An 11-member delegation of the Dallas Christian community from Texas, U.S., visited CCC&TSPM and the Shanghai Christian community, gaining insights into the current state of churches in China.
On September 9, the Dallas delegation visited CCC&TSPM, said the host.
The Dallas delegation comprised representatives from three local organizations: the Bible Study Fellowship, Dallas Theological Seminary, and the Insight for Living.
Rev. Xu Xiaohong, the chairperson of the Three-Self Patriotic Movement, expressed his gratitude to the local Christian community for supporting the previous Bible exhibition in Dallas, USA, held by CCC&TSPM. He introduced the current state of churches in China and the ongoing efforts to sinicize Christianity to the guests. He also addressed and refuted rumors regarding the Chinese government issuing a new version of the Bible, encouraging the delegation to share the accurate situation of the churches in China upon their return to the state.
Mr. John Chen, advisor to the board of directors of the Bible Study Fellowship (BSF) who also visited China last September, expressed his desire to share his insights and experiences from this trip when he returned to the United States, hoping to serve as a real bridge.
Guests, including Hollie Roberts, executive director of BSF, Tom Hayes, executive vice president of International Ministries of Insight for Living, and Chip Dickens, a professor at Dallas Theological Seminary, briefed on their respective institutions. They all expressed hopes for strengthening collaboration with the Christian community in China.
According to Shanghai Huxi Church, in the afternoon, the delegation extended their visit to Xinjing Church in Changning District, where they were received by officials from the CC&TSPM's municipal and district branches as well as representatives from the host church.
During the meeting, Rev. Cen Zhongpu, deputy secretary-general of the municipal CC&TSPM and director of the district’s CC&TSPM, provided an update on the latest developments in distinct ministries within Changning District. The guests learned about the challenge Shanghai's pastoral team faced, featuring "many believers but few pastors."
Following the exchange, the guests toured Xinjing Church.
