She Shan

Overlooking the sprawling landscape, She Shan stands as a beacon of faith and resilience. She Shan isn’t just a hill; it’s a pilgrimage site, a testament to the enduring power of belief. She Shan, located about 35 km outside Shanghai, holds a special place in the hearts of China’s Catholics. It’s home to several churches, including the renowned Basilica of “Our Dear Lady of Sheshan”. Every year on May 24th, a solemn celebration of “Our Lady of Sheshan, Help of Christians” takes place here, drawing thousands of pilgrims. She Shan’s story intertwines with the history of Jesuit missionaries in China. In 1863, they established their presence on the hill, building a small chapel. During the Tianjin massacre of 1870, a Jesuit superior made a vow to Our Lady: if their vicariate was spared, they would construct a basilica in her honor. Miraculously, the region remained untouched, and the foundation stone of the Basilica was laid on May 24, 1871. A century later, in 1924, China’s bishops consecrated the country to Our Lady under the title “Our Dear Lady of China, Queen of the Chinese People in Heaven.” The original basilica was soon overwhelmed by the influx of pilgrims. A larger basilica was built between 1925 and 1935. Its most striking feature is a 38-meter tower topped with a bronze statue of Mary holding Jesus. The statue’s design, with Jesus’ outstretched arms, gives it the appearance of a cross when viewed from afar. The Cultural Revolution brought devastation to She Shan, severely damaging the church. However, it was returned to the Diocese of Shanghai in 1981 and meticulously restored. The devotion to Our Lady of Sheshan remains strong. Despite the challenges posed by state restrictions, thousands continue to make the pilgrimage each May, their prayers echoing through the valley. As you ascend She Shan, you’ll encounter a statue of Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane and the poignant Stations of the Cross, adding to the spiritual journey. Even Pope Francis has a small bronze statue of Our Lady of Sheshan on his desk, a constant reminder to pray for China.