Posted by In the tapestry of faith, every thread weaves a unique story, and Liwei’s journey is a radiant testament to divine calling and unwavering gratitude. As we embark on his vocation story, we step into a world where dreams, determination, and grace converge.
A Child’s Dream: The Spark Ignites
“Greetings from Liwei,” begins the tale of a toddler on the path of following Jesus. In his eyes, every consecrated soul possesses a unique vocation story, a special note in the Lord’s symphony. Reflecting on his own journey, Liwei finds himself indebted to God for the miraculous guidance that led him to this moment. One word echoes in his heart—Thanks.
From the earliest days of his childhood, Liwei harbored a dream—to become a priest. He fondly recalls draping himself in a sheet, pretending to wear a chasuble, and enlisting his brother as his server after returning from Mass with his family. In those innocent moments, the seeds of his calling were sown.
A Father’s Guidance: The Gift of Encouragement
His journey took a significant turn when his father led him to their parish priest, Fr. Yue, to request a reference letter. This letter was the key to the Sacred Heart minor seminary in County DaMing, China—a place steeped in history and faith. Six years of secondary and high schooling there deepened his knowledge of Catholicism and laid the foundation for his vocation.
A Time of Reflection: Life Beyond the Seminary
As a teenager, Liwei contemplated his calling and ventured into ordinary society. He took on roles as a constructor, a waiter, a cook, and more. These experiences broadened his perspective, allowing him to understand the joys and sufferings of others. Through it all, he realized that the calling to be a consecrated person remained steadfast in his heart.
Divine Providence: The Encounter That Changed Everything
In 2012, divine providence led Liwei to encounter their community in Beijing. His conversation with Fr. Wen marked a turning point—an encounter with a precious treasure that he was determined to keep with all his heart. Within two years, he and another student became candidates of the SVD and entered the novitiate.
A Season of Joy: Formation and Brotherhood
The time as a postulant and in the novitiate became one of the happiest chapters in Liwei’s life. Grateful to his community, especially to his masters, Liwei recognized the international character of the Society of the Divine Word as a charism. After professing his first vows in China, he applied to continue his formation in the IBP province in Ireland—a golden opportunity that he cherishes.
The Path of Gratitude: A Journey of Faith
For nearly two years, Liwei has been in Ireland, studying theology in the first grade. He expresses profound gratitude for the IBP community, their understanding, and unwavering support. The brotherhood he has found here is etched in his heart, and he can’t help but thank God joyfully.
A Prayer for the Journey Ahead: Continuing Growth and Service
Liwei’s life and vocation are intertwined, aiming for constant growth and maturity. He prays for the grace to worthily prepare for the divine service that awaits. In his closing words, he entrusts himself to the Lord’s guidance, knowing that his journey continues, ever illuminated by faith and grace.
In Liwei’s story, we find the enduring beauty of a soul’s journey—a journey filled with dreams, determination, and an unwavering call to divine service.
SVD IBP 