Vocation and inculturation in Brazil
Fr Tran Van Lich’s journey in the Church began early, already in his country of origin, where he used to go to the Tabernacle with other young people. ‘Over time, I developed a taste for going to church to attend Mass… I would return home and feel happy, even if my lunch was cold by then,’ he says with a touch of humour. After his arrival in Brazil, he devoted himself to learning Portuguese and the Xavante language, and was recently appointed parish priest of St Joseph’s Parish in Sangradouro.
The internet as a tool for catechesis
The choice of social networks – Facebook, Instagram and TikTok – reflects the modernisation taking place in indigenous communities. The Salesian emphasises that the current reality is characterised by strong connectivity: ‘Today, they access social media a lot… people here already use mobile phones a lot’. Through these platforms, Fr Tran Van Lich shares simple prayers, such as the Our Father and the Hail Mary, in the two languages used in the mission, with the aim of promoting dialogue between generations. ‘I hope that adults can pass on these prayers to younger people! This also strengthens the Christian community and the transmission of the faith,’ he comments.
Compensating for the lack of physical material
In addition to prayers, the missionary uses digital tools to compensate for the scarcity of printed material in the villages. He began publishing the texts of the Gospel online to ensure that the Word would reach all those who thirst for it. ‘Sometimes many people do not have access to books. So we put them on Instagram, on Facebook, and those who want to read them can find them there,’ says the missionary. This strategy has also allowed indigenous people from other lands to follow the publications and get in touch with the Salesian parish.
Formation of local leaders and future prospects
The digital evangelisation project is part of a structured plan for the coming years, which includes adult catechesis and the study of religious songs. Fr Van Tran Lich intends to revive the life of prayer and liturgical celebration in the native language. ‘I am seriously considering the possibility of training catechists and pastoral workers, but it is all part of a plan I am developing for the next three or four years,’ he reveals when talking about his goals as parish priest.
For the immediate future, during this Lent 2026, the focus is on deepening biblical studies, with the promise of visits to communities to accompany and encourage the faithful on their journey of faith.
Euclides Fernandes Brites
{gallery}BCG – Missionario VIE 2026{/gallery}
