The Legacy of the First Council of China: A Conference Reflecting on Past and Present
As we approach the centenary of the First Council of China in Shanghai, the Pontifical Urban University in Rome is preparing to host an international conference on May 21 to commemorate this important milestone in the history of the Catholic Church.
The conference, titled “100 years since the Concilium Sinense: between history and present”, will delve into the significance of this council and its impact on the Church in China today. It will explore how the Council laid the groundwork for the process of inculturation of the Church in China, especially in the face of the challenges posed by globalization.
Looking Back at the First Council of China
Convened from May 15 to June 12, 1924, the First Council of China brought together all the bishops of the country under the leadership of Archbishop Celso Costantini, the first Apostolic Delegate in China. The council was tasked with implementing Pope Benedict XV’s ‘Maximum Illud’ Apostolic Letter, which emphasized the importance of inculturation and the recognition that Christ is for all nations.
The Council made provisions to promote the indigenization of the Chinese Church, entrusting its governance to native bishops and priests. This marked a significant shift towards countering colonial influences within the Church and embracing the diverse cultural identities of Chinese Catholics.
Highlights of the Conference
The upcoming conference will feature esteemed keynote speakers, including Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, Cardinal Luis Antonio G. Tagle, and Bishop Giuseppe Shen Bin of Shanghai. In addition, renowned academics and researchers from the People’s Republic of China, such as Professor Zheng Xiaoyun and Professor Liu Guopeng, will be sharing their insights.
The conference will be inaugurated with a special video message from Pope Francis, underscoring the importance of reflecting on the legacy of the First Council of China and its enduring relevance for the Church today.
Join us on May 21 as we journey through history and explore the impact of the First Council of China on the Church’s mission in a rapidly changing world.
