Situated in the vibrant Chinatown of Ho Chi Minh City, Cha Tam Church, also known as St. Francis Xavier Parish Church, holds a significant role as a place of worship for the Chinese Catholic community. With its rich history and cultural heritage, the church stands as a testament to the religious traditions and contributions of Chinese Catholics in the region. It also the place where President Ngo Dinh Diem and his brother sought solace before their tragic assassination during the 1963 military coup.
History of Cha Tam Church
Cha Tam Church, also known as St. Francis Xavier Parish Church, holds a significant place in the history of Saigon, particularly among the Chinese Catholic community. Named after Priest Pierre d’Assou, the church was built in the late 19th century when the number of local Chinese and Vietnamese Catholics was declining. Recognizing the need for a place of worship, Admiral Lagrandière, the Governor of South Vietnam, ordered the construction of the church to revive and strengthen the Chinese Catholic community.
Priest Pierre d’Assou, who had a deep understanding of Chinese language and culture, spearheaded the building project. Through a donation campaign, he successfully garnered support from both Catholic and non-Catholic individuals, including Chinese merchants and local residents. With a three-hectare plot of land obtained from nine Chinese owners in the center of Saigon, construction began on December 3rd, 1900, and the church was inaugurated on January 10th, 1902, with a solemn dedication ceremony attended by priests, parishioners, and government officials.
In addition to the church building, Cha Tam Church also encompassed a kindergarten, a boarding house, and rental houses, providing a place for the local Catholic community to stay. However, after the passing of Priest Pierre d’Assou in 1934, the church experienced a decline in parishioners. It was not until 1952 that priests from China arrived, revitalizing the community and leading to the construction of other Chinese churches in Saigon and the South of Vietnam.
President Ngo Dinh Diem
Cha Tam Church holds a connection to President Ngo Dinh Diem, who played a significant role in South Vietnam’s history. As the president of South Vietnam after the 1954 Geneva Conference, Diem’s favoritism towards Catholics and his persecution of Buddhists sparked a crisis that eroded his popularity.
In November 1963, during a military coup, President Diem and his political adviser sought refuge in a house belonging to a Chinese individual near Cha Tam Church. The following morning, they visited the church to pray before surrendering to the coup faction. Tragically, both President Diem and his adviser were killed on their way from the church to the General Staff.
Highlights of Cha Tam Church
Although the church may not be grand or imposing, its historical significance, combined with the rich history of the Chinese community, the last day of President Diem and the local area, makes it an intriguing destination to explore.
Inside the church, the mint-green and white interior is adorned with images depicting the stations of the cross, while holy water is dispensed from large clam shells.
The tower features a statue of François Xavier Tam Assou.
The tranquil garden surrounding the church is home to a Chinese pavilion at its center, where a statue of Our Lady resides. From the entrance gate, you can see the front of the church, characterized by a soaring main tower and symmetrical decorations in a Gothic style. The incorporation of Chinese philosophy is evident through lotus flower buds on the roof and the intentional combination of elements representing the Yin and Yang, the Five Elements, and the Yi Jing.
The front yard features a statue of Mary Mother within a traditional Chinese-style house, flanked by reliefs depicting Chinese and Vietnamese martyrs.
Saint Francis Xavier is honored in a yellow and white Gothic-style house on the left, while a statue of Jesus Christ on the cross stands on the opposite side.
Within the parish grounds, a yellow house of charity has been providing over 100 free meals daily to the elderly and impoverished in the area for more than twenty years. Additionally, the charitable clinic offers free medical appointments on a weekly basis. Adjacent to the clinic are white houses available for rent, adorned with pots of plants and flowers on the balconies.
To the left of the church, there is a small kindergarten named Thien Loc, and to the right stands Francis Meeting House, a yellow three-floor building with eight classrooms and a spacious hall accommodating up to 400 people.
Visiting information
- Address: Cha Tam Church, 21 Ton That Thiep Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
- Opening Times: The church is open daily from morning until evening.
- Entrance Fees: There is no entrance fee to visit Cha Tam Church. Donations are welcome to support the maintenance of the church.
- Location: The church is located in Chinatown (also known as Cholon) within District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City.
- How to Get There from District 1: One way to reach Cha Tam Church from District 1 is by taking a taxi or ride-sharing service. The journey typically takes around 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. It’s advisable to have the church’s address handy or show it to the driver for easy navigation.
With a congregation of approximately 3,000 ethnic Vietnamese and 2,000 ethnic Chinese, daily masses are held in the church.
Tip: To further explore the vibrant neighborhood of Chinatown, take a stroll through the bustling streets and alleys. Indulge in the local cuisine at nearby street food stalls or traditional Chinese restaurants, visit vibrant markets such as Binh Tay Market, and explore other historical landmarks like Thien Hau Temple or Quan Am Pagoda.
