Closer relations between the Vatican and Asian bishops on doctrinal issues

Conclusion of Bangkok meeting between Chairpersons of Doctrinal Commissions, or the Representatives, of the Asian Bishops’ Conferences with a delegation from the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. Two Chinese representatives also present.

Vatican City (AsiaNews) - "Concrete ways to make the Gospel more widely known in the vast Asian continent" have been highlighted during the meeting between Chairpersons of Doctrinal Commissions, or the Representatives, of the Asian Bishops’ Conferences with a delegation from the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, held on January 15-18 in the Baan Phu Waan Pastoral Center in Bangkok.

A statement released today in the Vatican recalls that the Vatican delegation was led by Cardinal Luis F. Ladaria, S.J., prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.

Among the representatives of the episcopal conferences of Asia, the communiqué cites Msgr. Joseph Guo Jincai. He is one of the two Chinese bishops who took part in the Synod on young people and is one of the seven bishops "reconciled" by the China-Vatican agreement, having been ordained in 2010 without papal mandate. The Vatican also created a new diocese for him, that of Chengde. He is the general secretary of the Council of Chinese bishops, a body not recognized by the Holy See.

A priest, Zhang Qiu Lin, was also mentioned as having been present at the meeting.

“The meeting provided a precious opportunity to enhance the collaboration between the Doctrinal Commissions of the Episcopal Conferences of Asia, the FABC Office of Theological Concerns and the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. It also served to promote the cooperation among the Doctrinal Commissions of this great continent, which continues to be enriched by the invaluable contribution of the Catholic Faith," concludes the statement.

• Vatican
• Asia
• China
• doctrine of the faith
• Joseph Guo Jincai