Seattle conference highlights growth of Christianity in China

Published: 2005-06-30

SEATTLE (CNS) -- The Catholic Church in China must convince the government its purpose is religious, not political, a Yale Divinity School professor told participants at the 21st National Catholic China Conference at Seattle University. Many in China today are concerned that modernization and materialism are causing them to lose their cultural heritage, said Lamin Sanneh in a keynote speech. He agreed with the view of the late Pope John Paul II that "the church can play a role in helping the Chinese people to reclaim and develop their authentic indigenous culture and civilization and to foster positive relations with the world." The U.S. China Catholic Bureau's June 24-26 conference was co-sponsored by Seattle University, the Archdiocese of Seattle's Missions Office and the Ricci Institute of San Francisco. People of diverse backgrounds from around the world gathered for discussion around the conference theme: "The Growth of Christianity in China: Realities, Challenges and Opportunities."

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