Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Kaohsiung (Agenzia Fides) - The great dream of Cardinal Paul Shan, Bishop emeritus of Kaohsiung Diocese and President emeritus of the Regional Episcopal Conference of Taiwan, and that of many Catholics in Taiwan has finally been realized. The complex that houses the Centre for Pastoral Care Services at the Sanctuary of the Mount of Beatitudes was inaugurated on 11 December. The Centre was strongly supported by Card. Shan, who symbolically opened the doors of the building with a “golden key”, leading the procession of those present. He then presided over the dedication and thanked all the benefactors. According to information received by Fides, Archbishop Peter Liu, the current Ordinary of Kaohsiung Diocese where the Sanctuary is located, presided at the unveiling of a bronze statue that depicts Cardinal Shan. Over 2,300 faithful attended the Solemn Eucharist concelebrated by six Bishops and fifty priests in the church that is shaped like a barn. In addition, a giant wooden cross in indigenous style, made by a native priest in only four days, has made the environment even more welcoming and inviting for prayer. The Marian procession and the blessing of the Cave of Our Lady of Lourdes were particularly well attended.
The complex consists of five floors, with two churches dedicated respectively to the Beatitudes and to St Paul, a meeting room, accommodation, the sisters' convent and the administrative area. In the future it is expected that construction of a home for the elderly, an orphanage, a Mission Seminary for the Diocese and a museum will follow. (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 20/12/2010)
