Following the death of Pope Francis, Chinese authorities have appointed two new Catholic bishops, including in a diocese already led by a Vatican-appointed bishop. These unilateral actions present a diplomatic challenge for the Vatican, particularly given the existing agreement on bishop appointments. The appointments, seen as a move to consolidate control, involve figures aligned with the Communist Party. The Vatican's relationship with Beijing is now under strain, especially with the new appointments happening so soon after the Pope's death.
12 days ago
Following the death of Pope Francis, Chinese authorities have moved to assert autonomy by unilaterally "electing" two bishops 1 2. These appointments occurred during the sede vacante, a period when the Holy See cannot ratify episcopal nominations 1. The timing and nature of these appointments present a diplomatic challenge for the incoming Pope 1.
The appointments underscore the fragile and often opaque relationship between the Vatican and Beijing 1. A 2018 provisional agreement, intended to regulate the appointment of bishops, has been repeatedly violated by Beijing 1. The agreement's terms have never been publicly disclosed 1. China typically presents a single candidate chosen by the Chinese Patriotic Catholic Association, which the Pope can then approve or reject 1 2.
The appointment in Xinxiang is particularly contentious 1. The Vatican already recognizes Bishop Joseph Zhang Weizhu as the legitimate bishop of the diocese 1 2. Bishop Zhang was appointed clandestinely by Pope John Paul II in 1991 and has faced multiple arrests for ministering without state approval 1 2. Father Li Jianlin, the bishop-elect in Beijing's eyes, has a history of alignment with the Communist Party, including enforcing a ban on minors attending Mass 1 2.
These appointments present an immediate and delicate test for the next Pope 1 2. The new pontiff will have to decide whether to continue Pope Francis’ policy of cautious engagement or adopt a firmer stance in defense of the Church’s independence 2. How the new Pope navigates this relationship will likely define the next phase of Vatican diplomacy with China 1.
New restrictions from China’s United Front have come into force, limiting foreign missionary activity 1. State-sanctioned Catholic institutions offered little acknowledgement of Pope Francis’ death, while some Catholics privately mourned him 1 2. Underground Bishop Peter Shao Zhumin was detained before Holy Week, possibly to prevent public memorials for the Pope 2.
While I cannot directly address the specific news article title you provided, I can offer information on the Catholic Church's teachings regarding the appointment of bishops, particularly in the context of China.
Role of the Holy See The appointment of bishops is a critical issue in the relationship between the Holy See and China, as it touches the core of the Church's life and unity . The Pope's involvement in the appointment of bishops is seen as a guarantee of the unity of the Church and of hierarchical communion . The Code of Canon Law stipulates severe sanctions for a bishop who ordains another without a papal mandate, and for the one who receives it . Such actions inflict a wound on ecclesial communion and violate canonical discipline .
Governmental Concerns It is understandable that governmental authorities wish to have a say in the selection of those who will lead local Catholic communities, given the social implications of this role . The Church recognizes the importance of respectful and constructive dialogue with governmental authorities to address these concerns . The Holy See remains open to negotiations to overcome current difficulties and seeks an accord with the government to resolve questions regarding the selection of candidates, the publication of appointments, and the civil recognition of bishops .
Essential Elements Communion and unity are essential to the Catholic Church, making the concept of a Church "independent" from the Holy See incompatible with Catholic doctrine . The Pope, the Bishops, and the priests have essential roles in Catholic doctrine on the structure of the Church . The Church in China is governed by bishops who, through episcopal ordination, have received the offices of teaching and governing, but these offices can only be exercised in hierarchical communion with the head and members of the college of bishops .
Challenges and Hopes The Catholic community in China has faced a challenging journey, marked by persecution and the influence of entities with aims not reconcilable with Catholic doctrine . Many bishops have borne witness to their faith, some undergoing persecution and impeded in their ministry . The Church is called to be a witness of Christ, looking forward with hope and proclaiming the Gospel in the face of new challenges .
Path to Unity Overcoming misunderstandings and engaging in dialogue are crucial for working together for the good of the Chinese people and for peace in the world . The normalization of relations requires time and the good will of both parties, with the Holy See remaining open to negotiations . The path to reconciliation is supported by the example and prayer of witnesses of faith who have suffered and forgiven .
Qualities of Communion The domain of communion embodies the essence of the mystery of the Church . Unity is indispensable, with every bishop in communion with other bishops and in visible communion with the Pope . The Church emphasizes the importance of fidelity to the Gospel and unity with the Successor of Peter .
In summary, the Catholic Church emphasizes the importance of the Pope's role in the appointment of bishops as a guarantee of unity and hierarchical communion. While acknowledging the concerns of governmental authorities, the Church seeks open dialogue and negotiation to reach agreements that respect both religious freedom and the proper exercise of spiritual authority.