At the end of June, a Hong Kong Christian Council (HKCC) delegation visited CCC&TSPM and Nanjing Union Theological Seminary.
At the station of CCC&TSPM on June 26, Rev. Xu Xiaohong, chairman of the National Committee of TSPM, reviewed the seminar on the sinicization of Christianity held in Hong Kong last year, which was jointly organized by CCC&TSPM and HKCC. This seminar not only deepened their understanding of their respective ministries but also brought the two sides closer emotionally. He stated that adhering to the "Three-Self" principle and the sinicization of Christianity is a bright path blessed by God for the Chinese church, hoping that both the mainland and Hong Kong churches will maintain their unique characteristics and welcome them to engage in more exchanges in the mainland.
Rev. Wu Wei, president of the China Christian Council (CCC), reviewed the history of interactions with HKCC and introduced the rough situation of churches in the mainland. He also shared the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic to the church and briefly described the development process of the sinicization of Christianity.
Rev. Wong Ka-fai, chairman of HKCC, provided a brief introduction to HKCC. He mentioned that the seminar on the sinicization of Christianity held last year was a valuable opportunity for exchange and learning between the churches of the two regions, hoping to continue organizing activities related to the sinicization of Christianity and to learn from the experiences of mainland churches.
The next day, the delegation visited Nanjing Union Theological Seminary in Jiangsu, with Executive Vice President Chen Yilu of the seminary receiving them, reported the school.
Reverend Chen briefly reviewed the history of exchanges and cooperation between the two sides and introduced the situation of the seminary. He also shared the achievements of the seminary in theological education and book publishing in recent years.
Rev. Wong pointed out that the visit to the mainland by the HKCC delegation was one of the main activities celebrating the 70th anniversary of its founding. He expressed that the HKCC cherishes its friendship with the seminary and looks forward to more exchanges and cooperation in the future. The two sides also discussed topics such as the ecumenical movement and the localization of Christianity.
HKCC is the ecumenical body of Christian churches, organizations, and institutions in Hong Kong. Founded in 1954, the Council promotes a united witness and outreach to the whole society. It is the visible sign of church unity in Hong Kong, promoting the spirit and work of the ecumenical movement, according to its official website.
- Translated by Abigail Wu