The Vatican's appointment of Bishop Joseph Lin Yuntuan showcases the ongoing efforts to reconcile relations between the Catholic Church and Chinese officials, as outlined in a significant 2018 accord.
Pope Leo XIV Appoints First Chinese Bishop, Reinforcing Vatican-China Accord
Pope Leo XIV Appoints First Chinese Bishop, Reinforcing Vatican-China Accord
The Pope's recent appointment signals a commitment to continued dialogue and agreement with Chinese authorities, enhancing ties between the Vatican and China.
In a historic move, Pope Leo XIV appointed Joseph Lin Yuntuan as the first Chinese bishop of his papacy, signifying a steadfast commitment to the 2018 Vatican-Beijing accord aimed at enhancing relations between the two entities. The appointment underscores mutual recognition of the agreement, which allows for Chinese state involvement in the selection of bishops—an aspect that has remained largely undisclosed and contentious in the public arena.
With about 10 million Catholics in China, congregants must choose between state-sanctioned churches, approved by Beijing, or clandestine congregations that maintain loyalty to the Vatican. The Vatican confirmed that Lin’s ministry has received acknowledgment from Chinese law, describing the event as a vital advancement in the ongoing dialogue between the Holy See and Chinese authorities.
According to a statement by foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian, the appointment of Bishop Yuntuan illustrates the effective implementation of the 2018 agreement, and he expressed China’s eagerness to foster further relations with the Vatican. Experts, such as Michel Chambon of the Asia Research Institute, highlight that this move indicates a preference for reconciliation rather than antagonism, reflecting a positive shift in Sino-Vatican relations since the historic deal, which had originally seen Pope Francis recognizing several bishops appointed by the Chinese state back in 2018.
The complex relationship dates back to 1951, when China severed diplomatic ties with the Holy See, prompting many Catholics to practice their faith underground, a situation that began to change in the 1980s with the resurgence of religious tolerance. The Vatican's recent steps signal a potential pathway toward a more harmonious coexistence.
