The Chinese Church 'remains independent and loyal to the Party'

A note from the Patriotic Association of Chinese Catholics and the Council of Bishops of the Church of China (bodies not recognized by the Holy See) comments on the "historic agreement" on episcopal appointments: "We remain on the path that leads to socialism". "Heartfelt" appreciation for the signature between the Vatican and Beijing.

Beijing (AsiaNews) - The Chinese Catholic Church "will continue to operate independently. We love the country and the Church, we will carry forward the principle of independence and the concept of the sinicization of religion while remaining on the path that leads to socialist society ".

This was written by members of the Patriotic Association of Chinese Catholics and the Council of Bishops of the Church of China (bodies not recognized by the Holy See) in a public note issued yesterday, the day after the "historic agreement" between China and the Vatican on the appointment of bishops in the Asian country.

The signature of the agreement is welcomed "with a heartfelt appreciation" and the Chinese Catholic Church emphasizes that it "belongs to the same faith" of the Catholic Churches of other countries: "We want to pursue friendly exchanges and improve mutual understanding. On the basis of independence, respect, equality and good faith.”

• vatican
• china
• religious freedom
• agreement on bishops
• pietro parolin
• pope francesco
• xi jinping
• patriotic association
• shanren shenfu
• sergio ticozzi
• joseph zen