The Vatican and China have officially extended a controversial agreement that aims to mend a long-standing dispute over the authority of bishop appointments within the Catholic Church in China. Announced on Tuesday, this extension will last for another four years, despite ongoing concerns voiced by conservative factions within the church regarding issues of religious freedom and human rights in the Communist state.
Vatican and China Renew Agreement on Bishops Amid Controversy
Vatican and China Renew Agreement on Bishops Amid Controversy
A significant extension of the Vatican and China’s agreement regarding the appointment of Catholic bishops has been announced, stirring debates on religious liberty and Sino-Vatican relations.
Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian confirmed this continuation at a Beijing press conference, stating both parties are committed to “constructive dialogue” and enhancing bilateral relations. The Vatican expressed its continued dedication to respectful and constructive discussions to benefit both the Catholic community in China and the Chinese populace.
Although the specifics of the 2018 agreement, initially established to address the contentious relationship between the Catholic Church and the Chinese government, remain confidential, it generally mandates that China formally recognize the Pope’s supremacy within the Church and his authority over the country's bishops. In return, the Vatican has consented to acknowledge bishops previously appointed by the Chinese regime, many of whom had been excommunicated.
The Vatican remarked that there has been a “radically changed scenario” since the inception of the agreement. According to their updates, ten bishops have been appointed and consecrated, and the Chinese authorities have accepted the public roles of several bishops who were previously unrecognized by the government. This evolution signals both progress and persistent challenges as the Vatican continues to navigate its relationship with China amid ongoing scrutiny from within its ranks.
Although the specifics of the 2018 agreement, initially established to address the contentious relationship between the Catholic Church and the Chinese government, remain confidential, it generally mandates that China formally recognize the Pope’s supremacy within the Church and his authority over the country's bishops. In return, the Vatican has consented to acknowledge bishops previously appointed by the Chinese regime, many of whom had been excommunicated.
The Vatican remarked that there has been a “radically changed scenario” since the inception of the agreement. According to their updates, ten bishops have been appointed and consecrated, and the Chinese authorities have accepted the public roles of several bishops who were previously unrecognized by the government. This evolution signals both progress and persistent challenges as the Vatican continues to navigate its relationship with China amid ongoing scrutiny from within its ranks.
