Visiting Bishop Vu Dinh Hieu and Catholic dignitaries and followers of the Bui Chu diocese in Xuan Truong district, the official acknowledged their contributions to socio-economic development of the locality and the country at large, and to the great national unity bloc.

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Truong Thi Mai (right), head of the Party Central Committee’s Commission for Mass Mobilization, extends her Christmas greetings to Catholic dignitaries and followers in the Northern province of Nam Dinh.

The Party and the State always respect and ensure the freedom of religion and belief of all citizens, meet legal and legitimate demands of religious organizations and followers, and create conditions for them to develop economy and improve their living standards, she said.

Mai expressed her hope that the local Catholic dignitaries and followers will continue to lead a good secular and religious life, and join hands with people nationwide in national construction and defense.

In reply, Bishop Hieu said the Bui Chu diocese is home to 413,000 Catholics and highlighted contributions of the local Catholics to rural transport and social welfare projects, environmental protection and security and safety safeguarding.

Nam Dinh has more than 720 parishes and Catholic families, with about 470,000 followers.

Source: VNA