China and Vatican Reach Agreement on Bishops’ Appointments
The Chinese government and the Vatican have reached a provisional agreement that grants China’s Communist officials a say in appointing bishops for the Catholic Church in the country for the next four years, extending an agreement that was first made in 2018.
China Seeks to Strengthen Ties with Vatican
According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, both China and the Catholic Church are looking to improve their relations through this agreement, which was confirmed by the Vatican as well.
Controversies Surrounding the Agreement
While the Vatican asserts that the pope makes the final decision in appointing bishops, concerns have been raised about China’s potential influence in the process. Some Catholic critics, including Cardinal Joseph Zen, have voiced their opposition to the agreement, fearing that it gives too much control to China.
The 2018 agreement aimed to find a compromise between China’s sovereignty and the Vatican’s authority in appointing bishops. Despite acknowledging it as a flawed deal, the Vatican sees it as the best possible arrangement under the circumstances.
With over 10 million Catholics in China, this agreement holds significant implications for both religious groups in the country.