BEIJING (Agenzia Fides): The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Beijing—or Nantang [South Church], China, reopened on July 16 after a six month closure due to government anti-Covid measures. Not only did the Archdiocese of Beijing celebrate the reopening, but also the sacraments of Christian initiation for 101 catechumens, mostly adults.
Already, before dawn, both young and old alike were waiting outside the gate, rejoicing at being able to resume their spiritual, liturgical and pastoral activities.
At five o’clock in the afternoon, the catechumens were baptised by Archbishop Joseph Li Shan and received Confirmation and First Communion.
Bishop Li encouraged those present to treasure the experience.
“Through baptism you are children of light, through confirmation you are sent by Christ,” the bishop said, adding, “Baptism is not a mere ritual, but an interior conversion. Live an authentic life of faith now, put on a new spirit and a new identity which is Christian … you shall be the light of the world and the salt of the earth, incarnating Christ and bearing witness to our Lord with love and works.”.
The parish priest of the cathedral, Father Joseph Zhao, thanked all those who had followed the long journey of faith and asked everyone to continue to protect these “new seedlings” of the community so that they can grow together in the Church on the path of synodality.
