At the invitation of the State Administration for Religious Affairs, Rev. Andrew Palau of the Luis Palau Association visited Xinjiang.
The nine-member delegation visited Urumqi from July 30 to August 4, accompanied by Dr. Wang Cangfu, a teacher from Nanjing Union Theological Seminary, reported CCC&TSPM.
Rev. Fan Chenguang, honorary chairman and president of Urumqi CC&TSPM, introduced the guests to the general situation of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and Urumqi City, with a focus on the area's cultural landscape, geographical features, and historical culture. He also reviewed the history of Christianity in Urumqi.
Rev. Cui Hebin, chairman and president of the municipal CC&TSPM, provided a detailed introduction to the main work carried out by Urumqi CC&TSPM since its recent re-election, including the functions of the ministry department, the training of clergy, and the construction of churches throughout the city.
Rev. Palau expressed that the Luis Palau Association (LPA) has maintained a friendly relationship with the Chinese church for many years, has always respected the Three-Self principles of the Chinese church, and is concerned about the development and needs of the Chinese church. He introduced the purpose and mission of the LPA and its current evangelistic work globally. He acknowledged that although the LPA and Urumqi CC&TSPM serve in different ways, their shared goals of glorifying God, benefiting believers, and serving society are aligned. He admired the beautiful testimonies of church members in the city, especially their charitable services focusing on the elderly and hearing-impaired individuals. He stated that he would share his experiences from this visit after returning to the U.S., looking forward to further exchanges and cooperation with Urumqi CC&TSPM in the future.
The municipal CC&TSPM invited Rev. Andrew Palau and his delegation to preach at Er Gong Church, participate in a communion service at Mingde Road Church, and visit Zhujiang Road Church. Senior pastors and leaders of these churches warmly received them, sharing views on the history, current situation, and pastoral care and exchanging gifts.
During the visit, Palau and his delegation also visited the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Museum, Grand Bazaar, Flaming Mountains, Jiaohe Ancient City in Turpan, and Tianchi Scenic Area in Tianshan.
