Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Shang Hai (Agenzia Fides) - “Constantly reading Sacred Scripture, living according to the teachings of the Gospel, far from every evil and always practicing Christian charity, observing justice. This is how, as Christians, we can become a ray of light that illumines, a conscience for society.” With these words, Auxiliary Bishop Xing Wen Zhi of the Diocese of Shang Hai encouraged the faithful of All Saints' Parish in Qing Cun, and many other faithful from all over the region, who gathered to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the parish. Nineteen priests concelebrated the Mass with Bishop Xing. Also present in the Mass were 4 seminarians, 14 religious sisters, and over 1,200 faithful. 28 youth and several adults also received the Sacraments of Holy Eucharist and Confirmation. During the homily, the Auxiliary Bishop recalled the history of the parish, reflecting on the responsibility of each parishoner in carrying the Church's mission forward. “But, we also know that such a task requires time, energy, dedication, and above all, a firm will. Only in this manner will we be able to reunite ourselves with All the Saints, the patrons of your parish, in the Father's House,” Bishop Xing said.
All Saints' Parish is located in Qing Cun, in Pu Nan, in the Diocese of Shang Hai, and has been a very active parish, especially following the arrival of its young Pastor, Fr. Paul Yu Jia Xuan, ordained in 2000. During the Pauline Year, which also coincides with the parish's 125th anniversary, the community has begun work on all levels, especially spiritually. All throughout the Year, in communion with the Holy Father and the Universal Church, every day they will be reciting the prayer to the Apostle Paul, to live and spread the Pauline spirit. They have also prepared an exhibit on Sacred Scripture, in honor of the feast of their patrons and the Synod on the Word of God.
The Diocese of Shang Hai is famous for its amazing missionary history, for its Marian Shrine of She Shan, which is a pilgrimage site for all Catholics in China and in the rest of Asia, as well as for its many heroes of the faith. In the past, it was a mission of the French Jesuits. Today, the Catholic community holds over 100,000 faithful, including 70 priests, 80 religious sisters (30 novices), and a major seminary. There are 110 parishes in the diocese. (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 17/11/2008)
