Franciscan Formation in Da Lat (Vietnam)

From December 24, 2025 to Gennaio 1, 2026, Prof. Martín Carbajo-Núñez, OFM, delivered a series of lectures on the Canticle of the Creatures in the renowned city of Da Lat (Vietnam), home to the novitiate of the Franciscan friars (OFM).

During his stay in Vietnam, Prof. Carbajo had lunch with H.E. the Archbishop of Hanoi, Joseph Vũ Văn Thiên. A day before, he had also had lunch with H.E. Bishop Peter Kiều Công Tùng, who facilitated his visit to the famous Phát Diệm Cathedral, guided by the diocesan financial administrator (Khánh) and by the Grand Chancellor.

Among the Franciscans, he celebrated the Christmas Mass with the Provincial Minister and later had dinner with Joseph Minh, formator of the post-novitiate friars; Paul Xuân Diệu, Dean of Theology; and Joseph Khánh, Secretary for Formation and Studies and, at the same time, Director of the Franciscan Institute of Theology. After his personal encounter, Joseph Khánh wrote to him by email, confirming that he sincerely hopes “that we may have the opportunity to collaborate and that I may count on your support in the future.”

Prof. Carbajo wants to express also his recognition to the novice master, Đinh Trọng Đệ (Francis Savior), and especially to the vice–novice master, Anh Tuấn Nguyễn (Joseph), his attentive, fraternal, and indispensable guide during all these days. His deep gratitude also goes to Fr. Anselm Nguyễn Hải Minh, OFM, guardian of the Phú Gia fraternity in Hanoi, as well as to the guardians of the fraternities in Hanoi and Da Lat.

This was Prof. Carbajo’s first visit to Vietnam, and he therefore gladly accepted the opportunity to visit some of the country’s most emblematic sites.