Pope Leo XIV has named Bishop Joseph Lin Yuntuan as auxiliary bishop of Fuzhou, marking the first Chinese episcopal appointment under the 2018 Vatican-Beijing agreement during his papacy. The Vatican announced that Chinese authorities had recognized Lin’s June 5 nomination, a step it hailed as a result of continued dialogue with Beijing.
Vatican Praises Progress in Dialogue with Beijing
The Holy See described the appointment as a “significant step” in the development of the diocese and a symbol of fruitful cooperation. Vatican officials emphasized the importance of Lin’s recognition both by Rome and Chinese authorities as a sign of progress in reconciling divisions among China’s estimated 12 million Catholics.
Roots of the Controversial Agreement
The 2018 deal between the Vatican and China sought to address the decades-long division between China’s underground Catholic Church and the state-sanctioned church. The underground church had remained loyal to Rome, while the state-controlled counterpart did not recognize papal authority. The agreement allowed Chinese authorities a role in nominating bishops, although the pope retained final approval.
Critics Accuse the Vatican of Appeasement
The accord has faced persistent criticism, particularly from conservative Catholics. Detractors argue that the Vatican conceded too much to Beijing and betrayed loyal underground clergy and followers. They also point to apparent violations by Chinese authorities, including unauthorized bishop selections, as evidence of China’s disregard for the spirit of the agreement.
Leo’s Decision Signals Continuity Amid Pressure
As the first American pope, Leo XIV inherited a highly sensitive issue. His decision to proceed with the agreement suggests continuity with Pope Francis’ approach despite conservative pressure to alter or abandon the deal. Tensions peaked shortly before Leo’s election, when Beijing advanced bishop elections without Vatican consent, highlighting ongoing frictions in the implementation of the accord.
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Pope Leo XIV names first Chinese bishop, signalling he is continuing Vatican’s controversial accord
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