Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Xiamen (Agenzia Fides) – “The solemn ordination of three deacons is a sign of the unity of the people of God, communion in the diocese of Xiamen in Christ and with the universal Church”. This was the most widespread comment among Catholics in Xiamen following the ordination of deacons presided by Bishop Giuseppe Cai Bing Rui, ofi Xiamen (Hsiamen/Amoy), himself ordained a Bishop in May 2010 with the approval of the Holy See. These first ordinations presided by the new Bishop took place on Saturday 17 July with massive participation of faithful from different dioceses in Fu Jian province and other areas. According to information sent to Fides, the three new deacons came from the dioceses of Mindong and Minbei. The Mass was concelebrated by 15 priests from the dioceses of Xiamen, Mindong and Minbei. In his homily Bishop encouraged the new deacons who studied at She Shan seminary in Shang Hai and Xian Seminary with these words: “with the grace of the Holy Spirit, you are ordained to assist the Bishop and the priests in the tasks of preaching, administering the sacraments and performing works of charity at the service of the people of God”.
Despite the joy for the new Bishop and the ordinations, the local Catholic community did not forget the victims of recent floods. The Catholic community was among the first to offer aid and assistance (see Fides 22/06/2010; 24/06/2010). On 17 and 18 July, the diocese of Xiamen organised a fund raising auction in aid of flood victims. A group of 50 young Catholic volunteers collected more than 2,500 euro in two days. The most widely read local newspaper Xiamen Daily, reported the news, demonstrating that the Catholic Church is an indispensable force for promoting harmony in society and fostering the spiritual growth of the person. (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 20/07/2010 - righe 27; parole 323)
