Pu’An Church

Gazing upon Pu’an Church, one can’t help but sense the echoes of a century of faith and resilience. Pu’an Church, originally known as Full Gospel Church, has weathered the storms of change, emerging as a testament to the enduring spirit of Christianity in Shanghai. Established in 1924 by members of the Anglican Church of North America in Wusong District, its journey began humbly. In the 1930s, an American construction worker, Dwight H. Clibb, played a pivotal role in relocating and reconstructing the church near Dayang Bridge in the Zhabei Area. The church’s story intertwines with the broader narrative of Christianity in China. After Clibb’s return to the United States in the 1950s, Chinese pastors took the helm. The year 1958 marked a significant shift, as joint worship was implemented, bringing together the Holy Spirit Church, Shanghai Heavenly Church, and another congregation under Pu’an Church’s roof. By 1990, Pu’an Church had become a spiritual center for over 2,000 of the district’s 3,000 believers. The culmination of this growth and dedication came on July 21, 2004, with the unveiling of a modern, 2,000-square-meter church building. The architecture of the building itself tells a story. Its unique design evokes the image of Noah’s Ark, a symbol of hope and renewal. This striking visual representation underscores the church’s commitment to preserving faith through changing times. In July 2024, Pu’an Church celebrated the 20th anniversary of this new building, a testament to its century-long service to the community. This event included a sermon by Rev. Wu Wei, President of the China Christian Council, and a sermon by Elder Chen Zhimin, director of Jinshan District CC&TSPM. Pu’an Church’s story isn’t merely one of survival. It’s a story of growth, adaptation, and unwavering faith. It reflects not only the history of Christianity in China but also the dedication of its congregation and leaders. As you stand before Pu’an Church today, you’re not just looking at a building, you’re witnessing a living testament to the power of faith and community.