Cardinal Stephen Chow, S.J., bishop of Hong Kong, described the Holy See’s extension of its Provisional Agreement with China on the appointment of bishops as a “step forward.”
According to Sunday Examiner, the official news site of the Diocese of Hong Kong, the prelate noted mixed reactions but underscored that “the agreement is not permanent” in a media interview.
The agreement, signed in 2018 and renewed in 2020 and 2022, has allowed all bishops in mainland China to be in communion with the pope, fostering dialogue even if the pace has been slower than the Vatican had hoped.
Cardinal Chow, who was attending the Synod on Synodality in Rome in October, said the extension signals a “greater level of agreement” between the Vatican and China.
While the Vatican has not shared details of any amendments, sources suggest that “some changes requested by the Vatican may have been incorporated.”
In its official statement, the Vatican emphasized its commitment to “constructive dialogue” with China, aiming to strengthen relations for both the Catholic Church and the Chinese people.
Reflecting on relations since the agreement’s signing, Cardinal Chow noted that “there has been a positive shift in relations,” although he acknowledged that “many dioceses [are] still without bishops.”
He pointed to the “gradual buildup of trust” as essential for further progress in filling these leadership gaps.
At the recent synod, two bishops from mainland China were actively involved in discussions, a change from the previous year when they had to leave early.
Cardinal Chow viewed the Chinese government’s recognition of Bishop Melchior Shi Hongzhen as “a sign of a potential easing of restrictions.”
Looking back on his visit to Beijing in April 2023, Cardinal Chow observed that Pope Francis has encouraged “appreciating Chinese culture rather than criticism.”
When asked about the possibility of a papal visit to China, Cardinal Chow expressed hope but noted that “Chinese authorities might need to conduct internal consultations before making such a decision public.”
Discussing concerns about China’s approach to religion, Cardinal Chow explained it as a broader policy to align various sectors with “national interests,” adding that authorities see the Catholic Church as “more manageable” compared to other religious groups.
In Hong Kong, Cardinal Chow acknowledged ongoing economic challenges worsened by “the pandemic and international sanctions,” and the impact of “emigration” on the Catholic community, with a leadership gap emerging as younger Catholics leave.
Despite these obstacles, he remains hopeful for the future of Vatican-China relations and the growth of the Catholic Church in the region, viewing the agreement’s extension as a positive, though not permanent, step.
