Christ Rises in the East

A stunningly good story here at NPR on the growth of Christianity in China.  I stand in awe of these Chinese Christians who risk everything for their faith.  Official persecution seems to only spur their growth.  They are worthy children of Matteo Ricci, and countless other missionaries down through the centuries, and generations of Chinese Christians, who, in the face of the most savage persecution under Mao that any Christians have ever faced, have persevered and are now on the verge of triumph.

Prayer to Our Lady of China

Hail, Holy Mary, Mother of Our Lord Jesus Christ,
Mother of all nations and all people.
You are the special heavenly Mother of the Chinese people.

Teach us your way of total obedience to God’s will.
Help us to live our lives true to our faith.
Fill our hearts with burning love for God and each other.
Stir up in our youth an unconditional giving of self to the service of God.

We call on your powerful intercession for peace, reconciliation and unity among believers
and the conversion of the unbelievers in China and throughout the world,
for God’s mercy is our only hope.

Our Lady of China, Mother of Jesus, hear our petitions and pray for us.
Amen.