ASIA/CHINA - Upon completing their Formation Course, catechists receive missionary “sending”

Han Zhong (Agenzia Fides) – Over 50 lay catechists from the parish church of Chang Lin, in the Diocese of Han Zhou (Province of Shanni Xi), received their missionary “sending” with special reference to the Year of St. Paul, after their intensive course that took place July 9-13. They have renewed their commitment to the evangelization effort, social services, and to working in close collaboration with their priests. According to the Bishop who presided the rite of missionary “sending,” “formation is the most important aspect in maintaining a Christian community alive. This is how we can help even those members of the faithful who are indifferent or who have fallen away from the Church, so that they may return to the Father’s house. It is the best path for the Church’s progress.” The course for catechists, which is the first of its kind to take place in the parish, was also attended by several university students. (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 17/7/2008)