VMY IN JAPAN | ECHOES OF FAITH AND SERVICE

The Vincentian Marian Youth in Japan comprises Vietnamese VMY members currently working and studying within the country. This group, accompanied by priests and sisters, is affiliated with the Vincentian Marian Youth Association in Vietnam. 

The inception of this community dates back to 2019 in the Kansai region of Japan where several Vietnamese VMY members gathered with the intention of perpetuating the VMY ideals. Initiating communication through social media, and with the support of the local Daughters of Charity (DC) community, the first group meeting took place at the DC community on November 10, 2019. 

Actively involved in Nigawa Church services, the group has garnered attention and support from parish priests. As more members were invited to join, the collective efforts aimed to strengthen bonds among members and foster a prayerful and service-oriented lifestyle. Activities include participating in and serving at Mass, receiving sacraments, accompanying the DC on visits to the homeless, and organizing nightly online prayer sessions on social media. These endeavors not only fortify the bonds among members but also nurture their spiritual connection with God and Mother Mary. 

Thanks be to God and Mother Mary, after four (4) years, the group has grown to approximately 150 members organized into six (6) groups. Four (4) of these groups actively engage in various parishes, guided by priests and advisors, preserving the spiritual essence of the Vincentian Marian Youth: Living, Contemplating, and Serving. 

Annually, all members convene on the feast of July 18 and the feast of the Miraculous Medal to participate in Mass, share in prayer, have formation sessions, socialize, and fortify their bonds. Additionally, the group organizes fundraising activities during the Tet (Lunar New Year) holiday and the feast of Saint Vincent de Paul. The funds collected are dedicated to assisting the less fortunate in the local area and supporting those in need in Vietnam.

Three times a year, the group visits the homeless and the impoverished at Daughters of Charity service locations. Furthermore, members establish connections with individuals and organizations in Vietnam to collaborate on specific charitable programs. 

Moving forward, the Vincentian Marian Youth in Japan envisions a future marked by sustained growth and outreach. Their efforts focus on maintaining and developing the group, welcoming new members, and introducing the VMY to local youth. United in prayer, they aspire to see the VMY Association extend its reach globally, spreading the message of the Blessed Virgin Mary to young people worldwide. 

To Jesus with Mary 

VMY in Japan