Our Lady of La Vang refers to a reported Marian apparition during a time of intense persecution of Catholics in Vietnam. According to tradition, many Catholics sought refuge in the rainforests of Quang Tri Province, where illness became widespread. While hiding in the jungle, the community gathered every night at the foot of a tree to pray the rosary. One night in 1798, on the grass near the banyan tree where they prayed, a lady appeared—dressed in traditional Vietnamese clothing, holding a child, and accompanied by two angels. The vision was understood to be the Virgin Mary with the infant Jesus. She is said to have comforted them and instructed them to boil leaves from nearby trees to heal their illnesses.

Here, Our Lady also gave a promise: “Mother has accepted your request. From now on, whoever comes to invoke her in this place will receive the blessing of his or her will.” Legend also suggests that the name La Vang may have come from a Vietnamese term meaning “crying out.”

Your praycation begins with a three-night stay in Da Nang, where you will have the opportunity to celebrate Mass at the Da Nang Cathedral—also known as the Pink Church—admired for its striking pink façade and Gothic architectural style.

Journey next to the awe-inspiring Shrine of Our Lady of La Vang. Offer prayers and lift your petitions to Our Lady at this miraculous apparition site.

Continue to the ancient city of Hue, the seat of the last Nguyen Dynasty of Vietnamese emperors. Once the intellectual and cultural center of Vietnam, Hue offers a wealth of history. Enjoy a panoramic city tour, including a photo stop at Phu Cam Church (Immaculate Heart of Mary Cathedral), one of the oldest and most iconic churches in the city, known for its distinctive architecture.

Proceed to Quang Nam Province to visit the Shrine of the Lady of Tra Kieu, a well-loved Marian apparition site dedicated to Our Lady Help of Christians, commemorating the Blessed Mother’s aid during Catholic resistance to the Can Vuong movement. Then make your way to Hoi An, an old town, to explore its historic landmarks and charming streets.

Fly locally from Da Nang to Hanoi, then travel to Hoa Lu, the capital of the ancient Vietnamese kingdom of Dai Co Viet in the 10th century.

Head south for a two-night stay in Ninh Binh, often called “Halong Bay on land,” an ideal destination for those seeking Vietnam’s majestic natural landscapes. Visit the Phat Diem Stone Cathedral, famed for its unique blend of stone architecture and pagoda-inspired design. You will also visit Phuc Nhac Parish, known as the Martyrs’ Shrine Center, which houses the relic of St. Agnes Le Thi Thanh—one of Vietnam’s first female martyrs—and the remains of other Vietnamese saints and martyrs.

Enjoy a full-day visit to the beautiful and historic Catholic churches of Nam Dinh. A highlight is the Bui Chu Cathedral, formally named the Cathedral of Mary, Queen of the Rosary. Built in 1885 by French colonists, it is considered the cradle of Catholicism in Vietnam. The diocese is believed to be the first place where Catholicism was introduced by foreign missionaries in 1533.

Join this meaningful 7-day Praycation to Our Lady of La Vang with Northern Vietnam with a Pilgrimage Chaplain on January 23–29, 2026. May this spiritual journey offer you solace, renewal, and the opportunity to gain new friends and build lasting relationships.