In November, we remember those who have gone before us. Here we would like to remember two priests who dedicated their lives to the China Mission. They are also two of the founders of the San Jose Chinese Catholic Community which is celebrating the 25th anniversary this year.
－ The late Rev. Edward Malatesta, S.J. started to learn Chinese at age 52 so he could fulfill his dream of being a missionary in China. He assisted in the official founding of the Community under the Diocese of San Jose. In the last two years of his life, he often said: “You, Chinese, must be able to do more than what I, an American, could ever do for the Chinese.”
－ The late Rev. James Thornton, S. J. was the first chaplain of the Community for 10 years. He was imprisoned in China twice because of his Faith; he served the Chinese for over 60 years. He often told the community members, “You parents must past on your beautiful Chinese culture to the next generation.”
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