A century-old Catholic church in eastern China reopened to worshippers this month to mark the restoration of a historic place of faith after years of damage and temporary displacement of its parish community.
The Shenjiadou Catholic Church of the Diocese of Hangzhou held a reopening celebration attended by more than 450 faithful and guests, according to Xinde News.
The Mass was presided over by Bishop Yang Yongqiang and concelebrated by more than 10 priests of the diocese.
Originally built during the Guangxu period of the Qing Dynasty, Shenjiadou Catholic Church has a history of more than 100 years and is among the better-preserved old churches in Huzhou and Zhejiang province.
The church blends Chinese and Western architectural styles, featuring gray brick walls, tiled roofs, and stone-carved window grilles that reflect the transmission and development of the Catholic faith in the area.
In September 2025, with the support of government departments, the assistance of clergy at various levels, and the joint efforts of parishioners, the church underwent comprehensive restoration. The work preserved its original appearance while improving safety for continued use.
In his homily, Bishop Yang reflected on the faith journey of the Shenjiadou parish and encouraged the faithful to cherish the restored place of worship and to live out their Christian witness.
“Lord, have mercy…” echoed through the church as sacred music was performed by choirs from Hangzhou Cathedral. The celebration’s liturgical music was jointly provided by ensembles from Xiaoshan Catholic Church, Nanxun Catholic Church, and the local Shenjiadou Catholic Church.
More than 100 musicians, dressed uniformly and playing a variety of instruments, performed a mix of classical hymns and contemporary praise songs, contributing to a solemn and festive atmosphere.
To ensure the celebration proceeded safely and smoothly, organizers arranged for professional medical personnel to be on site throughout the event. A medical station equipped with emergency equipment and medicines was prepared, providing safeguards especially for elderly participants.
Officials from the Nanxun District Ethnic and Religious Affairs Bureau, Shuanglin Town, and Lianhuadou Village attended the event to observe proceedings, learn about the church’s daily management, and offer suggestions regarding post-reopening safety measures. Their presence contributed to the orderly conduct of the celebration.
“Being able to take part in Mass in the restored church is deeply moving,” said an elderly parishioner in his 80s. “I was baptized here when I was a child. Later, after the church was damaged, we could only gather in temporary venues. Seeing the church restored to its original appearance today feels as if we have found the roots of our faith again.”
About 450 people took part in the reopening celebration, including Catholics who traveled from neighboring areas to witness the occasion. After the Mass, participants gathered outside the church to take photographs to mark the historic moment.
According to the report, the reopening of Shenjiadou Catholic Church is not only a significant event for the local Catholic community but also reflects the orderly reopening of religious venues and the harmonious development of religious life.
As the bells of the century-old church rang once more, they will continue to accompany the faith life of local believers, standing as a living witness to both historical change and the continuity of faith.
