The next leader of the Catholic Church will face the tricky task of handling a delicate agreement between the Vatican and China. This deal, which hands over significant authority to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) regarding the appointment of bishops, has stirred quite the controversy. With the CCP’s ongoing persecution of Catholics and other religious minorities, the new pope will need to tread carefully.
Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin, a close ally of Pope Francis and the mastermind behind this contentious agreement, is rumored to be among the top contenders for the papacy. However, regardless of who is chosen, the successor will have to navigate the complexities of this deal. Many observers believe this arrangement has only strengthened the CCP’s grip over Catholics in China.
The numbers surrounding Catholics in China vary, reflecting the challenges of accurate data in such a tightly controlled environment. While the Chinese government reported about 6 million Catholics in 2018, other estimates suggest there could be as many as 10 million. These figures include both those in government-sanctioned churches and those worshiping underground.
The clandestine nature of the Sino-Vatican deal, often called a “provisional agreement,” has only fueled speculation and concern. Signed in 2018 and renewed multiple times, the agreement remains shrouded in secrecy. Critics argue that it grants the CCP undue influence over the selection of Catholic leaders in China.
China’s relationship with the Vatican has been rocky for decades. Back in 1951, Mao Zedong severed ties with the Catholic Church, leading to a government-controlled version of Catholicism. This state of affairs has persisted, with the CCP continuing to oversee Catholic activities through entities like the Chinese Catholic Patriotic Association (CCPA).
The CCPA, essentially a branch of the CCP, claims to promote patriotism by aligning closely with party ideologies. Under President Xi Jinping, there’s been a strong push to “Sinicize” religions, ensuring they conform to Communist values. This has placed immense pressure on the underground Catholic Church, which refuses to bow to CCP authority.
Officially, the CCP recognizes five religions, each with a dedicated organization to monitor activities. These include Catholicism, Protestant Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, and Taoism. Despite this recognition, religious freedom remains heavily curtailed in practice.
In January, Cardinal Parolin defended the Vatican’s agreement with China, suggesting it was the best way to initiate meaningful dialogue. He emphasized that the deal was a step towards resolving critical issues, even if progress is slow. However, critics argue that the agreement is deeply flawed and compromises the Church’s integrity.
Despite this contentious deal, the Vatican still maintains diplomatic relations with Taiwan, standing firm against CCP pressures to cut ties. This stance makes the Vatican one of the few remaining states to recognize Taiwan’s sovereignty. The Holy See’s unique position is a testament to its commitment to certain principles, even amid diplomatic challenges.
Most information about China’s religious policies is not readily available in English, highlighting the opaque nature of the regime. The CCP’s State Administration for Religious Affairs issued guidelines in 2021 that demand clergy align with socialist values. These strictures underscore the regime’s tight control over religious expression.
Cardinal Joseph Zen of Hong Kong has been a vocal critic of the Vatican’s deal with China. At 93, Zen has faced imprisonment and prosecution for his outspoken stance against the CCP. He has accused Parolin of abandoning the underground Church, arguing that the agreement only strengthens the CCP’s hand.
Hong Kong’s political climate is increasingly dominated by the CCP, limiting freedoms once enjoyed by its citizens. Zen has been particularly critical of the Vatican’s silence on the persecution of pro-democracy figures like Jimmy Lai. The Church’s lack of response to these injustices has drawn criticism from various quarters.
U.S. political figures, including Marco Rubio and Mike Pompeo, have also condemned the Sino-Vatican deal. They argue that it exacerbates the plight of Catholics in China, compromising their religious freedom. Organizations like the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom echo these sentiments, highlighting the deal’s adverse effects.
Zen’s criticisms extend to his belief that Parolin manipulates Pope Francis regarding Church affairs in China. He maintains that the deal jeopardizes the Vatican’s moral authority. Despite these challenges, Zen remains steadfast in his advocacy for Chinese Catholics.
When Zen was prosecuted, the Vatican’s muted response drew further criticism. Many expected a more robust defense of figures like Zen and Lai, who have suffered under CCP rule. Yet, the Vatican has remained largely silent, raising questions about its commitment to defending its flock.
In late April, Zen visited the Vatican, offering prayers for the Church in China. His visit underscored the ongoing struggle for religious freedom under CCP oppression. As the Catholic Church looks to the future, the next pope will have to confront these issues head-on.
