01/04/2020 Vietnam (International Christian Concern) – A parish in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City of Vietnam has been granted “buildings of historical value” status, ending a long controversy between the local government and Catholics.

In October 2015, city officials planned the demolition of one of the parish’s school buildings. The Community of Lovers of the Holy Cross’ nuns stood firm and eventually the authorities retreated. In May 2018, the chairman of the city’s committee authorized for all nine plots of land to be seized and utilized for commercial use. As Ho Chi Minh sought to grow into a global city, local parish’s like this one stood in the way.

Finally, the Community of Lovers of the Holy Cross was declared a historical site in 2019 and therefore will not face demolition to make way for new structures. Although the church is safe, about 15,000 families have reportedly been forced from their homes and relocated due to real estate agents seeking new revenue.

The church, which has stood since 1859, will continue to serve its community.

For interviews, please contact Olivia Miller, Communications Coordinator: [email protected].