“What stories do these walls hold?” I often wonder while gazing at the \u6842\u6797\u5e02\u57fa\u7763\u6559\u5802. Today we will explore its captivating past.
The \u6842\u6797\u5e02\u57fa\u7763\u6559\u5802 stands as a testament to faith. It reflects resilience in Guilin. This church has a rich history. It dates back to the early 20th century.
Originally, it was the Guilin Baptist Church. The Southern Baptist Convention established it in May 1912. The location was on Zhongshan Middle Road. The address was number 37, previously number 185.
During the Anti-Japanese War, the church faced devastation. It was completely destroyed. However, faith persevered.
In 1945, after the war ended, Pastor Lu Deli stepped in. He oversaw the rebuilding. By the following year, the church rose again. It included a large auditorium and a small one. A two-story house was also part of the rebuilt structure. The construction covered about 1,000 square meters.
After the People’s Republic of China was founded in 1951, changes occurred. The Guilin Christian Federation was established. It united various denominations. These included the Anglican Church and the Baptist Church.
In 1955, the Federation transformed. It became the Guilin Three-Self Patriotic Movement committee. The Baptist Church on Zhongshan Middle Road provided space. It served as the committee’s office.
During the Cultural Revolution worship faced challenges. From 1966 to 1976, services were suspended. The Red Star Printing Factory occupied the church. Pastoral staff endured persecution.
After the Cultural Revolution ended, the church reclaimed its properties. On Christmas Day 1980, worship resumed. It marked a new beginning for the \u6842\u6797\u5e02\u57fa\u7763\u6559\u5802.
In 1994, urban construction prompted a relocation. The church moved to number 456, now number 50, on Zhongshan Middle Road. A new church was built. On October 16, the inauguration took place. At that time, it was the largest Christian church in Guangxi Province.
In the late months of 2011, the church underwent interior renovation. The \u6842\u6797\u5e02\u57fa\u7763\u6559\u5802 celebrated its 100th anniversary. The celebration occurred on May 27, 2012.
Today, the \u6842\u6797\u5e02\u57fa\u7763\u6559\u5802 stands proudly. Its Gothic style is notable. The land covers 1,309.9 square meters. The building area measures 1,828.5 square meters. The church can accommodate over a thousand worshippers.
The original Baptist church featured a vermilion door. Above it, Chinese characters read “Guilin Christian Church.”
The \u6842\u6797\u5e02\u57fa\u7763\u6559\u5802 stands as more than a building. It embodies faith and perseverance. It is a landmark. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of its community. It is a place of worship. It is a symbol of hope.