Many people (perhaps) still wonder about the meaning of a religious vocation. Some ask, “Is it happy to be religious, a consecrated person? What is the meaning of it? Are you not desirable, so that religious life becomes an escape? Isn't married life better than religious life? “Some people praise this lifestyle, saying, ‘How happy are those who do not marry, living in chastity and freedom in service wherever they are sent.’" It is not easy to answer the curiosity of many people, their admiration, and perhaps their doubts about life as a religious. Let me invite you to reflect on this together through my simple reflection.
First and foremost, it is a call...
Our late Pope Francis, in his Apostolic Document Gaudete et exultate, said, “We are all called to be witnesses, but there are many actual ways of bearing witness.” In my reflection, everyone is called to be holy. However, there are various paths to holiness, one of which is religious life. I am grateful that I am called to be holy through this religious life. Through religious vows (poverty, chastity, and obedience), I try to follow Christ completely and hopefully help me in my work as a Xaverian missionary. I am happy for that! So clearly, everyone is called to be holy through the path that God gives to those who respond to it. Everyone can be what they want to be, but not everyone is necessarily called to be what they want to be. Everything always starts from God's call, not just human intentions.
Forever, yet always renewed...
On November 5, 2025, I took the courage to step forward at the altar and offer my entire life as a religious missionary in the Xaverian family: "I consecrate myself by vow forever to the apostolic activity of the Saint Francis Xavier Foreign Mission Society. To this end, I dedicate myself under vow to live in chastity, poverty, and obedience as a brother among brothers according to the Constitutions." Why did I dare to do so? Because I felt that I was called to a new life. I am happy with this path because I walk with God. He who calls also perfects everything. I respond with faith, hope, and love. There are many struggles, challenges, and other sorrows. However, I believe that the blessings God has given me help me to grow in faith and persevere in every trial.
Lastly, everything is the prayers of good people...
My vocation is increasingly fruitful because of the prayers of good people (family, confreres, friends, relatives, benefactors, and parishioners). They did not say much, just a simple prayer: "May you always be faithful to the path that God has given you." If God Himself is faithful to me, then clearly that prayer also helps me to be more faithful to the path I have chosen. Their support always gives me encouragement, and their advice always brings new spirit to my vocation. I am grateful for that.
In conclusion, I am happy to be a consecrated person. That's all! May God bless you!
