The Wuhan Diocese hosted a Lenten retreat uniting over 100 parishioners in reflection, faith renewal, and commitment to love and service.
Newsroom (25/03/2026 Gaudium Press ) From March 20 to 22, the Catholic Diocese of Wuhan held a three-day Lenten retreat at the Catholic Church on Xianzheng Street in Hanyang District. More than 100 parishioners from parishes across the three towns of Wuhan gathered for a time of reflection, repentance, and renewal of faith.
The retreat opened on the morning of March 20, with Bishop Cui Qingqi of the Wuhan Diocese delivering an address that set a tone of spiritual attentiveness. He underscored that Lent is not merely a season of sacrifice but an essential spiritual exercise — one that calls Catholics to purify their hearts, reflect deeply, and repent sincerely. Bishop Cui urged participants to seize the opportunity for self-examination and prayer, cultivating the theological virtues of faith, hope, and love.
He also emphasized harmonizing faith with social and family responsibilities. “Patriotism and love for the Church should go hand in hand,” Bishop Cui said, encouraging parishioners to live their faith through acts of love for both God and neighbor, and to embody righteousness in both belief and conduct.
The retreat’s spiritual guidance was led by Father Gao Ruiqing, Vice Chairman of the Wuhan Catholic Church Affairs Committee and parish priest of Xianzheng Street Catholic Church. Drawing on the lessons from the Book of Jonah, Father Gao led participants through reflections on repentance and obedience, urging them to look inward, recognize weaknesses, and strengthen their moral resolve. His teachings connected biblical insights with contemporary challenges, inspiring parishioners to live as examples of faithful citizenship and active love in the modern era.
Throughout the three days, the atmosphere at the Hanyang church was one of quiet reverence and community. The Sisters of Our Lady of Hanyang, along with parish volunteers, ensured smooth organization — from meal services to event logistics and security — allowing parishioners to focus entirely on their spiritual journey. Their efforts won warm appreciation from all participants.
The retreat concluded on the afternoon of March 22. Many expressed that the experience deepened their understanding of repentance and renewed their resolve to bring the lessons of faith into everyday life. “This retreat helped me rediscover the peace and strength that come from faith,” one parishioner shared.
The Diocese of Wuhan has long maintained a tradition of holding regular spiritual retreats, strengthening both the faith and community spirit of its parish members. Looking ahead, church leaders reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the Sinicization of Catholicism in China — integrating faith with cultural identity and civic responsibility. By encouraging believers to serve society and promote harmony, the Wuhan Diocese continues to exemplify the enduring vitality of Catholic life in China’s new era.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Xinde.org
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