China's official media praised as 『a fusion of European civilization and Chinese civilization model - Fr. Matteo Ricci』

ASIA/CHINA - Xin Hua, official Chinese state-run agency, devotes long piece to Fr. Matteo Ricci, calling him the "model of incorporation of European and Chinese civilizations."

Beijing (Agenzia Fides) – May 11, 2010 marks four hundred years since the death of Fr. Matteo Ricci, the great Italian Jesuit missionary (1552-1610) who with his extraordinary zeal for the mission combined with his talent in science, humanities, and cultural life, evangelized the Chinese empire. In view of this important anniversary, not only the Chinese Catholic world, but even the mass media of the Government of China has remembered this great sage West with affection. The Chinese state-run agency “Xin Hua” ("New China"), on November 23 published a long article entitled "Model of incorporation of European and Chinese civilizations," which was reported to be among the most visited sites of the state, along with sites like the Counselor's Office of the State Council, The China Internet Information Center, ... and many others.

The article outlines the figure of Fr. Matteo Ricci using expressions which are now well-known: "bridge between East and West", "great sage of the West", "promoter/model of exchange between East and West." Visitors can also read his detailed biography, his life, his mission, his contribution to cultural, scientific, social and religious, citing in particular the letter of the Holy Father Benedict XVI to Archbishop Claudio Giuliodori, Bishop of Macerata-Tolentino-Recanati-Treia, for the opening of the celebrations for the 400th anniversary of the death of the missionary.

Into four sections - Introduction, Study of Chinese culture, Two trips to Beijing, The path to the incorporation of different cultures and sciences - the author of the article examines the various factors that are the source of his reputation and make him even today a very important figure, beloved by all Chinese - Catholics and non alike. Finally, Fr. Matteo Ricci is called a “pioneer seeking a common basis for dialogue and scientific and cultural exchange. With his extraordinary, timeless cultural and theological talent, he indicated an alternative route of incorporation of culture and science for all.” (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 26/11/2009)

Refer to the Chinese report: http://news.xinhuanet.com/world/2009-11/23/content_12524753.htm