Cha Tam Church was built in 1900 and completed two years later. This church was specially constructed for the Chinese community. Father Pierre d’Assou, also known as Tam An Su in Chinese, initiated its construction and served as its first pastor. The architecture of Cha Tam Church is a unique blend of Chinese and European Gothic styles. With over 100 years of history, it is a must-visit landmark when in Saigon. Let’s cycle to explore this intriguing site!
History of the Church
Cha Tam Church, named after Father Pierre d’Assou or Father Tam, has a rich and unique history. In 1865, the Diocese of Cochinchina began serving the Chinese community in Southern Vietnam. The first church for the Chinese in Cholon was established by Father Philippe from the Paris Foreign Missions Society, Guangdong Diocese. In 1866, Admiral Lagrandière, noting the inadequacy of the church while passing through Cholon, ordered the construction of a larger church on Cay Mai Street (now the Vietnam-China Bank Headquarters).
In 1898, Bishop Dépierre, observing a significant decrease in the Chinese Catholic population, appointed Father Pierre d’Assou to re-establish the parish. With government support, Father Pierre d’Assou acquired a 3-hectare plot in the Lo Ren area (now the Thu Thiem center) and began building a new church. Bishop Lucien Massard laid the first stone on December 3, 1900, and the church was consecrated on January 10, 1902.
Since its establishment, Cha Tam Church has flourished. By 1975, the parish had about 8,000 Chinese Catholics, several schools, and cultural and educational facilities, managing churches and religious establishments for the Chinese community in Southern Vietnam.
Unique Architecture of the Church
Upon visiting Cha Tam Church, I was immediately struck by its impressive architecture. The church prominently features Gothic elements typical of European design, such as high pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and stained glass windows. However, what sets it apart is the seamless integration of Eastern cultural elements, creating a grand yet familiar architectural ensemble.
From the entrance, you can observe this cultural fusion through the traditional Vietnamese tam quan gate architecture. The church’s name is elegantly inscribed in Chinese characters on the signboard, reminiscent of our ancestors’ calligraphy. The roof is covered with yin-yang tiles, a staple in East Asian architecture, symbolizing cosmic balance.
On the church’s roof, the lotus flower—a symbol of purity and enlightenment in Buddhism—is harmoniously integrated, adding a unique touch. The entrance doors are flanked by couplets in Chinese, expressing profound life philosophies. Inside the main hall, four red-painted pillars—a color uncommon in Catholic church architecture—catch the eye with their distinctive charm.
The most notable feature of the church is the crucifixion scene of Jesus. Instead of the usual statues, this area is adorned with two red and gold couplets inscribed in black: “Illusions of worldly vanity cannot satisfy one’s desires; only heavenly fragrance and eternal happiness can fulfill a good heart.” These couplets convey profound spiritual guidance, urging people to seek noble values and avoid material temptations.
The harmonious blend of Western Gothic architecture and Eastern cultural elements makes Cha Tam Church a unique attraction, drawing not only tourists but also pilgrims from various regions. It stands as a testament to the cultural exchange between two great civilizations, embodying rich cultural values.
How to Get to Cha Tam Church
To visit Cha Tam Church, also known as Saint Francis Xavier Church, from downtown Ho Chi Minh City, you can easily travel by personal vehicle. We recommend cycling to enjoy and explore Saigon and this landmark in the most flexible, convenient, and environmentally friendly manner.
- Address: 25 Hoc Lac, Ward 14, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Activities at the Church
Through conversations with the nuns serving at the church, I discovered that it offers more than just spiritual activities. Cha Tam Church provides various community services. Free medical services are available on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, staffed by skilled doctors and medical personnel to support community health. The church also provides free lunches for the elderly in the area, with support from local benefactors and Catholics to help the poor during holidays and festivals.
Since 1994, the parish has established the Vinh Sang charity group, focusing on monthly social work and relief for destitute families. In 1995, the Humanitarian Clinic’s third branch was opened to offer free medical examinations and medicines. In 1999, the Traditional Medicine Treatment Unit was established to further support community health.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the nuns shared that Cha Tam Church actively supported the community by organizing gift distributions for disadvantaged households and providing 700 free meals daily to those in need and healthcare workers and volunteers in quarantine areas and hospitals in District 5.
Mass Schedule at the Church
Cha Tam Church is not only a significant spiritual site but also a vibrant center for religious activities in Saigon. You can attend Mass according to the following schedule:
Weekday Masses: 5:30 AM (Vietnamese), 5:30 PM (Chinese)
Sunday Masses:
- Saturday: 6:30 PM (Vietnamese), 7:30 PM (Chinese)
- Sunday: 5:30 AM (Vietnamese), 7:00 AM (Chinese), 8:30 AM (Vietnamese), 4:00 PM (Vietnamese), 5:30 PM (Chinese)
Eucharistic Adoration: 2:30 PM every Sunday (Vietnamese + Chinese)
I was surprised to learn that Cha Tam Church holds separate Masses for the Vietnamese and Chinese communities. The specific schedule and frequency of Chinese Masses reflect a deep respect for the spiritual and cultural needs of the Chinese community in Saigon. This highlights the church’s commitment to honoring the traditions and religious values of the community in a multicultural and religiously diverse city like Ho Chi Minh City.
Let’s Wrap It Up
Cha Tam Church, with its unique blend of Gothic and Chinese architectural styles, stands as a symbol of cultural and spiritual harmony in Ho Chi Minh City. Its rich history, architectural grandeur, and community services make it a must-visit landmark for both tourists and locals. Whether you are exploring its historical significance, marveling at its architectural beauty, or participating in its vibrant religious activities, Cha Tam Church offers an enriching experience that bridges cultural divides and fosters a sense of unity.
Visiting Cha Tam Church is not just a journey through history and architecture but also an opportunity to witness the compassionate community work carried out by the church. From free medical services to charity initiatives, the church embodies the spirit of giving and support.
When in Saigon, make sure to cycle to Cha Tam Church and immerse yourself in this unique cultural gem that reflects the harmonious coexistence of Eastern and Western influences.
Ho Chi Minh City Cycling Tour In Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Vietnam
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