ROME (AP) — The Vatican made another big overture to China on Tuesday, reaffirming the Catholic Church poses no threat to Beijing’s sovereignty and admitting that Western missionaries had made “errors” in past centuries in their zeal to convert the Chinese faithful.
The Vatican hosted the head of China’s bishops conference for an unprecedented, high-level commemoration of a landmark 1924 meeting in Shanghai that affirmed the need for foreign missionaries in China to give way to local church leaders.
The presence of Shanghai Bishop Joseph Shen Bin alongside the Vatican secretary of state, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, at the Pontifical Urbaniana University was in itself noteworthy. It marked the first time in memory that a mainland bishop has been allowed by Beijing to participate in a public Vatican event as the keynote speaker.
It was also significant given the controversy over Shen’s 2023 appointment. Pope Francis in July was forced to recognize China’s unilateral appointment of Shen as bishop of Shanghai. The appointment seemingly violated the Holy See’s 2018 accord with Beijing over bishop appointments.
Chinese premier chairs State Council executive meeting
Chinese pickle spices up export hopes with Mexico
Chinese pickle spices up export hopes with Mexico
Massey, Perez hit homers to lead Royals in 8
Chinese premier stresses consolidating achievements in poverty alleviation
China prepares to launch Chang'e
Climate change blamed for heavy rain in the south
Vikings seek new deal with Justin Jefferson; star WR absent so far from workouts, AP source says
Ecuador: Fire department honors five rescue dogs during retirement
Housekeeper contest of boutique homestays held in Beijing's Yanqing district