What is special about Bao Nham Parish?

The birthplace of faith

The baptism ceremony for infants at Bao Nham Stone Church, a sacred ritual, takes place approximately once every two months. The ceremony begins at 3 PM on Sunday, but from 2 PM onwards, parents, dressed in neat white shirts, bring their children. Amidst the murmuring of prayers, tiny newborns, clad in pristine white, sleep peacefully in their parents' arms. This is their first Mass – where faith is sown and grows in each soul.

In the solemn and dignified atmosphere of the church, each ritual was performed in turn, evoking deep emotion in those present. When the parish priest called out the children's baptismal names, and when the baptism, anointing of the sick, and the presentation of lit candles were performed, time seemed to stand still. "The people of Bao Nham are always proud of their homeland's traditions and wish to remain forever connected to their parish," shared Nguyen Thi Kim Oanh (born in 2002), who was born and raised in Bao Nham.

This desire for community is reflected in every action of the people here. Every Sunday, young people from Bao Nham Parish come from all directions to clean up around the church, study catechism, participate in community activities, and join movements initiated by the parish…

Introducing his community, Nguyen Thien Toi (11th grade student) - Head of the Holy Oath Children's Group of Bao Nham Parish, shared: “Bao Nham Parish has over 3,000 parishioners, and more than a third of them are young people, all participating in the Holy Oath Children's Group, divided into different age groups. This is not only a community where we can learn, improve, and develop ourselves, but also a place where young people find a healthy environment to connect with each other and create meaningful things.”living a good life and upholding moral values."

The pride of young people

“I can’t express how proud I am of Bao Nham parish. Wherever I go, whatever I do, I’m always proud to introduce to everyone that I’m from here, that it’s so beautiful, so peaceful, and the people are kind and hospitable…” – Kim Oanh shared.

The beauty that Oanh is proudly talking about is easily perceived by anyone who has ever visited this place. Bao Nham Stone Church is not only famous in the region but also renowned throughout the country. In fact, Bao Nham has even welcomed many foreign tourists who come to visit and admire it.

The Bao Nham stone church is built entirely of solid stone blocks. Interspersed with the majestic and sturdy beauty of these stone blocks are the delicate details and exquisite artistic lines of the stained-glass windows, spires, and Gothic-style patterns, which are both classic and mysterious, full of enchantment.

When mentioning the Bao Nham stone church complex, one cannot fail to mention the Bao Nham rock formation, located 200 meters from the church. Nguyen Thien Toi introduced: “A trip to Bao Nham Parish is incomplete without visiting the rock formation. We were told that the rock formation has a history dating back to 1885. In 1950, the Bao Nham Lourdes Rock Formation was inaugurated with many miniature landscapes and statues along the steps. Today, the rock formation has gradually become a pilgrimage center of the Vinh diocese and a destination for many tourists who love exploration.”

With faith and integrity nurtured through generations, young people like Oanh and Toi are also proud of the tradition of solidarity and mutual support.ParishThis is evidenced by the collective efforts and dedication of the entire population in the activities of the church, especially in charitable programs that help those in need, regardless of their religious affiliation.

Most recently, during the recent flash floods in northern Vietnam, Bao Nham parish not only provided material support but also prayed for the flood victims to overcome their difficulties.

“We are taught about patriotism, love for our people, and we always pray for peace in Vietnam, for prosperity for our people, and for the world to live in peace…” – Oanh proudly shared.

With the same pride, Oanh spoke about the new church, the electricity lines, and the community projects contributed by the parishioners. The young woman is waiting to go to Germany to study, with many new opportunities opening up. But Oanh knows, and all her relatives know too, that no matter how wonderful life is abroad, it will never compare to her homeland.

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In Bao Thanh commune, Bao Nham parish has always been a leader in implementing local government tasks, ensuring unity between Catholics and non-Catholics, and maintaining close coordination with the Party committee, government, and various departments and organizations. The exemplary leadership of its leaders has created a peaceful and honest community.

Mr. Ho Xuan Van - Secretary of the Party Committee of Bao Thanh Commune, Yen Thanh District