In a time of increasing tensions between the governments of the United States and of China, the need for intentional friendship and bridge-building is as urgent as ever, especially in view of Christ's teaching that "blessed are the peacemakers" (Matthew 5:9). War is not the only possible outcome; a future where China and the United States coexisted as competitive friends could be a transformative gift to the world.
How might we go about finding this path? Are there any guides who might point us in the right direction?
As we have learned in Book Circle discussions chronicling his intercultural friendship with Thomas Merton, John C. H. Wu has thought deeply on potential philosophical and theological bridges between East and West. His writings suggest that for the future of the world—for the future of the human community— one of the most promising ways forward is to realize that the wisdom of China and the wisdom of the West are ultimately compatible.
In 2025, the USCCA Book Circle will seek wisdom through discussions of John C. H. Wu's Chinese Humanism and Christian Spirituality, wherein Wu draws deep comparisons between Eastern and Western spiritual traditions. Likewise, the Chinese and American Friendship Ministry (CAAFM) will build friendships on a personal level that might exemplify and illustrate possibilities for friendship on a larger scale—as Merton and Wu's friendship has illustrated the possibilities of friendship between Catholicism and Eastern spiritual traditions.
Will you join us as we learn from Wu and other bridge builders, putting their ideas into practice through outreach and friendship? We invite you to read more about the Book Circle, the Friendship Ministry, and other ways to support the USCCA. By donating $35 to our Annual Appeal, you can support programs like the Book Circle Discussions while celebrating 35 years of the USCCA! If you would like to learn more about our mission, please also consider joining us virtually on December 7 as we look back on the 29th USCCA International Conference and look forward to the 30th USCCA International Conference.
----------------------
The USCCA is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization. Your donations are tax-deductible to the maximum extent allowed by law. The success of our work depends upon the generosity of people like you.
Comments