In 1925, a grand Gothic church opened its doors on Hengshan Road. This is the Shanghai International Chapel. Originally known as the Community Church, it has served as a spiritual haven for nearly a century. The Shanghai International Chapel’s construction was funded by a Protestant congregation that had outgrown its previous locations. The land was purchased from the Shanghai American School. This area, though technically within the French Concession, quickly became an American enclave. The church’s design, by the Mission Architects Bureau, reflected a modern Gothic style. The cost was a substantial $70,000. It quickly became a landmark for the American community in Shanghai. It was sometimes called the American Community Church or simply the American church. In Chinese, it’s known as Xiehe Libaitang (協和禮拜堂), meaning Union Church. The Shanghai International Chapel and the Shanghai American School shared close ties. School boarders were required to attend Sunday services. Many day students and families also joined the congregation. During times of school closures, the church even hosted classes, ensuring education continued uninterrupted. Like other religious institutions, the Shanghai International Chapel faced challenges during the Cultural Revolution. It was repurposed as a warehouse and rehearsal space. However, it reopened in 1981 under its current name, Shanghai International Community Church (上海國際禮拜堂), or Shanghai Guoji Libeitang. It became a prominent venue, hosting foreign dignitaries like the Archbishop of Canterbury and even Jimmy Carter. Up until its closure during the Covid pandemic, the Shanghai International Chapel held services in both English and Chinese. The Chinese services were particularly popular, often overflowing into the garden. Speakers were set up outside so everyone could participate. The church has stood the test of time, evolving with Shanghai’s dynamic history while remaining a steadfast beacon of faith and community.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to