Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Tian Shui (Fides Service) - Catholics in Tian Shui diocese in the north eastern province of Gan Su, in mainland China have the joy of celebrating the 100th anniversary of the arrival of the first missionaries in the area in this very special Year of the Eucharist called by the late Pope John Paul II and as the universal Church welcomes the new Supreme Shepherd in the person of Pope Benedict XVI. In preparation for the event the community reflected on the Apostolic Letter “Mane Nobiscum Domine” with which John Paul II announced the Year and called on Catholics to put the Eucharist at the centre of daily life. Eucharistic adoration and processions were held on many occasions including the feast day of St Fidelis von Sigmaringen patron of the diocese on 24 April.
Tian Shui mission was opened in 1905 by missionaries of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (CICM). Later German Capuchin Friars arrived. It was made a diocese in 1946. Today the community consists of at least 20,000 mainly peasants, assisted by 20 priests and about 20 women religious. There are about 20 churches and chapels, a seminary and a local order of Sisters. The Catholic community runs a clinic and a Home for the needy.
(Agenzia Fides 17/06/2005 Righe: 23 Parole: 274)
