Uncle Ho's temple in Chau Thoi commune (Vinh Loi district, Bac Lieu province) is not only a national historical relic but also a place where local people gather to deeply respect President Ho Chi Minh. In particular, a very meaningful model has been formed here - the Uncle Ho Memorial incense burning club (CLB).
According to Mr. Le Van Nghia - Chairman of the Club - the idea of establishing this meaningful model originated from the enthusiasm of Mr. Vo Van Dung, former Secretary of Bac Lieu Provincial Party Committee. After attending the festival of unity of the entire people in Ba Thoi hamlet, Chau Thoi commune in 2014, he realized the necessity of maintaining the regular ritual of incense at Uncle Ho's temple, so he initiated the establishment of the club. Shortly thereafter, this initiative received enthusiastic response from a large number of veterans in the area.
Not long after, the model spread widely when the Women's Club for the incense burning at Uncle Ho Temple was established, attracting a large number of members to participate. Up to now, the two clubs have gathered a total of 75 members, maintaining regular and serious activities for over a decade.
Every day, regardless of rain or shine, groups take turns going to Uncle Hos Temple to burn incense. Usually from 4am to 4:30pm, each group has 4-6 people in charge of offering incense. Members only ask for leave when there is a real good reason. Everyone considers this a sacred responsibility, Mr. Nghia shared.
Mr. Huynh Van Khoanh, an old member of the club, expressed: "Today is my group's turn to burn incense. Whether I am busy or not in good health, I have to report to the Management Board. Only when I am really sick and cannot walk will I ask for leave. Normally, I don't think about being absent. That is my responsibility and also my wish".
Not only did they burn incense, every time they went to Uncle Ho's Temple, the members also cleaned the altar and swept the premises to keep the space neat and solemn. On special occasions such as Uncle Ho's birthday, May 19, National Day, September 2, Lunar New Year, etc., the atmosphere at Uncle Ho's Temple is even more cozy. Everyone together prepared cakes, fruits and dishes from their hometown to offer to him.
Mr. Bui Huu Nghi, a member of the club, expressed: "To light incense for Uncle Ho is a great honor, an incomparable happiness. His gratitude to our nation is immense. It is thanks to Uncle Ho's wise leadership that we can have a peaceful and prosperous life like today. Every incense cup I offer is also a promise to Uncle Ho, vowing to live worth the things he has worked hard to cultivate".
