An Thoi Church in Phu Quoc: Great Christmas Spot 2025

7 minutes |

March 16, 2026

Post by Cassia Cottage Team

Wondering if there are churches in Phu Quoc? For Catholics, finding a place to attend Mass while traveling is always important.

If you’re planning a visit to Phu Quoc, don’t miss the chance to visit a local church, especially An Thoi Dong Parish. It’s not only a place for religious activities but also a significant spiritual spot for visitors looking to explore and pray. Cassia Cottage is here to share some key details with you.

An Thoi Parish Information

Address: Pham Ngoc Thach, Quarter 3, An Thoi Ward, Phu Quoc City, Kien Giang
Mass Times:
- Mass 1: 04:30 – 05:00
- Mass 2 (Children’s Mass): 06:45 – 07:15
- Mass 3: 14:30 – 15:00
- Mass 4: 17:00 – 17:30

An Thoi Church, also known locally as Hung Van Church, is a historic Catholic church in the southern part of Phu Quoc, established in 1957 and well-loved by both locals and visitors.

Dress Code Guidelines

Sleeves should cover the elbows, and collars should be high or not reveal the chest area.
Pants, skirts, or dresses should fall below the knees.
Avoid tight or form-fitting clothes, as well as overly bright outfits.

An Thoi Church is one of the well-known Catholic churches in Phu Quoc, attracting both locals and tourists. This parish serves the Catholic community in the southern part of Phu Quoc Island.

Masses are usually held on major holidays like Christmas, Easter, and every Sunday, offering a peaceful and solemn atmosphere for all visitors. With a rich history in Phu Quoc and locally influenced architecture, the church provides a serene space for anyone who visits.

The History and Construction of the Church

Founding of An Thoi Church (1957):

Established in 1957, An Thoi Church in Phu Quoc, Kien Giang, is one of the oldest Catholic churches on the island. Back then, around 1,000 Catholics from Quynh Luu, Nghe An, migrated to the island to settle and cultivate the land.

Accompanying them was Father Joseph Tran Dinh Lu, who guided the formation of the new parish named Hung Van Parish. Under the leadership of Father Lu and priests from the Long Xuyen Diocese, An Thoi Parish quickly grew, becoming the main religious center for local Catholics.

Challenges and Community Resilience (1975):

In 1975, difficult times caused many parishioners to leave the island, leading to a quieter period for the parish. The church became abandoned and eventually came under state management.

However, the Catholic community never lost hope for the church’s revival. As more parishioners returned, they gathered in local homes to continue celebrating Mass together.

Supporting the Community Across Distances:

Despite challenges with manpower and the geographical spread of about 2,000 parishioners, the priests remained dedicated. Notably, Father John Tran Van Trong and two young assistant priests often traveled the 30 km from An Thoi to Duong Dong to support the community.

An Important Spiritual Center Today:

At the present, beside Duong Dong Church, An Thoi Church continues to be one of the most important churches in Phu Quoc, serving as a place for worship and a meaningful destination for Catholics living on the island or visiting for prayer.

Easter at An Thoi Church, Phu Quoc 2026

Easter in 2026 (April 5) is a special time to visit An Thoi Church (Hưng Văn Parish), one of the most important Catholic churches on Phu Quoc Island. Located in An Thoi (south of the island), the church is about 25–30 minutes from central areas like Duong Dong.

During Easter, the church holds solemn Mass services attended by local parishioners and visitors, creating a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.

Time

Easter Vigil: Saturday evening (around 7:00 – 9:00 PM)
Easter Mass: Sunday morning (around 5:00 – 7:00 AM)
(Schedule may vary according to An Thoi parish announcements)

Dress Code

Modest attire is recommended (sleeved tops, long pants or knee-length skirts)
Avoid revealing or overly flashy clothing

Main Activities

Candlelight ritual and liturgy of light
Easter Mass celebrating the resurrection
Choir hymns and community prayers
Casual gathering after the service

Notes

Arrive early to secure seating
Keep quiet and respect the solemn setting
Visitors are welcome; participate respectfully

Why An Thoi Church is a Great Christmas Spot in Phu Quoc

During the Christmas season, the church grounds are usually decorated with nativity scenes, Christmas lights, and festive greenery, creating warm and inviting holiday visuals – ideal for those wanting a classic, spiritual Christmas experience rather than just a party vibe.

On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, the church typically holds special Masses – often featuring both Vietnamese and English hymns, with carols performed by the local choir – making it accessible and meaningful even for international visitors.

The church sits in the An Thoi area, near the harbor and local cafés so after mass or photos you can easily explore nearby spots. You’re also not far from other festive destinations on Phu Quoc – such as Duong Dong Church or Sunset Town – if you want both spiritual and lively experiences in one trip.

Cassia Cottage – A Phu Quoc Resort for Catholic Travelers

When visiting Phu Quoc and attending Mass at a local church, you can rest at Cassia Cottage – a welcoming resort that blends nature with tranquility.

With its lush green spaces and comfortable amenities, Cassia Cottage is an ideal retreat for Catholic travelers to unwind and relax after spiritual moments at the church. It’s not just a place to stay; it’s a space where you can find balance between inner peace and the joys of a relaxing vacation.

We hope this guide from Cassia Cottage helps all visitors, especially our Catholic guests, to find useful information for their trip. Wishing you and your family a delightful journey as you explore Phu Quoc!

FAQs – Christmas at An Thoi Church, Phu Quoc

1. Where is An Thoi Church located?

An Thoi Church (also known as Hung Van Church) is located in An Thoi Ward, southern Phu Quoc Island, Kien Giang Province. It serves the Catholic community in the south and is near An Thoi Port and Sunset Town.

2. Is An Thoi Church open to visitors during Christmas?

Yes. The church is open to Catholic worshippers and visitors, especially during the Christmas season. Tourists are welcome to visit, attend Mass respectfully, or view Christmas decorations outside service hours.

3. What is special about Christmas at An Thoi Church?

Christmas at An Thoi Church is known for its:

Warm community atmosphere
Traditional nativity scenes and festive lights
Meaningful Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Masses
Less crowded and more peaceful setting compared to central town churches

It’s ideal for visitors seeking a quiet, spiritual Christmas experience.

4. What time should I arrive for Christmas Eve Mass?

It’s best to arrive 30–45 minutes early on December 24, as Christmas Eve is the busiest service of the year and seating may be limited.

5. Are Christmas Masses conducted in English?

Most Masses are celebrated in Vietnamese. However, Christmas hymns and carols often include familiar melodies, making it easy for international visitors to follow the spirit of the celebration.

6. Is there a nativity scene at An Thoi Church?

Yes. During Christmas, An Thoi Church usually sets up a nativity scene (manger) in the courtyard or near the main entrance, beautifully decorated and lit in the evenings.

7. What is the dress code for visiting An Thoi Church?

Visitors should dress modestly and respectfully, especially during Christmas:

Shoulders and elbows covered
Skirts, dresses, or pants below the knees
Avoid tight, revealing, or flashy clothing

8. Can visitors take photos at Christmas?

Outside the church: Yes, photography is allowed and encouraged.
During Mass: Photos should be limited, discreet, and without flash to maintain a respectful atmosphere.