J. B. An Dang

Episcopal appointments in Vietnam are the result of a cumbersome and often not respected process. The government continues to plunder the Catholics of property and land. The central religious policies have not changed, and repression is still strong in rural areas of the country. "Naive" to propose this style for China.

Banners and slogans demanding religious freedom and accusing the authorities of attacks against the faithful and sacred objects. A Catholic lawyer escapes arrest. A journalist wounded by a knife in attack. Solidarity and prayer for all the churches in Vietnam. Military deployed in front of the bishop's house.

Authorities increasing repression on practice of religion. The government wants to "wipe out" any trace of faith, but the people are seeing a spiritual rebirth. The fierce opposition of the priest and the faithful of Con Cuong and military assault by organized thugs. Local priest: to die on the altar "a blessing".

The young people received sentences ranging from 18 to 42 months in prison, followed by a period of probation. Thousands of people attended the trial outside the court, brandishing slogans of protest. Families announce the appeal. Vietnamese bishops: the arbitrary application of the law results in aberrations.

Authorities demolish kindergarten perhaps to sell the land for money. Religious request clarification, the government responds with silence, in contravention to its own laws. The long list of violence against the Redemptorists.

The prelate, 80, had been ill for some time. Had fought for over 20 years against the restrictions of the communist authorities that prevented him carrying out his pastoral functions.