The Diocese of Shanghai in eastern China celebrated the reopening and dedication of Our Lady Queen of Peace Church on Huimin Road, Yangpu District, with a solemn Mass led by Bishop Shen Bin. The celebration marked the completion of extensive renovation work and coincided with the parish’s patronal feast.
According to Faith Press, Bishop Shen presided over the liturgy together with around fifteen priests from across the diocese. Around 350 religious sisters and lay faithful participated in the celebration.
A Call to Inner Renewal
In his homily, Bishop Shen reflected on the beauty of a restored church building and its deeper spiritual meaning. A church made of bricks and mortar, he said, points to the spiritual temple God builds within every believer.
“The glory of a church does not lie in its splendor, but in the presence of Christ dwelling here. In the same way, our dignity comes from Christ living within us, transforming us into signs of God’s love,” he emphasized.
He encouraged the faithful to reconnect with the zeal of their baptism, to allow God to “cleanse the dust of the heart,” and to become messengers of love and hope in their families, parish, and wider society.
Gratitude for the Renovation Journey
Bishop Shen and parish priest Fr. Niu Suqing shared a brief account of the renovation process, expressing gratitude for God’s guidance and the strong support received from the Yangpu District authorities, various government departments, construction teams, and the local community.
Before the conclusion of Mass, Fr. Niu reminded the congregation that while buildings can be repaired with relative ease, the renewal of the soul requires constant effort and grace. He invoked the intercession of Our Lady Queen of Peace, asking that the newly blessed church inspire deeper growth in faith, hope, and charity among clergy and parishioners.
The reopening marks a renewed chapter for the parish community in Yangpu District, symbolizing both the revitalization of a sacred space and the ongoing spiritual renewal of the faithful.
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