By Courtney Mares
Vatican City, May 1, 2025 / 14:00 pm
Amidst the interregnum in the Catholic Church, Chinese authorities have taken steps to assert the Church in China’s autonomy by unilaterally “electing” two bishops, one of whom is in a diocese already led by a Vatican-appointed bishop.
Recently, Father Wu Jianlin was chosen as the new auxiliary bishop of Shanghai by local priests, while Father Li Jianlin was “elected” as bishop of the Diocese of Xinxiang.
Although both priests have not been officially installed as bishops yet, these appointments have raised diplomatic challenges for the Church, especially during the sede vacante following the death of Pope Francis.
The situation in Xinxiang is particularly sensitive as the Vatican already recognizes Bishop Joseph Zhang Weizhu as the legitimate bishop, who has faced persecution for his unwavering faith and dedication to his ministry.
On the other hand, Father Li Jianlin, the bishop-elect recognized by Beijing, has been known to align with the Communist Party, raising concerns about the Church’s independence and the treatment of religious minorities in China.
