The serene grandeur of the Crypt Church located beneath the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, a significant Catholic pilgrimage site in the United States, served as the backdrop for an important moment for the Secular Institute Crusaders of Mary.
Soft candlelight flickered, creating shadows on the stone walls. The scent of incense filled the air, contributing to the reverent atmosphere. On Saturday, Nov. 23, Tongxin Lucy Lu became the first Chinese-born member of the Crusaders of Mary to take her temporary vows, marking a significant milestone for the secular institute.
About 130 family members, friends, and supporters of the Crusaders of Mary, from all walks of life, gathered for a poignant moment of dedication, creating a vibrant tapestry of humanity.
A Journey of Faith and Witness
Born into an atheist family in China, her path to the Catholic faith began when she attended Hamilton College in upstate New York. There, she encountered a devout history professor whose testimony was the catalyst that set her on the path to conversion.
Tongxin recalled that, despite the challenges of growing up in a society where religion was often marginalized, and atheism was the norm, she "always felt curious," even though she "never met a Christian growing up,” and was an atheist herself.
Tongxin explained how the dominant Chinese culture of her youth influenced her father, stating that "most people viewed Christians– and Catholics in particular – as antiquated or unenlightened."
Although her father never explicitly stated this, she interpreted it to mean that they "didn't need God." Of her father, she said, "He did not believe in God (not) because he didn't want to, but because he didn't have an opportunity to believe."
Reflecting on her vocation, Tongxin shared how she discerned her calling. "I thought about consecration in the world – not of the world – and it made so much sense to me. I wanted to respond completely to God's love," she said. Her discernment journey ultimately led her to the Crusaders of Mary. This secular institute balances consecrated life with engagement in the world.
For the ritual, the institute's general director, Lydia Jimenez, traveled from Spain to witness Tongxin take her vows. Tongxin expressed her heartfelt commitment by reading the formula of her vows, in which she declared her desire to live in "chastity, poverty, and obedience, in the service of Jesus Christ, Eternal King and Universal Lord."
In recognition of her profession, Tongxin was awarded a medal from the Crusaders of Mary by their director. The medal displays an image of Our Lady on one side, with her name engraved on the reverse side.
Arina Agnew, a member of Holy Redeemer Parish in College Park, Maryland, was among the attendees. As she rocked her baby, Agnew spoke warmly of the Crusaders of Mary, saying, "They are very pro-life, pro-family, and super welcoming. It was a joy to see Lucy take her vows."
What Are Temporary Vows?
Mary Teresa Garcia Barba, a Crusader, explained the significance of temporary vows in a consecrated person's spiritual journey. After living a consecrated life for a few years alongside other Crusaders – following the principles of poverty, chastity, and obedience – a woman reflects on whether she is called to continue in this vocation. If she determines that she is, the next step is to make a public commitment, as Tongxin did.
Barba emphasized that these vows, renewed privately each year, are an essential part of the discernment process leading to final or perpetual vows, representing a lifelong commitment.
"Temporary vows are a way to make a public offering of ourselves to God while continuing to discern His will," Tongxin noted.
A Life of Quiet Witness
For Tongxin, the essence of her vocation lies in living a life modeled after the Holy Family's hidden years in Nazareth. Her daily routine reflects this ethos: early mornings of silent prayer, professional work during the day, and evenings of recollection.
As a mental health counseling student, Tongxin aspires to integrate her faith into her work, helping young people and families navigate life's challenges.
Her vision for the future is humble yet impactful. "God doesn't need grandiose things from me. He asks for small acts of love," Tongxin said. "I hope to live my vocation in a way that helps others see God's love in the ordinary."
The Significance of the Day
The event holds profound significance, not just for Tongxin but also for the Crusaders of Mary and the broader Church. In his homily, Cardinal Pierre emphasized the hope Tongxin 's vows represent. "This consecration is a witness to the Resurrection, a life in the world but not of the world, rooted in Christ's mission and the joy of the Gospel," he said.
For the Crusaders of Mary, Tongxin's vows represent the expanding reach of their mission. Established in Spain, the institute now celebrates its second vow ceremony in the United States, underscoring its growing presence and relevance.
A Witness to God's Grace
For Tongxin, the road ahead is one of service, humility, and quiet dedication. Reflecting on her journey, Tongxin acknowledged her family's evolving faith. Her mother has embraced Christianity, while her father, despite his communist and atheistic background, has been very supportive of her vocation and has shed his long-held beliefs about Christians.
As she prepares to live out her vocation, her testimony provides hope for those discerning their futures. She advises others facing doubts or struggles in their faith journey: "In moments of darkness, stay firm. God accompanies us, even when we don't feel it."
