Matteo Ricci and his principles of friendship have gained long-standing relevance and respect in China. It was through Ricci's faith and wisdom, gained through his desire to immerse himself in the Chinese language and Chinese culture, that personal relationships matured and strengthened. China and the world came to know and appreciate the spirituality grounded in Matteo Ricci's principles. 

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The guiding criteria of selecting honorees for the Venerable Matteo Ricci Award is based on the premise that each recipient has contributed significantly to cross-cultural bridge-building endeavors with China.

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We believe Matteo Ricci continues to be a relevant and contemporary voice. Past and present honorees know and represent the legacies of Matteo Ricci as we continue the USCCA presence of friendship into the future.