In a notable development, the Vatican expressed its “satisfaction” on Tuesday with China’s official recognition of Bishop Melchior Shi Hongzhen as the bishop of Tianjin. This acknowledgment is a significant step forward in the ongoing dialogue between the Holy See and the Chinese government.
Progress Through Dialogue
The Vatican emphasized that this recognition is a “positive fruit” of the years of communication and negotiations between the Catholic Church and China. The Holy See’s statement on August 27 highlights the importance of this development in the broader context of their relationship with the Chinese government.
Bishop Shi’s Journey
Bishop Melchior Shi Hongzhen’s story is one of resilience and faith. At 95 years old, he has a long history with the Catholic Church in China. Ordained as a priest on July 4, 1954, Shi faced challenges, including being placed under house arrest for refusing to join the state-sanctioned church. Despite these obstacles, he continued his dedication to the Church, eventually being consecrated as coadjutor bishop of Tianjin on June 15, 1982, and later ordained as bishop of the Diocese of Tianjin on June 8, 2019.
The Catholic Community in Tianjin
The Diocese of Tianjin, under Bishop Shi’s leadership, is home to 56,000 Catholic faithful. These believers are spread across 21 parishes and are served by 62 priests. The recognition of Bishop Shi by the Chinese government is seen as a significant milestone for the Catholic community in the region.
Ongoing Relations Between the Vatican and China
Under the leadership of Pope Francis, the Vatican has continued to maintain diplomatic relations with China. This includes ongoing discussions about provisional agreements related to the appointment of bishops. The recognition of Bishop Shi is a testament to the progress being made in these talks.
Looking Forward
As the Catholic Church continues to navigate its relationship with China, this development marks a hopeful step forward. The recognition of Bishop Shi Hongzhen is not just a personal victory for him but also a symbol of the potential for further collaboration and understanding between the Vatican and China.
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