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EN
Christmas Eve, December 24, 2025, began with one of the most sacred moments of the Catholic holiday season: the Christmas Eve Mass at 6:00 PM at Thai Ha Church, one of Hanoi's prominent parishes. This was the time when parishioners and many others arrived earliest to pray together and contemplate the love and hope that the Christmas season brings.
Crowds of people flocked to Thai Ha Church from early on Christmas Eve.
The atmosphere of the 6 PM service was solemn, yet filled with the warm emotions of the attendees. Parishioners gathered in front of and inside the church quite early to participate in this part of the ceremony. The soft lighting inside the church, the hymns, created a sense of peace and profound serenity, more so than usual. The sounds of the songs and prayers spread throughout the spacious area, making everyone clearly feel the significance of the vigil – welcoming the imminent birth of Jesus Christ.
The parish area was packed with people before the start of Mass.
The 6 PM service is considered a "Vigil Mass" specifically for children and the elderly, demonstrating the parish's concern for those who often find it difficult to attend later-night main services. This is how the community ensures that everyone, regardless of age, can immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the solemn feast season.
Before the service, many people busied themselves with preparations, arranging seats, adjusting lighting, and families chatting quietly before entering the tranquil space of the Mass. Outside, the bright lights and the Nativity scene created a warm atmosphere, allowing parishioners and visitors who arrived early to feel the festive spirit even before the official ceremony began.
The grounds are surrounded by twinkling Christmas lights.
As the bells rang out, signaling the start of the service, everyone quietly moved inside, listening to the homily and prayers. The priest exchanged Christmas greetings with the congregation, reminding them of the sacred meaning of this night—hope, peace, and love. Hymns sung by the choir made the simple service profound, inviting each person to reflect on the spiritual values this traditional holiday brings. For most parishioners, this was a time to express gratitude and hope for a peaceful new year.
The service usually lasts for about an hour. After the ceremony ends, many parishioners stay to greet each other, chat, and share Christmas wishes before continuing with other activities in the evening such as the Christmas Carol (7:30 PM) and the Midnight Mass (10:00 PM).
The Vigil Mass took place in a solemn and warm atmosphere.
In the special part of the Mass, the Eucharistic rite takes place in a solemn and tranquil atmosphere. As the priest elevates the Blessed Sacrament, the entire church falls into silence, the parishioners bow their heads in prayer, many clasping their hands in reverence. This moment is considered the sacred highlight of Christmas Eve, helping participants to better understand the meaning of faith and the divine presence within the community.
The priest celebrates the Eucharistic rite.
Children and their families participate in the sacred moment of the Mass.
This part of the ceremony carries profound religious significance and reflects the spirit of community, with people coming together through faith and connection, sharing spiritual values at the end of the year. Amidst the bustling Christmas atmosphere in Hanoi, this ceremony contributes to the unique character of Thai Ha Church within the series of Christian festival activities.
The Christmas Eve Mass thus becomes an indispensable experience for many parishioners, especially those who want to fully feel the spirit of Christmas, from the earliest afternoon of the most important holiday of the Christian faith.
