It is impossible to visit Viet Nam and not visit pagodas, churches and other religious edifices. Some are open and airy with a calm, zenn feel. Others are dark and smokey with incense. All are brightly colored, intricately designed and crowded with people. Most of Viet Nam is Buddhist, with some Taoism, Confucianism, and ancestor worship thrown in. Less than 10% are Christian, mostly Catholic. We even were able to attend a service at a catholic church in Hoi An on Christmas day. It was a beautiful service with a great sounding choir and lots of participation from the congregation.
A Catholic church in Ho Chi Min City
Pagoda in Ho Chi Min City
The gardens outside a pagoda in Dalat
Ceramic pagoda outside of Dalat
A big happy Buddha at Elephant Falls, outside of Dalat
Cao Dai temple outside of Dalat
Church in Hoi An on Christmas Day
No matter the language, worship is always up-lifting. It felt very familiar to be in the midst of Christian symbols.
2 comments:
Looks like you had a great Christmas, Lo. How is David making out? You taking care of the old retiree?
Thought you might enjoy some pics of Scott's cows I took while the boys were up for Hunter's birthday.
Love,
JBP
Ooops...here's the pics...
http://gallery.me.com/home.palmer#100084/IMG_1669&bgcolor=black
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