Chinese Marian Anecdotes

The Virgin in the Empire of the Center

China, with its ancient civilization, has witnessed Marian apparitions and devotions that have survived centuries of persecution and political change.

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The Virgin of Sheshan and the pilgrims

In Shanghai, the Basilica of Our Lady of Sheshan is China's most important Marian sanctuary. Tradition tells that in the 19th century, pilgrims went up Sheshan hill when a storm surprised them. They prayed the Rosary and the storm miraculously ceased. In the place where they took refuge, they built a chapel that today is basilica.

The Virgin of Donglü and the soldiers

In 1900, during the Boxers Rebellion, an army was approaching the village of Donglü. The Catholics took refuge in the church and began to pray the Rosary. Tradition tells that the Virgin appeared on the church, dressed in a golden suit, and the army fled in fear. Since then, Donglü is a Marian sanctuary.

The Virgin who protects children

In Beijing, Catholics tell stories of the Virgin who protects sick children. Parents take their children to the church and pray to the image of the Virgin. They say that many children have been cured of serious diseases after this prayer.

The Virgin of the Fog

In the mountains of Yunnan, the Yi Catholics say that the Virgin appears in the morning fog. The shepherds have seen her walk among the mountains, protecting the sheep. When there is fog, the shepherds pray the Rosary and know that the Virgin is near.