2026 IJRSE – Volume 15 Issue 17
Available Online: 16 July 2026
Author/s:
Nguyen, Quynh Bui My
De La Salle University, Philippines (quynh_nguyen@dlsu.edu.ph; Xuanquynhntba@gmail.com)
Abstract:
Catholic religious congregations in Vietnam are experiencing significant changes in their formation programs as they respond to rapid social, cultural, technological, and ecclesial developments. This study examines contemporary trends in the formation of candidates for consecrated life, focusing on the challenges, opportunities, and future directions facing religious institutes. Key challenges include the influence of globalization and digital culture, shifting family and social values, vocational discernment difficulties, psychological and emotional formation needs, and the demand for greater intercultural and pastoral competencies. At the same time, new opportunities have emerged through improved access to theological education, enhanced collaboration among congregations, greater awareness of holistic formation, and increased engagement with contemporary social realities. The study argues that effective formation must integrate human, spiritual, intellectual, and pastoral dimensions while remaining faithful to each congregation’s charism and mission. It further highlights the importance of contextualized approaches that address the unique cultural and ecclesial circumstances of Vietnam. The paper proposes several future directions, including strengthened personal accompaniment, interdisciplinary formation, digital literacy, leadership development, and lifelong formation programs. By examining current trends and emerging needs, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of how Catholic religious congregations in Vietnam can form resilient, mission-oriented, and spiritually mature religious capable of serving the Church and society in an increasingly complex world.
Keywords: Catholic religious formation, consecrated life, religious congregations, Vietnam, vocation formation, holistic formation, digital culture, pastoral ministry
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2026.26286
Cite this article:
Nguyen, Q. B. M. (2026). Contemporary formation trends in Catholic Religious congregations in Vietnam. International Journal of Research Studies in Education, 15(17), 35-45. https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2026.26286