Episcopal News Service December 5, 2006
Nanjing seminary leads the way in China's theological education
By Matthew Davies
[ENS] Nanjing Union Theological Seminary, the largest of 17 theological institutions in China, has played a central role in educating Christians throughout the country for more than 50 years and its accomplishments are set to thrive with the completion of its new campus in 2008.
Bishop David J. H. Lai of Taiwan, while on his first official visit to mainline China, exchanged information with students and faculty at the seminary November 29, informing them about his diocese and educating himself in order to help the wider Church develop a deeper understanding of Christianity in the country.
"It is encouraging to witness the seminary equipping students with the spiritual training and knowledge that enables them to meet the needs of pastoral counseling and theological education in the Chinese churches," Lai said.
Known as the national seminary of the Church in China, Nanjing Union Theological Seminary was established on November 2, 1952 by the Three-Self Patriotic Movement Committee (TSPM), whose staff welcomed Lai November 27 as the first bishop from Taiwan to visit the organization.
In addition to training pastoral workers, teachers and researchers, Nanjing seminary works toward building unity between believers and non-believers. In order to promote the overall development of students, the seminary emphasizes "spirit, virtue, knowledge, health, and community."
Nanjing seminary prides itself as being "open-minded ... cherishing the distinctive characteristics of Chinese churches and willing to have exchange with other seminaries in China and abroad."
Each year several foreign delegations visit the seminary. "We receive groups of theologians, church and political leaders as well as other Christians and friends outside of the churches," said one faculty member. "These visitors learn about Chinese theological education through sharing and exchanging with teachers and students of Nanjing Seminary. They carry what they learn to other parts of the world."
Lai said he hopes to arrange exchange visits with the seminary and looks forward to an opportunity to welcome Chinese students to Taiwan.
Full story: http://www.episcopalchurch.org/3577_80213_ENG_HTM.htm
Related article: In China, Taiwan bishop shares 'harmonious' message on first official visit http://www.episcopalchurch.org/3577_80121_ENG_HTM.htm
Photo Gallery: http://www.episcopalchurch.org/3577_80091_ENG_HTM.htm
-- Matthew Davies, international correspondent for the Episcopal News Service, traveled with Bishop Lai as part of the delegation that visited China.
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