Organizers at the La Vang National Pilgrimage Center are completing preparations to receive an estimated 160,000 pilgrims for the 32nd La Vang Pilgrimage Congress in central Vietnam.
The Marian gathering, themed “Mary, the Proclaimer of the Gospel,” is expected to draw tens of thousands of pilgrims to La Vang in Quang Tri province.
With a few days to go before the congress, Church departments, associations, and service groups were working across the pilgrimage center to complete facilities and logistical arrangements, according to the Communications Department of the Archdiocese of Hue.
Preparations included setting up service areas and camping spaces, installing sound and lighting equipment, cleaning the grounds, and organizing logistical support.
Light rain in the early mornings and late evenings has brought relief from the heat in Quang Tri, but work has continued across the pilgrimage center.
Pilgrims have also begun arriving ahead of the congress.
Some traveled to La Vang early because work commitments would prevent them from attending during the main feast days, while others planned to stay until the gathering concludes, the archdiocese said.
Amid the preparations, pilgrims continued to gather in prayer before the image of Our Lady of La Vang.
Some offered prayers of thanksgiving or petitions for their families, while others prayed for their country and the Church.
The archdiocese said the usually prayerful grounds have grown busier as vehicles, service personnel, construction crews, and pilgrims converge on the pilgrimage center ahead of the gathering.
It also asked for prayers for the organizing committee, service groups, volunteers and pilgrims preparing for the congress.
