In the future young priests from Saigon might be able to pursue graduate study in theology, Scripture, spirituality or education at local Catholic universities.
Advanced study is an important value for Cardinal Man, and his connection to Los Angeles spans several decades. The Vietnamese cardinal studied education and administration at Loyola Marymount University from 1968 to 1971. During that time he also served as an assistant priest at St. Gerard Majella Church in Los Angeles.
“The main purpose is to serve better the people in Saigon and [Los Angeles],” said Cardinal Man. He said priests serve the goal of communion by assisting families and communities to be strong. “Family and community is the cell of the church and of society,” said Cardinal Man. “If the cell is healthy, then the church and the society will be healthy.”
The cardinal advised Vietnamese Catholics living in Southern California to integrate into the local church and community while also maintaining the values of Vietnamese culture and traditions, particularly for family, extended family and respect for the elderly.
