Pope Francis Forms Joint Commission with Chinese Regime for Appointing Bishops in China’s Catholic Churches
Pope Francis has announced the formation of a joint commission between the Vatican and the Chinese communist regime to appoint bishops for China’s Catholic churches. The commission, presided over by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin, aims to strengthen relations and foster understanding between the two entities.
The Vatican’s relationship with China has been characterized as very respectful by Pope Francis, who expressed his admiration for the Chinese people. He emphasized the importance of advancing into the religious aspect to promote better understanding and to dispel the notion that the Church rejects Chinese culture and values.
The issue of appointing bishops has been a contentious one between the Vatican and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The CCP has insisted on maintaining control over the appointment process, which led to the establishment of the Chinese Patriotic Catholic Association (CPCA) to represent Catholics within the country. Initially, the Vatican rejected such arrangements.
However, in 2018, a provisional agreement was reached between China and the Vatican on the appointment of bishops. The details of the agreement have not been made public, but it is believed to involve a consensual decision-making process. In July, the Vatican accepted Beijing’s unilateral appointment of Bishop Shen Bin in Shanghai, a move that raised concerns about the diminishing influence of the Holy See.
Critics have accused Pope Francis of turning a blind eye to the CCP’s human rights abuses and religious repression. The CCP’s policy of Sinicization, which forces religions, including Catholicism, to adopt communist ideologies, has raised alarm bells among observers. Surveillance technology linked to an artificial intelligence system is being used in churches to ensure compliance with the CCP’s agenda.
Despite these challenges, Pope Francis views the joint commission as an opportunity for dialogue and cooperation. The Vatican has also acknowledged China’s openness through foreign exchanges. However, some analysts argue that the policy of turning a blind eye and ceding authority to the CCP will not preserve the Catholic Church in China.
The CCP’s persecution of religious groups, including Uyghur Muslims, Tibetan Buddhists, Christians, and Falun Gong practitioners, has been described as genocidal. The human rights situation and religious freedom in China have significantly deteriorated in recent years.
Looking ahead, the joint commission between the Vatican and the Chinese regime will play a crucial role in the appointment of bishops in China’s Catholic churches. The hope is that through dialogue and cooperation, both parties can reach a better understanding and promote religious freedoms within the country. The challenges remain, but this commission symbolizes a step forward in the relationship between the Vatican and China.
