ASIA/CHINA - Day of Prayer for the Church in China: earthquake victims of Si Chuan prayed in their tents made chapels; 500 faithful from Beijing on pilgrimage

Rome (Agenzia Fides) - The Chinese living in the earthquake-struck area in the province of Si Chuan celebrated the World Day of Prayer for the Church in China declared by the Holy Father, in the tents that serve as chapels. According to a report sent to the Agenzia Fides, the faithful of the Bai Lu district in the city of Peng Zhou, the most intensely struck area in the earthquake, have made a tent into a modest chapel, where they recited the Rosary in front of an image of Our Lady and of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. This place is also the site of the Bai Lu school, which is dedicated to the Annunciation and was built 100 years ago by the Society for Foreign Missions of Paris (MEP). It was completely destroyed in the earthquake, breaking the hearts of local Catholics as well. In addition, three churches in the Bai Lu district were also leveled.
The religious sisters working on the frontline in offering relief to the victims are appreciated by everyone. Several local authorities have asked that the religious intensify their moral and psychological support for the earthquake victims, because “the Sisters are better at that,” and the victims are so in need of it right now. This morning, 500 faithful from Beijing left on pilgrimage to the Marian Shrine of Hou Sang Yu, in honor of the World Day of Prayer for the Church in China. The Taize Community will hold a solemn vigil for youth from all over the world, in response to the Pope’s appeal. (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 24/05/2008; righe 19, parole 260)