New Gothic-Style Church Graces Ho Chi Minh City's Kênh Đôi Canal

Nestled along the picturesque Kênh Đôi canal in Ho Chi Minh City's District 8, a new Bình Thuận Church stands out with its striking European Gothic architecture. The church, belonging to the Bình Thuận Parish within the Archdiocese of Ho Chi Minh City, replaces a structure originally built in 1966 by Father Phêrô Dương Vĩnh Trị.

This older church had suffered from frequent flooding due to high tides before 1992. Despite several renovations, its foundation and grounds remained lower than the current road level, leading to severe deterioration. The idea to rebuild the church dates back to Father Giuse Nguyễn Văn Niệm, with a formal plan initiated in 2014 by Father Phanxicô Salêsiô, responding to the parish community's wishes.

The new Bình Thuận Church officially broke ground on April 30, 2016, with the ceremony led by Father General Vicar Ignatio Hồ Văn Xuân. After six years of construction, the church was inaugurated by Archbishop Giuse Nguyễn Năng, marking a new phase of development for the parish. The design and construction were overseen by Father Giuse Lê Ngọc Đa and the parish council.

The church's design is a captivating blend of European Gothic style and local elements. Its exterior boasts elegant white-cream walls contrasted by a vibrant orange tiled roof that slopes dramatically. Two tall bell towers rise prominently, creating a recognizable silhouette against the sky. The facade features intricate gold-colored bas-reliefs and wide steps welcoming parishioners. Rows of pointed arch windows line the church's body, complemented by large rose windows on the transepts, enhancing its classic Western religious aesthetic. The church has also become a popular spot for locals to take photos.

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Ever since Father Giuse Nguyễn Văn Niệm, he had the idea to rebuild the church.