Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Beijing (Agenzia Fides) - With the start of the summer holidays, many basic ecclesial communities, parishes and dioceses in mainland China have opened, like every year, their summer camps for children to continue the commitment to evangelization for students also during this time of year. The initiative is also a great help for families, because parents work and do not have the time and financial resources available to care for children left at home alone. Thanks to the dedication and generosity of the priests, religious women, seminarians, animators and lay catechists, all well prepared, so children can enjoy a holiday during which, besides having fun, also learn the notions of catechism and are followed in carrying out their tasks.
Among the information sent to Fides with regards to this summer commitment, here are just a few: since July 12, the summer camp is open in the parish of Wu An of the Diocese of Han Dan in the province of Bei. More than 200 children who have enrolled, led by the seminarians and nuns, learn about the Holy Scripture, catechism, sacred music and many other things. At the opening of the camp they also made a pilgrimage to the Marian Shrine, where they celebrated the sacrament of reconciliation and then attended the solemn Eucharist.
The parish of Xi Liu of the Diocese of Xi An, in the Shaan Xi province, has also mobilized the non-Catholic university students to animate the summer camp also open to non-Catholic children. Since July 11, dozens of children have started to live their days marked by well-organized activities, with a period of time devoted to catechism, duties, fun and relax. The nuns of the diocese prepare meals and accommodation, as well as welcoming the children. Some non-Catholic parents were amazed and moved by the attention and love shown towards children, that they have already enrolled their children for next year. Three non-Catholic boys have asked to participate in the catechism to become Catholics. (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 07/18/2011)
