On Saturday 30 May some OLMC students and staff joined many others in attending the Mass of the Ordination to Priesthood for Br Cao Van Tri CP (Rev Tri) at Holy Cross Centre, Templestowe. The principal celebrant was Most Rev Bishop Thinh Nguyen DD (Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Melbourne), with support from Very Rev Fr Denis Travers CP (Provincial of the Passionists of the Holy Spirit Province in Australia, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand and Vietnam), many other Passionist priests, as well as a good number of other religious and diocesan clergy (including our OLMC College Chaplain, Rev Fr Vinh Nguyen).
Lily A (12 C3), Olivia B (11 L5) and Rheanah R (11 C2) represented OLMC and assisted as readers during this special Mass. ‘Love’ was the theme of Tri’s chosen Scripture readings (Jeremiah 31:1-6; Psalm 88; 1 Corinthians 13:1-13; Matthew 25:31-46), which Bishop Thinh preached on in his homily. Bishop Thinh used an acronym to reflect on the role of the priest – ‘L (Laying down your life) / O (Obedience to the heart) / V (Voice of Christ) / E (Eucharistic life)’ – whilst also summarising this as having ‘a Eucharistic heart and a shepherd’s love.’ All those present were asked to consider how they can support Tri in his ministry as a priest.
It was a joyous occasion with Tri, along with his family, friends and religious community (the Passionists), which included Passionist hospitality after the Mass. We were grateful to be able to celebrate with and support Tri who has been supportive of our OLMC community. Best wishes and every blessing to Fr Tri in his vocation as a Passionist priest: may God and St. Paul of the Cross be with you in your love and service of all God’s people.
