Participants examined how the papal letter was received and the theological principles that inspired it. How to apply the doctrine of the second Vatican Council on the nature and structure of the Church was one of the aspects looked at.

Vatican City (AsiaNews) – The Vatican Commission to discuss the Church in China met in the Vatican from 10 to 12 March. It looked at various points of view brought by different experts from the Roman Curia as well as those who have personal, on-the-ground experience in order to develop a broad perspective on the problems Chinese Catholics face, especially with regard to relations to the authorities and evangelisation.

A few signs of hope emerged out of the broad-based discussion based on greater integration and unity between officially government-recognised communities and those that exist underground. Their increasingly explicit collaboration with the Holy See is opening a small space for greater religious freedom.

The meeting had as its theme the Letter which the Holy Father sent to Chinese Catholics on 27 May 2007. “Participants, the press release said, “first examined the reaction to the pontifical document both inside and outside China. They reflected on the theological principles that inspired the Letter in order to comprehend the future prospects they bring for the Catholic community in China.”

“In  concrete terms, in the light of the papal text consideration was given to certain important aspects regarding the Church's mission as 'instrument of salvation' for the Chinese people: evangelisation in a world experiencing globalisation; the application, in China's current situation, of the Vatican Council II doctrine on the nature and structure of the Church; forgiveness and reconciliation within the Catholic community; the requirements of truth and charity; the government of dioceses, which has great relevance for pastoral activity and for the formation of priests, seminarians, religious and lay faithful.”

“In line with the indications expressed by the Pope in His Letter,” said the press release, “constructive dialogue with the authorities was reiterated.”

“Finally, and still in the light of the pontifical document, the participants exchanged information and experiences concerning the life and activity of the Church in China.”

“The meeting concluded with a meeting with the Holy Father.”

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