BRISBANE’S newly professed Canossian Sister Thao Nguyen likened her religious vocation to her nursing qualifications.
“They both allow me to fall in love with Jesus all over again,” she said following her final profession of vows at Oxley in Brisbane last Sunday.
“I think I’m called to be for God in front of people … especially those who are sick and dying.”
Sr Thao graduated from nursing in 2002 but began her novitiate year in Singapore in 1998, taking her “first vows” in Brisbane in 2000.
For her final vows, she was joined for the ceremony by her mother Hang Vu, six of her seven sisters, her two brothers and their extended family members of up to 50 nieces and nephews.
She said the profession “brought them together”.
“It’s something that has really united our family even more in faith,” she said.
Family celebrations began in Sr Thao’s sister’s home in Darra-Jindalee parish on December 6 and continued during the week after the profession.
Mrs Vu, 82, shared her delight about her daughter’s decision.
“Mum’s very happy,” Sr Thao said.
“She said if God takes her now, she’s happy to go.”
After a short break Sr Thao will continue serving among the aged and unwell.
Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Oudeman of Brisbane presided at the profession Mass.
