My journey to the priesthood began when I was a young altar server. I was drawn to the joy, sense of community, and the ministry of serving others. I want to emphasize from the outset that I never intended to join any religious orders because I had no understanding of them. However, I did wish to become a priest and planned to pursue that path in my home diocese.
When I moved to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) for college, I discovered that my family background was my greatest obstacle to becoming a diocesan priest. One of the priests told me, “coming from a broken family, you will never be a good priest. Your family’s example could tarnish the reputation of the diocese.” Feeling rejected and abandoned, I grappled with many questions about consecrated life. Despite this, I never gave up.
As I was nearing the end of my college journey, I had the opportunity to meet a priest from the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart, thanks to the support of some Religious Sisters from the Lovers of the Holy Cross Congregation. While sharing my authentic story with him, I clearly remember his words: “This is your vocation! God loves you just as you are.” At that moment, I felt a profound sense of purpose regarding my calling.
The experience of self-acceptance was deep and transformative. Embracing my true self allowed me to experience God’s love amid my brokenness, vulnerabilities, and imperfections. Through the Sacred Heart of Jesus, I found healing in God’s love, and I became convinced that this is where God is calling me—to be a Missionary of the Sacred Heart.
Jesus’ heart is unique. He doesn’t try to entice us with false promises or offer superficial favours. He doesn’t care about popularity, doesn’t seek validation, and isn’t obsessed with personal success. However, he challenges each person to thoughtfully consider their reasons for following him and the implications that decision will have.
God does not have a physical heart. God’s physical heart is the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Saying “yes”, to God is not always easy but with God’s Grace all is possible. As a Missionary of the Sacred Heart, I am part of something bigger than myself – enabling me to dream and proclaiming Jesus’ Redemptive Love from His Heart in our vulnerable world.
Together, let us be on earth the Heart of God.
Fr. Chung Minh Tran, MSC