Without noise or ostentation, the Brothers of the Hospitaller Order of St John of God are quietly present in everyday life, extending their arms to welcome and care for the vulnerable and the less fortunate.

Located in an alley in Quarter 20A, Long Binh ward (Dong Nai province), Thien An Clinic, run by the brothers of the Order, has long been a lifeline for the poor, disabled, elderly living alone, and homeless individuals with nowhere to turn.

Patients there receive medical examination and treatment with traditional medicine methods like acupuncture, massage, and physical therapy, either completely free or at minimal cost.

Many first-time visitors are surprised to be greeted by “doctors” in religious robes, speaking gently and serving with the care of family.

A relative caring for patient Luong Tan Lap, 53, Xuan Hoa commune, Dong Nai province told VietNamNet that Lap suffered a stroke over four months ago and has been paralyzed on one side of his body, making it very difficult for him to walk.

“There’s no one to care for him at home, and hospital costs are high. He was brought to the clinic, where he gets regular check-ups and care, plus free transport to the hospital for treatment. The brothers here care for him like a family member,” he said.

Guided by the orientation 'Living the Gospel in the heart of the nation,' as expressed in the 1980 Pastoral Letter of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Vietnam, the Brothers of the Hospitaller Order of Saint John of God have embodied their mission of love and service through deeply human actions.

Healing the body, soothing the soul

Dr Nguyen Dinh Bau, former Head of the Traditional Medicine Department at Thong Nhat Hospital (Dong Nai province), said he has been working part-time for the clinic for about five years, together with priests and brothers to care for poor patients.

“I come here to help patients, not to think about finances or getting rich,” Bau said.

Each day, he examines patients and prescribes suitable treatments, hoping to ease their burdens.

Father Anton Nguyen Chan Hong of the Hospitaller Order of St. John of God explained that the order’s mission is to serve patients and those in difficult circumstances, regardless of religion or economic status.

At the current facility, patients are provided with meals, accommodation, and treatment through physical therapy and traditional medicine. A team of doctors and medical staff handles healthcare, while the brothers and priests support patients’ spiritual lives.

Hoang Anh