Basilica of Our Lady of Help of Christians at Sheshan,Shanghai, China
The Sheshan Basilica of Our Lady Help of Christians sits atop Sheshan Mountain in the Songjiang District of Shanghai, China. It is a major Marian pilgrimage site for Catholics in China. The basilica is officially called the Basilica of Holy Mary, Help of Christians, also known as the National Shrine of Our Mother of Sheshan. The name comes from Sheshan Hill, located to the west of Shanghai’s urban area.
In 1942, Pope Pius XII raised the shrine to the status of a Minor Basilica with the decree Compertum Habemus. Before this, locals referred to it as Zosé Basilica, using the Shanghainese pronunciation of Sheshan. Inside the church, a statue of Mary, Help of Christians stands as the patroness of the basilica. Chinese Catholics frequently venerate this statue.
The icon of Our Mother of Sheshan, recently reconstructed, also holds importance for the faithful. Every year, pilgrims from all over China visit the basilica, especially during the May pilgrimage. They come to honor Mary, attend Mass, and walk the Stations of the Cross.
The Sheshan Basilica is not only an architectural wonder but also an essential spiritual site. It plays a significant role in the lives of Chinese Catholics, offering a place to deepen their faith. The basilica’s influence continues to grow as it attracts pilgrims and visitors from all over.
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