Ad Limina Visit of the Episcopal Conference of Vietnam

On April 20, the Bishops of Vietnam were received at the Dicastery on the occasion of their “ad limina Apostolorum” visit.

At the beginning of the meeting, the Dicastery recalled the recent confirmation of the translation of the Missal into the Vietnamese language and the upcoming event that will enrich the nation’s liturgical calendar: the beatification of the Venerable Servant of God Francis Xavier Trương Bửu Diệp, priest and martyr, which will take place on July 2.

During the subsequent discussion, the importance of inculturation for the local Church in Vietnam emerged. This Church is a dynamic community with a continually growing number of faithful, especially in the field of music and liturgical singing. The Bishops’ questions focused on the criteria for evaluating the suitability of cultural elements. It was reaffirmed that the liturgy cannot become a place for the promotion of solely local cultures elements. Culture is a source of inspiration for the composition of new musical works, but it should not be imitated without proper discernment.

Continuing the discussion, the Bishops emphasized the importance of theological reflection in the process of discernment, as well as the role of ongoing liturgical formation in the spiritual and intellectual growth of the faithful. Both are important factors in preventing religious and ritual syncretism.

Finally, discussion turned to the future translation of the liturgical books and to the Bible “ad usum liturgicum”.