Sinicisation according to Shanghai Catholic intellectuals
Created 40 years ago, the association contributes to the development of the Diocese of Shanghai in the current context. The goals set out in its latest assembly include research on prominent Catholic figures and improving members’ skills to help vulnerable groups.
Milan (AsiaNews) – On 25 April, the Shanghai Association of Catholic Intelligentsia (SACI) held the fifth ordinary meeting of its eighth board, the sixth meeting of its board of directors, and the special conference for the 40th anniversary of its founding.
The first item addressed at the meeting, held at the Xujiahui Bishop's Palace, was the 40th anniversary of the association’s founding and the activities related to the commemoration.
SACI President Zhou Jianzhong presented the schedule of activities, providing details of each phase. Participants discussed and approved the item, offering suggestions and constructive proposals.
One of the goals highlighted at the meeting is the development of the Diocese of Shanghai and improve the association's structure. Likewise, participants also focused on the guiding principles of the development of the Catholic Church in China.
Another item highlighted was the need to integrate commemorative activities with the promotion of local initiatives, such as the essay competition Dialogue in Shanghai 2026, centred on the theme Respecting the Law and Giving Importance to Practice; Balance and Foresight: Promoting the Sinicisation of Religion in Our Country.
This is part of an ongoing national campaign involving religions, focused on "studying laws, respecting regulations, prioritising practice, and promoting a positive image."
Looking back, SACI wants to deepen its research into prominent figures, moving stories, and beautiful traditions, as well as carefully prepare an exhibition dedicated to its history.
The meeting set out three tasks as a priority for the next phase.
The first one is to deepen cultural integration by, among other things, actively participating in the city's Cultural Week, and drawing on the cultural heritage of its members and their artistic production in painting and calligraphy, thus showing the positive relationship of integration between the Church and society.
The second is to continue the original mission of providing specific services: ensuring regular care and support for elderly members, strengthening the training of young members and volunteers, serving the Church with dedication, enhancing the skills of medical staff to meet the needs of parishioners, and offering care services to vulnerable groups, thus enhancing the Association's social responsibility and influence.
Finally, the third task is to foster Church management; carefully understand the new directions and requirements of religious work; standardise internal management systems, such as online information; conduct all association and religious activities in accordance with laws and regulations; and carefully promote the orderly growth of the association.
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