In the heart of Shanghai, the 灵粮堂 (Bread of Life Christian Church) whispers tales of resilience and faith. The church’s story begins not with towering spires, but amidst the turmoil of World War II. In 1942, Pastor Zhao Shiguang, formerly of the Shanghai Bethel Assembly, founded the 灵粮堂. This was a bold move, creating a Chinese independent church in a time of conflict and uncertainty. Initially, the congregation gathered at Jing’an Temple Road Union Middle School. As the church grew, they moved to a modest structure on Dixiang North Road, thanks to the generosity of the Yan family. By 1947, with over a thousand members, the 灵粮堂 purchased land on Wanhangdu Road and erected a temporary gathering space for 2,000 people. The church expanded further, establishing branches in Hongkou and Jiashan Road, extending its reach across eastern China. Then came 1949, and with the changing political climate, Pastor Zhao left for Hong Kong, leaving the church under the leadership of Zhou Fuqing. The 灵粮堂, in 1956, started construction on a formal church on Xinkou Road near Wanhangdu Road. The dedication ceremony was held on August 1st, 1958. Amidst the fervor of the donation movement, the main 灵粮堂 was initially preserved, becoming the sole united worship space in Jiangning District after the merging of 13 churches. This period, however, was short-lived. The church was soon given to the government and repurposed for the Shanghai Institute of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering. The 灵粮堂’s story is not simply one of bricks and mortar. It’s a testament to the enduring power of faith, adapting and persevering through changing times. It’s a story woven into the fabric of Shanghai, a reminder of the city’s complex and dynamic history.
Jishan Hill
High above the bustling city Jishan Hill stands proud. Its name echoes through time a testament to the renowned writer