“A testament to enduring faith,” the old woman murmured, her hand resting lightly on a weathered headstone. “This, my dear travelers, is Nghĩa trang Giáo xứ Ngô Xá, a cemetery that whispers stories of resilience and devotion.” The air hung heavy with the scent of incense and the weight of memory as we stood at the entrance of the Nghĩa trang Giáo xứ Ngô Xá. Established alongside the Ngô Xá parish in 1968, this cemetery is more than just a resting place. It’s a chronicle etched in stone, narrating the journey of a community that has held steadfast to its faith. In 1954, around 70 Catholic families, originally from the Thái Bình Diocese, embarked on a pilgrimage to establish a new life. They settled in Hậu Nai, forming the humble beginnings of what we now know as Ngô Xá. Initially, they sought refuge under the wing of the Sài Quát parish, but their community grew, yearning for a place of their own.
The year 1965 marked a turning point, when under the guidance of Father Giuse Nguyễn Văn Tư, the community constructed a modest chapel, its walls fashioned from simple bricks and tiles. This unassuming structure served as both a sanctuary for prayer and a testament to their unwavering faith. Three years later, in 1968, thanks to the efforts of Father Giuse Lê Văn Ân, Ngô Xá parish was officially established, its first parish priest being Father Đaminh Hoàng Văn Tiến. Father Đaminh’s leadership left an indelible mark on the community. He oversaw the construction of a new church in 1990, followed by a parish house in 1991, both tangible symbols of their growing strength. But perhaps more significantly, he nurtured their spiritual growth, fostering a vibrant community life centered around their faith.
Over time, Nghĩa trang Giáo xứ Ngô Xá became the final resting place for many of these early settlers. Their headstones stand as silent witnesses to lives shaped by unwavering faith and unyielding spirit. Each inscription, each carefully tended grave, speaks volumes about the enduring bond between this community and their place of worship. As we stand here, imagine the countless prayers whispered, the tears shed, and the memories cherished in this sacred space.