ASIA/CHINA - 180 catechists have completed their course on the occasion of the 400-year anniversary of the Diocese of Shanghai

Shanghai (Agenzia Fides) - 180 catechists have earned their Diploma, after participating in a formation course that was among the initiatives in commemoration of the 400-year anniversary of evangelization in the Diocese of Shanghai. It has also been the first formation course for catechists on themes like the Sacraments, Liturgy, and Sacred Scripture. The course lasted for one year. The first 6 months were on theory, while the second half of the course was more focused on the practice of the life of faith, how to receive the love of God and transmit it to others. The diocese asked that every participant present a “dissertation” on a certain part of Sacred Scripture, in front of a panel of priests and religious sisters knowledgeable in that field. Other factors that were taken into account in order to receive the diploma were attendance and personal performance in activities. The Shanghai Diocese is known for its glorious history, for its Marian shrine, and for its many heroes of the faith. Historically, it was a mission of French Jesuits. Today, the Catholic community is comprised of over 100,000 faithful, including 70 priests, 80 religious sisters, 30 novices (sisters), and a major seminary. The diocese has 110 parishes, as well as the famous Shrine of She Shan, dedicated to the Virgin of Lourdes and built in 1907, now visited by Catholics from all over Asia. (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 5/3/2008 righe 17, parole 229)