Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Ping Tin Shan (Agenzia Fides) - During the month of March, a month dedicated to Saint Joseph according to Catholic tradition, the Chinese shrine to this saint on Mount Pin Yin, in the province of Shan Dong, is receiving pilgrims who arrive from all over China. The Chinese have a special devotion to the Saint, not only because he was the foster father of Jesus and the spouse of Mary, but also because he is the Patron of the Mission in China, symbol of humility, simplicity, authenticity, diligence, and obedience...all of which are considered as the highest values in the Chinese culture and tradition.
For generations, the Chinese Catholics have fostered this fervent devotion to Saint Joseph. According to the lay person in charge of the visitor’s office at the Shrine, “we receive large crowds of pilgrims every day...Catholics as well as tourists who come simply to see this beautiful mountain. The other mountains in the area are no longer forested, but our shrine is always surrounded by greenery. I’m not trying to claim a miracle; in any case, the people come to pay homage to the Saint. Our community is also offering an increasingly more mature and prepared evangelization, and this has also contributed to an increase in visitors, especially young people. Whether its on the Stations of the Cross walk or the Church at the peak of the mountain, pilgrims off all ages fill the area during this time of the year.”
According to a local priest from the area, “the life of this Saint, lived in silent dedication and service, makes us feel his presence very close to us. He is also the patron of a good death. The Chinese culture and tradition have a great respect for these aspects of life and death, so the Chinese faithful have a great affection for him.” This close tie is evident in China, as there are many Churches named after Saint Joseph, as well as Church buildings, seminaries, national and diocesan religious congregations, charitable organizations, orphanages, houses for the elderly, and schools. The Shrine of Ping Yin Shan is the only one in the country dedicated to Saint Joseph. (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 12/3/2008; righe 27, parole 359)
