A Home for the Future: Carmelite Friars Dedicate New House of Studies in Vietnam

A Home for the Future: Carmelite Friars Dedicate New House of Studies in Vietnam

“Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build.” (Psalm 127:1)

Saigon, Vietnam—March 19, 2025 — A spirit of deep joy and thanksgiving filled the air as the Carmelite Friars celebrated the long-awaited dedication of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Priory, their newly renovated house of studies in Saigon. The dedication took place on the Solemnity of Saint Joseph, a fitting day to honor the protector of the Church, patron of religious life, and principal protector of the Carmelite Order.

After three years of careful renovation, this newly blessed priory stands as a spiritual and academic home for Carmelite student friars who are currently pursuing studies in philosophy and theology. The house forms the heart of the Order’s formation mission in Vietnam, where vocations continue to grow and deepen in response to the needs of the Church.

The Most Reverend Joseph Trac Bui, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Saigon, presided over the solemn Mass and Rite of Blessing of the new priory. The bishop’s presence was a beautiful sign of communion between the local Church and the Carmelite family. In his homily, Bishop Bui reflected on the example of Saint Joseph as a model of obedience, humility, and dedication—virtues that lie at the center of Carmelite life.

Also present for this joyous occasion were Very Rev. Mario Esposito, O.Carm., Prior Provincial of the Carmelite Province of St. Elias; Rev. Joseph Hung Tran, O.Carm., Commissary Provincial for Vietnam; and Monsignor Joseph Tuan Pham, along with many guest priests, religious brothers and sisters, benefactors, family members, friends, and, of course, the Carmelite friars themselves.

In his remarks, Father Joseph Hung Tran, O.Carm., expressed heartfelt gratitude for the many hands and hearts that contributed to this project. “This priory is more than bricks and mortar,” he said. “It is a sacred space where young friars will be formed in prayer, study, and community life, so they may one day serve the Church with the heart of Prophet Elijah and the spirit of Carmel.”

The Rite of Blessing, incorporated into the liturgy, marked the spiritual inauguration of the new priory as a dwelling place of God and a center of learning. As incense rose and holy water was sprinkled on the walls, the gathered community prayed for the friars who will live, study, and grow within these walls for generations to come.

Our Lady of Mount Carmel Priory now opens its doors as a house of peace, prayer, and formation—a beacon of hope for the Church in Vietnam and a testament to the enduring vitality of the Carmelite charism.

SEL and St. Joseph Commissariat Media