Marian pilgrimages in China

Chinese Marian Tradition

Marian pilgrimages are a living tradition in the Chinese Catholic Church. From the great national shrines to the small village chapels, the Chinese faithful go on pilgrimage to the places dedicated to the Virgin Mary, expressing their devotion and their confidence in the intercession of the Mother of God.

The main Marian shrines in China

Donglü, Hebei: The shrine of Our Lady of Donglü is the most important Marian pilgrimage place in China. Here was the apparition of the Virgin Mary during the Boxer Rebellion in 1900. The faithful go on pilgrimage especially on the second Sunday of May, the feast of Our Lady of China.

Sheshan, Shangeron: The basilica of Our Lady Helper of Sheshan is another great Marian sanctuary of China. Located on Sheshan hill near Shanghai, the basilica attracts thousands of pilgrims each year, especially in May.

Other sanctuaries: In addition to Donglü and Sheshan, China has numerous Marian shrines of local importance, such as those dedicated to the Immaculate Conception, the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Our Lady of Perpetual Relief.

The pilgrimages during the persecution

During the Cultural Revolution (1966-1976), Marian pilgrimages were prohibited. However, the clandestine Catholics continued to pilgrim in secret, often at night and under the threat of persecution. These clandestine pilgrimages were an act of spiritual resistance and fidelity to faith.

Many faithful walking long distances, sometimes for days, to reach the Marian shrines. The pilgrimage was seen as an act of penance and prayer, and as an expression of trust in the protection of the Virgin Mary.

The pilgrimages today

Today, Marian pilgrimages are a living tradition in China. The shrines of Donglü and Sheshan receive thousands of pilgrims each year, and the Marian parties are held with processions, solemn masses and community prayers.

The pilgrimages are organized by parishes and local Catholic communities. The faithful come in group, often accompanied by their priests, and participate in spiritual exercises and liturgical celebrations.

The meaning of the pilgrimage

The Marian pilgrimage is an expression of the faith and devotion of the Chinese Catholic people. On the pilgrimage, the faithful seek the intercession of the Virgin Mary, asking her protection, comfort and strength. The pilgrimage is also an act of communion with the universal Church, joining Chinese Catholics with pilgrims all over the world.