The "Celebration of the Feast Day of the Chinese Martyrs," a liturgical event assembled by Los Angeles' Chinese Catholic community, will be held July 9, 3 p.m. at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels.

The Los Angeles Archdiocese Chinese Catholic communities of St. Bridget Chinese Catholic Center, Los Angeles; St. Thomas Aquinas Church, Monterey Park; and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, Rowland Heights, are collaborating to present this event. Its theme is "God Bless China; Pray for the Evangelization of China."

"There are many reasons for these activities," said Michael Lau, one of the event coordinators. "First, to tell the stories of the martyrs and to remind ourselves of their sacrifice. Secondly, to increase the awareness of the long history of evangelization of China. And thirdly, to create an opportunity for the local Chinese Catholic communities to get together to collaborate, and to remind ourselves that we are one in Christ.

"In our own small way," he added, "we hope that, through mutual understanding and fervent prayers, this effort will facilitate open dialogue and normalization of relationship between our Church and our homeland."

Auxiliary Bishop Edward W. Clark, Our Lady of the Angels Regional Bishop, will preside. Concelebrants will include priests from the three communities: Salesian Father Joseph Cheng (St. Bridget), Father Gabriel Lui (St. Thomas Aquinas) and Father Joseph Yang. All clergies are invited to concelebrate.

Also at the Cathedral, through July 11, is an exhibit of pictures and stories of the Chinese Martyrs as well as a presentation on the historical and current efforts for the Evangelization in China. The exhibit can be viewed inside the first side chapel during the Cathedral's operating hours.

For additional information, contact Michael Lau at (323) 222-5518.