Beatification Mass of Father Francis Truong Buu Diep – A Historic Event for the Catholic Church in Vietnam

On July 2, 2026, the Beatification Mass for the Servant of God Phanxicô Trương Bửu Diệp will officially take place at the Tac Say Pilgrimage Center (Diocese of Can Tho). The Mass will be presided over by Cardinal Luis Antonio G. Tagle, Special Envoy of Pope Leo XIV. This marks the first time a Beatification Mass has ever been celebrated in Vietnam, making it a spiritually and historically significant event for Catholics both locally and internationally.

 

Official Announcement from the Diocese of Can Tho

 

According to the letter dated December 19, 2025, issued by Bishop Phêrô Lê Tấn Lợi, Bishop of the Diocese of Can Tho, the Holy See has officially approved the celebration of the Beatification Mass for Father Francis Truong Buu Diep.

 

Event details:

• Date: July 2, 2026
• Location: Tac Say Pilgrimage Center, Diocese of Can Tho
• Presider: Cardinal Luis Antonio G. Tagle – Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization

 

The Bishop of Can Tho described this as a special grace granted to the Diocese and a great encouragement for the faithful to follow the example of a shepherd who lived faithfully in Christ and sacrificed his life for his flock.

 

 

Biography and Pastoral Journey of Father Francis Truong Buu Diep

 

Father Francis Truong Buu Diep was born on January 1, 1897, in Con Phuoc (An Giang Province). After studying at Cu Lao Gieng Minor Seminary and Phnom Penh Major Seminary (Cambodia), he was ordained a priest in 1924.

 

In 1930, he was appointed parish priest of Tac Say Parish (Bac Lieu). During his 16 years of ministry, Father Diep was known for his simple lifestyle, compassion, and dedication to the poor, serving all people without distinction between Catholics and non-Catholics.

 

Amid the turmoil of war in 1946, despite being advised to flee for safety, he chose to remain with his parishioners. On March 12, 1946, he was arrested along with many parishioners and was later killed out of hatred for the faith. His sacrifice became a powerful witness of pastoral charity — living and dying among his flock.

 

Today, Tac Say Pilgrimage Center is one of the largest pilgrimage sites in Southern Vietnam, welcoming millions of pilgrims each year who come to pray and give thanks.

 

 

The Beatification Process

 

The cause for beatification followed a rigorous process:

• 2013: Diocesan investigation opened
• 2017: Documentation completed and sent to Rome
• 2019: Vatican authorities validated the investigation
• November 25, 2024: The Holy Father authorized the decree recognizing his martyrdom
• December 3, 2025: Official announcement of the Beatification ceremony
• July 2, 2026: Solemn Beatification Mass at Tac Say

 

This milestone marks a significant moment for the Catholic Church in Vietnam in recognizing the heroic witness of its pastors.

 

 

Pilgrimage to Tac Say 2026 with J Travel

 

The Beatification Mass on July 2, 2026, is expected to attract large numbers of pilgrims from across Vietnam and abroad. It is a special opportunity for the faithful to unite in thanksgiving and participate in this historic Church event.

 

Pilgrimage itineraries may include:

• Visiting Father Diep’s tomb and attending the solemn Beatification Mass
• Exploring Soc Trang and Bac Lieu
• Discovering Ca Mau Cape – the southernmost point of Vietnam
• Experiencing Cai Rang Floating Market (Can Tho)
• Enjoying authentic Mekong Delta cuisine

This journey is not merely a tour, but a profound spiritual experience that renews faith and deepens appreciation for the sacrificial love of a Vietnamese shepherd.

 

 

Contact J Travel for detailed pilgrimage programs to Tac Say 2026 with well-planned itineraries and dedicated services, ensuring a reverent and meaningful participation in this historic event.

 

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