Impressions

we sat and prayed along the streets of beijing

the green willows, pine trees and eucalyptus in the morning sun with the blue skies

give peace and beauty

it is a great place

the streets are clean, the place looks orderly

people walking, cycling, riding motorcycles, cars, modern buses

god has blessed us with beautiful encounters

(and stuffed chinese meals!)

the readings of today on 'the vine and branches...

that it is the father's glory that we bear much fruits as disciples...

ask anything in my name and it will be granted...'

these are provocative statements

then why do we not have enough workers?

have we asked enough?

have we believed while asking?

have we asked in his name?

what does that mean?

we will take some time this morning to pray and dialogue among ourselves

truth can only emerge through listening

these are things to pray for - truth, listening, courage...

with love and prayers

Mission Team

News about China visit

We arrived safely at the modern airport of Shenzen on Saturday late morning. We were welcomed by Fr. Shi who is the parish priest in the suburb. He drove us back and took us out for a great Chinese lunch.

From the air we could see the madness of development - hills slashed and flattened. On the ground, it's acres and acres of concrete buildings and roads, all looking alike. It's like a huge industrial area with factories and shops. There are not many cultural or religious structures. The Church is a rented shop building.

Fr. Shi himself is a 'mission-hearted' person. He came out here from the north and has been slowly building up the community. Most people work 7 days a week, 16 hours a day with some time off in between. We met some Catholics who run supermarkets from 7am to 11pm. So, Saturday Mass is in the evening and Sunday mass is at 2pm. They can't go to church as a family; and children and adults lack basic faith foundation. But, the people have been very warm and welcoming, sharing meals with us.

There are many migrants here - coming from the provinces - to find jobs or start businesses. With it come social problems related to jobs, homes, drugs, extortion, etc.

Father recently had two sisters coming down from the north to help him. He spent quite some time sharing with us his parish situation and needs. We were touched by his openness and his 'call' upon us to help him. On Sunday, he spoke of the need for lay workers as witnesses with the right attitude and behaviour - what we call disciples. He also asked if we can help in 2 summer camps for teenagers and children.

We continue to discern God's voice in all these.

With love and prayers

Mission Team