the beijing center for chinese studies

TBC History

TBC What makes us unique is our placement in a long and storied tradition of Jesuit education, one that teaches us that true cultural engagement starts first with friendship.

HOW WE GOT HERE

JESUIT CENTER & INTELLECTUAL HUB

Before Ron Anton founded TBC back in 1998, Italian priest Matteo Ricci made his way to Beijing, where his study of the language and culture, paved the way for the realization of the Jesuit mission in academics. In doing so, Ricci and his companions showed great courage, humility, and respect in search of their findings – qualities which are exemplified by our community today. Along with his companions, Ricci struck a close friendship with Xu Guangqi, with whom a cultural exchange took place. Xu Guangqi taught Ricci the Chinese way of life, and in turn, Ricci shared his knowledge of the West, and the rest was history.

Today, we exert our efforts to follow in their footsteps by providing a supportive environment for our students, teachers, and business professionals to start their own adventures in China.

Being Jesuit education

Jesuit education draws its inspiration from the values of the Gospel and also from the liberal education of the Greco-Roman tradition, helping young men and women to become free citizens. Jesuit education takes the whole person into account and fosters not only intellectual development, but also moral and spiritual growth. Intellect and faith are seen as complementary, not contradictory. 

TBC was established in 1998 as an apostolate of the Chinese Province of the Society of Jesus with the support of the US AJCU institutions (Jesuit universities).

“China Is The Classroom”

It’s more than just tribute. TBC lives the magis by being highly involved with our global Jesuit community. We are connected with Jesuit organizations around the world, from our friends in the US to publishing articles in European Jesuit journals, as well as involvement in our local Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities – Asia Pacific region and spearheading the discernment process of the China Mission. We encourage cura personalis by hosting student retreats rooted in Ignatian traditions such as the Examen and giving opportunities for service learning.