On May 6, 1542, St. Francis Xavier came to India as a missionary, preached the Gospel, and brought many people to the Catholic faith. He travelled to Japan and, finally, dreamed of going to China to evangelize. Sadly, his dream was never fulfilled. On his way to China, he died, and his body was later brought back to Goa, India. But perhaps God has been waiting all these years…
St. Francis Xavier’s dream is now going to be fulfilled through Francis Xavier Jr.! (You may wonder who he is… None other than ME! )
Dear friends, I am excited to invite you to a Praycation to China from April 27 to May 5, 2027!
Today, as I met a few friends, this thought came to my mind: Pilgrimages are not only about visiting beautiful places; they are about creating beautiful memories with beautiful people. We may forget the places we visited, but we will never forget the laughter, friendship, bonding, fun, and unforgettable moments we will share together. Come, let’s travel, pray, laugh, explore and make memories together!
Your fellow pilgrim,
Francis Xavier Jr. (Fr. Rex Jeba, SDB)
Begin your pilgrimage with a three-night stay in Beijing, the capital of the People’s Republic of China and a city with a history spanning more than 3,000 years. It is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Great Wall of China, Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and Ming Dynasty Tombs, all of which are included in the itinerary.
Celebrate Mass at the historic Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, or Nantang (South Cathedral), the oldest Catholic church in Beijing, founded in 1605. Continue to Tian’anmen Square, one of the world’s largest and most iconic public squares, before exploring the magnificent Palace Museum (Forbidden City), the former imperial residence of the Ming and Qing emperors for more than 500 years. Discover its grand palaces and treasures that offer a glimpse into China’s rich imperial heritage.
Visit the beautiful Summer Palace, once the imperial family’s summer retreat, and the Temple of Heaven, where Ming and Qing emperors performed solemn ceremonies and prayed for good harvests. End the day with a sumptuous Peking Duck dinner at the renowned Quanjude Restaurant, a historic Beijing institution known for hosting state banquets for foreign dignitaries.
Celebrate Mass at St. Michael’s Church (Dongjiao Minxiang Church), followed by a leisurely walk along its historic, tree-lined avenue. On to the Great Wall of China, the country’s most iconic landmark and one of the greatest engineering achievements of human history Then drive to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, known for its beautiful scenery, well-preserved watchtowers, and fewer crowds. Take the cable car up to the 14th watchtower and enjoy a leisurely walk along the wall, taking in breathtaking panoramic views, before riding the cable car back down. Continue to the Ming Tombs, where you will explore the underground palace and stroll along the Sacred Way, lined with impressive marble statues of imperial officials, mythical creatures, and guardian animals.
Fly from Beijing to Xi’an, the ancient capital and eastern end of the Silk Road. Visit the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, a celebrated Tang Dynasty landmark, and enjoy a Hanfu experience, dressing in elegant traditional Chinese attire crafted from silk as you explore the temple grounds.
Celebrate Mass at St. Francis Cathedral (South Church), a historic Catholic cathedral dating back to 1716. Discover Xi’an’s rich history at the Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum, home of the famed Terracotta Warriors, then see the Bell Tower, explore Gao’s Courtyard, and stroll through the vibrant Muslim Quarter for local culture and shopping.
Fly from Xi’an to Shanghai, where China’s rich past meets its remarkable modern skyline. During your three-night stay, take in the city from the Shanghai Tower, visit the Shrine of Our Lady, Help of Christians in Sheshan, a Marian sanctuary dating back to 1871, and explore Dongjiadu Cathedral (St. Francis Xavier Church), Shanghai’s oldest standing Catholic church.
Explore the futuristic Pudong skyline, cross the Huangpu River by local ferry, and walk along The Bund, renowned for its impressive collection of historic buildings. Enjoy time along Nanjing Road, Shanghai’s famous commercial street, and visit Yu Garden and the lively Yuyuan Bazaar. Take a day trip to Zhujiajiao Water Town, where picturesque canals, ancient bridges, and traditional homes offer a glimpse into old China. As the pilgrimage draws to a close, ascend the Oriental Pearl TV Tower for a final bird’s-eye view of Shanghai—a fitting farewell to a journey through China’s ancient heritage, vibrant culture, and enduring Catholic faith.
Come, join us on this special 9-day Praycation to China with Fr. Rex Jeba, SDB, from April 27 to May 5, 2027. From Beijing to Xi’an and Shanghai, may this journey give us a welcome pause from the busyness of everyday life—a time to draw closer to God, enjoy the company of fellow pilgrims, discover new places, and create beautiful memories together.
