While religion is a topic people tend to avoid discussing, many believe it has the capacity to bring a community closer together. In modern-day China, religion goes beyond rigid, personal beliefs. And even though less than five percent of China's people are Christian, one branch of Christianity is alive and well here, and changing with the times. CGTN's Cui Hui'ao reports.

Sacramental bread, a symbol of Jesus's sacrifice. Hundreds of Catholics are receiving Holy Eucharist from Guo Jincai, the bishop at the cathedral in Chengde, a city about 2.5 hours outside Beijing. For Guo, Catholicism is ultimately about sacrificing ones' self and loving others.

GUO JINCAI BISHOP, CHENGDE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE "The Bible's message for us is to love God and his people, and be the salt of the earth and light of the world. The extension of love is service, serving and making contributions to your country and to mankind."

Guo says in modern times, Catholicism is actively adapting to change, integrating more with society. New interpretations of biblical words have encouraged followers like Zhao Yujie to get over what used to be seen as taboo. The 43-year-old comes from a traditional Catholic family. She attends mass every day, and her parents hoped she would marry a Catholic man. But her decision to marry a Muslim man was supported by her priest.

ZHAO YUJIE "As Father told me, love is about respect, respecting each other's beliefs. We love each other, so we got married."

CUI HUI'AO CHENGDE, HEBEI PROVINCE "Here in Chengde, Buddhism and Taoism remain the most popular religions. But Catholicism also has its place. The Chengde Roman Catholic Diocese – one of 98 across China – now has roughly 25 thousand followers."

Ten years ago, Guo says there was little cross-over among the different religions in Chengde. But over time mutual respect has led to more open interactions between them. For example, masters of Buddhism, Taoism, Islam and Christianity now regularly convene at the bishop's house, exchanging views on theology, and how to collaboratively do good work for society.

GUO JINCAI BISHOP, CHENGDE ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE "One example is different religious groups are all partaking in philanthropy work in China's southwestern Guizhou Province. We Catholics fund local schools and hospitals with money from followers' donations. Other religions are contributing in their ways."

Guo says despite differences in scriptures and belief systems, religions share one common goal: to help people. As long as people have that vision in mind, confrontation and disputes can be avoided. Cui Hui'ao, CGTN, Chengde, Hebei Province.