Shanghai: Despite the repression of the communist regime, the news of the growth of Christianity in China is remarkable.
The most recent event was the consecration of a new church and 470 baptisms during the Easter Vigil and the following days, when worship and public ceremonies were prohibited.
142 people were baptized in Beijing Cathedral. At Immaculate Conception Parish, founded by Jesuit priest Matteo Ricci, around 100 people received the first sacrament of Christian life, while at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish, 25 people were baptized and became members of the congregation.
Of the 470 newly baptized in Shanghai, 349 received all three sacraments of baptism, anointing and Holy Communion. On April 4, the first week of Easter, the sacrament of the new church built in the name of St. Francis Xavier in Wenling was held with Ningbo Bishop Jin Yanke as the chief minister. It was notable that about thirty young people and adults received the anointing during the celebration, which was attended by all the priests of the diocese.
The temple, which cost eight million yuan, was designed by a priest. It is generally considered that these unique events at Easter are the latest reflection of the growing Christian faith in China.
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2024-04-11 09:42:11
