Thursday, 9 October 2014
Lessons from China and the Social Gospel: The Canada China Programme's Fort Qu'Appelle Conference, 1979
Critics would at times assail the Canada China Programme as too close to the official government-approved Protestant church, the China Christian Council. CCP staff and board members, for their part, located their work in the Canadian social gospel tradition: a link they tried to make explicit with a conference on the social gospel on the Canadian prairies and the challenge of China for Canadian Christians held in 1979 in Fort Qu'Appelle, Saskatchewan. The 80-person gathering, funded by the Canadian International Development Agency and church donors, portrayed “a church challenged by the Chinese
revolution and the protests in Canadian society” and struck a note of
repentance in focusing on areas where the church, organizers thought, had been
a barrier to change: the social gospel on the Canadian prairies and the quest
for social justice in China, held back too often by missionary strictures. This post reproduces Elizabeth
Smillie, “Lessons from China and the Social Gospel,” Catholic New Times, 1 July 1979.
Wednesday, 7 May 2014
CCP China & Ourselves 18.4
This issue opens with a
transcription of a speech given by Bishop KH Ting at the Spring Festival Tea
Party for Religious Leaders (hosted by Li Ruihuan in Beijing) on January 29th,
1994. It also transcribes the regulations for religious activities of
foreigners with borders of the PRC, regulations of managing premises for
religious activities. Regarding changes and developments in religious policy,
it features a text by Jian Woo, titled “Is the Cup Half or Half Empty?” The CCP
then makes a statement on solidarity with Christians in China and excerpts the
statement on human right in China (1993) made by the Canada Asia Working Group.
CCP China & Ourselves 18.2-3
In this issue, the editor
begins with a tribute in memory of Dr. Katharine Boehner Hockin, highlighting
her life and work in China, and provides some short news updates on China and
the CCP. In honour of Hockin, two pieces of hers are excerpted: “Servants of
God in People’s China” (1962) and “Some Random Missiological Musing”
(1983). It then features reflections on
the life and witness of Dr. Hockin from Church officials in China (Nanjing
Theological Seminary, Theresa Chu in Shanghai) and Canada (family and
colleagues). It then provides a review by Siu May Kuo on a biography on the
life of Dr. Hockin by May Rose Donnelly and Heather Dau. The issue proceeds
with a text introducing Bishop Shen Yifan, including his education, work and
publications. It features an extensive paper by Bishop Shen, titled “Religious
Liberty: A Chinese Perspective.” It contains an extensive report by Cao
Shen-jie (first published in 1985) on the process of editing a new Chinese
hymnal, which is part of the self-propagating mission of the Chinese church. A
report is given of a visit of a delegation of six members of the China
Christian Council from May 17th to June 21st. The issue
concludes with a series of news vignettes for the Catholic Church in China.
CCP China & Ourselves 18.1
This issue opens with a report
on Protestant Christianity in China, surveying its history in the twentieth
century and the work of the Three-Self Movement. It features a report on the
Nanjing Theological Seminary, highlighting the levels of training, the
syllabus, and enrolment; this report is followed by a glossary of terms
pertinent to the Chinese Christian Church. It contains a summary and update on
the activities and projects of the Amity Foundation, especially its development
work and focus on Christian education. An update for the Canada China Programme
for the year 1993 is also provided, setting out the challenges expected for the
1990s.
CCP China & Ourselves 17.4
This issue opens with the
editor’s comments on the “Christ and Culture: A Sino-American Dialogue” at
Columbia Theological Seminary. It features an extensive report on the
conference by Philip L. Wickeri, titled “Making Connections: Christianity and
Culture in the Sino-American Dialogue,” touching on the American Christian
understandings of China and the role of the session in opening dialogue. It
also provides short news vignettes on religious events and developments in
China, organized by Protestant and Catholic. It concludes with reviews of
several recent publications on China and the Chinese Church.
CCP China & Ourselves 17.3
In this issue, the CCP
reports on the Bishops’ Conference of the Catholic Church in China, focusing on
an announcement by its president for a new open Church. It reports on the
training of lay leaders in China to form parish administrative councils and
provides a report of a trip to China by Theresa Chu. It contains news and
reflections from students of Zhong Wan Seminary, Wuhan, who visited Canada in
the summer of 1992, written by Rev. Ge Baojuan. It also features an
introduction of Ms. Gao Shi-ning (a sociologist of religion by Dean Chen Zemin
(Nanjing Theological Seminary). It concludes with an interview conducted by Tan
Liying (Assistant to the General Secretary of the Amity Foundation) with Dr.
Wenzao Han (General Secretary of the Amity Foundation, Executive Vice-President
of the China Christian Council).
CCP China & Ourselves 17.2
This issue features the
complete resolution on Church order for trial use in Chinese Churches, passed
by the Standing Committee of the Chinese Christian Three-Self Patriotic
Movement and the China Christian Council. It contains resolutions on the
organization and management of churches, including meeting points. It features
a text by Li Baoluo, titled “How I Organise a Blackboard Newspaper,” on his
initiative to help preach the Gospel to literate people who do not want to hear
a complete sermon. It provides a series of vignettes on Protestant and Catholic
news in China, as well as general news and publications.
CCP China & Ourselves 17.1
In the editor’s note for
this issue, the events and conclusions of the national China Christian
Conference in Beijing in January. It transcribes sermons by Wan Weifan, titled
“The Lord of Sorrows,” and Gao Ying called “Love and Reconciliation.” It
contain a French report by Lucien Casterman (OMI) on the progression of the
Church in China, titled “L’Église de Chine: une Église vivante – une Église
souffrante.” The issue concludes with a retrospective on the life and work of
Rev. Florence Li Tin Oi, the first woman ordained in the Anglican Communion,
who passed away in February in Toronto.
CCP China & Ourselves 16.4
In this issue, the
editor’s note discusses the refusal of the western media to report on the
positive development in China, which impedes true understanding of the
challenges faced by the people of China. It contains a report, titled “China in
Transition: New Roles for Christians in the 1990s,” which provides an overview
of the changes in China of all sectors, including its relationship with the
United Nations, economic reforms and the end of the iron ricebowl, and its
cultural developments. This report comprises the whole of the issue.
CCP China & Ourselves 16.3
In this issue, the editor
opens with remarks on the devastating floods in eastern and central China,
which has been ignored by western media and international assistance
organizations. This is followed by a report by Gotthard Oblau, titled “Floods
Strike the Lowest in Society.” It contains an analysis of Church growth in
Southern Zhejiang by Charlie Wilson, highlighting the successful evangelism and
church re-openings of the Protestant church there. It features a text by
Aloysius B. Chang (sj), analyzing the principles and activities of the Bridge
Church. It contains a brief report on the production and distribution of
liturgical texts for the Catholic Church in China. It provides a report by Doug
Allen, touching on the place of regions and its growth and advancement in
China. It concludes by transcribing the Beijing Ministerial Declaration on
Environment and Development.
CCP China & Ourselves 16.2
This issue opens with a
few notes from the editor, touching on the impending return of Hong Kong to
Chinese hands and the implications of that event for China. It contains a
report by Ting Yenren, titled “Amity Learns from the Filipinos,” in which an
account of the trip of an Amity delegation to the Philippines is given. It
features an extensive report by Georg Evers on the Catholic Church in China,
emphasizing the tensions between the “official” Church and the “clandestine”
Church. It transcribes the presentation of the Reverend Florence Li Tin Oi at
the Trinity College Convocation (May 14th, 1991), by Cyril Powles,
Emeritus Professor, and a report of the ordination in Nanjing by Philip
Wickeri. It concludes with a review by K. Hockin of Siu May Kuo’s book Journeying Through the Bible.
CCP China & Ourselves 16.1
This issue opens with a
note on the rejoining of Chinese Christians to the World Council of Churches, a
decision made at the Seventh Assembly of the WCC in Canberra, Australia, in
February 1991. It transcribes a speech by KH Ting on the recent admission of the
China Christian Council to the World Council of Churches, which he sees as an
acknowledgement of Chinese Christian selfhood. It contains brief report and
description of the China Christian Council and a report on Amity English
teachers in China by Lois A. Cole and Diane J. Allen. It provides part II of KH
Ting’s “What We Can Learn from Y.T. Wu Today,” continuing from the previous
issue. A French report on the Projet Canada-Chine is provided for the years
1988 to 1991. It concludes with a review of China
Briefing 1990, edited by Anthony J. Kane, a collection of articles prepared
by the China Council of the Asia Society in New York.
CCP China & Ourselves 15.4
In this issue, Theresa
Chu begins by reporting on a trip she took to China from October to November,
with Lucien Casterman, Fleurette Lagace, Cynthia McLean, and Ray O’Toole. It
contain a brief report on 1991 Amity calendars and an interview with Sister Xu
Yaying and Sister Qiu Huamei, who were visiting Canada at the time. It
transcribes an extensive article by KH Ting, originally published in the
International Bulletin of Missionary Research in October 1990, titled “What We
Can Learn from Y.T. Wu Today,” reflecting on the future of the Chinese Church.
CCP China & Ourselves 15.3
In this issue, the editor
begins with comments on major developments in China, including the 10 day
census and the continuing creation of infrastructure for flood control. It also
features an interview conducted by students of the Nanjing Seminary of KH Ting,
evaluating the work of the church in China and the Three-Self Movement. It
contains a reflection based on the thoughts of Ruth Hayhoe (head of Cultural
Affairs, Canadian embassy in Beijing) on people-to-people exchange programs and
Sunday worship. Theresa Chu provides an update on the Catholic Church in China,
especially highlighting the tensions in Vatican-China relations that seem to be
improving. It contains an update on the treatment of religion by the Chinese
media and a report by Jin Yang on his experience in North America.
CCP China & Ourselves 15.2
This issue begins with an
extensive analysis by Dan Heap, MP, titled “What About China Now?” (May 1990),
which addresses the political and economic concerns surrounding China since the
Tiananmen massacre. It also features a report by Theresa Chu called “Mixed
Signals on Religion in China,” examining the tension between the rumors of
tightening control and improvements on religious freedom. A continuance of the
report on theological centres from the previous issue is provided. Bernard Embree
reports on his trip to Kunming, Yunnan as China Liaison for the Presbyterian
Church in Canada. It also includes a trip report by Marilyn Grav on her time in
China while working for the Amity Foundation.
CCP China & Ourselves 15.1
This issue opens with an
extensive analysis of the situation in China by Theresa Chu, addressing the
expressions of concern from the readership and touching on the stance of the
Chinese Church. A report of the theological centres of China is also provided.
An update is also given on the activities and projects of the Amity Foundation,
including a personal message from Kuo Siu May. In “Chinese Christianity Since
1949: A Review Article,” Cyril Powles reviews various recent books published by
members of the CCP on the subject of China, comparing and contrasting the
subject matter and opinions presented.
CCP China & Ourselves 14.4
In this issue, Theresa
Chu follows up on the atmosphere in China since the student protests in a
report, titled “China after June 4th: A Bird’s Eye-View,”
highlighting population growth and economic developments. It contains an
interview with KH Ting, discussing the stance of the Chinese Church in light of
the student protests and the events of June 4th. It provides a
report by Bernard Embree on the training of church workers in China, titled
“Protestant: Theological Education in China.” The issue also provides
statistics regarding Protestant churches in China (re-openings, membership,
etc.) and a report on the establishment of a fund for theological education. It
also contains a review by K. Hockin of Siu May Kuo’s book Venturing Into the Bible. It also features a report of the visit of
Ms. Wang Juzhen to Canada and a report by Raymond Whitehead, titled
“Reflections on the Edinburgh Meeting, Enlarged Planning Committee.”
CCP China & Ourselves 14.3
This issue opens as
Theresa Chu asks the question: Have we been too naïve about China? The issue
attempts to answer that question in light of recent developments that motivated
the students to go Tiananmen Square. It features an interview conducted by Glen
Davis (board member of the CCP) of Theresa Chu, in which she relates her
observations from a trip to China in August. It reports on recent events in
China, in a feature titled “What has Been Happening in China Since June 4th,”
exploring the launch of three campaigns to reform government corruption and
administration. The Amity Foundation receives some attention, especially its printing
company, and an interview with Gu Renfa, an Amity official in Nanjing, on the
progress of the project is transcribed. It also contains a report, titled “Why
Chinese Christians did not Attend Lausanne II,” addressing the absence of a
Chinese delegation. It concludes with a short section on Chinese news.
CCP China & Ourselves 14.2
In this issue, Theresa
Chu reports on a trip to China and illuminates the students’ protest movement,
providing the background information and a detailed chronology for the
conflict. It draws on sources to provide a descriptive account of the protests
and analysis of the events. It features a report of recent honours accorded to
Bishop KH Ting and his wife Kuo Siu May by Victoria University. The convocation
address at Emmanuel College (Victoria University) delivered by KH Ting on May
11, 1989, is transcribed. The issue concludes with a short section of general
news and developments in China.
CCP China & Ourselves 57
This issue begins with an
extensive statement by KH Ting and Wang Weifan on recent development in the
study of religion in China. It also features a report on theological education
in the PRC for the Foundation for Theological Education in South East Asia,
based on the observations of Dr. Ching-fen Hsiao and Dr. Marvin D. Hoff from
consultations with Janice and Philip Wickeri, and Bishops Peter Kwong and KH
Ting. It concludes with an analysis of the Edinburgh ’89 Conference, named
“Living the Gospel in Society: An International Dialogue with Chinese
Christians,” which took place from September 20th to 27th,
1989.
CCP China & Ourselves 56
This issue contains a
report by Theresa Chu, titled “The Search Goes On,” analyzing the economic and
political reforms and changes that have taken place in China. It features a
report taken from an issue of Tian Feng by Han Bide on the churches in the
provinces of Guangzhou and Fujian. The report “A Mission in Rural Henan by Rev.
Deng Fucun, deals with the problems in the shortage of clergy in a province
where the number of Christians is increasing. It contains “China through the
“Old Well”’ by Stephen Ting Yenren (educational consultant for the Amity
Foundation), recounting his experiences and observations of China and its
people. Within this issue, there is also a collection of special releases, including
a report on the first contact with the Democractic People’s Republic of Korea
and an interview with Bishop KH Ting. The issue concludes with an update on the
activities and work of the CCP.
CCP China & Ourselves 55
In this issue, Theresa
Chu interviews Bishop Jin Luxian during his stay in New Jersey, regarding
developments and conferences attended by delegates of the Chinese Church. It
also contains an interview with Father Joseph Chen Yuntang, recently released
from prison, touching on his present work, Sino-Vatican relation, religious
policy and more. A sermon by KH Ting at the recent consecration of bishops in
China is transcribed, titled “Taking a New Day.” It features another interview
with Shen Yifan (senior pastor of the Community Church in Shanghai,
vice-president of the China Christian Council), highlight theological
developments in the Church in China. Another interview with Wang Weifan
(teacher at Nanjing Theological seminary, editor of the Nanjing Theological
Review) is also featured. It contains a
report on Amity project for 1988 and 1989. An interview of Terre Flower with
Jin Shenzeng and Wang Tongfu of the Shanghai International Studies University
is transcribed. It concludes with short reports on the awarding of an honorary
degree to KH Ting and the visit of the Chinese YMCA delegation in Canada.
CCP China & Ourselves 54
The issues opens with a
note from Theresa Chu on the work of the CCP, in which she includes a letter
she received from Jiang Peifen (April 1988). It contains a timeline exploring
the easing of relations between mainland China and Taiwan, based on reports from
Tian Feng and China Daily. Following this, CCP director Theresa Chu reports on
the development and change of the mandate of the Canada China Programme. The
issue also features an interview with KH Ting conducted by Elizabeth J. Larson
(of the Midwest China Centre), on the occasion of his reception of an honorary
degree from St. Olaf College. A section of China updates gives news vignettes
on recent developments in the Church and religious organizations. It provides
various personal tributes in honor of Bishop Zhang Jiashu and a report by
Marie-Jeanne Coleman on her experience of visiting Protestant seminaries in
China. The issue concludes with a list of resources for studying the Church in
China.
Tuesday, 6 May 2014
CCP China & Ourselves 53
This issue begins with an
extensive trip report by Theresa Chu, highlighting visits to Catholic and
Protestant churches. It features an
extensive report by Philip L. Wickeri, titled “Development Service and China’s
Modernization: The Amity Foundation in Theological Perspective,” highlighting
its work in health, education, and social welfare. This is followed by an
official update on the Amity Foundation. In “A Reunion after Forty Years,”
Norman Mackenzie gives an account of a return trip of former missionaries to
the areas in China where they had worked. It contains a text by Bernard Embree
(China Area Secretary for the Presbyterian Church in Canada) on the production
and distribution of Bibles in China called “Yes, They Have Bibles in China!”
The issue concludes with a few news reports on religious affairs in China.
CCP China & Ourselves 52
In this issue, a speech
given by Han Wenzao at the joint executive meeting of the National Committees
of the Chinese Protestant Three-Self Movement and the China Christian Council,
titled “China has Friends all Over the World: Her Enemies Work to no Avail.” It
then features a conversion with Jose Chipenda, the General Secretary of the
All-Africa Council of Churches (October 1987), discussing the visit of a
delegation to China. An interview of KH Ting by Rev. Ewing W. Carroll is also
provided, touching on the growth of the Church in China (especially Protestant
growth). Letters from Amity Teachers on their experiences in China and their
work in schools is also transcribed, as well as a report by Suzie Evans on her
time in China, titled “Antique Air: China, Its Smell, Its Touch.” The issue
also transcribes a report of “The Federation of Canada-China Friendship
Associations Sponsors English and French Seminars in China in 1988.” The issue
concludes with a report by Zhang Lingguang (Hangzhou Christian Church) on the
ways in which Chinese Christians celebrate Christmas.
Monday, 5 May 2014
CCP China & Ourselves 51
In this issue, Theresa
Chu reports on a visit to Canada in May and June of the Catholic Friendship
Delegation, at the invitation of Amitié Chine. It includes a report on
development projects in Jiangsu, an update on a Canadian theological study
tour, and a trip report by Jo Ann Stark (Emmanuel College) who spent three
weeks in China. Wendy Fletcher of Huron College addresses the basic assumptions
about the treatment of Christianity in China that are challenged upon actually
visiting China and its churches. Then, it provides a text by Nancy Whitla
(Trinity College) on women in China, noting the real reformation of the
treatment of women in society lags behind the professions for reform made by
the government. It also features a report by Rod Downing (Vancouver School of
Theology), titled “Underground, Unconnected or Unfounded: Is There Another
Church in China?” It contains a summary by Inez Flemington of the year she
spent in China as an Amity Teacher. A statement made by KH Ting on Kairos Radio
is excerpted and the issue concludes with political developments in China and
the Amity Foundation 1988 Calendar.
CCP China & Ourselves 50
In this issue, a sermon
by Zhang Jinglong, under the title “The Holy Spirit: Our Water of Life, Source
and Power of Light and Harmony.” An interview of KH Ting by Rev. Ewing W.
Carroll Jr. (director of the United Methodist Church China Program) is
included, focusing on the situation of the Church in China and Hong Kong. It
also features an article by Zhang Yali, dealing with the mandate and work of
the All-China Women’s Federation (ACWF). It contains a report on the meeting of
the 7th Session of the 6th National People’s Congress,
which supervises government administrative and economic work. The issue closes
with various excerpts on development and events in China, regarding religion,
economics and politics.
CCP China & Ourselves 49
This issue begins with an
analysis by Philip Wickeri on Chinese intellectuals and humanism, arguing that
there have been significant intellectual developments in China since its new
policy of openness. It features a report by Theresa Chu, titled “The
Interconnection between Religion and Society: An Example from Taoism.”
Regarding the CCP’s support of teaching initiatives in China, excerpts of
letters from an Amity teacher, the vice-president of the Nanjing Institute of
Meteorology are provided. It includes a report on the overseas’ relations of
Amity, taken from its newsletter, and a report by Margaret Allen on the Amity
Teachers Mid-Year Conference. An update on the activities of the CC is given,
highlighting study tours, theological internships, and its support of Amity
Teachers. It concludes with a brief on recent student demonstrations in various
urban centres of China.
CCP China & Ourselves 48
This issue opens with a
report by Theresa Chu on the Christian community in North Jiangsu who spent
five months in China visiting various communities of Christians. The report
examines the life and practices of the community, including interviews with
Church leaders and the laity. The issue also contains an analysis of the Fourth
Chinese National Christian Conference, based on a description by Philip
Wickeri. It provides an examination of the churches of Hong Kong through the
eyes of Xu Zhiqong, a Chinese visitor from the mainland. A report is given on
the work of the Amity Foundation to send English teachers to China, an
endeavour supported by the Canada China Programme. News reports are given on
religious and economic developments in China. It concludes with a report on the
recent turn to contracted work in state-run enterprises, denying people
lifetime employment and security.
CCP China & Ourselves 46 and 47
This special double issue
focuses on two trips to China that the CCP aided in organizing in May for
members of the Ecumenical Association of Third World Theologians and the CCP
delegation to the Nanjing ’86 conference. First, Theresa Chu reports on the
visit of Third World theologians to China and their experiences and
observations while there. Attention then shifts to the Nanjing ’86 Conference,
beginning a report and evaluation of the conference by Glen Davis (Presbyterian
Church in Canada) that concludes with some recommendations for Nanjing. It also
provides a text by KH Ting, titled “Christian Sharing Across National
Boundaries: As a Chinese Christian Sees It,” in which he details his beliefs
and understanding on international ecumenism. The Chinese view of the conference,
from the perspective of several of its Chinese participants, is also considered
in the issue. Reflections on the trip and conference are also given from Alfred
Dumont (United Church of Canada), Laverne V Jacobs (Anglican Church of Canada),
Patti Talbot (Presbyterian Church in Canada), and Lois Wilson (Ecumenical Forum
of Canada). The issue also includes a report by Edith B. Shore (Canadian
Council of Churches), titled “Women Hold Up Half the Sky,” which relates the
experiences and challenges faced by women in China. The issue concludes with
new reports on religious and domestic affairs in China.
CCP China & Ourselves 45
In this issue, the
concerns and development of the Protestant Church in China is looked at in an
in-depth manner. It begins with a report by Terre Flower, titled “Challenges in
the Life of the Protestant Church,” examining the conditions of the local
congregations, the Three-Self and post-denominational movements, and
evangelism. It includes a retrospective in memoriam of Katharine Willmott, who
served as an educational missionary in China. This issue has an extensive
section of news on religious and domestic affairs, including a retrospective on
the life of Ding Ling, vice-chair of the Chinese Writers Association and a
standing member of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference
National Committee. It also contain a report on areas of struggle and concern
for Chinese women, especially focusing on the discrimination and harsh
standards they face.
CCP China & Ourselves 44
This issue opens with a report
by Terre Flower on Chinese theological internships in Canada, sponsored by the
Canada-China Programme and another on the first graduating class of the Nanjing
Theological Seminary. It features a sermon by Bishop KH Ting, titled
“Passion-Search-Worship.” It contain an excerpt from the first issue of the
Amity Foundation newsletter on its purpose, goals and project initiatives. The
section of news vignettes on religious affairs in China is particularly long,
concluding with a report by Terre Flower called “China and the Nuclear Arm’s
Race.” It excerpts statements of Zhao Puchu and KH Ting from the Beijing Forum
on Safeguarding World Peace initiated by the Chinese Association for
International Understanding, in Beijing (June 4th-6th).
Terre Flower also analyzes the status of women in China, examining statement of
delegates at the United Nation’s End of the World Conference for the Review and
Appraisal of the UN Decade for Women. The issue also provides a transcript of
the speech by Chen Yun (economist, member of Standing Committee of the Chinese
Communist Party Central Committee) to the closing session of the CCP’s National
Conference. It concludes with a special extensive report on the theological
education of Protestants in China, including the syllabus, finances and
theological education in a post-denominational Christianity.
CCP China & Ourselves 43
Here, Michel Marcil (sj)
discusses the interaction of Christians with Taoists, Buddhists, Muslims, and
Lamaists, in “Meeting with People of Other Faiths.” The issue also features an
analysis of the changing role of religion in the public sphere in China by
Terre Flower, titled “New Thoughts from China about the Role of Religion in
Society.” An update on the Amity Foundation, taken from its introductory
brochure, is also provided. It also includes an extensive section of news
vignettes on religious affairs in China, borrowed mostly from the China Daily
newspaper, as well as some on domestic affairs.
CCP China & Ourselves 42
This issue (titled
Responses to Modernization) opens with a statement summarizing a conversation
of Philip Wickeri with KH Ting and Han Wenzao, titled “Religious Response on
Contributions to China from Churches and Christians Overseas.” Philip Wickeri
reports “”On Contributions to China from Churches and Christians Overseas”: An
Interpretation.” K.B. Hockin writes on the theological contributions of the
Chinese Church in “How China Nudges us into a Fresh Conception of What God
Might Want us to Do for the Kingdom Today!” She also analyzes ecumenical
relations with China in a piece titled “Relationship with the Chinese Christian
Church: An Evolutionary Survey as Seen Through the Eyes of the Canada China
Programme.” The issue concludes with an extensive section of vignettes
regarding religious affairs in China. It also contains a report by Terre Flower
on the existence of capitalist enterprises and factories in the PRC.
CCP China & Ourselves 41
In this special edition
on the Chinese Protestant Church (on the occasion of the 30th
anniversary of the Three-Self Patriotic Committee), Terre Flower writes an
analysis of the history of the Protestant Church, titled “A Chinese Protestant
Church – 30 years after.” It also reports on a visit of Philip Porter, General Secretary
of the World Council of Churches, and Ninan Koshy, director of the WCC
Commission of the Churches on International Affairs, to China. It provides
short vignettes on religious affairs, domestic affairs, business and economy,
foreign affairs, and arts and science in China.
CCP China & Ourselves 40
This article opens with a
retrospective in memory of the life and work of Jiang Wenhan, Vice-President of
the China Christian Council and Associate General Secretary of China’s Y.M.C.A.
It features an interview conducted by Theresa Chu with Father Anthony Cheng and
Miss Catherine Hung, advisors of the Hong Kong Catholic Youth Council. It
contains an article from the Hong Kong Standard on the Joint Working Group
established on Hong Kong’s future in China (from June 14th, 1984). Several
articles are excerpted on the transition of Hong Kong and Ronald Reagan’s
recent trip to China. Short vignettes on religious news and developments in
China are provided. Janice Wickeri discusses the efforts to train the laity for
pastoral care in their communities in “Lay Training Course in Zhejiang.”
Vignettes are also given on the subject of foreign affairs and business and
economy.
CCP China & Ourselves 39
In this issue, which
focuses on the future of Hong Kong in China, Theresa Chu begins with an
editoral, “From Hong Kong to Xianggang,” in which she discusses the anticipation
of the return of Hong Kong to China and the different reactions to this
development. It provides a commentary giving background on Hong Kong’s economic
and political history from September, 1982, and a report on the significance of
the return of Hong Kong in 1997. It also analyzes the attitude of China to Hong
Kong, attempting to give a specifically Chinese perspective on the anticipation
of 1997. It feature reports on the response of the Churches of China and Hong
Kong on the future of Hong Kong by the U.S.P.G. Network, and the challenges
from history faced by the Hong Kong Church. Articles also raise questions and
concerns as to the representation of Hong Kong during its period of transition
and concerns about the preservation of free speech. The issue concludes with
short news reports.
CCP China & Ourselves 38
The issue begins with an
interview with Li Guolin (teacher at the Department of Foreign Languages of
Sichuan University) on his life in China and his impressions of Canada. It
features an article from the Catholic Church in China (Dec. 1983) by Yuan
Zhang, titled “On Priesthood: A Talk with Young People,” on the growth and
future of the Chinese priesthood. It reports briefly on the publishing of a
‘post-denominational’ Chinese catechism. It includes a translation of the Tian
Feng and Catholic Church in China tables of contents to give readers a sense of
the content of the publication. In “A Conversation with Theological Interns,” a
dialogue between Bridge and three interns from Guangzhou on seminary
curriculum. It concludes with news reports on events in China.
CCP China & Ourselves 37
This issues begins with a
report by Terry Carter titled, “Shenzhen Special Economic Zone: Foreign Money
and Capitalist Techniques Serve China,” which the Canada-China Friendshi
Associations’ delegates visited in 1983. It features a report from Tian Feng,
“Random Thought on Random Thoughts (a discussion with Comrade Wang Ding)” by
Gong Jiewen, replying to articles attacking religion from the Shanghai Journal,
Shu Lin. Carter also reports on the development of China since the fall of the
Gang of Four and the end of the Cultural Revolution in “Pollution and
Purification.” It transcribes Gao Ying’s article in Tian Feng, titled “How to
View Truth, Goodness, and Beauty Outside the Church.” The issue closes with
news reports and vignettes on developments and events in China.
CCP China & Ourselves 36
This issue opens with a
trip report by Theresa Chu on a visit to China from August 5th to September
8th. It also contains a report on “The Shanghai Community Church
Spring Festival Retreat” by Rev. Peng Shengyong, originally published in Tian
Feng (1983). Terry Carter reports on “Prosperity and Change in the
Countryside,” which gives particular attention to the commune system. A report
is also given on the Phoenix Combine, the movement of intellectuals to remote
regions of China by the government, and another report by Terry Carter titled
“Importing Sexism.” The issue concludes with short reports on developments and
events in China and a list of audiovisual materials available from the CCP.
CCP China & Ourselves 35
This issue transcribes a
sermon given by Zhao Fusan at the closing worship service of the meeting of the
China Christian Council and the Three-Self Patriotic Movement (September 1982).
It also features “Looking at the Jesuit Sentencing” by Raymond L. Whitehead,
which discusses the arrest and sentencing of four Catholic priests in Shanghai.
It also includes a look at the life and work of Rev. Florence Li Tim-oi, the
first ordained woman priest of the Anglican worldwide communion and active
participant in the Three-Self Patriotic Movement. It features an analysis of
the economic change that has taken place and continues in China, and a short
article on the 25th anniversaries of the Patriotic Association and
the independent election and consecration of bishops. It contains a review by
Dr. John Berthrong of Theresa Chu and Christopher Lind’s book on the Montreal
Conference, A New Beginning. It again
concludes with short reports on recent events in China.
CCP China & Ourselves 34
In this issue, Wang Zen
writes “A Few Objections to the “Modern Bible”” (excerpted from Tian Feng,
1983), in which he discusses the quality and impropriety of disguised Bibles
smuggled into China. It also includes an article by Terry Carter on the legacy
of Bishop William C. White as a missionary and an art collector. The issue also
transcribes an interview with KH Ting, Han Wenzao, and Phoebe Shi, taken from
the Decemeber 1982 edition of the Hong Kong Christian Council newsletter
(Xinxi). It also features “The Hong Kong Church: Looking Toward 1997,” based on
a declaration of the Hong Kong Church as to how they perceive the future. It
also contains an article on the “Five-Good Families” and their selection. A
report is given of the Nanking Massacre (1937) Commemoration held by the
Chinese Canadian National Council on December 12, at which Rev. James Endicott
spoke. The issue concludes with questions and answers, and vignettes on events
and developments in China.
CCP China & Ourselves 33
This issue begins with an
interview with Theresa Chu on a recent visit of four Canadians to China at the
invitation of the Chinese Catholic Patriotic Association. It also reports on
the opening of a new Catholic seminary at Sheshan. The newsletter also contains
the thoughts of CCP staff on the future status of Hong Kong in the PRC,
following recent talks between Britain and China on this subject. It features
the report “The Dongyang Incident: What Really Happened?,” relating to
accusations that the Three-Self Movement had persecuted young Christians. The issue
concludes with reports from newspapers on events in China.
CCP China & Ourselves 32
In this issue, the
“rehabilitation" of Jim Endicott in the view of Canadian churches is examined,
analyzing his views on Communism in China and his work there. It features the
Resolution Relating to the Christian Churches in China rom the General Council
meeting of the United Church of Canada, which expresses support. It transcribes
an interview of Salamat Ali of the Far Eastern Economic Review with the Dalai
Lama, discussing the situation in Tibet and includes excerpts of articles on
China-Tibet relations. An interview with Ray Whitehead on his visit to China
and his interactions with Chinese Christians and non-Christians is also given, titled
“Ethics in Post-Mao China.” The issue also contains a letter of the editors of
Tian Feng urging Christians to participate in the discussion of the draft of
the revised constitution, especially article 35 on the freedom of religious
belief. Reports on current events in China and Canada are excerpt at the end of
the issue.
CCP China & Ourselves 31
This issue opens with the
Draft Constitution of the Standing Committee of the Fifth National People’s
Congress. It contains a retrospective on the life and work of Aloysius Zhan
Jiashu, Bishop of Shanghai, on the occasion of his 90th birthday. It
also features a report in memory of EH (Ted) Johnson by KH Ting, reflecting on
his friendship and understanding towards the churches of China and Canada. It also
contains Wang Xi’an’s text “Make Fast with Bonds of Peace the Unity which the
Spirit Gives,” arguing the harmony of the churches in China with each other. It
concludes with news vignettes on events and developments in China and Canada.
CCP China & Ourselves 30
This issue contains
excerpts from the Amnesty International brief on Gong Pinmei, the former
Catholic Bishop of Shanghai. It also features an interview with a Shanghai
Catholic, who lives outside of China but related their experiences there. KH
Ting writes about the Pope’s Manila Message to China, emphasizing the lack of
understanding for the situation of the Chinese Church and the Vatican’s role
therein. The CCP includes the report given by Theresa Chu at the Annual General
Meeting of the Canada China Programme, highlighting communications, special
projects, and ecumenical relationships. The issue features a new column that
answers the questions of its readers regarding the situation of the Church in
China and the work of the CCP. The issue again closes with excerpts of reports
from newspapers on events in China.
CCP China & Ourselves 29
The issue opens with the
statements of Archbishop of Caterbury, Robert Runcie, and Bishop KH Ting on the
Archbishop’s visit to China from a press conference on January 9th.
It also features “In a Garden Together – a Meeting Between Canadian and Chinese
Colleagues” by Wen Ting and Tian Feng, which examines the development of the
relationship between the Canadian and Chinese churches. “Aiding the Gospel
Cause?” by Xing Wen and Tian Feng is also included, looking at the phenomenon
of Bible smuggling in China from the West. It features the thoughts of Ray
Whitehead on the life of EH Johnson who worked in China for many years. It also
contains a report on Theresa Chu’s visit to the Shanghai Children’s Home for
physically and mentally disabled children. The issue closes with reports and
vignettes on events in China.
CCP China & Ourselves 28
This issue reports on the
Montreal Conference “God’s Call to a New Beginning – an International
Conference – Montreal, October 2-9, 1981,” written by Theresa Chu, emphasizing
the themes, delegations and events. It also contains reflection on the
conference by delegates, including Rev. Tissa Balasuriya (director of the
Centre for Society and Religion, Sri Lanka), Ruth Sovik (Associate General
Secretary, World YWCA, Switzerland), and Rose Chen (rscj, USA). It includes the
second part of the trip report of the CCC in China, including what was
presented at the CCP colloquy. It reports on the controversy that arose from
Christopher Lind’s article on the Vatican in issues 25 and 26, containing full
text from a letter from Father Hugh MacDougall (Scarboro Foreign Missionary
Society) and Lind’s reply. The issue excerpts an account written by a Catholic
of the Shanghai Diocese on their experience of the Sheshan pilgrimage. The
issue closes with excerpts and reports on events in both China and Canada.
CCP China & Ourselves 27
In this issue, the
newsletter begins by detailing the upcoming Montreal Conference and introducing
the members of the Chinese delegation. Dr. Cyril Powers writes about the life
and work of Chinese missionary James E. Walsh, whose imprisonment in China
precipitated the rapprochement between the U.S. and the PRC. It contains a trip
report of the Canadian Council of Churches to China, relating messages form the
Chinese Church to Canadian Christians. It also features a briefing by Li
Shoubao on the political and social situation in China, which he uses to
illuminate issues relating to the Chinese Church. The issue concludes with
excerpts of reports on events and developments in China and Canada.
CCP China & Ourselves 25 and 26
This special double issue
begins with an article by Christopher J.L Lind titled “What does the Vatican
Really Want?” (June 15th, 1981), in which he analyzes Vatican
relations with China in light of the appointment of Deng Yiming to the
bishopric. It also contains a review of John Fraser’s book The Chinese: Portrait of a People by Siu May Kuo Ting. It includes
EH Johnson’s article “Reflecting on the Trial of the Gang of Four, which
examines the implications for China going into the future. Theresa Chu reports
on “Christianity in China Today,” in which she relates the experiences of
Christians she has met in China and examines the life of institutional churches
there. The issue also features Philip Wickeri of New World Outlook’s report,
“Story a Chinese Evangelical” (December 1980), highlighting the life and work
of Sister Jiang Peifen. It contains a report from Red Flag Magazine titled “Why
Religious Freedom?” (May 5th, 1981), translated by Terry Carter. It
provides another analysis by Theresa Chu, entitled “The Political Environment
of the Chinese Church,” which explicates the current place of the church in the
PRC. The issue closes with various excerpted reports on developments and events
in China, both involving the Church and otherwise.
CCP China & Ourselves 24
In this issue, a report
by Bishop KH Ting is included, titled “A Call for Clarity: Fourteen Points from
Christians in People’s Republic of China to Christians Abroad.” He spotlights
the New China, the policy of religious freedom, organizations in New China,
religion and imperials, the Three-Self Principle, the unity of the Chinese
Church, the work to be done, the responsibility of the church itself to
evangelize, the activities of overseas Church groups, and many other points
relevant to the state of the Church. It contains a follow-up interview between
Oriana Fallaci and Deng Xiaoping, titled “Deng: A Third World War is
Inevitable.” The Constitution of the China Christian Council is also
transcribed and lists China’s Protestant leaders, organized by their membership
on the Standing Committee of the China Christian Council. The issue concludes
with short vignettes on current events and developments in China.
CCP China & Ourselves 23
This issue contains an
open letter to all Catholic clergy and laity of China from the representatives
of the Third Synod of the China Patriotic Catholic Association and the China
Catholic Representative Conference (June 2nd, 1980), addressing
recent developments in the Church and touches on recent conferences of Catholic
clergy in China. The letter also announces the establishment of the National
Administrative Commission of the Chinese Catholic Church and the Chinese
Catholic Bishops’ College. The issue also excerpts the resolution of the Third
Chinese National Christian Conference, adopted on October 13th, 1980.
It also contains an interview between Oriana Fallaci and Deng Xiaoping,
entitled “Cleaning up Mao’s ‘Feudal Mistakes,’” which explores the changes in
China since the passing of Mao. It concludes with news vignettes on religious
affairs, domestic affairs, foreign affairs, business & economy, and arts
& science.
CCP China & Ourselves 22
In this issue, Ray
Whitehead and Cyril Powles review Stephen Endicott’s James G. Endicott, Rebel out of China and explore the life and
importance of Jim Endicott. It contains a text by EH Johnson (former
Presbyterian missionary and former member of the CCP) titled “Visiting with
Christians: A Number One!” that reports on his recent visit to China and its
churches. It also contains a report by Theresa Chu and Ewing W. Carroll, Jr. on
the subject of Catholic Developments in China. The issue also has a section
with newspaper excerpts on Religious Affairs, Domestic Affairs, National
Peoples Congress, Foreign Affairs, Business & Economy, and Arts &
Science.
CCP China & Ourselves 21
The issue opens with an
announcement of the appointment of Sr. Theresa Chu to the position of director
of the Canada China Programme. The CCP discloses its correspondence with the
Canadian Bible Society, expressing its concern over assumptions made by the
society about China in their fundraising brochure “Meeting the Challenge of
China.” The correspondence took place between Rev. Kenneth G. MacMillan
(Canadian Bible Society) and Raymond L. Whitehead (Canada China Committee). Ray
Whitehead also provide an account of his trip to China of May, 1980, which he
made contacts with religious persons and organizations. Then, the CCP excerpts
several articles regarding religious affairs in China from the Globe and Mail,
the New York Times, the Mennonite Reporter, and Ta Kung Pao. A list of China’s
Catholic leaders is presented, categorized by those belonging to the National
Administration Commission, the College of Bishops, and the Third National
Committee of the Catholic Patriotic Association. Further article excerpts are also
given for topics of Arts & Culture, Foreign Affairs, and Business &
Economy.
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