ASIA/CHINA - Catholics in Inner Mongolia celebrate the 90th birthday of Bishop Ma Zhong Mu, the only Bishop of Mongolian ethnic background

Ning Xia (Agenzia Fides) – The faithful of the parish of Cheng Chuan, in Inner Mongolia (China mainland), held a grand celebration for the 90th birthday of Bishop Joseph Ma Zhong Mu, in addition to his 60th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood, and 25th anniversary as Bishop. Bishop Ma Zhong Mu, in the Monglian language Tegusbeleg, is the only Bishop of Mongolian origin in the world. Although the government does not recognize him as Bishop, his Bishop was celebrated with a Mass presided by Bishop Li Jing, Coadjutor of Nig Xi, who was consecrated on December 21, 2007 and is approved and recognized by the authorities. Bishop Li Jing celebrated the Mass, as personal representative of Bishop Liu Jin Shan, present Titular Bishop of the Diocese of the Ning Xi, who is already 96 years of age and has not been able to participate for health reasons that do not allow him to travel long distances.
During the Mass, Bishop Li Jing affirmed before the authorities there present as well, that “he is our pastor, and there is no room for discussion.” Dozens of priests and nearly a thousand faithful took part in this moment of intense communion and praise, rejoicing to their beloved Bishop, getting on in years, dressed in the traditional red Mongolian outfit, arriving in a carriage. According to the pastor of the parish, “at first, Bishop Ma Zhong Mu wanted to come on horse, alone, like a true Mongolian. And it is true that, even at his age, he does go horseback riding. However, we convinced him to use a Mongolian carriage instead, with decorations, and led by 4 strong Mongolian horsemen. In this manner, we were able to pay homage to our beloved Pastor, showing him our esteem and gratitude.” Over the course of his long life, Bishop Ma Zhong Mu has suffered over 20 years of persecution. After he had already turned 80, he translated the Liturgy of the Hours into the Mongolian language, as well as several religious works and works of Biblical exegesis. (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 28/11/2008)