By Sr. Malen Estacio, FMA

One of the vocation-promotion initiatives conducted in the Vicariate of Phnom Penh (Cambodia) and in which the Salesian Family actively participates, is the monthly Mass and Prayer Vigil for priestly and religious vocations. Initiated by Bishop Olivier Schmitthauesler and the vocation team of the Vicariate, the vocation vigil is held every first Thursday of the month. It starts with the evening Mass at around 6:00 or 6:30, followed by the whole-night vigil of prayers, and ends with the Friday morning Mass at 6 am. Different groups from parishes and youth centers take turns in the prayer vigil in front of the Blessed Sacrament. The Eucharistic adoration is usually done in “Taize” style and mostly animated by youth groups. Among these groups are the “Besucco Boys” of the SDBs, the “Come and See” girls of the FMAs and the two vocation groups of the Vicariate: the “Emmanuel” (for boys) and the “Samuel” Group (for girls).

This month’s vocation vigil was held last November 5, 2015 at the Salesian Sisters’ school in Tuol kork District, Phnom Penh. It was impressive to see young people, mostly high-school and university students or young workers, spending the night in silent adoration and prayer. Their zeal and devotion at Mass and during the silent moments spoke of their desire to discern and heed God’s call for themselves or for those who are called.