Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Han Dan (Agenzia Fides) – "Knowing oneself, giving oneself" was the theme of the annual retreat attended by 17 religious sisters of the Congregation of the Holy Spirit Counselor of the Diocese of Han Dan, which was held March 12 to 17 and led by a diocesan priest. During the retreat, according to information received by Fides, the nuns were able to share in the happiness and joy of religious life and community life from the perspective of faith, culture, and spirituality. The reflection of these days led them to experience deep joy in the Love of God.
The Congregation of the Holy Spirit Counselor, of the Diocese of Han Dan, was founded in 1932 by the first diocesan bishop and resumed activities in 1988. To date, over 100 sisters are very active in pastoral work, evangelization, and social services. The Diocese of Han Dan, which includes 19 civil districts, is located in the southern part of the Hebei province. It has over 130,000 Catholics in a population of 8.3 million people. Evangelization of the diocese dates back to the great Jesuit missionary Fr. Matteo Ricci, who arrived in the 1500s. The diocese was erected in 1946. Currently it has over 100 churches and chapels, 41 priests, 40 seminarians, and nearly 200 religious. The diocese also runs several clinics, dispensaries, and social care facilities. (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 25/03/2010)
