11. Freedom of Religion in China The Unspoken TRUTH

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Shenyang Cathedral stands as a symbol of faith and resilience in a country where religion has faced countless challenges. Its story begins in 1838 when Catholic missionaries from the Paris Foreign Missions Society brought Christianity to the region. Over the decades, the mission grew despite obstacles, including wars, rebellion, and government restrictions.
Missionaries like Jean Chenin, who arrived in 1861, laid the foundation of Catholicism here. Starting in a simple rented house in Yingkou, they worked tirelessly to build a community. Henri Lamasse, another French missionary, designed the stunning cathedral we see today. Built between 1901 and 1912, it rose from the ashes of destruction caused by the Boxer Rebellion.
Through wars and political changes, the cathedral remained a beacon of hope. In 1946, the Vatican elevated Shenyang to an archdiocese. However, the journey wasn’t easy. The Chinese government merged it with other dioceses in 1983, reflecting tighter control over religious practices."
Fast forward to the COVID-19 pandemic. Public gatherings, including religious services, were abruptly banned across China. While the world eventually moved on, local authorities in Shenyang delayed lifting these restrictions. Even as Chinese Sunday Masses resumed, foreign-language services in English and Korean remain banned.
The reason? Local officials claim that 'foreign-related activities' are too sensitive. Despite being regular Masses conducted in different languages, the government’s tightening grip means no one dares to question orders from above.
This is the reality in China today. Faith endures, but the obstacles remain. For the Catholic community in Shenyang, the cathedral’s history serves as a reminder of resilience. Yet, its future remains uncertain in the face of ongoing government control.
Shenyang Cathedral - A Testament to Faith, A Witness to Challenges. Will hope prevail once again?