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On January 31, 2026, the US-Catholic China Association Book Circle discussed Terri McNichol's article, "Re-attuning to Nature's Rhythms: The Chinese Art of Being, Relating, Acting." "Autumn Colors on the Qiao and Hua Mountains," Zhao Mengfu, ca. 1276 Terri, a prior Book Circle participant as well as art historian and founder of Ren Associates , led our discussion with an informative and insightful exploration of painting's connection with the natural world, especially as it has historically been understood in Confucian thought. As Terri's mentor, Henry Rosemont Jr., once explained: The problem of using the ru (Chinese Confucian scholars) as background 'students' is that for all of them the 3 Perfections (calligraphy, poetry and painting) were all part of a spiritual discipline, not merely means to become cultivated persons." Through landscape paintings like the one shown above and through beautiful depictions of the "Four Gentlemen" — the plum, the orchid, the chrysanthemum, and the bamboo — Terri taught us about deep meanings of historic Chinese painting on individual, social, environmental, and spiritual levels. Our next Book Circle discussion will be held on February 21, 2026, at 6 AM PT / 7 AM MT / 8 AM CT / 9 AM ET / 10 PM Chinese Standard Time. Terri has generously volunteered to lead that upcoming discussion, as well! We will be discussing her article entitled "Leadership Lessons from Landscape Painting East and West: Cultivating a Spiritual Eco-Imagination." If you know anyone who might be interested in our Book Circle discussions, we invite you to sign up for Book Circle email updates  today ! For in-person opportunities to learn about theology, history, and the life of the Church in China, we invite you to read about our upcoming 30th International Conference . ---------------------- The USCCA is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization. Your donations  are tax-deductible to the maximum extent allowed by law. The success of our work depends upon the generosity of people like you.

by Sister Niu Life is enriched by “movement” "Life lies in movement". Life becomes a stagnant backwater without movement. For a time, I stepped out of my familiar routine, setting aside the busy demands of hospital work to participate in a month-long study exchange organized by Leuven Verbiest Foundation in Belgium. Although it was only a short-term program, it opened new perspectives in my life and brought about a profound inner transformation. When I received the superior's notice assigning me to pursue studies, my first reaction was: With so many tasks at the hospital, how could I possibly leave? I immediately turned inward to examine the unease and anxiety within me. As I quieted my heart before the Lord and journeyed into my inner self, I realized my deep longing to study—because I need to recharge, unlock my potential, and enhance my professional competence. More importantly, I yearn to study because I need to challenge my own attachments, my inability to surrender completely, and my habitual tendency to keep everything under my own control. Thus, I readily accepted the superior's assignment and came to participate in the program. Gratitude and Surprise: A Release from Within First, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my Superior for giving me this invaluable opportunity. It allowed me to go abroad, appreciate foreign landscapes, experience different cultures, and rediscover the wonders and beauty of nature. Through this, I gained a deeper appreciation of the infinite mercy and glory of God. Secondly, I am also grateful that I dared to let go of being busy with tasks at the hospital: duties, meetings, patients, reports, and worldly wisdom, etc. When I truly stepped away, I realized that "leaving" did not mean loss. Instead, it allowed me to rediscover a different way of living: releasing pressure, relaxing my mind, and seizing the day. One month of study and experience in Leuven poured new colors into my life, making me find a long-lost vitality. From Anxiety to Surrender: A Shift in Faith Perspective As a nursing sister, daily life is often filled with high levels of tension. But in Leuven, I was reminded once again: we are only vessels cooperating in God's hands, and our work is part of His plan of salvation. We need only to strive diligently and surrender the results to God's will. This shift in perspective freed me from being trapped by "results" and allowed me to focus more on experiencing God's guidance in every "process," thereby attaining a greater freedom. The Power of a Role Model: The Inspiration of Companions In Leuven, I had the privilege of spending time with several vivacious fellow travelers: Father Jeroom Heyndrickx: Though advanced in years, he remains passionate and energetic about serving the Kingdom of God in a foreign land. His steadfast dedication and fervor moved me deeply, rekindling the original passion for my own vocation. Father Gong: With fatherly care and gentleness, he showed me the merciful face of God. His joyful and attentive way of caring for each of us sisters touched me profoundly. He truly lives up to his name! Sister Yang: Loving, patient, genuine, and humble, she accompanied us each day like a joyful angel. Her teaching was not only down-to-earth, but she also embodied the joy of the Gospel through her daily life. These three friends embody the unity, harmony, communion, and radiance that have touched everyone who encounters them. They make people feel that faith is not a theory, but a living hope, love, and joy. The Impact and Personal Development from the Course Sister Yang taught "Our Journey Together"; the classes were full of energy, dynamic and captivating. Moving words made everybody participate actively and interact. Well-chosen examples made it easy to understand and relate them to daily life. This course rekindled my passion for catechesis and inspired a strong desire to return to my parish and share the beauty of faith with the community. Father Gong taught "Catholic Social Teaching of the Church." He transformed abstract and seemingly dry content into lively and understandable lessons through his humor and logical clarity. He helped clarify a previously vague point for me: Church and society, faith and life, are not separate but an interconnected whole. God is not only present in the Church but also reveals Himself in every corner of society and nature. These days, I have begun actively seeking out the encyclicals issued by Popes throughout history and engaging in deep study and reflection on them. I benefited greatly from his insights. Father Lin’s “Introduction to the Bible" instruction deepened my understanding of Scripture. The Bible is not a distant text but a guide for faith and life. Its essence lies in "loving God and loving people," and its mystery unfolds through continual reading, meditation, and putting it into practice. The answers to biblical challenges are found not only from others, but through humble, persistent reading and enlightenment. A Pilgrimage of Heart and Soul We were also blessed to make pilgrimages to several holy sites: Banneux, Lisieux, and Lourdes, as well as Notre-Dame de Paris. Setting foot on the sacred land where the Virgin Mary appeared and participating in the Eucharistic celebration allowed me to truly experience the holiness and reverence of these places. Joining the ranks of pilgrims in praise and pilgrimage felt like heaven on earth. Especially in Lisieux, I received a clear inspiration: I established a small "Thérèse Memorial Hall" in our hospital after returning to China. I will edit and laminate the photos I took in Lisieux, mount them as display boards, and simultaneously restore the statue of St. Thérèse in our hospital to express our devotion to her. Our hospital is named "Thérèse Hospital," a name personally given by our former bishop. He hoped we would, like St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus, scatter showers of roses to the world—serving others through small deeds, healing the sick, and spreading God's merciful love. The bishop also gifted the hospital a statue of St. Thérèse in recent years, for various reasons; no special devotion to her had been maintained. Now, upon returning, we have decided to revive this devotion on the occasion of her feast day. Currently, every sister is diligently reading the book “Story of a Soul” and actively participating in setting up the memorial hall. We hope that this is not only an exhibition space, but a corner for spirituality, where people can pause from their busyness, engage in contemplation, and follow the Little Way of St. Thérèse. Sister Niu is a contributor to the USCCA blog. ---------------------- The USCCA is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization. Your donations are tax-deductible to the maximum extent allowed by law. The success of our work depends upon the generosity of people like you.

On January 31, the US-China Catholic Association Book Circle will discuss Terri McNichol's article, "Re-attuning to Nature's Rhythms: The Chinese Art of Being, Relating, Acting." A long-time Book Circle participant, Terri is an award-winning artist, a Chinese art historian, and president of Ren Associates — a consulting firm dedicated to the creative re-imagining of business education. Her article is available to Book Circle participants along with a separate document of the visual images referenced in the article.  "Autumn Colors on the Qiao and Hua Mountains," Zhao Mengfu, ca. 1276 As participants read and prepare for the January 31 discussion, they are invited to consider the following questions: 1) The Chinese art of the brush trains the intuitive recovery and expression of the heart-mind (see page 9). How important is the recovery of the heart-mind in your own spiritual cultivation? Have you had any experience with the brush or any other artistic medium that helps you understand this part of the article? 2) Terri quotes Schneider on page 20: ". . . only through hearing could people once again come to realize their true position in the cosmos and the meaning of the flowing order within their deepest consciousness." She shows the importance of hearing/listening in the cultivation of relationships through the story of the friendship between Boya and Ziqi (pages 15-16). The art of hearing/listening inspires great friendship. It even helps us realize the fact that we are co-creators of the universe (17). How have you practiced deep hearing/listening in your own life? Does art play a role in your practice?  3) Acting well in an ambiguous and stressful situation is no easy matter. Terri tells the story of the Confucian artist and statesman Zhao Mengfu (25-29), whose artistic genius informs and expresses his moral ingenuity in dangerous political times. How does this story help you conceive the relationship between art and moral discernment?  4) What questions or comments do you have for Terri? The discussion will be held virtually via Zoom at 6AM PT / 7AM MT / 8AM CT / 9AM ET / 10PM Chinese Standard Time. If you have not yet joined us for a Book Circle discussion, please sign up for Book Circle email updates  today , and invite your friends to do the same! ---------------------- The USCCA is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization. Your donations  are tax-deductible to the maximum extent allowed by law. The success of our work depends upon the generosity of people like you.

We are glad to share that Board Chair Peter Tan and Executive Director Dr. Benjamin T. OuYang are organizing a group tour of China scheduled for April 17–27, 2026! For a fraction of the typical rate for such a trip, the tour will be visiting five beautiful Chinese cities rich with history, culture, and faith. We invite you to learn more by downloading the brochure for details on the daily itinerary, registration process, and other important information. This tour's registration deadline is January 30, 2026 . We look forward to seeing you in Beijing (北京)! Peter Tan has many years of experience organizing and leading such tours. It will be a wonderful cultural experience of China's most interesting cities. ---------------------- The USCCA is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization. Your donations  are tax-deductible to the maximum extent allowed by law. The success of our work depends upon the generosity of people like you.

We are closing in on the end of the US-China Catholic Association's  Annual Appeal . We are encouraged and emboldened by the generosity of supporters like you, who continue to make our mission of peace and friendship possible. To learn more about our latest work, we invite you to read the Appeal Letter  written by our Executive Director, Dr. Benjamin T. OuYang. Thanks to four generous contributors, donations that we receive before the end of the year will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to a maximum matched amount of $20,000! By making your tax-deductible donation today, you can maximize the impact of your gift to the USCCA. All contributions to our mission—financial and spiritual—are deeply appreciated. Thank you for accompanying us in 2025—and may you enjoy a Happy New Year in 2026. ---------------------- The USCCA is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization. Your donations  are tax-deductible to the maximum extent allowed by law. The success of our work depends upon the generosity of people like you.

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. Evening gathering and sharing session on the first day. 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. Priests enjoying fraternity on the Chicago River cruise. 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. Priests gathered after celebrating Mass during the pilgrimage. 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. Group photo of priests meeting with Cardinal Blase Cupich. 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. Shared meal and joyful fellowship among priests. 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. ---------------------- The USCCA is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization. Your donations  are tax-deductible to the maximum extent allowed by law. The success of our work depends upon the generosity of people like you.

There are only 9 more days left of the US-China Catholic Association's  Annual Appeal ! By making your tax-deductible donation today, you can help us carry our mission of peace and dialogue through 2026 and beyond. For more information about our work, we invite you to read the Appeal Letter written by our Executive Director, Dr. Benjamin T. OuYang. Thanks to four generous contributors, donations that we receive before the end of the year will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to a maximum matched amount of $20,000! Thank you for considering how you might make a positive impact through your support of peace and dialogue among the people of the United States and the people of China. ---------------------- The USCCA is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization. Your donations  are tax-deductible to the maximum extent allowed by law. The success of our work depends upon the generosity of people like you.

On December 13, 2025, the US-China Catholic Association discussed the section entitled "Water and Wine: Chinese Ethics and the Christian Faith" (pp. 173–197) in John C. H. Wu's Chinese Humanism and Christian Spirituality . Image from Angelico Press Over a dozen participants gathered virtually to discuss Wu's exploration of human relationships as they are understood in Christian spirituality and in Chinese humanistic thought. Reflecting on the strong Chinese tradition of filial piety, for example, participants reflected on Jesus' loving referral to God the Father, as well as the ways in which family life informed St. Thérèse of Lisieux's understanding of her relationship with God. With regard to marriage, participants discussed parallels between the Catholic view of the sanctity of marriage and traditional Chinese practices which framed married couples as destined pairs. The importance of friendship was also recalled in Buddhist teachings as well as in the writings of the historic Catholic missionary to China, Matteo Ricci. The Book Circle will resume in 2026. For the latest news, updates, and invitations, please sign up for Book Circle email updates  today , and invite your friends to do the same! For in-person opportunities to learn about theology, history, and the life of the Church in China, we invite you to read about our upcoming 30th International Conference . USCCA programs like the Book Circle and International Conferences are made possible by supporters like you; even if you cannot participate directly, we ask that you please consider how you might contribute to our mission by way of our Annual Appeal . ---------------------- The USCCA is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization. Your donations  are tax-deductible to the maximum extent allowed by law. The success of our work depends upon the generosity of people like you.

by Dr. Benjamin T. OuYang, Executive Director of the USCCA My Dear Friends in Christ, I hope and pray that you had a wonderful Thanksgiving and are enjoying a Spirit-filled Advent season. Personally, this Advent, I am reflecting on how I can better prepare my heart to be more obedient to the Lord’s will. God is definitely working on me. We are now less than three weeks away from completing our annual appeal , and I’m grateful to share a special blessing with you. We have four generous contributors who have agreed to participate in a matching donation period—up to $20,000! From now until the end of the year, every dollar we receive will be matched dollar for dollar, up to that amount. If you donate $100, the association will receive an additional $100. If you donate $1,000, we will receive an additional $1,000. I kindly ask you to prayerfully consider contributing —especially if you have not yet done so. Please also share this opportunity with your family and friends so that, together, we can reach this very achievable goal. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out. As always, know that you remain in my prayers. God Bless! Dr. Benjamin T. OuYang Executive Director, US-China Catholic Association ---------------------- The USCCA is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization. Your donations  are tax-deductible to the maximum extent allowed by law. The success of our work depends upon the generosity of people like you.

We are excited to announce two keynote speakers for the USCCA's upcoming 2026 USCCA Conference ! Fr. Thomas Betz, OFM Cap., will be presenting on the topic of "Nourishing Trust and Friendship: Chinese Catholics in America Following the Way of Christ." Fenggang Yang, Ph.D., will be presenting on the topic of "Transforming Guanxi : Chinese Christian Transnational Ties and the Making of Social and Spiritual Capital."  We invite you to read more on the  2026 Conference Keynote Speakers webpage . We will be accepting submissions from prospective conference presenters until February 15, 2026. Registration will be open for conference attendees on the day of the Lantern Festival, March 3, 2026. ---------------------- The USCCA is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization. Your donations  are tax-deductible to the maximum extent allowed by law. The success of our work depends upon the generosity of people like you.

On December 13, 2025, the US-China Catholic Association will discuss the section entitled "Water and Wine: Chinese Ethics and the Christian Faith" (pp. 173–197) in John C. H. Wu's Chinese Humanism and Christian Spirituality . Image from Angelico Press In preparation for the discussion, participants are invited to consider the following discussion prompt from Book Circle facilitator Dr. Kathy Stout: We will read the final chapter of John Wu's book, "Water and Wine: Chinese Ethics and the Christian Faith." Guided by Wu's masterful presentation, we will meditate on the cross-fertilization between the Christian faith and the Confucian teaching about the five cardinal relationships. These relationships concern those between parent and child, older and younger siblings, husband and wife, prince and minister, and between friends. We will discuss each of these relationships in turn. What specific statements or ideas from Wu resonate with you the most? How might the Chinese benefit from Christian theology in their daily living of these relationships? How might Western Christians benefit from the Confucian perspective? The discussion will be held virtually via Zoom at 6AM PT / 7AM MT / 8AM CT / 9AM ET / 10PM Chinese Standard Time. If you have not yet joined us for a Book Circle discussion, please sign up for Book Circle email updates  today , and invite your friends to do the same! For in-person opportunities to learn about theology, history, and the life of the Church in China, we invite you to read about our upcoming 30th International Conference . USCCA programs like the Book Circle and International Conferences are made possible by supporters like you; even if you cannot participate directly, we ask that you please consider how you might contribute to our mission by way of our Annual Appeal . ---------------------- The USCCA is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization. Your donations  are tax-deductible to the maximum extent allowed by law. The success of our work depends upon the generosity of people like you.

Today is Giving Tuesday, when people around the world come together in support of organizations and causes oriented towards the common good. Will you celebrate this day of giving by donating to the Annual Appeal of the US-China Catholic Association ? For more information about the past, present, and future of our mission, we invite you to read the Annual Appeal Letter written by our Executive Director, Dr. Benjamin T. OuYang. As the New York Times reports , Giving Tuesday was started in 2012 to "give people a way to pivot back to the values of community and gratitude celebrated on Thanksgiving after Black Friday and Cyber Monday." Since then, the Tuesday after Thanksgiving has developed into a worldwide celebration of generosity and support. As one of our donors recently remarked, "It is a blessing to be able to support peace and dialogue among my brothers and sisters in Christ." Today, we ask that you please consider how you might contribute to this mission by way of our Annual Appeal . ---------------------- The USCCA is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization. Your donations  are tax-deductible to the maximum extent allowed by law. The success of our work depends upon the generosity of people like you.