The Jesuit Vocation Promotion in Vietnam ignited a fire of prayer, communion, and shared joy among nearly 500 young people during the month of the Holy Rosary through the Linked Rosary programme themed “Kindling the Fire in the World”.
In a Linked Rosary, a complete Rosary of 50 Hail Marys is shared among five people. Each person is responsible for meditating on one mystery and praying 10 Hail Marys. In this way, no matter where they are—at home with their families, at university, or in their workplace— each member can offer a part of the Rosary to Mary and remain in full communion with their brothers and sisters in the group.
Throughout October, the group’s general prayer intention was to ask God for world peace and spread the joy of the Gospel to all souls. This spiritual invitation touched the hearts of 473 young people from all over Vietnam, as well as those living and working abroad. Geographical distances were overcome by the spirit of communion.
To sustain this passionate fire, the organisers created an online group. This space has become a “small chapel” where people encourage one another every day by sharing photos and prayers. This mutual support helps them keep the fire of love for Mary burning.
At the heart of the programme is an invitation for young people to imitate the example of St Ignatius of Loyola. Throughout his spiritual journey, St Ignatius held a deep devotion and love for Mary. It was Mary who took his hand and led him to Jesus. Following his example, the young people offer their whole day to Our Lady. After each prayer time, everyone unites to offer the Prayer for Jesuit Vocations, asking God to send more zealous harvesters into the mission field.
The fire ignited by the programme shines even brighter, with a renewed desire to continue beyond the month of the Holy Rosary. Having experienced the deep joy and peace of praying together, the members have expressed a heartfelt wish to continue the rhythm of the Linked Rosary throughout November, a month the Church dedicates to remembering the faithful departed. The group’s prayer intention is that all the faithful departed, especially their loved ones, may enjoy the Lord’s presence.
The Linked Rosary programme has truly been “Kindling the Fire in the World.” That fire is the love for Mary, the spirit of synodality, and the apostolic zeal of the Society of Jesus. We hope that these 473 young people will continue to be 473 small sparks, warming the world with their persistent prayers and steadfast lives of faith.
