For many Vietnamese families, the Lunar New Year, or Tết, is the most significant celebration of the year, marking a time of thanksgiving, remembrance of ancestors, and prayer for blessings in the months to come. Rooted in both cultural tradition and deep faith, the celebration provided an opportunity for parishioners to gather as one community to give thanks to God for the past year and to entrust the future to His care.

The parish grounds were beautifully adorned with blossoms and vibrantly colored flowers – traditional symbols of happiness, prosperity, and new beginnings – creating an atmosphere filled with gratitude and joy. Families arrived dressed in traditional attire, greeting one another warmly and sharing festive foods that reflected the rich cultural heritage of the Vietnamese Catholic community. Holy Martyrs of Vietnam Parish, known throughout the Diocese of Saint Petersburg for its vibrant cultural traditions and strong devotion to the Eucharist and Blessed Mother, has long served as a spiritual home where faith and heritage are celebrated together. The evening began with a reverent time of Eucharistic Adoration and praying the Rosary, inviting all present to center their celebration in prayer and thanksgiving. The celebration of Mass followed, the liturgy reflected the deep faith of the parish, highlighting the importance of gratitude to God.  

After the Mass, the festivities continued with a lively cultural program that reflected both tradition and community pride. A star-studded lineup of musical artists from overseas enriched the evening with song and cultural expression that honored the Vietnamese faith community. Youth of the parish also took part in the program, offering a dynamic musical performance that included rhythmic drumming and the traditional high-energy dragon dance – a joyful expression of the community’s resilient spirit and thriving cultural heritage.

Events like the Lunar New Year celebration reflect the diversity and vitality of the Diocese of Saint Petersburg, highlighting how the universal Church embraces many cultures united in one faith. Through prayer, music, food, and fellowship, Holy Martyrs of Vietnam Parish continues to foster a strong sense of belonging while sharing the beauty of Vietnamese Catholic traditions with the wider community.

For more information about Holy Martyrs of Vietnam Catholic Church, click here.