Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Zhou Zhi (Agenzia Fides) - More than 2,000 faithful celebrated the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Diocese of Zhou Zhi in the Shaan Xi province in mainland China on August 22, feast of the patron of the diocese, dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary Queen. According to information sent to Fides Agency, the oldest priest presided at the solemn Mass of the thanksgiving for 80 years of the journey of faith and mission of the community, which was always accompanied by the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the maternal protection of the Blessed Mary. The old priest emphasized that today more than ever the diocese "needs communion and unity, to give glory to God, our salvation, and promote evangelization."
The Diocese of Zhou Zhi is the last diocese erected in the province of Shaan Xi, entrusted to Chinese bishops and not to missionaries, is today the most densely populated. It has over 70,000 faithful, 57 priests, 152 churches and chapels, 120 seminarians, 200 women religious and two sanctuaries (Mount of the Cross and the Shrine of Our Lady of Hu Xian). After the eighties, the diocese was able to send priests and nuns on missionary service to other dioceses or communities. (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 31/08/2012)
