Each year, Holy Martyrs of Vietnam Parish, in St. Petersburg plans a special event to observe the day of remembrance for the Holy Martyrs of Vietnam, 117 individuals who were persecuted and killed because of their faith in Vietnam during the 18th and 19th centuries. They were named saints by Pope John Paul II in 1988.

Participants of this dynamic and faith-filled event will have the opportunity to pray before relics of these Holy Martyrs. Sacred relics are physical objects that have a direct association with Jesus or the saints.

This year’s festival will include an opening Mass with Bishop Gregory Parkes, to be held on Friday, November 20th at 6 p.m. The event includes a variety of activities, such as educational workshops, games, food, music, performances, prayer candles, worship services, and outdoor processions.

The keynote speaker will be Bishop Thanh Thai Nguyen, a California bishop who escaped Vietnam by boat in 1979. 

Organizers will include a special commemoration for the 50th anniversary of Vietnamese immigration to America that coincides with the 50th anniversary of the fall of Saigon in April 1975.

Holy Martyrs of Vietnam Congress Schedule

Friday, November 21st, 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Saturday, November 22nd, 8:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Sunday, November 23rd, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Location

Holy Martyrs of Vietnam Catholic Church, 4000 43rd Street N., St. Petersburg