Commentary
As readers of this esteemed publication would be aware, in 2018, the Vatican signed a provisional agreement with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) on the appointment of Catholic bishops. In doing so, the Vatican recognised the Chinese “Patriotic Church,” set up and controlled by the CCP.
The 1950 Guangyuan Manifesto establishing this state-run church proclaimed that they were determined to “sever all relations with imperialism,” make comprehensive reform, and establish a new independent Church.
Since that time, the Vatican has sought to support the “Underground Church” as much as it could while seeking a way to unite all Catholics in the country without, however, recognising the “Patriotic Church.”…