2025 Chicago Gathering of Chinese-Speaking Catholic Priests

by Fr. Joseph Ruan of Holy Rosary Church, Staten Island, New York

From August 25–29, 2025, Chinese-speaking Catholic priests serving across the United States gathered in Chicago for five days of fraternity, reflection, pastoral sharing, and spiritual renewal. Hosted generously by the Congregation of the Mission (CM), the gathering strengthened the bonds among priests, offered space for honest conversation and learning, and opened new horizons for future collaboration in service to the Chinese Catholic community.

Day 1 — Arrival and Welcome

On August 25, priests arrived at the CM residence in Chicago, where they were warmly welcomed by the Vincentian community. After dinner, Fr. Shu-xin Zhang facilitated introductions and open conversation. The atmosphere was relaxed and fraternal, allowing everyone to begin the gathering with trust, joy, and renewed companionship.

Day Two – Mission Reflection and City Exploration

The morning of August 26 featured a presentation by Fr. Hugh, CM, who has accompanied Chinese priests and religious sisters for eight years. He invited participants to reflect deeply on three pastoral questions: What is good to keep? What is good but needs improvement? What is still missing? He also encouraged priests to revisit their own vocation through two personal questions: What do you love in your priesthood? What unique gifts does your Chinese community contribute to your parish?

In the afternoon, the group enjoyed a relaxing tour of downtown Chicago, including a river-and-lake cruise and a visit to Millennium Park—an opportunity to rest, converse, and delight in the beauty of the city.

That evening, Fr. Chun-xiang Zhang led a rich session on “The Four Dimensions of Priestly Growth”: human formation, spiritual formation, intellectual formation, and pastoral formation.

Day Three – Pastoral Exchange and Pilgrimage

On the morning of August 27, priests shared openly about parish life, pastoral challenges, and personal experiences. At 11 a.m., Passionist Father Rob C. introduced the US Chinese Catholic Association and explored future collaboration with Chinese-speaking parishes and communities nationwide.

After lunch, the group made a pilgrimage to the National Shrine of St. Thérèse, followed by Mass at St. Thérèse Church at 4:30 p.m.

In the evening, Chicago priest Fr. Francis Li led a reflection on the Parable of the Sower, highlighting the priest’s threefold identity as disciple, shepherd, and steward. He emphasized synodality—walking together, recovering the original fire of vocation, and embracing leadership grounded in generosity and pastoral charity.

Day Four – Seminary Visit and Archdiocesan Encounter

On August 28, the group visited Mundelein Seminary, experiencing one of the country’s most historic and vibrant centers of priestly formation. In the afternoon, the priests met with Cardinal Blase Cupich and toured Holy Name Cathedral—a meaningful encounter that expressed the Archdiocese’s support for Chinese ministry.

Before dinner, the group enjoyed informal social time with the CM community. In the evening, Fr. Yong-qiang Xu guided a session of reflection and planning. Participants shared their impressions—light, open, joyful, enriching, and fraternal. They confirmed several decisions: an annual in-person gathering, quarterly online meetings, and maintaining continuity in the leadership team.

Day Five – Sending Forth

On August 29, the final Mass concluded the gathering in a spirit of gratitude and renewed mission. After heartfelt farewells, priests returned to their parishes refreshed and strengthened, carrying with them the joy of fraternity and a deeper commitment to serving the People of God.

Words of Thanks

The success of this gathering rests on many generous contributions: Deep gratitude to Fr. Hugh and the Congregation of the Mission (CM) for their support, hospitality, and many years of dedication to Chinese priests and sisters. Warm thanks to the entire Vincentian community for offering a home where fraternity and renewal could flourish. Special appreciation to Fr. Francis Li of Chicago for his tireless planning, coordination, and gracious hosting throughout the gathering. May God bless all who serve the Chinese Catholic faithful in the United States. May our shared mission continue to grow in communion, hope, and charity.

Reverend Guozhang (Joseph) Ruan is a Chinese Apostolate (In Residence) of Holy Rosary Church in Staten Island, New York.

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