Bangladesh: Smaller Families Pose Challenge to Vocations, Says Holy Cross Brother

On April 26, the World Day of Prayer for Vocations, a member of the Congregation of Holy Cross said Bangladesh continues to see interest in religious life, but demographic changes may affect future vocations.

Bro. Topon Lawrence Serao, CSC, 43, assistant novice master at the Holy Cross Novitiate in Dhaka, said the congregation records an average of four to five first vows each year. He described this as steady for a Catholic population of about 50,000, but noted that smaller family sizes are becoming a concern.

“The work and life of the Holy Cross Brothers attract young people,” he said. “But when families have only one or two children, it becomes more difficult for them to consider a vocation.”

Brother Topon said his own vocation developed through personal contact rather than formal promotion.

He recalled that a relative shared his interest with a Holy Cross brother, Ripon Gomes, who later wrote to him and visited his home. “That was the first letter I received in my life,” he said. “I felt recognized and encouraged.” He later became the first Holy Cross brother from the Rajshahi Diocese.

He said such direct engagement remains effective in vocation ministry, where consistent contact and guidance play a key role.

Brother Topon also pointed to the influence of digital technology on young people.

“In the current context, many boys are attached to mobile phones,” he said. “Letting go of that when entering the seminary can be difficult.”

He added that most candidates gradually adjust, but the transition into formation requires support and discipline.

With a decade of experience in formation work, he said the process must address both spiritual and personal development.

He described Holy Cross formation as aligned with the needs of the Church and society.

Candidates are trained in areas such as education, counseling, health care, and social outreach, depending on their abilities and interests. Some enter formation to improve academic skills or language proficiency, particularly in English, and later discern a vocation through exposure to community life.

“If someone decides not to continue, we do not pressure them,” he said. “We encourage them to use what they have learned in their families and communities.”

Brother Topon said about 125 Bangladeshi Holy Cross brothers are currently serving in the country. Some are also assigned abroad, including in France, Papua New Guinea, and Canada, while one foreign member serves in Bangladesh.

Their ministries include education, pastoral work, counseling, health services, and outreach to people affected by addiction.

After 20 years in religious life, Brother Topon said he remains committed to his vocation.

“I have served in different places and roles, and I have done so willingly,” he said. “I find meaning in this life.”

On the World Day of Prayer for Vocations, he emphasized the need for sustained personal accompaniment, realistic formation, and support for families, which he described as central to the growth of vocations.