New Assistant Catholic Bishop Ordained in Beijing
Vatican City witnessed the ordination of a new assistant Catholic bishop for Beijing on Friday, marking a significant development in the ongoing diplomatic relations between the Vatican and Chinese officials. Bishop Matthew Zhen Xuebin, aged 54, was appointed to this role by Pope Francis, under the framework of an accord established in 2018. This accord allows Chinese officials to have some input into papal appointments, a decision that has sparked debates among conservative Catholics.
Key Points:
- The Vatican and Chinese officials extended the accord on appointments in China.
- Bishop Zhen Xuebin was appointed as the new assistant Catholic bishop for Beijing.
- The diplomatic deal gives Chinese officials a say in papal appointments, raising concerns among some conservative Catholics.
- The accord aims to bridge the gap between the underground church loyal to the Vatican and the state-supervised Catholic Patriotic Association.
- Bishop Zhen will assist Bishop Joseph Li Shan in managing the local Church, with the right of succession to automatically replace Li upon his retirement or resignation.
Despite criticisms, the Vatican emphasizes that Pope Francis retains the final decision-making power in such appointments. The renewal of the accord for a longer period of four years signifies a commitment to ongoing cooperation between Beijing and the Vatican in resolving historical divisions within the Catholic community in China.
Significance of Bishop Zhen’s Ordination:
- Bishop Zhen’s ordination took place at Beijing’s Church of the Saviour, attended by Bishop Li, four other Chinese bishops, and approximately 650 individuals.
- The appointment of Bishop Zhen with the right of succession raises questions about the future leadership of the local Church in Beijing.
- Beijing, with a population of around 22 million, is home to approximately 100,000 Catholics, highlighting the significant presence of the Catholic community in the city.
- Across China, there are an estimated 5 million Catholics among a total population of 1.4 billion, showcasing the diversity and widespread reach of the Catholic Church in the country.
As this diplomatic agreement unfolds, the role of Bishop Zhen and the ongoing collaboration between the Vatican and Chinese authorities will continue to shape the future of the Catholic Church in China.
Analysis:
The appointment of Bishop Zhen Xuebin as the new assistant Catholic bishop in Beijing, under the diplomatic agreement between the Vatican and Chinese officials, represents a significant step towards reconciling historical divisions within the Catholic community in China. The extension of the accord for a longer period underscores a commitment to fostering cooperation and dialogue between the Vatican and Beijing, despite concerns raised by certain factions within the Catholic Church.
By appointing Bishop Zhen with the right of succession, the Vatican signals a strategic decision regarding the future leadership of the local Church in Beijing, paving the way for a smooth transition in leadership upon Bishop Li Shan’s retirement or resignation. This move reflects the Vatican’s proactive approach to addressing succession planning within the Church hierarchy, ensuring continuity and stability in the ecclesiastical leadership.
Furthermore, the ordination of Bishop Zhen at the Church of the Saviour in Beijing signifies a symbolic moment for the Catholic community in the city, attended by prominent clergy and hundreds of individuals. This public display of support and participation highlights the significance of Bishop Zhen’s role in the local Church and the broader Catholic community in China.
Overall, the appointment of Bishop Zhen Xuebin and the renewal of the diplomatic accord between the Vatican and Chinese officials underscore a pivotal moment in the ongoing dialogue and collaboration between the two entities. As Bishop Zhen assumes his responsibilities and works alongside Bishop Li Shan, the Catholic Church in China is poised to navigate new challenges and opportunities, guided by a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect.