Category: Community

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Surrendering to God and Filling the Emptiness: A Profound Conversation with Liz Curtis Higgs

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Who is Liz Curtis Higgs

Liz Curtis Higgs is a bestselling author, speaker, and Bible teacher. She was born in Kentucky, USA, in 1953, and grew up in a Christian family. She has written more than 30 books, including non-fiction works on topics such as biblical studies, women’s issues, and Christian living, as well as novels and children’s books.

Liz Curtis Higgs

Higgs is perhaps best known for her Bad Girls of the Bible series, which explores the lives of women in the Bible who made mistakes or broke the rules, such as Eve, Delilah, and Bathsheba. Her books have sold millions of copies and have been translated into numerous languages.

In addition to her writing, Higgs is a popular speaker and Bible teacher, and has traveled extensively to speak at conferences and events. She has also appeared on numerous television and radio programs. Higgs currently lives in Louisville, Kentucky, with her husband, Bill, and their two children.

Di Tran’s Meeting with Liz Curtis Higgs

Meeting Liz Curtis Higgs was a truly wonderful experience, and it was clear that God was working through both of us during our conversation. We talked about surrendering to God and the moment when we each became aware of the presence of the divine in our lives. Liz shared a profound insight with me, that our hearts, souls, and cores are like empty vacuum spaces that are constantly seeking to be filled with something.

As humans, we often seek to fill this emptiness with material things, food, alcohol, negativity, anger, power, success, or any number of other things. But what we fill up with truly matters, and the answer to our seeking is much simpler than we might imagine.

Di Tran + Liz Curtis Higgs

The answer has always been with us, as God is within each of us. We have everything we need, including the most powerful of all things, our spirit, which is in harmony with the infinite divine universe. The challenge is that we often don’t let our spirit do its job, as we try to control everything in our lives.

What we need to do is surrender and let go of our self, so that our spirit can run its course naturally and manifest the things we desire. This is in alignment with the idea of “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH,” which I explore in my upcoming book, the guide to faith by understanding fear and worry, and surrendering them so that God has the space to work through us.

It’s clear that filling the emptiness with things outside in the world doesn’t fill it. We need God as the energy to fill that space, and surrendering to God allows this energy to flow freely.

I’m so grateful for my conversation with Liz, and for the wisdom she shared with me. It’s clear that God is working through her, and through each of us, in ways that we might not even realize.

References

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Community Leadership Development

Steps to Becoming a Priest in the Catholic Church: An Overview of the Ranks and Requirements

Di Tran, CEO of Viet Bao Louisville Ky
Di Tran, CEO of Viet Bao Louisville Ky

In the Catholic Church, the priesthood is an ordained ministry that provides spiritual guidance and sacramental support to the faithful. Here is a list of the ranks in the priesthood, in ascending order:

  1. Deacon: To become a deacon, a man must first be a baptized and confirmed Catholic. He must then express a desire to serve in the diaconate, undergo formation and discernment, and be approved by his bishop. The formation process typically involves several years of academic study, spiritual development, and practical training. Once ordained, deacons serve in a variety of roles, including preaching, administering the sacrament of baptism, and performing charitable work.
  2. Priest: To become a priest, a man must first be a deacon, although some men enter directly into the seminary from lay life. Like those aspiring to the diaconate, men pursuing the priesthood must undergo formation and discernment, be approved by their bishop, and be ordained. The formation process for priests is typically more extensive than for deacons, including deeper studies in theology, philosophy, and pastoral ministry.
  3. Bishop: To become a bishop, a priest must first demonstrate a strong commitment to the Church and a high level of pastoral and theological expertise. He must also be approved by the Pope and receive the consensus of his fellow bishops. The process of becoming a bishop involves extensive consultation and evaluation, and the man selected must demonstrate exceptional leadership, spiritual depth, and a willingness to serve the Church.
  4. Archbishop: An archbishop is simply a bishop who heads an archdiocese, which is a particular church with a specific geographical jurisdiction. To become an archbishop, a bishop must first demonstrate a successful record of leadership and pastoral service in his diocese, and then be appointed by the Pope to lead the archdiocese.
  5. Cardinal: Cardinals are members of the College of Cardinals, which is a group of senior church leaders who advise the Pope and play a key role in electing a new Pope when the need arises. To become a cardinal, a bishop must be appointed by the Pope and receive the consensus of the College of Cardinals.
  6. Pope: The Pope is the Bishop of Rome and the leader of the worldwide Catholic Church. To become Pope, one must first be a bishop, although not necessarily a cardinal. When the Pope dies or resigns, the College of Cardinals meets in a process known as a conclave to elect a new Pope. The election is based on the qualities of the candidates, the needs of the Church, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The man elected Pope must then be approved by a two-thirds majority of the College of Cardinals.

It’s worth noting that not all priests become bishops, and not all bishops become cardinals. The appointment to each rank is made by the Pope and is based on a variety of factors, including experience, leadership skills, and the needs of the Church.

Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH

In conclusion, the priesthood is a noble and demanding form of community service that requires both dedication and courage. It is a calling to serve the Church and the people of God with love, compassion, and spiritual guidance. This calling is not for the faint of heart, as it requires a deep commitment to serving others and a willingness to sacrifice personal interests for the greater good. However, for those who are called to the priesthood, it can be an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling vocation that brings joy and meaning to their lives.

This message is in line with the teachings of Di Tran in his book “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITh.” Tran encourages readers to overcome their fears and to trust in God’s plan for their lives. He reminds us that with faith, we can overcome any obstacle and live a life of purpose and fulfillment. For those considering the priesthood, this message is particularly relevant. The priesthood can be a challenging path, but with faith and a commitment to serving others, it can also be a source of great joy and satisfaction. By focusing on the faith and letting go of fear, those called to the priesthood can confidently answer the call and make a positive impact on the world.

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Community

Celebrating 50 Years of Dedicated Service: Sister Ngoc Dung’s Golden Jubilee in Louisville, Kentucky

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Today, on February 12th, 2023, the Catholic community of Saint John Vianney in Louisville, Kentucky gathered to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Sister Ngoc Dung, a Vietnamese immigrant who has dedicated 50 years of her life to serving God as a nun in the Catholic Church. The celebration Mass, held at St Gregory Catholic Church, was presided over by Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre and was a joyous and meaningful occasion for Sister Ngoc Dung and all who have been touched by her ministry and life.

St Gregory Catholic Church

Sister Ngoc Dung, also known as Sơ Ngọc Dung in Vietnamese, has been a beloved member of the Catholic community in Louisville for many years. Her dedication and commitment to serving others has earned her the respect and admiration of all who know her. Over the past 50 years, she has touched the lives of countless individuals through her ministry and has been a source of inspiration and guidance to those around her.

The celebration Mass was attended by family and friends from the Vietnamese community of Louisville, as well as members of the Catholic Church of Saint John Vianney. The Mass was a beautiful and meaningful celebration of Sister Ngoc Dung’s 50 years of service to God, and was a testament to the impact that her life has had on so many others.

During the Mass, Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre offered a homily in which he spoke about the significance of Sister Ngoc Dung’s Golden Jubilee and the importance of dedicating one’s life to serving God and others. He praised Sister Ngoc Dung for her unwavering faith and her commitment to her vocation, and he thanked her for all that she has done for the Catholic community in Louisville.

After the Mass, a reception was held in honor of Sister Ngoc Dung, where friends, family, and members of the community gathered to offer their congratulations and well wishes. The atmosphere was one of joy and celebration, as everyone came together to honor this remarkable woman and to celebrate the impact that her life has had on so many others.

The Golden Jubilee celebration of Sister Ngoc Dung was a truly special and meaningful occasion. Her 50 years of dedicated service to God and her commitment to her vocation have earned her the respect and admiration of all who know her, and today’s celebration was a fitting tribute to her life and her ministry. The Catholic community of Louisville is grateful to have Sister Ngoc Dung as a part of their lives, and they wish her many more years of happiness, health, and blessings.

Drop the FEAR and Focus on FAITH

In conclusion, Sister Ngoc Dung’s Golden Jubilee celebration serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that one person’s unwavering faith and commitment can have on the lives of so many others. Her 50 years of dedicated service to God and her community is a testament to the transformative power of dropping fear and focusing on faith. Sister Ngoc Dung’s story is an inspiration to all of us, reminding us that by embracing faith and living with purpose, we too can make a difference in the world.

Her journey, as reflected in Di Tran’s book “Drop the FEAR and Focus on FAITH,” shows us that by letting go of fear and embracing faith, we can overcome life’s challenges and fulfill our calling. Sister Ngoc Dung’s life serves as a shining example of how to live a life filled with meaning and purpose, and her Golden Jubilee is a time for us all to celebrate her achievements and to be inspired by her unwavering faith and dedication.

As Sister Ngoc Dung continues to live out her faith and serve her community, may we all be inspired by her example and find the courage to drop our fears and focus on our own faith, so that we too can make a positive impact on the world around us.

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Community

The Waves of Vietnamese Immigration to the United States: Characteristics and Settlement Patterns (1975-Present)

There have been several waves of Vietnamese immigration to the United States, each with its own unique circumstances and characteristics. The location of Vietnamese immigration to the U.S. has varied across each wave.

  1. First Wave (1975-1995): The first wave of Vietnamese refugees settled primarily in large cities on the West Coast and in Texas. Cities such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Houston became major centers for Vietnamese immigration and provided many of the resources and support networks necessary for these refugees to begin their new lives in the U.S. This wave was primarily composed of South Vietnamese military personnel, government officials, and their families, who were evacuated from the country during Operation Frequent Wind. Many of these refugees faced discrimination and struggled to assimilate into American society.
  2. Second Wave (1980s-1990s): The second wave of Vietnamese immigration was more dispersed, with many refugees settling in smaller cities and rural areas. This was due to a combination of factors, including the availability of sponsors and job opportunities, as well as the cost of living in larger cities. Many second-wave refugees settled in the Midwestern and Southern regions of the U.S., where they established new Vietnamese American communities. This wave was primarily composed of people who had been living in refugee camps in Southeast Asia and was sponsored by relatives or churches in the United States.
  3. Third Wave (1990s-Present): The third wave of Vietnamese immigration has been more diverse in terms of location, with many immigrants settling in both large cities and suburban areas. This wave of immigration has also been characterized by higher levels of education and financial stability, which has allowed many Vietnamese Americans to settle in more affluent areas. Additionally, the reunification of families has played a significant role in the settlement patterns of third-wave immigrants, with many choosing to live near relatives already established in the U.S. This wave of immigration has been driven by reunification of families and economic opportunities. Many of these immigrants have come to the U.S. through the family-sponsored immigration program.

Overall, the Vietnamese American community has made significant contributions to the U.S. and has established itself as a vibrant and successful community. Despite facing many challenges, the Vietnamese American community has remained strong and continues to grow and thrive in the United States, now found in many regions from California to New York and from Texas to Washington state.

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Community

Breaking Free from Negative News: Tips for Finding Informative and Positive Stories

In today’s fast-paced world, the media plays a crucial role in shaping our opinions, beliefs, and attitudes. With the advent of social media, the news has become more accessible, but at the same time, it has also become more sensationalized. News outlets are increasingly focused on grabbing our attention with shocking headlines and controversial stories, often at the expense of the truth.

Read Happy News Only

It’s easy to get caught up in the negativity and drama of the news, and feel anger or frustration towards specific individuals or groups. But while this might be a natural response, it’s important to recognize that this type of news is often intended to provoke our emotions and draw attention away from the actual story. By focusing on our reactions, these news outlets are able to manipulate the narrative and control the discourse.

So how can we break free from this cycle of negativity and find news that enlightens and raises our awareness to good? The answer lies in being more discerning about the sources we choose to consume. Here are a few tips for finding news that is both informative and positive:

  1. Look for reliable sources: It’s essential to choose news sources that have a strong reputation for impartiality, accuracy, and objectivity. Consider subscribing to trusted news outlets such as major newspapers, television networks, and online news websites.
  2. Seek out positive stories: It’s easy to get caught up in negative news, but it’s important to remember that there’s plenty of good in the world too. Look for news outlets that focus on positive stories, such as stories of human kindness, community spirit, and social justice.
  3. Get a diverse perspective: It’s essential to seek out different perspectives and understand the different sides of an issue. This can help you form a more well-rounded and nuanced view of the world. Consider subscribing to news outlets from different regions, cultures, and political affiliations.
  4. Seek out expert opinions: If you’re looking for in-depth analysis on a particular issue, look for news outlets that feature experts and specialists in the field. This can help you gain a deeper understanding of complex issues and make informed decisions.

It’s important to be mindful of the news we consume and how it affects our attitudes and beliefs. By seeking out reliable, positive, and diverse sources, we can ensure that the news we receive is both enlightening and raises our awareness to good. With a more informed and positive outlook on the world, we can make a positive difference in our communities and the world at large.

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Community

The Rich History and Cultural Significance of Vietnamese Drip Coffee – Dedicated by Di Tran

Vietnamese “cà phê đá,” or “Vietnamese drip coffee,” is a highly revered and flavorful coffee brewing method that has become a cornerstone of Vietnam’s coffee culture. The origins of this brewing method can be traced back to Hanoi in the early 20th century, when coffee was first introduced to Vietnam through French colonial influence. Over time, the unique combination of strong, dark coffee with sweetened condensed milk became a hallmark of the country’s coffee culture, and the use of a metal or cloth filter to brew the coffee became popular.

Vietnamese Strong Dark Coffee with Condensed Milk

The French dominated Vietnam for approximately 100 years, from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century, and during this time, they exerted a significant impact on the country’s culture, including its coffee culture. The introduction of coffee to Vietnam and the development of the “Vietnamese drip coffee” method can be seen as part of the broader story of French colonial influence in the country.

Despite periods of political turmoil and conflict, Vietnamese coffee culture continued to evolve and grow in popularity throughout the 20th century. Today, “cà phê đá” is enjoyed not only in Vietnam but also around the world.

Vietnamese “cà phê sữa đá” is a delicious and unique coffee brewing method that is rich in history and cultural significance. Its combination of strong, dark coffee with sweetened condensed milk has become a defining characteristic of Vietnamese coffee culture, and continues to be enjoyed by coffee lovers everywhere.

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Community

The Evolution of Valentine’s Day: From Lupercalia to Modern Celebrations of Love

Valentine’s Day is a holiday celebrated on February 14th each year that recognizes love and affection between intimate partners, friends, and family members. It is one of the oldest holidays in the Western world, with roots tracing back to the ancient Roman festival of Lupercalia, which was celebrated in mid-February and symbolized love, fertility, and the arrival of spring.

Family Valentine

The exact origins of Valentine’s Day are unclear, but it is thought to have originated as a Christian feast day honoring Saint Valentine, a martyr who was executed for secretly performing marriages in ancient Rome during a time when marriage was banned. The name “Valentine” is believed to have been chosen for the holiday in recognition of his acts of love and compassion.

Lupercalia was a time of celebration and commemoration, featuring rituals such as matchmaking, animal sacrifices, feasting, partying, and gift-giving. Young men and women’s names were placed in a box, and couples were chosen at random to be paired together for the duration of the festival. Goats and dogs were sacrificed, and their blood was smeared on the foreheads of the young men who participated in the festival. People would gather to feast, drink, and enjoy music and other forms of entertainment. Gift-giving was also a significant part of Lupercalia, with people exchanging sweets and other gifts to show their affection for each other.

Family Valentine

Today, Valentine’s Day is primarily associated with expressing love through gifts, such as chocolates, flowers, and cards, and spending time with loved ones. The holiday continues to be a time of joy and excitement, and its ancient roots in Lupercalia can still be seen in modern-day celebrations.

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Community Self-Improve

The Appreciation of Life and the Time on Earth: Humanizing Ourselves and Others through Love, Care and Service

In today’s fast-paced world, we often become preoccupied with the pursuit of success, money, and material possessions. But in the end, what truly brings us happiness and fulfillment is not the things we acquire but the relationships we build and the love, care and service we offer to others.

Act of Kindness – A Smile to Each Other

Happiness is not a destination, but a journey that begins with a simple act of kindness. It’s about taking the time to appreciate the people in our lives and recognizing their worth. When we make a conscious effort to serve others, we not only brighten their day but also enrich our own. This can be as simple as lending an ear to someone in need, offering a helping hand, or showing compassion.

Service to others has been proven to bring a sense of purpose and satisfaction to our lives. As the famous author, Leo Buscaglia, once said, “Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.”

When we serve others, we not only bring happiness to their lives but also to our own. This can range from volunteering at a local community center, helping a neighbor with their groceries, or even just lending a supportive hand to a friend in need. By putting the needs of others before our own, we create a sense of community and build meaningful relationships.

The appreciation of life and the time on earth is about recognizing the value of human connection. By embracing love, care and service, we can humanize ourselves and others and bring happiness to both ourselves and those around us. The famous author and philosopher, Albert Schweitzer, once said, “The purpose of human life is to serve, and to show compassion and the will to help others.” Let us all strive to embody this idea in our daily lives and make the world a happier, more loving place.

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Community

The Heart of Community: Vietnamese Mothers, Grandmothers, Fathers, and Grandfathers at Saint John Vianney Church

Viet Bao Louisville, KY
Viet Bao Louisville, KY

Every Sunday, the Saint John Vianney Church in Louisville, Kentucky, is filled with the aromas of savory and delicious Vietnamese food, as mothers, grandmothers, fathers, and grandfathers come together to prepare and serve hundreds of meals to their community. For over 20 years, this dedicated group of individuals has been raising funds for the church through their weekly meal service, and in doing so, they have become an inspiring example of what it means to live God through action.

Service in Action – Consistently for years

Pastor Anthony Chinh Ngo has been leading the Saint John Vianney Church for many years and has seen firsthand the impact that this weekly meal service has had on the community. He has seen how it has brought people together, bridged cultural divides, and created a sense of belonging and unity that is truly special.

The rotating menu of traditional Vietnamese recipes, featuring Pho and a variety of Vietnamese noodles, is a true celebration of the culinary heritage of this vibrant community. The meals are not only delicious, but they are also affordable, making them accessible to everyone who wants to join in this weekly celebration of community and faith.

For the young generation of today, the dedication and commitment of these mothers, grandmothers, fathers, and grandfathers serves as a powerful example of what it means to live a life that is truly lived for God. Their tireless efforts and the love they put into each and every meal is a testament to the deep roots of their faith, and a source of inspiration to us all.

It is with a call to action that we invite the community to support this incredible group of individuals, and to join them in celebrating the heart of community that they embody. By purchasing a delicious and truly tasteful meal on Sunday after the two Masses at 9am and 11am, we can show our support and gratitude for their ongoing efforts.

In a world that can often feel divided, the Saint John Vianney Church serves as a shining example of what is possible when we come together as a community, and put our faith into action. May their inspiring story serve as a reminder that even the smallest acts of love and service can have a profound impact on those around us.

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Community

Dedicated Sister at Saint John Vianney Church: A Shining Example of Service and Compassion

Viet Bao Louisville - St John Vianney Church - Sister and Kids
Viet Bao Louisville - St John Vianney Church - Sister and Kids

In a world that often seems devoid of positivity and hope, it is truly inspiring to see individuals who dedicate their lives to serving others and spreading the message of love and compassion. One such individual is a sister who has been working tirelessly at Saint John Vianney Church in Louisville, Kentucky, teaching children every Saturday in preparation for their First Communion. This dedicated sister serves as a shining example of what it means to be a servant of God, and her impact on the children she teaches is immeasurable.

Located in the heart of a vibrant 20+ year old Vietnamese immigrant community, Saint John Vianney Church is dedicated to providing spiritual guidance and support to its members. Each week, the sister devotes countless hours to teaching children the important principles of the Catholic faith, preparing them for one of the most significant milestones in their spiritual journey. Her unwavering commitment to these young minds is a testament to her selflessness and her desire to make a positive impact on the world.

Class in Action – Jayden, Skylar and Dylan

First Communion is a critical rite of passage in the life of a Catholic child, and the training provided by the sister ensures that each child is well-prepared for this momentous occasion. Through her lessons and guidance, she helps to instill the values of love, compassion, and selflessness in these young minds, setting them on a path towards a fulfilling and meaningful life. The children leave each Saturday with a deeper understanding of the Catholic faith, and a sense of purpose and direction that will serve them well in the years to come.

It is a privilege to have such a dedicated and compassionate sister in our community. Her passion for her faith and her unwavering commitment to serving others is a shining example of what it means to be a true servant of God. Her impact on the lives of the children she teaches is immeasurable, and we are all the better for having her in our community.

As the world continues to face challenges and hardships, it is heartening to know that there are individuals like this sister who remain steadfast in their commitment to spreading love and compassion. Her tireless efforts and dedication to the children she teaches are a source of inspiration to us all, and a reminder that we too can make a positive impact on the world if we simply open our hearts and minds to the possibilities.

The sister at Saint John Vianney Church is a true gift to our community, and we are deeply grateful for her tireless efforts in preparing the children of our community for the sacrament of First Communion. Her passion, dedication, and compassion serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration to us all, and we are honored to have her in our community.