On the morning of February 26, 2024, a group of six led by Rev. Bruce Woodcock, Chair of the Asian Pacific Forum, visited CCC&TSPM. Rev. Xu Xiaohong, Chairperson of National TSPM, and Rev. Wu Wei, President of CCC, received the delegation together. Discussions between the two sides centered around the exploration of post-pandemic church development, and how to further strengthen cooperation, etc.

The meeting was moderated by Rev. Dr. Lin Manhong, residential Vice President and General Secretary of CCC. Other participants included Rev. Geng Weizhong, residential Vice President of CCC, Mr. Gu Mengfei, Secretary General of National TSPM, and Ms. Gu Jingqin, interim chief of the Overseas Relations Department.

Rev. Xu Xiaohong welcomed the guests on behalf of CCC&TSPM, and reviewed the friendly exchanges between the two sides. Rev. Xu said that CCC&TSPM highly values the friendship between each other and expect strengthened exchanges and cooperation. He also mentioned the upcoming China-US Protestant Church Leaders Forum to be held in the US this year, and looked forward to see an active participation of North American churches. With joint efforts, he believed that the churches in the two places can make the world more peaceful and beautiful.

Rev. Wu Wei introduced the guests to the current main ministries of CCC&TSPM, including the active moves on the Chinanization of Christianity, the strict law-based church governance, talent cultivation, and the campaign that advocates frugality and avoids extravagance. Rev. Wu said that despite the challenges facing the churches during the Covid-19 pandemic, we could still see God’s grace. The Church in China has always stood with the country and the people in the context of a fast-changing society, and it consistently keeps pace with the times to bear good witness for the Lord.

Rev. Bruce Woodcock extended greetings from Andrew Mann, Co-Chair of the Asia Pacific Forum, and gave thanks to CCC&TSPM for the warm reception. He expected the two sides to maintain friendship, increase communication between churches, and explore new modes of cooperation and resource sharing. During the meeting, the delegates introduced the situation of their churches, and discussed theological education, church pastoral care as well as plans for mutual visits.

Translator & editor: Bei Feng