Worshippers at a Catholic church in Vu Ban, a rural district in northwestern Vietnam, were shocked when two governing officials rushed into the sanctuary on February 20th, interrupting a Sunday Mass being celebrated by the archbishop from Hanoi. Wearing helmets, the officials shouted loudly before taking the microphone and demanding that everyone disperse immediately, or "appropriate measures" would be taken. One of the officials was identified by witnesses as the head of the local branch of the Communist Party.

While the congregants continued to sing hymns, some of the priests and lay leaders managed to prevent the intruders from approaching the altar and nearing the archbishop. After several minutes, the church leaders were able to get the officials to leave so the service could conclude properly. It is unclear what the reasons were behind this disruption, and whether these men were under orders or simply acting on their own accord.

Vietnam remains a "country of particular concern" with the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom. While the nation's citizens are legally allowed to practise their religion, government persecution remains prevalent, particularly for unregistered groups. For more on the difficulties facing Vietnam's Christians, go to our country report.

Pray that the governing authorities of Vietnam would respect the religious freedom of all citizens. May those responsible for this incident be convicted of their oppressive actions of intimidation and come to realize the need to place their faith in God. Ask the Lord to provide needed encouragement and strength to Christians throughout Vietnam, as they seek to serve Him with all their hearts and courageously share the Good News of the Gospel.