China: Shanghai Parish Celebrates Feast of the Sacred Heart, 58 Receive Confirmation

Catholics of Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Gongbaoqiao, a parish in the Diocese of Shanghai in eastern China, celebrated their patronal feast on June 6 with a Eucharistic celebration led by Bishop Joseph Shen Bin.

According to Faith Press, the bishop administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to 58 parishioners during the Mass, which was attended by hundreds of faithful.

Several priests, including Fr. Wang Jingmao, dean of the Jiaqingsong Deanery, concelebrated the Mass, Faith Press reported.

In his homily, Bishop Shen reflected on the devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, describing it as a sign of God's love and compassion. He encouraged Catholics to examine their faith life, replace resentment with forgiveness, and cultivate a spirit of charity toward others.

The bishop stressed that authentic faith is rooted in the renewal of the heart and expressed through acts of goodness. He urged the faithful to bring kindness into their daily lives and to treat others with humility and gentleness.

According to Faith Press, Bishop Shen also encouraged parishioners to persevere in charitable works even when faced with misunderstandings or hardships. He reminded them that faith broadens the heart and brings greater joy to life.

The bishop called on the faithful to overcome selfishness and indifference, take the Sacred Heart of Jesus as their model, and bear witness to the Gospel through mutual love.

Before the conclusion of the celebration, parish priest Fr. Jia Shaoyu thanked Bishop Shen, the concelebrating priests, and the clergy and lay faithful who have supported the parish's mission and activities, Faith Press reported.