Nestled in a square amongst rows of shops in Hanoi, Vietnam is the Catholic cathedral of St. Joseph. Home of the bishop of Hanoi, the cathedral appears to be copied after some of the medieval cathedrals of Europe, though much smaller in size. Its exterior is covered with a dark sooty film that reflects the effects of time and weather on the building. However, the interior of the cathedral, though reflecting its age, is clean and spacious. The altar is amazingly attractive with its multi colored pictures and well carved statues of saints and the Mother of God. Though the benches and kneelers are made of a hard wood, one does not seem to find them uncomfortable. On one of the side altars, there are pictures and a stature of Mary, which clearly indicate recognition of Mary’s role in salvation and the reverence given to her by the worshipers.

Mass is heard every day; on the weekends there are several Masses from Saturday evening through to Sunday evening. All are well attended; some have overflow crowds standing in the entrances into the church. On the weekdays, Masses are heard in the early morning and evening. Though the church is not fully occupied at the weekday Masses, attendance is greater than one would expect.  

The one thing that immediately strikes an American that attends any of the Masses at the cathedral is the quiet reverence of all the people at Mass. There is no talking, unnecessary fidgeting, or actions that can distract from the reverence of the moment. It is clearly a time of concentrated communion with God. Even young children seem to understand the importance of the time with God and few can be seen fidgeting or distracting their parents or others. There are no coloring books, games, or drinks which can occupy their time. They demonstrate the same reverence as do their parents. All of this is done in a cathedral that lacks air conditioning and exists in hot and humid weather conditions. 

Everyone who attends Mass at the cathedral seems to clearly understand “In Whose Presence” they are. They are there to give honor and respect to God… and they demonstrate this by their respect for His house and His Presence through quiet prayer before Mass and by their participation during Mass.  If one arrives early for Mass, one can be assured that their prayers will not be disturbed by a cacophony of talking, gossiping, and other distractions. Prayer and reverence are the standards that everyone adheres to. 

Vietnamese is a very musical language and easily lends itself to song during Mass. Yes, even many men join in the singing of parts of the Mass. People stay for the entire Mass; very few people leave the church prior to the priest’s exit from the altar. 

Respect, reverence, and prayerfulness are the dominate attitudes of the churchgoers at St. Joseph’s cathedral in Hanoi. When one attends Mass at a typical church in America, will the same reverence and prayerfulness be found? Unfortunately, often not!!! 

“In Whose Presence” are we when we enter a Catholic church?