Pope Leo XIV has urged prayers for the unity of Catholics in China during his Sunday blessing from the Apostolic Palace, addressing a significant diplomatic challenge of his papacy. On May 24, the Church marked a feast day established by Pope Benedict XVI to pray for Chinese Catholics, a community of approximately twelve million, divided between a state-sanctioned church and an underground church loyal to Rome.
“On this feast day, prayers have been offered in churches and shrines across China and the world, reflecting our care for Chinese Catholics and their connection with the universal Church,” Pope Leo stated. He prayed for their strength and joy as witnesses of the Gospel, even amid trials, and encouraged the promotion of peace and harmony.
The Vatican’s 2018 agreement with Beijing, which allows for state involvement in bishop appointments while reserving final approval for the Pope, remains contentious. Critics argue it gives too much power to the Chinese government, and recent bishop appointments without Vatican consent have heightened tensions.
Pope Leo is expected to decide soon whether to renew this agreement. Cardinal Stephen Chow of Hong Kong expressed hope that the new pontiff would continue the approach of his predecessor, Pope Francis. During a meeting, Chow presented Leo with a statue of Our Lady of Sheshan, revered by Chinese Catholics, and requested that he remember the Church in China.
The Vatican has been striving to mend its relationship with China, which has been strained since the Communist government cut ties in the 1950s. The 2018 agreement aimed to reconcile divisions and foster unity among Chinese Catholics.
