In order to support and cooperate with epidemic prevention and control, Fujian Theological Seminary has postponed the start of this semester and made an online teaching plan. A total of 33 teachers have offered three courses for theological students, including ideological and political education, public education and theology, to keep everyone learning.
On February 17, 2020, Fujian Theological Seminary held an "online opening ceremony" for this new semester, with a total of 175 teachers and students participating, according to China Christian Council & Three-Self Patriotic Movement(CCC&TSPM). Pastor Lin Delai, vice chairman and director general of Fujian CC, and deputy dean of Fujian Theological Seminary presided over the opening ceremony. Pastor Yue Qinghua, chairman of Fujian TSPM and dean of Fujian Theological Seminary, encouraged all the faculty and students to "cherish God's words, hope in God's grace; quietly think and deeply understand; learn to be grateful and responsible".
Pastor Yue advised all teachers and students that "The special epidemic and this special Spring Festival holiday gave us a special growth experience. During the winter holiday this year, we are in different places, but at the same time, we are fully engaged in the fight against the epidemic, and each of us is a witness and even a fighter. In the face of the epidemic, we have learned to look to God 's grace and trust in His Word. During the special period, we still need to use God 's Word as 'the lamp to our feet and the light to our path' to help and encourage those in need. Do not believe rumors, and do not spread rumors."
In the face of the epidemic, some people consciously stayed behind, some took the initiative to quarantine, and some fought courageously. Many industries gave up their holidays, worked overtime to ensure front-line needs on multiple fronts, including transportation and processing of epidemic prevention materials..
He said, "Numerous medical workers, when facing the threat of the virus, went into battle. We learned to be grateful and see them being responsible. The persistence of frontline medical staff, the selfless dedication of staff on all fronts, and the united spirit of support from all sides have been embodied in the efforts of epidemic prevention and control. The more critical the moment, the more we can see the quality of a person. As blessed people, I hope you will become a responsible person who dares to take responsibility, live up to God 's call for you, and live up to your original intention to serve, so that the church you will shepherd in the future will glorify God and edify people."
He commended those, saying that all of the blessed of God consciously prevented and controlled the epidemic, actively donated, and spontaneously carried the burdens of the government, embodying the fine tradition of patriotism, and glorifying the name of God.
Pastor Yue hoped that every one of them could continue to keep watch and pray for peace for the country and health for the people. He also hoped that the teachers and students would meet face to face in the near future.
- Translated by Sophia Chen
