The Archdiocese of Hanoi saw a significant leadership transition when Pierre Nguyễn Văn Nhơn ascended to the role of Archbishop in May 2010. Born in Đà Lạt, Vietnam, on 1 April 1938, he developed a career within the Catholic Church spanning over five decades, culminating in his elevation to the College of Cardinals by Pope Francis in early 2015.
Early Ecclesiastical Career
Nguyễn Văn Nhơn entered the priesthood on 21 December 1967. His initial rise through the hierarchy began in the early 1990s. On 11 October 1991, he received the appointment of Coadjutor Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Đà Lạt. He underwent consecration on 3 December 1991, performed by Barthélémy Nguyễn Sơn Lâm. By 23 March 1994, he succeeded to the full role of Bishop of Đà Lạt, a position he held for sixteen years.
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In April 2010, the Vatican appointed Nguyễn as Coadjutor Bishop of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Hanoi. Shortly thereafter, on 13 May 2010, he succeeded Joseph Ngô Quang Kiệt to become the Archbishop of Hanoi. Beyond his diocesan duties, he served as the President of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Vietnam, holding that administrative role from 2007 until 2013. His tenure in Hanoi concluded on 17 November 2018, when Pope Francis accepted his resignation.
Elevation to the College of Cardinals
Pope Francis announced the creation of Nguyễn as a Cardinal-priest on 4 January 2015. The official ceremony took place on 14 February 2015, where he received the titular church of San Tommaso Apostolo. Following his elevation, he received appointments in April 2015 to the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples and the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace.
Fast facts
- Born: 1 April 1938, Đà Lạt, Vietnam
- Ordained Priest: 21 December 1967
- Bishop of Đà Lạt: 1994–2010
- Archbishop of Hanoi: 2010–2018
- Cardinal: 2015
- President of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Vietnam: 2007–2013
Questions readers ask
What is Pierre Nguyễn Văn Nhơn's current status within the Church?
He is a cardinal, having been created a Cardinal-priest by Pope Francis on 14 February 2015.
When did he serve as the Archbishop of Hanoi?
He served in that position from May 2010 until his resignation was accepted by the Pope on 17 November 2018.
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