Memoirs of Father Ripa presents a vivid, first‑hand account of a missionary’s thirteen years at the Chinese court and the creation of a college for Chinese students in Naples.
It blends travel, history, and religious reflection to illuminate cross‑cultural exchange in a dramatic era.
From the pages, you will glimpse life at Je-hol and Peking through the eyes of a Jesuit priest, with scenes of imperial entertainments, court etiquette, and the daily grind of serving in a distant land. The narrative moves from early life in Naples to the momentous decision to establish a new community of priests, and finally to the practical steps of education and outreach that followed.
What you’ll experience:
- Personal testimony of faith, vocation, and spiritual awakening on a journey across continents.
- Detailed glimpses of the Emperor’s court, ceremonial life, and the risks and rewards of mission work.
- The founding and operation of a Chinese College in Naples, including teaching, discipline, and intercultural exchange.
- Reflections on challenges, loyalties, and the moral choices that shaped a long career in service to others.
Ideal for readers who enjoy historical memoirs, religious history, and tales of cross‑cultural encounters in early modern times. This edition offers a window into a remarkable life and the enduring impact of missionary education.