China

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Stored: China

Country: China
Historic: No
Existence: –
Continent: Asia
Region: East Asia
Historical Region:
Area: 9596961 km²
Population: 1410000000
Catholic Population: 12000000
Catholic Percentage: 0.85%
Catholicism Status: Minority religion, state-regulated
Official Languages: Mandarin
Capital: Beijing
Catholicism Introduced: 7th century
Ecclesiastical Provinces: 20
Dioceses: 116
Patron Saints: Our Lady of Sheshan, Saint Joseph
Predecessor States:
Successor States:


China is an East Asian nation, covering approximately 9,596,961 km² with a population of about 1.41 billion as of 2025.[1] Its official language is Mandarin, and its economy is driven by manufacturing, technology, and trade. The Catholic Church, with approximately 12 million adherents (0.85% of the population), is a minority religion, ranking fifth after Chinese folk religions (50%), Buddhism (20%), Taoism (15%), and Islam (2%), introduced in the 7th century by Nestorian missionaries.[2] Catholicism influences China’s Christian minority through charity, education, and devotion to Our Lady of Sheshan and Saint Joseph.[3]

The Church, with 20 ecclesiastical provinces and 116 dioceses, operates under strict state regulation, divided between the government-sanctioned Chinese Patriotic Catholic Association (CPCA) and the underground Church loyal to the Vatican. It faces challenges from restrictions on religious freedom and tensions over episcopal appointments, with significant communities in Beijing, Shanghai, and Hebei.[4] The Sheshan Basilica in Shanghai is a major pilgrimage site.[5]

Saints

Birthplace

Parameter received: China

China

No saints found with birth place matching China.

Death place

Parameter received: China

China
SaintName DeathPlace
Saint Auguste Chapdelaine Xilin County, Guangxi, Qing Empire (now China)
Saint Francis Xavier Shangchuan Island, Guangdong, Ming Empire (now China)
Saint John Gabriel Perboyre Wuchang, Hubei, China
Saint Rémi Isoré Wuyi, Hebei, China
Servant of God Joseph Verbis Lafleur South China Sea, near Mindanao, Philippines

Notable locations

Parameter received: China

China
SaintName NotableAddress1
Saint Andrew Kim Taegon Macau, China
Saint Paul Chong Hasang Beijing, China


Parameter received: China

China
SaintName NotableAddress2
Saint Andrew Kim Taegon Shanghai, China
Saint John Gabriel Perboyre Hunan, China
Saint Rémi Isoré Jesuit Residence, Tianjin, China


Parameter received: China

China
SaintName NotableAddress3
Saint Auguste Chapdelaine St. Augustine Zhao Rong Shrine, Beijing, China
Saint Rémi Isoré Church of St. Michael, Wuyi County, Hebei, China


Parameter received: China

China
SaintName NotableAddress4
Saint Auguste Chapdelaine Basilica of Our Lady of Sheshan, Shanghai, China


Parameter received: China

China
SaintName NotableAddress5
Saint Francis Xavier Shrine of St. Francis Xavier, Macao, China

Geography

China is located in East Asia, bordered by Russia, North Korea, Mongolia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam, and the South and East China Seas.[6] Its 9,596,961 km² spans deserts, mountains, and fertile plains, with a varied climate from subarctic to tropical. Major cities like Beijing (the capital), Shanghai, and Guangzhou host Catholic communities, with pilgrimage routes to Sheshan Basilica. The vast geography and state control limit Church outreach, particularly in rural areas.[7]

History

China’s history includes ancient dynasties (Xia, Shang, Zhou), imperial eras (Qin to Qing), Republican rule (1912–1949), and the People’s Republic since 1949.[8] Catholicism was introduced in the 7th century by Nestorian missionaries, with significant growth during the Yuan (13th century) and Ming/Qing dynasties via Jesuit missions.[9] The Church faced suppression under Communist rule, splitting into the CPCA and underground Church, with renewed dialogue following the 2018 Vatican-China agreement.[10]

Predecessor states

China’s territory was governed by dynasties like the Han, Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing, followed by the Republic of China (1912–1949).[11] The Qing Dynasty and Republic of China directly preceded the People’s Republic.[12] Catholic missions, led by Jesuits like Matteo Ricci, flourished in the Ming and Qing eras, establishing communities in Beijing and Macau.[13]

Successor states

The People’s Republic of China, established in 1949, has no direct successor states, as it remains a unified nation.[14] The Catholic Church navigates state control, with the 2018 Vatican-China agreement aiming to unify the CPCA and underground Church, though tensions persist.[15]

Demographics

China’s 1.41 billion people include 0.85% Catholics (12 million), 50% Chinese folk religionists, 20% Buddhists, 15% Taoists, 2% Muslims, and 1% other Christians.[16] Ethnic groups are Han (91%), Zhuang (1%), and others (8%). Catholicism is concentrated in Hebei, Shanghai, and Shanxi, with urban and rural communities.[17]

Catholic church

The Catholic Church in China comprises 20 ecclesiastical provinces, 116 dioceses, and about 6,000 parishes, split between the state-sanctioned Chinese Patriotic Catholic Association and the underground Church loyal to the Vatican.[18] Leaders like Bishop Joseph Li Shan oversee limited activities under state oversight. The Church runs schools, hospitals, and charities, despite restrictions.[19]

Structure

The Church’s 20 provinces align with China’s regions.[20]

Introduction of Catholicism

Catholicism was introduced in the 7th century by Nestorian missionaries, with Alopen establishing communities in Chang’an.[21] Jesuit missions in the 16th century, led by Matteo Ricci, revitalized the Church, particularly in Beijing.[22]

Key historical events

The 1294 establishment of the Archdiocese of Khanbaliq (Beijing) marked early Catholic presence.[23] The 2018 Vatican-China agreement addressed bishop appointments, easing tensions.[24] Pope Francis’s 2023 appointment of Bishop Stephen Xu Hongwei reflected ongoing dialogue.[25]

Catholicism status

Catholicism, with 0.85% adherence, is a minority religion in a state-regulated system under the 1982 Constitution, which limits religious freedom.[26] The Church operates under the CPCA or underground, facing restrictions on public worship and clergy autonomy.[27]

Cultural influence

Festivals and traditions

Catholics celebrate Our Lady of Sheshan (May 24) with pilgrimages to Shanghai.[28] Local traditions blend Catholic and Chinese practices, like ancestor veneration.[29]

Education and charity

The Church operates over 100 schools and hospitals, primarily in Hong Kong and Macau.[30] Caritas China aids the poor, aligning with Catholic Social Teaching.[31]

Art and architecture

Catholic heritage is evident in Sheshan Basilica in Shanghai, built in 1935.[32] Xujiahui Cathedral in Shanghai features Gothic designs.[33]

Notable Catholic sites

Pilgrimage sites

Sheshan Basilica in Shanghai attracts thousands annually.[34] Donglu Church in Hebei is a Marian shrine.[35]

Historical churches

Xujiahui Cathedral in Shanghai, built in 1910, is a Gothic landmark.[36] Sacred Heart Cathedral in Guangzhou, built in 1888, serves southern Catholics.[37]

Saints and blesseds

Patron saints

Our Lady of Sheshan (May 24) and Saint Joseph (March 19) are China’s patrons.[38]

Associated saints and blesseds

Notable figures include Saint Joseph Freinademetz (canonized 2003, missionary in Shandong), Saint Augustine Zhao Rong (canonized 2000, martyred priest), and 120 Chinese Martyrs (canonized 2000, killed 1648–1930).[39][40]

Challenges to Catholicism

The Church faces state restrictions, including bans on unregistered worship and Vatican oversight, with clergy arrests and church closures.[41] The 2018 agreement and interfaith dialogue aim to ease tensions, though underground Catholics face ongoing persecution.[42]

Social and political influence

The Church influences education and charity, guided by Catholic Social Teaching.[43] It has no political influence due to state control but fosters social welfare through discreet aid programs.[44]

References

  1. ↑ "China". CIA World Factbook. 2024-12-01. https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/china/. 
  2. ↑ "Religion in China". Wikipedia. 2024-06-15. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religion_in_China. 
  3. ↑ "Catholicism in China". Catholics & Cultures. 2020-06-15. https://www.catholicsandcultures.org/china. 
  4. ↑ "Catholic Dioceses in China". GCatholic.org. 2025-01-22. http://www.gcatholic.org/dioceses/country/CN.htm. 
  5. ↑ "China’s Catholic Church". Vatican News. 2022-11-10. https://www.vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2022-11/china-catholic-church-community.html. 
  6. ↑ "China". CIA World Factbook. 2024-12-01. https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/china/. 
  7. ↑ "Catholicism in China". Catholics & Cultures. 2020-06-15. https://www.catholicsandcultures.org/china. 
  8. ↑ "China". Britannica. 2024-10-15. https://www.britannica.com/place/China. 
  9. ↑ "Catholic Encyclopedia: China". New Advent. 1913-01-01. https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/03663b.htm. 
  10. ↑ "China’s Catholic History". Encyclopedia.com. 2003-01-01. https://www.encyclopedia.com/religion/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/china-catholic-church. 
  11. ↑ "History of China". Britannica. 2024-10-15. https://www.britannica.com/place/China/History. 
  12. ↑ "Qing Dynasty". Encyclopedia.com. 2003-01-01. https://www.encyclopedia.com/history/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/qing-dynasty. 
  13. ↑ "China’s Catholic History". Encyclopedia.com. 2003-01-01. https://www.encyclopedia.com/religion/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/china-catholic-church. 
  14. ↑ "China". Britannica. 2024-10-15. https://www.britannica.com/place/China. 
  15. ↑ "China’s Catholic Church". Vatican News. 2022-11-10. https://www.vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2022-11/china-catholic-church-community.html. 
  16. ↑ "Religion in China". Pew Research Center. 2020-04-15. https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2020/04/15/religion-in-china/. 
  17. ↑ "Catholicism in China". Catholics & Cultures. 2020-06-15. https://www.catholicsandcultures.org/china. 
  18. ↑ "Catholic Dioceses in China". GCatholic.org. 2025-01-22. http://www.gcatholic.org/dioceses/country/CN.htm. 
  19. ↑ "Catholic Education in China". Catholic News Agency. 2022-12-15. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/25080/catholic-schools-china. 
  20. ↑ "Catholic Dioceses in China". GCatholic.org. 2025-01-22. http://www.gcatholic.org/dioceses/country/CN.htm. 
  21. ↑ "Catholic Encyclopedia: China". New Advent. 1913-01-01. https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/03663b.htm. 
  22. ↑ "China’s Catholic History". Encyclopedia.com. 2003-01-01. https://www.encyclopedia.com/religion/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/china-catholic-church. 
  23. ↑ "Archdiocese of Beijing". Catholic-Hierarchy.org. 2024-09-10. http://www.catholic-hierarchy.org/diocese/dbeij.html. 
  24. ↑ "China’s Catholic Church". Vatican News. 2022-11-10. https://www.vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2022-11/china-catholic-church-community.html. 
  25. ↑ "Vatican-China Agreement". Vatican. 2018-09-22. https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/secretariat_state/documents/rc_seg-st_20180922_accordo-cina_en.html. 
  26. ↑ "Religion in China". Pew Research Center. 2020-04-15. https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2020/04/15/religion-in-china/. 
  27. ↑ "China’s Catholic Church". Vatican News. 2022-11-10. https://www.vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2022-11/china-catholic-church-community.html. 
  28. ↑ "Catholicism in China". Catholics & Cultures. 2020-06-15. https://www.catholicsandcultures.org/china. 
  29. ↑ "China’s Catholic Church". Vatican News. 2022-11-10. https://www.vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2022-11/china-catholic-church-community.html. 
  30. ↑ "Catholic Education in China". Catholic News Agency. 2022-12-15. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/25080/catholic-schools-china. 
  31. ↑ "Caritas China". Caritas Internationalis. 2024-02-10. https://www.caritas.org/where-caritas-work/asia/china/. 
  32. ↑ "Sheshan Basilica". Britannica. 2024-10-15. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Sheshan-Basilica-Shanghai. 
  33. ↑ "China’s Catholic History". Encyclopedia.com. 2003-01-01. https://www.encyclopedia.com/religion/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/china-catholic-church. 
  34. ↑ "Sheshan Basilica". GCatholic.org. 2025-01-22. http://www.gcatholic.org/churches/asia/1256.htm. 
  35. ↑ "China’s Catholic Church". Vatican News. 2022-11-10. https://www.vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2022-11/china-catholic-church-community.html. 
  36. ↑ "Xujiahui Cathedral". Britannica. 2024-10-15. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Xujiahui-Cathedral-Shanghai. 
  37. ↑ "Sacred Heart Cathedral". Encyclopedia.com. 2003-01-01. https://www.encyclopedia.com/history/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/sacred-heart-cathedral-guangzhou. 
  38. ↑ "Catholicism in China". Catholics & Cultures. 2020-06-15. https://www.catholicsandcultures.org/china. 
  39. ↑ "Chinese Martyrs". Vatican. 2000-10-01. https://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/csaints/documents/rc_con_csaints_doc_2000_en.html. 
  40. ↑ "China’s Catholic History". Encyclopedia.com. 2003-01-01. https://www.encyclopedia.com/religion/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/china-catholic-church. 
  41. ↑ "China’s Catholic Church". Vatican News. 2022-11-10. https://www.vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2022-11/china-catholic-church-community.html. 
  42. ↑ "Catholic Youth in China". Catholic News Agency. 2023-01-05. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/25085/catholic-youth-china. 
  43. ↑ "Caritas China". Caritas Internationalis. 2024-02-10. https://www.caritas.org/where-caritas-work/asia/china/. 
  44. ↑ "Catholicism in China". Catholics & Cultures. 2020-06-15. https://www.catholicsandcultures.org/china. 

External links

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