aeeble

Hidden within the alleys of Xincheng, the Catholic Church in Xincheng resembles Noah's Ark in design. Notably, its predecessor was the Xincheng Shinto Shrine during the Japanese colonial period, blending two distinct architectural styles as history evolved under the vision of a priest. Upon arriving at Xincheng Park, beyond the archway (originally the first torii of the shrine), turning left and walking straight leads to the shrine's second torii, marked with the words "Catholic Church." Looking from beneath the torii toward the pilgrimage path, lush greenery flanks the approach, where red stone lanterns stand symmetrically on either side. At the front of the boat-shaped chapel, walls are overgrown with vines, greenery abundant, while stone lanterns stand on both sides. Continuing further toward the shrine's third torii, aside from the stone lanterns, stone guardian dogs remain on both sides, clearly showcasing the distinct style of Japanese Shinto architecture. Crossing through the torii to the end, the original main hall of the shrine now serves as the Virgin Pavilion, where a statue of the Virgin Mary stands before it. A few tall cypress trees reach high into the sky, creating a serene atmosphere. Built in 1956 on the shrine's original site, the Xincheng Catholic Church's architectural design is considered the finest in the eastern region. Long stained-glass windows line both sides of the boat-shaped church in neat rows, and ivy covers the washed stone walls. The interior of the church is simple yet clean and solemnly sacred. On the right side at the back, a baptismal font—once used solely for washing hands and purifying both body and mind—now becomes holy water in the eyes of the faithful. On the left side lies a small confessional area. The historical blending of these two distinct faiths creates a space where Japanese torii gates, stone lanterns, and the Christian cross, along with the statue of the Virgin, coexist peacefully. Together, they radiate a quiet and harmonious sense of stability and tranquility.