Peaceful Catholic Village

Since the “Peaceful Catholic Village” model was implemented in 2007 in Areas 1, 2, and 3 of Long Phu 1 Ward (Can Tho City), the security and order situation has changed positively. These areas have gradually become models of united, peaceful, and sustainably developed communities.

Long Phu 1 Ward Police ( Can Tho City) regularly visit people to grasp the security and order situation in the area.

Since its inception, the Steering Committee of the model has organized 100% of households to sign a commitment not to violate the law. The commitments are detailed and close to real life, from not causing public disorder, not violating traffic laws, to not using drugs. The signing is done publicly, witnessed by the government, organizations and religious representatives.

Along with that, self-managed security and order teams were established in each area and parish, operating under the motto of "self-prevention - self-management - self-protection". Ward police closely coordinated with self-managed teams during night patrols, promptly detecting and handling conflicts, preventing crimes from the root.

One of the factors that contributed to the success of the model is the harmonious combination of legal propaganda with religious activities. In ceremonies, catechism classes, prayers or charity activities, legal content is creatively integrated through direct propaganda, leaflet distribution... Priests and religious dignitaries actively coordinate with the government to bring information on drug prevention, domestic violence, "black credit" and emulation movements to parishioners.

Exemplary families and individuals who are active in reconciliation, reporting crimes, supporting people to reintegrate into the community, etc. are all publicly recognized during festivals, summary meetings, or group and residential group meetings. This is not only recognition but also motivation for people to live more positively and responsibly towards the community.

Innovative models such as “Public Security Gate”, “Propaganda on crime prevention and control via Zalo application”, “4+1”… have also been effectively implemented, contributing to creating a closed crime prevention network. In particular, the model “Propaganda on crime prevention and control via Zalo application” currently has 12 active groups with more than 400 members including officials, party members and people, creating a channel for connection, propaganda and timely information feedback.

From July 1, 2024, the Security and Order Protection Teams in the areas were established and the members of the teams were also structured into the "Peaceful Catholic Village" model, in order to increase information gathering, promptly advise and propose measures to prevent and eradicate crimes. Captain Le Thanh Dung, an officer of Long Phu 1 Ward Police , said: "The security and order situation in areas 1, 2, and 3 has become more stable. Crimes have decreased significantly compared to the previous period. In 2024 and the first 8 months of 2025 alone, there were no social order crimes in these 3 areas. Regarding social evils, there were 2 cases, a decrease of 3 cases compared to the previous period."

The effectiveness of the model is also reflected in the positive changes in people's awareness and behavior. Mr. Nguyen Khai Hung, a parishioner in Area 2, shared: "Previously, many people gathered to gamble and drink. But since the model was introduced, this situation no longer exists. People are now aware of living in accordance with religion and the law."

Ms. Nguyen Thi Hoa, a parishioner in Area 1, affirmed: “Thanks to participating in the model, we have access to many legal regulations, understand the tricks of criminals and know how to prevent them. Catholics also proactively remind their relatives to obey the law and stay away from social evils.”

According to Lieutenant Colonel Dinh Van Ut Em, Head of Long Phu 1 Ward Police, in the coming time, the locality will review and consider expanding the model of "Peaceful Catholic Village" in Tan Binh 1 and Tan Binh 2 hamlets - where there are many Catholics. At the same time, promote legal propaganda through social networks, open more legal clubs in parishes, create jobs for young people and reformed people, and continue to reward outstanding individuals and groups to encourage people to join hands in preventing and fighting crime.

The model of “Peaceful Catholic Village” has shown that when the government is active, the people are united and religion goes together, positive results will be achieved. Not only ensuring security and order, the model also contributes to enhancing trust, solidarity and community responsibility, towards sustainable and modern development of the locality.

Article and photos: PHUOC THUAN

Source: https://baocantho.com.vn/xom-dao-binh-yen-a190121.html