ASIA/CHINA - Inauguration of the Pauline Year has been lived in many Catholic communities as a strong call to evangelization

Beijing (Agenzia Fides) – News continues to reach Agenzia Fides from the many Catholic communities in continental China upon the inauguration of the Pauline Year, which took place on June 28 and 29, in communion with the Holy Father and the Universal Church. All the events have been characterized by a strong call to evangelization, following in the footsteps of the Apostle to the Gentiles. In addition to the liturgical preparations for the day, that in all parts have been characterized by great solemnity and participation, there are many other events taking place during these days, such as the priestly ordination in the Diocese of Fen Yang, or the outdoor Mass celebrated in the Diocese of Zun Yi, with the objective of “praising God for creation.” Conferences have also been organized on the Pauline Letters, in the Diocese of Wen Zhou and in many other dioceses. The Congress on the Pauline Year and the year of evangelization of the Diocese of Tai Yuan was attended by over 3,000 people. There was also a Formation Course on Pauline missionary theology, held by the Diocese of Chang Zhi.
The elderly Bishop of Yin Chuan, who is 96 years-old, not only presided the entire Mass for the inauguration of the Pauline Year, but he also gave a long homily on the meaning of the “Pauline spirit,” encouraging all to imitate the holy missionary par excellence, following in his footsteps and in accord with the teachings of the Holy Father, with the testimony of Christ in daily life. (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 3/7/2008)