Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Shi Jia Zhuang (Agenzia Fides) - The faith, evangelization, charity, solidarity, promotion of vocations: on these key issues the mainland Chinese Catholic community is preparing the path for Christmas. Several initiatives and events have been organised for these days, according to a statement received by Fides, which draw a general picture of how China's Catholics live in expectation of the Lord. We cite the following two examples.
On 17 December, the Chinese Catholic charitable organization, Jinde Charities, for the sixth consecutive year organized a Christmas charity evening. This year the funds raised, more than ¥ 470,000 (equivalent to € 60,000) will go to AIDS orphans and lonely, elderly and poor. More than 400 benefactors and contributors to Jinde Charities for many years came from all parts of China, including Hong Kong, as well as Ireland and the United States, to provide support “for the social service that Jinde Charities promote with commitment and wisdom,” as Mrs Kelleher Sigru, the wife of the Irish Ambassador to Beijing affirmed. The local media gave great importance to the evening, also presenting the charitable work of the Catholic Church. The representative of the local authority also confirmed the contribution made by the Catholic community and thanked them for this commitment.
The Diocese of Fen Yang, Shan Xi province, wanted to continue the promotion of vocations, which was one of the main reasons for the Year for Priests which has just ended. In the days before Christmas, the diocese has sent a team of its representatives to visit the families of priests, nuns and seminarians. In addition to bringing their best wishes for Christmas and practical support enabling a peaceful journey in the consecrated life for their sons and daughters, the visit is also an opportunity to know their difficulties and needs, because the diocese has the greatest respect and attention for them. They were also invited to pray the rosary for vocations and for the sanctification of their family. (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 21/12/2010)
