Pope prays for Chinese Catholics to be in communion with Rome in first comments on thorny issues

ROME — Pope Leo XIV has called for prayers for the unity of China’s Catholics with the Holy See, addressing a complex foreign policy issue early in his papacy.

Leo referred to a special feast day dedicated to praying for the church in China, initiated by Pope Benedict XVI to bring together the country’s divided Catholic community. He emphasized the importance of Chinese Catholics being in communion with the universal church.

The pontiff expressed his hopes for Chinese Catholics to remain steadfast in their faith and to promote peace and harmony, even in challenging times. This message comes in the context of a controversial deal made by Pope Francis in 2018 regarding bishop nominations in China.

Critics have raised concerns about the agreement, accusing the Vatican of giving in to Beijing’s demands and compromising the underground church in China. Despite these criticisms, the Vatican has defended the deal as the best option available for fostering unity among Chinese Catholics.

As Pope Leo XIV navigates this delicate issue, he has received encouragement from Cardinal Stephen Chow of Hong Kong, who has urged him to follow Pope Francis’ approach towards the church in China. Chow presented Leo with a statue of Our Lady of Sheshan, a symbol of devotion for Chinese Catholics, signaling the importance of maintaining a connection with the Chinese faithful.

The Vatican’s efforts to improve relations with China, which were severed decades ago, have been ongoing. The 2018 agreement aimed to address longstanding disagreements over bishop appointments and to mend the rift between China and the Vatican.

This article is supported by the AP’s collaboration with The Conversation US, funded by Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP retains full responsibility for the content.