, morning prayers (Luke 10) and a dramatic presentation with reflections by youth leader Bruce Deaton. Workshops were held where each person could select two of the following:
- God, Tea and Rice: This workshop focused on being in touch with God, others and ourselves incorporating Asian culture and values into spirituality and worship. Through meditation, music, chant and movement, participants experienced different ways to enter more deeply into God’s presence.
- Garden of Faith: Everyone has a unique story. . .we met an Asian Brother, Sister and Priest who shared the story of his or her call. Why did they come? Why do they stay? Who and what were the signs and influences they recognized in their life that led to their decision?
- The Harvest is Rich: Through our Baptism we are all called to share in the mission and ministry of Jesus the Christ. God calls each of us to serve our faith communities. The need is great. This workshop explored ways one can serve God and God’s people as young Catholic Asian Americans and the unique gifts that Asian Americans bring to the Church.
- Sharing in Jesus' Healing Ministry: Explored the healing ministry of Jesus and how we as baptized Christians are called to be healers of others. Through personal witness the presenters shared their experience as Religious Sisters in the medical profession and how they bring the healing touch of Jesus to their patients.
- Seeking Harmony: This workshop explored finding the balance and integrating an Asian American identity with that of being Christian and a Catholic. They explored ways to speak, act and live in the American context but at the same time to preserve their Asian roots, heritage and culture.
- Finding the Way: Who am I? What is God’s will for me? How do I make the right choices and decisions in my life? This workshop explored the role of family and community in their decisions.
- What is God Calling Me To: The workshop explored the different vocations open to Catholic Christians (marriage, diocesan priesthood, religious life, single life) and the call to ministry within each of these life styles.
- Planting Seeds: Sister Catherine Bertrand, Executive Director of the NRVC (National Religious Vocation Conference), dialogued with parents, lay leaders, clergy and vocation ministers on ways to promote Asian American Vocations.
The workshops were given by Asian Americans and were open only to young American Asians.
- In the afternoon we gathered together in the Assembly for song, dance and witnessing. Four young Asian Americans in initial formation witnessed to their vocation as seminarian, brother and sister.
- Displays from the various religious congregations and diocesan priesthood beautifully framed the cafeteria where snacks and drinks were available throughout the day.
The day ended with a colorful, deeply spiritual and well animated Liturgical Celebration. The singing, dancing, banners and participation of all present were wonderful. Please pray for these young people from the Asian American Cultures: Chinese, Japanese, Indonesian, Vietnamese, Filipinos and Koreans as they respond to God’s call.
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