Cardinal Joseph Zen, a staunch critic of the Vatican’s approach to China, is facing a potential criminal trial in Hong Kong stemming from his role as a trustee of a pro-democracy fund that supported protesters in 2019. This legal battle highlights the ongoing tensions between the Vatican and China, specifically surrounding a controversial 2018 agreement concerning the appointment of Catholic bishops in China.
The agreement, the details of which remain secret, allows the Chinese government to propose candidates for bishop, with the Pope retaining the final say. Supporters argue that it is a necessary compromise to unify the Catholic Church in China, which has been split between a state-controlled church and an underground church loyal to the Vatican.
Critics, including Cardinal Zen, view the agreement as a betrayal of Catholics who remained loyal to Rome despite persecution. They argue that it legitimizes the Chinese Communist Party’s control over religious affairs and weakens the Vatican’s moral authority. Cardinal Zen believes the deal has failed to improve the situation for Catholics in China and has instead emboldened the government to further restrict religious freedom.
The article suggests the timing of Zen’s legal troubles is politically motivated, designed to silence a prominent voice critical of the Vatican’s China policy. The ongoing controversy underscores the delicate balancing act the Vatican faces in its efforts to engage with China while safeguarding religious freedom and the interests of Chinese Catholics. The secrecy surrounding the agreement continues to fuel speculation and criticism from within the Church.
find the original article here: https://www.yahoo.com/news/cardinal-tarnished-secret-chinese-pact-174242803.html