Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has paid heartfelt tribute to Jean-Baptiste Pham Minh Mân, the Archbishop emeritus of Ho Chi Minh City, who passed away at the age of 92 on March 22, praising his life as a powerful witness of faith, humility, and dedication to the Church.
In a telegram of condolence addressed to Joseph Nguyên Nãng, the Pope expressed deep sorrow at the Cardinal’s death and extended his “heartfelt condolences” to the faithful of the local Church. He assured them of his spiritual closeness as they mourn the loss of one of Vietnam’s most respected Church leaders.
Remembering the late Cardinal’s decades of service, Pope Leo XIV commended his unwavering commitment to pastoral ministry and his contributions both locally and to the universal Church. He recalled with “immense gratitude” the Cardinal’s dedicated service as a priest and bishop, particularly in the dioceses of My Tho and Ho Chi Minh City, as well as his collaboration with the Apostolic See.
The Holy Father highlighted that Cardinal Pham Minh Mân’s ministry was distinguished by a deep concern for pastoral care and social responsibility. He also emphasized the Cardinal’s consistent efforts to foster dialogue and strengthen unity within the Church, noting that his life reflected “evangelical simplicity and humility.”
Entrusting his soul to God’s infinite mercy, the Pope concluded his message by imparting his Apostolic Blessing to all those grieving his loss, praying that they may find consolation and peace in the Lord.
Born on March 5, 1934, in Ca Mau in southern Vietnam, Cardinal Pham Minh Mân was ordained to the priesthood in 1965. His early ministry included teaching at a minor seminary, but his vocation unfolded during a turbulent period in Vietnam’s history. Following the political changes in 1975, the Church faced significant restrictions, including the closure and confiscation of seminaries.
Despite these challenges, he continued to play a vital role in priestly formation, often under difficult conditions. When seminaries were gradually reopened in 1988, he was appointed rector of the Major Seminary in Cai Rang, where he worked tirelessly despite limited resources and a shortage of faculty.
His episcopal journey began in 1993 when he was named Coadjutor Bishop of My Tho, a role that prepared him for greater responsibilities. In 1998, he was appointed Archbishop of Ho Chi Minh City, where he led the archdiocese for over 15 years, guiding the faithful through a period of renewal and growth.
In recognition of his service, Pope John Paul II elevated him to the College of Cardinals in 2003, affirming his importance within the global Church.
Cardinal Pham Minh Mân is widely remembered as a pillar of the Catholic Church in Vietnam, a shepherd who led with wisdom and humility, and a bridge-builder who sought unity amid challenges. His legacy, marked by perseverance and quiet strength, continues to inspire the faithful both in Vietnam and beyond.