Course on Catholicism and Caodaism Launched at Saigon Pastoral Institute

On January 3, 2026, the inaugural session of the Catholicism and Caodaism course was held at the Saigon Pastoral Institute.

At the opening of the session, Father Francis Xavier Bao Loc — Director of the Institute and Head of the Commission for Interfaith Dialogue — prayed for God9;s blessings upon the lecturers and participants, offering thanks for the guidance that brought the faithful together for this course.

Then, Brother Hue Khai — a prolific author on Caodaism and a lecturer of the course — prayed to God for spiritual insight and wisdom for all participants to ensure the fruitful completion of the course.

Father Bao Loc sits close to the participants during his lecture to foster a friendly and open atmosphere.

Overview of the Two Religions

Caodaism: Also known as The Third Universalism of the Great Dao, Caodaism originated in Vietnam in 1926. It currently has nearly 3 million followers, over 10,000 dignitaries and officials, and more than 1,200 places of worship across 37 provinces and cities.

Catholicism: Originating in the East and present in Vietnam since the 16th century, Catholicism now has approximately 6,709,000 followers, accounting for nearly 7% of the Vietnamese population.

Shared Values and Course Objectives

Both religions promote universal brotherhood, a principle highlighted in Pope Francis’s encyclical Fratelli Tutti (All Brothers). Furthermore, the long-standing friendly relations between Catholics and Caodaists encourage believers to deepen their mutual understanding and live in harmony.

The course explores these two faiths through three lenses: history, doctrine, and practice. Through comparative analysis and open discussion, participants have the opportunity to interact with both Catholic and Cao Dai clergy and followers. This dialogue allows for a deeper understanding of the unique aspects and differences of each faith, rooted in a spirit of respect and cooperation for the common good, as inspired by the Second Vatican Council.

Lecturers

Catholicism: Fr. FX. Bao Loc, Fr. Peter Nguyen Van Hien, and Mr. and Mrs. Ta Dinh Vui.

Caodaism: Brother Ngoc Van Thanh, Brother Thien Chi, Sister Hong Mai, Sister Huong Tram, and Brother Hue Khai.

Hue Khai