Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Beijing (Agenzia Fides) – The intense Lenten journey towards Easter continues for the Chinese continental Catholic communities, in spiritual communion with the universal Church. According to information sent to Fides, priests from the Diocese of Hang Zhou, Zhe Jiang province, met for a Lenten spiritual retreat from 14 to 19 March on the theme “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (Jn 10:10). On the final day, the Solemnity of St Joseph, all the priests present concelebrated the Eucharist, confirming their own missionary commitment, renewed by the spirit of dedication and obedience of the Patron Saint of Mission in China.
The diocesan Congregation of the Annunciation in Yi Bin, Si Chuan province, concluded a month-long spiritual retreat, held from 20 February to 19 March, to live Lent with greater intensity and to prepare for the patronal feast of the Annunciation, on 25 March. The themes considered during the month-long spiritual recharge were “Jesus of Nazareth”, “Pauline missionary spirit”, “the spiritual life”, “consecrated life” and “community life”.
“To live a true Lent of penance and sacrifice” was the theme of the spiritual retreat of the faithful from the Catholic associations and charitable groups from the Diocese of Nan Chong, in the province of Si Chuang, on 17 and 18 March. During the retreat, participants reflected together in the light of the Word of God, on the duty, responsibility, spirituality and prayer of members of Catholic associations.
From 13 to 17 March, over one hundred members of the “Community of the pool of Siloam” from the diocese of Wen Zhou, Zhe Jiang province, followed the spiritual direction led by priests and religious of the Congregation of the Little Sisters of St Therese, to reflect together on the theme of “Sacred Scripture for you, for me and for us all.” The community, founded in 2002, has over 300 members, and is active in parishes, evangelising with sacred songs, preaching and community Adoration.
The faithful elderly of the district of Lin Shui, Si Chuang province, attended the spiritual retreat from the first Sunday of Lent, 13 March, to 15 March for “Knowing the Mercy of God in everyday life and authentic conversion.” (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 23/03/2011)
