The Xujiahui Catholic Church in Shanghai is a place steeped in legend and mystery. From its grim past filled with horror stories to its rumored paranormal activities to its rich history, this church has seen and experienced it all. Learn more about this fascinating place and the secrets it holds.
Horror Story of Shanghai - Xujiahui Catholic Church
The Xujiahui Catholic Church in Shanghai has a dark and twisted past. It was built in the late 19th century, during a time of religious and ethnic persecution of the Chinese people.
For decades, local people feared to go near the church, claiming that strange and terrible things happened during the night. Local urban legends revolved around stories of the undead priests and nuns, said to walk the halls of the church and also around stories that strange sounds and lights of unknown origin would appear at night.
Various supernatural activities were reported in and around Xujiahui; from strange noises coming from the church to shadows moving about within the grounds. Then there were stories of terrifying creatures inhabiting the cemetery that surrounded the church.
One particular story that gained traction in the early 20th century was that of a vengeful spirit known as the ‘Devil of Xujiahui’. According to the legend, the spirit was the angry soul of a deceased priest, who cursed anyone who attempted to desecrate the holy grounds.
The Devil was said to take on the form of a giant beast, lurking in the shadows of the graveyard. Its powerful roar could freeze the blood of anyone who approached or destroyed the sacred church. People who had the misfortune of meeting it reported feeling a sense of dread and terror, even in the daylight. These reports did little to convince those locals brave enough to cross the threshold of the Xujiahui Catholic Church dormancy was.
Not long after the Devil of Xujiahui was discovered, a group of brave villagers decided to enter the parish grounds to sooth the spirit that had taken up residence. Upon entering the church they heard a loud screech from the depths of the graveyard. Looking around, they saw the source of the noise - the Devil of Xujiahui, towering over the cemetery.
The group ran from the church, terrified and never returned to the place again, sealing the fate of the Devil of Xujiahui and the Xujiahui Catholic Church forever.
History & Information of Shanghai - Xujiahui Catholic Church
The Shanghai Xujiahui Catholic Church is a Roman Catholic church located in the city of Shanghai, China. Also known as the Church of St. Ignatius, it is a Jesuit-built church that has become a symbol of the city. The church was built in 1933 and is one of the oldest churches in Shanghai.
The church was built on the site of St. Ignatius’ family home. Construction began in 1929 after a grant from the Jesuit diocese of Peking. The church was designed by Italian priest Giuseppe Castiglione and his Chinese collaborator, Zheng Huan Xiang. The church was built in a Gothic style, complete with stained-glass windows, flying buttress roofs and vaulted ceilings.
The church’s exterior includes two spires, a large relief of the Virgin Mary and Jesus, and a crucifix. Inside, the interior includes several chapels, a baptismal font and a pipe organ. The church also houses traditional Chinese artifacts, such as a copy of the Confucius’s Analects.
Throughout its history, the church has been a place of pilgrimage for both Christians and non-Christians. Many people come to the church to pray and take part in Mass. The church is also a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world.
The church remains a vibrant and important part of Shanghai’s religious life. It remains a symbol of faith, hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
Paranomial Activity of Shanghai - Xujiahui Catholic Church
Shanghai - Xujiahui Catholic Church is an active parochial church, located in the Xujiahui district of Shanghai. As one of the oldest Catholic churches in the country, the church has been witness to many historic events. It was first built in 1857, and opened to believers in 1863, when Shanghai was still under French rule. Since then, the church has had a fruitful history, participating in multiple spiritual activities.
Throughout the year, the church hosts various events such as prayer services, charity events, masses, social activities, and even international conferences. On the first Sunday of every month, it also holds a family service, with activities and classes that cater to different age groups. During Christmas, Chinese New Year, and Easter, the church is also the site of numerous colourful ceremonies that bring the community together in celebration.
The church also carries out various community outreach projects, such as support of the elderly and orphans, meritocratic education opportunities, and leadership training programs. It also organises monthly talks and seminars that cover topics related to faith and living a Christian life, as well as special seasonal talks for the youth.
The church also advocates for multiple causes, such as social justice, environmental conservation, and protection of the weakest members of society. It has also been active in advocating for the rights of certain oppressed minorities, such as homosexuals. Through its activities and efforts, the church has served as a pillar of strength and hope in the Xujiahui district and beyond for many years.
Experience of people & Reviews of Shanghai - Xujiahui Catholic Church
I visited the Shanghai Xujiahui Catholic Church and found it to be peaceful and calming. It is a very beautiful building, with lovely sculptures and artwork throughout the interior. It's the kind of place I could just spend hours in, without being disturbed by the chaotic hustle of Shanghai outside.
People I spoke to who had visited Xujiahui church before also praised the experience. They said it was a great place to go for quiet contemplation, and to simply experience something unique in Shanghai.
The locals living close to the church also spoke positively about the Xujiahui Catholic Church. They said it was a great place to visit, as it provided a much-needed spiritual break from the city's hustle and bustle. They also noted that the staff at the church were very friendly and helpful, and that services were held regularly.
Overall, my experience at Xujiahui Catholic Church was positive. I'd definitely recommend it to people looking for a special place to visit in Shanghai.
When you walk through this place, the sense of forebore will grow strong and foreshadow your most haunted experience. FAQ'S of Shanghai - Xujiahui Catholic Church
Q1: Where is the Xujiahui Catholic Church Located?
A1: The Xujiahui Catholic Church is located in Xuhui District, Shanghai.
Q2: What type of church is the Xujiahui Catholic Church?
A2: The Xujiahui Catholic Church is a Roman Catholic church.
Q3: How old is the Xujiahui Catholic Church?
A3: The Xujiahui Catholic Church was built in 1901.
Q4: What are the services offered at the Xujiahui Catholic Church?
A4: The Xujiahui Catholic Church offers regular Mass services, bible study, and a variety of educational seminars for all ages.
Q5: Is there a minimum age for attending services or seminars at the Xujiahui Catholic Church?
A5: No, all ages are welcome to attend services or seminars offered at the Xujiahui Catholic Church.