Redemptorist missionaries have improved the religious and material lives of tens of thousands of ethnic groups in Vietnam’s Central Highlands despite challenges and sufferings for half a century.

Thousands of Catholics from the ethnic Jarai, Bahnar and Kinh majority groups attended special ceremonies on Oct. 14-16 to commemorate the start of the Redemptorist mission in Gia Lai province 50 years ago.

Bishop Alosius Nguyen Hung Vi of Kontum presided at the Mass held at Pleikly Evangelization Centre, the cradle of Catholicism for Jarai villagers.

Bishop VI said the local Church was extremely grateful to Redemptorist Missionaries who volunteered to live among ethnic villagers, brought the Good News to them, translated the Scriptures into their languages and helped them conserve their cultures.

He said at first only four Redemptorists worked with the Jarai group and later with other ethnic groups.