The Holy See and China Extend Provisional Agreement on Bishops’ Appointment for Another 4 Years
After appropriate consultation and assessment, the Holy See and the People’s Republic of China have agreed to extend the Provisional Agreement on the appointment of Bishops for another 4 years. This historic agreement marks a significant milestone in the relations between the Catholic Church and China, ensuring all bishops are in full communion with the Pope.
The Vatican Party is dedicated to fostering respectful and constructive dialogue with China for the benefit of the Catholic Church in China and the Chinese people as a whole.
The Third Renewal
This is the third renewal of the Agreement since its signing on 22 September 2018, marking a new chapter in relations between the Holy See and China. The latest extension for four years follows the first renewal two years ago on October 22, 2020.
A New Scenario
The Provisional Agreement has brought significant changes in the last six years, ending decades of episcopal ordinations without papal consent. Approximately ten bishops have been appointed and consecrated, with Beijing officially recognizing the public role of previously unrecognized bishops. This new era of cooperation is highlighted by the participation of bishops from mainland China in Vatican Synods and other international meetings, showcasing a growing presence of Chinese faithful in the global Catholic community.
