Passionist Priest, Fr Nguyễn Huy Tuyên CP (known as Fr Mike), recently arrived in Hobart, beginning ministry at St Joseph’s Church with a deep sense of peace.

Originally from Nghe An Province in central Vietnam, Fr Mike grew up in a close-knit family as the third of four children. He speaks warmly of his parents, particularly his father, a farmer and former soldier who remains a strong influence in his life.

*Fr Nguyễn Huy Tuyên CP at St Joseph’s Church in Hobart. PHOTO: Archdiocese of Hobart.*

“He worked hard for the family and taught me what is right and wrong,” Fr Mike said. “He is my biggest role model.”

As a young boy in rural Vietnam, Fr Mike recalls the witness of his local Franciscan priest as he built roads and served the poor in his community. The witness of this priest left a lasting impression on him, and planted within him a desire for the priesthood.

Fr Mike was introduced to the Passionist Congregation in Vietnam by his cousin in 2008. Drawn by a desire “to have a generous heart and to love not for my own life but for others”, Fr Mike entered formation with the Passionists soon after.

During his time of formation, his understanding of the spiritual life developed greatly. Grounded in prayer and community, Fr Mike says his faith is centred on relationship with God, with others, and with oneself, and a constant return to Christ, especially in moments of difficulty.

“In any worry, I look at Jesus on the Cross and discover His answer,” he said. “In daily prayer, I speak with Him as a Father and a friend.”

He was ordained a priest on 26 November, 2021 in Ho Chi Minh City. His ordination took place alongside six of his classmates during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Restrictions in place during that time meant the congregation numbers were limited, and his parents were unable to attend. He recalled the ceremony as being very quiet, with only a small celebration occurring afterwards. Despite this, he was happy knowing that he had been ordained.

Following his ordination, Fr Mike spent several years in Vietnam as the Formator of the local Passionist community before moving to the Holy Cross Centre in Templestowe, Victoria. There he spent time improving his English and assisting in ministry, often travelling to Hobart to celebrate Mass with our local Vietnamese Catholic community.

Having been appointed to Hobart permanently on 23 March, Fr Mike is now settling into parish life and embracing both pastoral ministry and community life with his fellow priests.

Fr Mike said he is especially looking forward to continuing to grow in his ministry in Hobart, getting to know the people here and walking alongside them in their faith.

“I just want to be with the people, to listen and to serve,” he said. “My life is a journey, and I thank God for everything.”

This article by Heather Excell, was published on the website of the Archdiocese of Hobart.