The agreement aims to ease tensions over bishop appointments in China and reflects ongoing dialogue between the Vatican and the Chinese government.
Vatican and China Renew Controversial Agreement on Bishop Appointments
Vatican and China Renew Controversial Agreement on Bishop Appointments
The Vatican's extended pact with Beijing faces scrutiny from critics who question the implications for religious freedom.
The Vatican and the Chinese government have mutually agreed to extend a significant agreement regarding the appointment of Roman Catholic bishops in China. This provisional pact, originally established in 2018 and renewed twice, will continue for another four years, despite ongoing concerns from conservative factions regarding the implications for religious liberty and human rights in the Communist nation.
During a press briefing in Beijing, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian confirmed the renewal while emphasizing a commitment to "constructive spirit" in the dialogue and the hope of fostering improved relations between Beijing and the Vatican.
The Vatican issued a statement underscoring its commitment to "respectful and constructive dialogue," aiming to enhance bilateral relations for the benefit of the Catholic Church and the Chinese populace. While the specifics of the agreement remain undisclosed, the pact primarily centers on two core principles. Notably, it stipulates that China would formally recognize the pope's authority over the Roman Catholic Church, giving him the ultimate decision-making power regarding bishops. In exchange, the Vatican has acknowledged the legitimacy of bishops previously appointed by the Chinese government, despite their excommunication by the church.
Reflecting on the progress made since the initial signing of the deal, the Vatican noted a "radically changed scenario," highlighting that ten bishops have been appointed and consecrated in China, and that several previously unrecognized bishops have been publicly acknowledged by the Chinese authorities. This development indicates a potential shift in the relationship between the Catholic Church and the Chinese government, though critics are wary of the concessions made in terms of religious freedom and the rights of the faithful within the country.
During a press briefing in Beijing, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian confirmed the renewal while emphasizing a commitment to "constructive spirit" in the dialogue and the hope of fostering improved relations between Beijing and the Vatican.
The Vatican issued a statement underscoring its commitment to "respectful and constructive dialogue," aiming to enhance bilateral relations for the benefit of the Catholic Church and the Chinese populace. While the specifics of the agreement remain undisclosed, the pact primarily centers on two core principles. Notably, it stipulates that China would formally recognize the pope's authority over the Roman Catholic Church, giving him the ultimate decision-making power regarding bishops. In exchange, the Vatican has acknowledged the legitimacy of bishops previously appointed by the Chinese government, despite their excommunication by the church.
Reflecting on the progress made since the initial signing of the deal, the Vatican noted a "radically changed scenario," highlighting that ten bishops have been appointed and consecrated in China, and that several previously unrecognized bishops have been publicly acknowledged by the Chinese authorities. This development indicates a potential shift in the relationship between the Catholic Church and the Chinese government, though critics are wary of the concessions made in terms of religious freedom and the rights of the faithful within the country.
