Thong Dinh Tran, SVD
Life and Ministry as an SVD Deacon in Arkansas
By Fr. Thong Dinh Tran, SVD
Fr. Thong Dinh Tran, SVD was ordained a Divine Word Missionary priest in May 2026. He wrote this reflection during his time as a deacon.
I thank God for the grace of serving as a deacon in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. Following my deaconate ordination in October 2025, I moved to St. Peter Parish where I experienced joy, challenges, and growth.
From the very beginning, I encountered the gentle kindness of God through His people. Two parishioners welcomed me at the airport, shared a warm meal with me, and helped me settle into the rectory with genuine care. Their hospitality eased my anxieties and reminded me that God often reveals His love through simple, heartfelt gestures. Meeting the pastor, Fr. Andreas Kedati, SVD, the next day strengthened my sense of belonging, and together we entered into the daily rhythm of parish life.
St. Peter Parish is a small yet vibrant community composed of Mexican, Filipino, African-American, Anglo-American, and Vietnamese parishioners. Their openness and generosity touched me deeply. Many offered to help me learn Spanish, shared books and rosaries, and welcomed me into their homes. I am grateful for every smile, every greeting before Mass, and every word of encouragement as I learned to serve in a new cultural environment. Through them, I came to see how the Holy Spirit unites people of many backgrounds into one family of faith.
My ministry included assisting at Mass in both English and Spanish, leading the Rosary, preaching once a month, and helping with liturgical preparation. Fridays held a special place in my heart, with Bible sharing, Mass, Adoration, and the Rosary. Each weekend, I also traveled to two mission stations to assist at Masses.
At times, I accompanied Fr. Andreas to visit families in their homes. These visits opened my heart to the beauty of people’s daily lives—their work, their struggles, their celebrations, and their deep trust in God. Learning Spanish was a challenge, yet it became a joyful part of my ministry. With the help of parishioners and weekly classes, I slowly gained confidence in conversation and preaching.
Every Wednesday, I served at the Neighbor to Neighbor food pantry, preparing sack meals for the homeless and the poor. This ministry humbled me and taught me patience, compassion, and reverence for the dignity of every person. Working alongside volunteers, sorting food, and meeting those who came for assistance reminded me that true service is not about recognition, but about allowing God to work through us with gentleness and humility.
My identity as a Divine Word Missionary also strengthened through monthly district meetings, where confreres shared their experiences and supported one another. My formation prepared me to be flexible, open to new cultures, and ready to serve wherever I would be sent. I learned to listen more deeply, to speak with care, and to appreciate the richness of cultural diversity as a gift from God.
My diaconal experience brought moments of joy, challenge, and grace. I thank God, the parish community, and my SVD family for guiding me.