The Catholic neighborhood is bustling with activity as they celebrate Christmas.

Christmas is one of the most important holidays of the year for the Catholic community. During these days, the atmosphere of preparation for the holiday begins to liven up in the Catholic neighborhoods.

Searching through old photos on his phone of beautiful and unique nativity scenes he'd taken during Christmas 2024, Mr. Dang Thanh Sang, a resident of the Catholic neighborhood in Long Xuyen ward, couldn't hide his delight. He plans to decorate the nativity scene in front of his house lavishly this year as well.

The church was one of the first places to complete the creation of the nativity scene. Photo: PHUONG LAN

In a conversation with us, Mr. Sang shared that he himself is not religious, only his wife is a believer. However, for nearly 20 years of marriage, this man has meticulously and carefully built a small Nativity scene in front of their house every Christmas. He recounted that initially, his wife asked him to do it. Later, he researched and realized the sacred meaning of Christmas and that the Nativity scene, representing the birthplace of Jesus, has become an indispensable symbol of this special holiday.

Every year, Mr. Sang dedicates his time, passion, and effort to decorating his nativity scene in the most dazzling and vibrant way possible. For him, it's not just a decoration, but also a sacred place where all family members can gather to pray, singing beautiful songs together to celebrate the peaceful birth of Christ. His love and respect for his wife's faith have transformed Mr. Sang into a silent "artist," contributing to the lively and warm atmosphere of the holiday season in the Long Xuyen Catholic community.

As Christmas approaches, the streets winding through the Catholic neighborhoods seem to be adorned with a new coat. As you travel through the residential areas, the first thing that catches your eye is the nativity scenes. Each nativity scene possesses its own unique beauty. Some are dazzling and magnificent with countless colorful lights and elaborate decorations, while others are simple and rustic, yet still embody profound reverence.

Not only are there nativity scenes, but colorful banners and flashing lights are also hung everywhere. When night falls, the village becomes warmer and more unique. In the chilly December air, Christmas carols resound in every house and alley. At this time, the village is not just a place to live, but a space filled with love, where everyone awaits the sacred moment - the birth of Christ.

By mid-December, most churches had finished decorating, setting up nativity scenes of varying sizes. While carefully selecting a few decorations for her Christmas tree and nativity scene in front of her house, Ms. Nguyen Thu Quyen, a resident of Long Xuyen ward, kept praising how beautiful everything was. For Ms. Quyen, decorating her home is not just an activity but has become a "family tradition." When the chilly wind arrives, she busily cleans up and arranges the Christmas tree and small nativity scene on her porch. Ms. Quyen shared: "It doesn't need to be extravagant or elaborate; just enough Christmas atmosphere permeates every corner of the house, allowing me to feel peace and warmth… that's enough to make me happy."

These days, passing through Catholic villages or churches, anyone is easily captivated by the meticulousness and attention to detail in every aspect of the preparations. The normally tranquil space is now adorned with the vibrant colors of lights and elaborate nativity scenes, causing even non-Catholics to stop and admire them.

At Can Xay Church in Binh Duc Ward, Ms. Anh Thu, a resident of An Chau Commune, is searching for the best angles for her photos by the newly completed grotto. She said she had to arrive early to capture the most beautiful shots, because on the main holiday (December 24th and 25th), the place would be very crowded, making it difficult to find the perfect angle.

For Anh Thu, Christmas has long been a beautiful part of her memories, even though she is not religious. Anh Thu shared: “Every year, I go to church with my friends not only to have fun but also because I admire the solemn atmosphere and the reverence of the parishioners as they pray together in the church.”

In the harmonious blend of faith and everyday life, wishes for peace become a bridge connecting people, spreading warmth and compassion during the Christmas season.

PHUONG LAN

Source: https://baoangiang.com.vn/xom-dao-ron-rang-don-giang-sinh-a471299.html