Rev. Landry Védrenne, mep, Ph.D.
Jubilee Year of Hope – September 1, 2025 – Nha Trang, Vietnam
Today, as I stood before the tomb of my beloved Godfather, Bishop Peter Nguyễn Văn Nho, my heart was filled with profound emotion and deep peace. His resting place radiates a sacred presence, as if continuing the humble and total self-giving life that he had offered to God and to the Church.
In silence, countless memories and teachings of his came back to me—those of a father, a teacher, a shepherd who accompanied, encouraged, and strengthened so many souls on their journey of faith. Though he is no longer physically among us, the warmth of his pastoral heart still resounds, and his example of love, compassion, and gentleness continues to illuminate our steps forward.
Standing at his tomb, I realized that Bishop Peter’s greatest legacy is not found in material works, but in his very life, consecrated entirely to God, to the Church, and to his flock. His gentleness and humility—Mitis et Humilis—became an eternal mark, a fervent call inviting us to live the Gospel with simplicity, closeness, and mercy.
I am certain that Bishop Peter now dwells in the glory of Heaven, watching over us with tender eyes, interceding and protecting the flock he so deeply loved. He has become a spiritual anchor, a source of consolation and encouragement for all who were once guided by him, and for generations yet to come.
Though silent, his tomb still speaks with a strong and clear voice: live in gentleness and humility, so as to become instruments of God’s peace and love in the world. This message does not remain merely in memory, but becomes a guiding light for our journey of faith, teaching us to live with greater generosity, deeper love, and stronger commitment to the mission of the Gospel.
Visiting Bishop Peter’s tomb is a grace: the grace of touching the mystery of eternal life, of rekindling the flame of zeal, and of being called to walk further along the path of humble and faithful service. His earthly life has come to its close, yet his light continues to shine, sustaining and guiding us as we move toward God.
May the memory of Bishop Peter Nguyễn Văn Nho remain forever a source of hope, a force of encouragement, and a living flame that emboldens us to bear witness to the Gospel—in love, in gentleness, and in humility—just as he has left us this spiritual legacy to treasure and to live.
Rev. Landry Védrenne, mep, Ph.D.
Propaganda Fide Historical Archives
Dicastery for Evangelization, Vatican City State
