Zhejiang CC&TPSM recently hosted the Wenzhou "Hundred Pastors" rotation training and certification presentation ceremony at the Liushi Church in Wenzhou City from March 12 to 14. The event drew over 110 pastors from different counties and districts across the city to participate.
According to the hosting organization, Rev. Zhang Yaofa, president of Zhejiang CC, discussed the topic of "Chinese-style Church Management." He shared his insights on four key aspects: "The Concepts of Church Management in the Chinese Style," "Essential Elements for Effective Church Management," "The Importance of Strong Leadership and Dedicated Co-workers Within Church Management," and "The Significance of Strict Governance and Effective Supervision."
An official from the provincial Ethnic and Religious Affairs Commission elaborated on various religious policies and regulations, including the "Administrative Measures for Internet Religious Information Services," "Measures for the Financial Management of Venues for Religious Activities," "Measures of the Administration of Religious Personnel," and "Administrative Measures for Religious Activity Venues." The focus of the presentation was on China's commitment to the sinicizational direction of religions, the implementation of the principle of independence and self-management, and strategies for mitigating potential risks in the religious field. This aimed to help pastors understand how policies and practices come together, and to set clear boundaries and standards for legal religious activities.
Rev. Pan Xingwang, chairperson of the provincial TSPM, delivered a presentation titled "Building an Eternal House in Heaven: The Four Pillars of Preachers." During his speech, he focused on the third pillar—preaching the contemporary message, which involves incorporating Scripture, current events, and personal experiences into sermons.
Rev. Huang Mingke delivered a lecture titled "What Does Heaven Say?—Exploring the Confucian 'Heaven' and the Christian 'God'." During his presentation, he delved into the concepts of "Heaven" in Confucianism and "God" in Christianity, drawing parallels and distinctions between the two belief systems. Towards the end, Rev. Huang discussed how Christianity is being adapted to Chinese culture, focusing on the doctrine of God. He emphasized the importance of order and propriety, the value of virtue and good deeds, the essence of love and peace, the embodiment of humility, and the perpetual activity of God.
During the exchange session that took place during the training, the pastors shared their insights on promoting the growth of churches in Wenzhou. They discussed important topics like pastoral ordination, clergy benefits, and the reopening of the Wenzhou Christian Training Center.
Upon the conclusion of the training session, the pastors of Wenzhou churches received new clergy certificates.
- Translated by Joyce Leung
