Society of Jesus in the United States to Ordain Joseph Dao, Vincent P. Duong, and Derek Vo with other 16 new Jesuit priests

Society of Jesus in the United States to Ordain Nineteen New Priests Jesuits celebrate ordination ceremonies in Washington, Milwaukee, New York and St. Louis. (Washington, D.C., June 3, 2014) — Starting this Saturday, the Society of Jesus (also known as the Jesuits), the largest order of priests and brothers in the Roman Catholic Church, will ordain 19 new Jesuit priests. Excerpt:

Joseph Dao, SJ, 38, was born and raised in Vietnam. Before moving to Long Beach, California, at the age of 22, Dao studied law, embarked on a journalism career and worked in private business. Following ordination, Dao will return to Vietnam for pastoral work.

Vincent P. Duong, SJ, 38, didn’t know a word of English when his family moved to San Diego, California, from Vietnam in 1992. Among his many memorable formation experiences is a 2010 summer trip to Vietnam, his first visit since leaving his homeland.

Derek Vo, SJ, 49, one of 10 siblings, grew up in Vietnam. At 21, seeking to flee the hopelessness of his war-ravaged homeland, he left Vietnam in search of economic opportunity. His Jesuit formation has included three trips back to Vietnam to teach English and philosophy, work with the poor and offer retreats. ### About the Society of Jesus Founded in 1540 by Saint Ignatius Loyola, the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) is the largest order of priests and brothers in the Roman Catholic Church. Jesuit priests and brothers are involved in educational, pastoral and spiritual ministries on six continents and in 127 nations around the world, practicing a faith that promotes justice. For nearly 500 years, Jesuit education has made its mark on the world. In the United States, there are 28 Jesuit colleges and universities, 59 Jesuit high schools and 16 middle schools with a shared goal of developing competent, compassionate and committed leaders in the service of the Church and society. Jesuits minister in parishes and at retreat houses and serve as chaplains at prisons, hospitals, nursing homes and in the military. For more information on the Society of Jesus, visit www.jesuits.org.

http://www.jesuit.org/press-detail?TN=NEWS-20140603113752

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