(VOVWORLD) - A joyful Christmas atmosphere is spreading throughout Mang Lang parish in Tuy An Dong commune, Dak Lak province. Despite severe damage caused by floods in late November, with the local authorities’ support and community solidarity and sharing, parishioners are enjoying a warm and merry Christmas.
 People come to decorate the Mang Lang Church for Christmas. (photo: VOV) |
Ahead of Christmas, local parishioners gathered at the Mang Lang church to install a nativity scene and decorate a Christmas tree.
Nguyen Thanh Toan, a resident of Ngan Son hamlet, said: “A celebration will be held inside the church. We’ve decorated the Christmas tree and installed lights. There are images of Jesus, the Virgin Mary, and Saint Joseph. We also set up a small nativity scene at home.”
Mang Lang parish has about 1,560 parishioners. Nguyen Van Sen of Hoi Tin hamlet said floods swept away almost all his property, livestock, and crops, but thanks to the support of the authorities and neighbors, he is now having a merry Christmas.
“Although we’re still facing difficulties, this Christmas is filled with warmth, compassion, and blessings. It’s bringing us great comfort. I hope people will love each other more and together rise above their circumstances,” said Sen.
 A parishioner is making a nativity scene. (Photo: VOV) |
Phan Van Truyen said he and his neighbors are praying for peace and resumption of normal life. “The floods severely affected our life. This Christmas, people will certainly pray for peace and wish for a quick return to normal life.”
Father Phero Vo Thanh Nhan, priest of Mang Lang parish, said that during this year’s Christmas season, the parish has connected with charity groups to help people stabilize their lives. “Although we’ve faced many hardships, we’ve tried to overcome them with resilience. As long as our belief is strong, we can overcome all challenges.”
 Local parishioners join the preparation for Christmas celebration (Photo: VOV) |
Christmas in Mang Lang may not be as dazzling or festive as in previous years, but it’s deeply meaningful because people are helping each other rebuild their lives.