Central Vietnam: More than 90,000 faithful gathered at the national shrine of Our Lady of La Vang on August 15 to mark the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, turning the historic site into a vibrant tapestry of prayer, hymns, and devotion.
The annual pilgrimage began before dawn with a majestic procession from the Marian monument to the Basilica altar, according to the Vietnamese Bishops’ Conference. Pilgrims, both local and international, recited the Rosary, sang hymns, and lifted heartfelt petitions to Mary, who, tradition holds, appeared at La Vang 227 years ago to console Catholics enduring persecution.
Father Dominic Phan Hung, vicar general of the Archdiocese of Hue, opened the celebrations by invoking the enduring legacy of the shrine. “Before the solemn Mass, children of Mary from across the nation and abroad gather here at La Vang to accompany the Blessed Mother in glorifying and thanking God for the singular grace bestowed upon her,” he said.
Archbishop Joseph Dang Duc Ngan of Hue, together with Father Dominic, incensed the statue of Our Lady before leading the faithful toward the basilica. As dawn broke, the illuminated image of Mary stood as a beacon of hope, described by pilgrims as “the hope of the pilgrim Church on earth.”
Archbishop Joseph presided over the solemn Mass, joined by Archbishop Emeritus Francis Xavier Le Van Hong of Hue, Archbishop Edward Tamba Charles of Freetown, Sierra Leone, and nearly 300 priests. Reflecting on Mary’s life, he spoke of “God’s loving providence” and her unwavering response in hope and trust. He encouraged Catholics to follow her example of obedience so that God’s plan may unfold in their lives.
The Archbishop highlighted Mary’s apparition at La Vang, emphasizing that it offered strength during times of trial. “The Assumption is not only a major feast but also a firm promise of eternal glory for every believer the pinnacle of Christian hope,” he said. Drawing from Scripture, he described Mary as “the image of the glorious Church,” “the first fruits of salvation,” and a model of love and service. He also underscored La Vang’s historical significance as a place where Mary accompanied the Vietnamese faithful amid wars and religious persecution.
Archbishop Joseph expressed gratitude that the pilgrimage took place “in the peace that God has given, fulfilling the hopes of many,” noting the favorable weather as a special blessing. He officially announced that the 32nd National Marian Congress of La Vang will be held on August 13–15, 2026. The celebrations concluded with a solemn papal blessing, granting a plenary indulgence for the Jubilee Year 2025.
The Archdiocese of Hue said that pilgrims returned home “carrying faith in God and the peace of Mary, remaining hopeful travelers on their journey to heaven.”