Before you, stands Thánh đường Giáo xứ Phú Trung, a church with a fascinating history and an important presence in the community. It isn’t the most striking in Ho Chi Minh City, with its simple facade, but it’s a focal point for the local community and a place of peace. The church was built in 1969, initially as a small chapel, when around 300 Catholic families from different parts of the country were seeking refuge from the war. These people joined the existing community in the area, which was already part of the Tân Việt parish. They came together, with a strong faith and a determination to build a new life, and one of the things they built was this chapel dedicated to Saint Francis Xavier, the patron saint of missionaries. That initial chapel was, however, not enough to support the growing congregation. The Tân Việt parish saw the need for a bigger space and that’s how, on August 15, 1974, the Phú Trung church was officially established as an independent parish. Saint Francis Xavier was also chosen as the patron saint of the parish. The church became integral to the local community, a place for worship, spiritual guidance and community events. Today, the church complex is a beautiful but understated place to visit, boasting a large courtyard with manicured greenery and a beautiful bronze statue of Saint Francis Xavier, where locals and visitors alike seek solace and peace. There are also a couple of other interesting things you can see. On one side of the church, you will see another statue of Saint Joseph, another revered Catholic figure, known for being the protector of families and workers. On the other side, you can see a depiction of the Blessed Mother, standing on a tall pedestal. The interior of the church is a calm space for contemplation. The walls are painted simple white, and light through stained glass windows paints vibrant patterns on the floor. It’s a beautiful space, and you can really feel the quiet devotion of the community that uses this church.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to