ASIA/CHINA - The various events being held for the 400th anniversary of the evangelization of the Diocese of Shang Hai focus on the evangelization of the family.

Shang Hai (Agenzia Fides) - In honor of the 400th anniversary of the evangelization of the Diocese of Shang Hai, the main theme has focused on a reflection on its history, on the most important figures in its past, in order to draw strength and wisdom for the mission that so needs it today. This was confirmed by Bishop Xing Wen Zhi, Coadjutor Bishop of the Diocese: “There is a strong emphasis on evangelization of the family, a theme that characterized one of the most important figure among the first Catholics of Shang Hai, the Mandarin Chinese Pablo Xu Guang Qi, who was baptized by the great Jesuit missionary, Matteo Ricci.” Bishop Xing continued, saying, “We must recognize that the concept of family is a bit different now than in the days of Xu. Promoting a devout and Christian family that practices their faith, is the diocese’s greatest challenge.”
There are many activities underway or in preparation in the diocese, in order to recall the 400 years of this difficult and yet glorious journey. The opening Mass for the celebration was held March 1, presided by the 92 year-old Bishop Jin Lu Xian, SJ, who also joined in the procession along with some 70 priests and over 1,000 faithful. Upon the occasion, the Bishop imparted the Lord’s blessing on them, and invoked the protection of the Virgin Mary upon the 150,000 faithful of the diocese.
The events are all focused on being a preparation for the Marian month of May and for the pilgrimage, in response to the Pope’s call for a Day of Prayer for the Church in China on May 24. Brouchures, leaflets, and booklets with liturgical texts are already being made available to the catechists and lay faithful working in the parishes and in evangelization. A commemorative display has also been prepared.
In June, there is an assembly for diocesan priests, an ordination of deacons, and celebrations for the Bishops’ 92nd birthday. In September, there will be a conference on the theme, “Remember the past and plan for the future,” in order to study the most important figures of these 400 years, the role of the Church in the Chinese society today, an adequate pastoral plan, and the tasks of evangelization…on October 25, the display will be on the historical patrimony of the Church. From November to December, there is a concert scheduled, as well as several prayer meetings for priests. (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 17/4/2008, righe 29, parole 403)