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According to the tradition of Thai Ha parish, the procession of the Infant Jesus is held on the evening of December 25th, after the Christmas Mass. The procession starts from the courtyard of Thai Ha church, moves along the route around Thai Ha flower garden (Notre Dame Park), and then returns to the church grounds. The procession route is well-organized, ensuring order and safety, while also providing enough space for the community to participate.
The palanquin carrying the Infant Jesus is solemnly prepared before the procession in the courtyard of Thai Ha Church.
The person carrying the incense burner leads the procession in the palanquin procession ceremony.
The procession included priests, pastoral council members, various associations, choirs, youth groups, and a large number of parishioners. Each group played a specific role. Leading the procession were the associations responsible for carrying the cross, respectfully carrying the tall candle-lit cross and incense burners emitting fragrant smoke. In Catholic worship, the fragrant smoke not only creates a sacred atmosphere but also symbolizes the prayers of the faithful offered to God.
Following them were representatives from various parishes and associations. A highlight of the procession at Thai Ha was the presence of symbolic Nativity scenes depicting the Baby Jesus. Each Nativity scene represented a unit such as a "united group" or various associations, crafted on traditional round trays and meticulously decorated with dried grass and dazzling LED lights.
In terms of form, the statue of the Infant Jesus is placed on a palanquin, simply but solemnly decorated. The procession moves at a slow pace, incorporating prayers and hymns. The ritual sequence includes preparing the palanquin, gathering the congregation, setting off, moving around the flower garden, and ending at the church. The entire process lasts approximately 30-40 minutes.
The procession carrying the statue of the Baby Jesus moved around Thai Ha flower garden.
Parishioners of all ages participated in the procession, singing hymns as they moved along.
According to Catholic tradition, processions symbolize the community's journey of faith. Walking together in a common order expresses unity and a spirit of companionship. With the procession of the Infant Jesus, this meaning is directly linked to the mystery of Christmas, the moment when God became incarnate, present among humanity in the form of a child.
The associations coordinated to maintain order and ensure the smooth pace of the procession.
Sharing his thoughts on the significance of the ceremony, Mr. Nguyen Van Hieu, representative of the Communications Committee of Thai Ha Parish, said: “The procession of the Infant Jesus helps the community relive the joy of Christmas through a concrete journey. Each step is a shared prayer, demonstrating the unity and faith of the parishioners.”
Children are led by adults in the procession, symbolizing the continuity of faith between generations.
Beyond its religious significance, the procession also carries a clear sense of community. Holding the ceremony in the flower garden area allows parishioners to connect with the shared living space of the residential area. People in the surrounding area can witness, observe, and feel the Christmas atmosphere through an orderly and peaceful ceremony.
After the procession, parishioners took commemorative photos with the statue of the Baby Jesus.
Parishioners gather around the statue of the Baby Jesus after the procession.
The procession of the Infant Jesus at Thai Ha parish demonstrates an effort to maintain liturgical traditions in a way that is both practical and relevant, ensuring solemnity while remaining connected to social life. This helps the parishioners preserve their religious identity while integrating into the rhythm of modern life.
Over the years, the procession has become a familiar milestone in the Christmas season of Thai Ha parish. This ritual contributes to nurturing the faith life, strengthening the bonds among parishioners, and creating an image of stable and orderly Catholic activities in the heart of Hanoi.
