Following a high level meeting on China, the Vatican has called for dialogue to restore ties with Beijing severed 60 years ago, announcing that Pope Benedict is to write a special letter to Chinese Catholics.
In a statement, the Holy See said it wished to "overcome misunderstandings of the past" with Beijing, which does not allow Chinese Catholics to recognise papal authority.
For a long time I have felt that the situation for Catholics in China needed attention. Normalizing relations with the Vatican will go far, not only concerning Chinese Catholics but for establishing ties with the Chinese government during a time when the need for dialogue on peace is greater than ever.
A Precious Blood Oblate sends out updates on the under-reported Church situation in China. Priests just disappear.. Catholics just disappear.. for decades.. or longer.
Prayer, prayer, prayer.
Posted by: Anonymous | January 22, 2007 at 07:05 PM
It does sound like a step in the right direction, but I wonder how long it will take the media to twist "respectful and constructive dialogue with the government authorities" into "the Vatican is participating with a government that commits horrendous human rights violations"?
Posted by: Gabrielle | January 22, 2007 at 10:48 PM
I don't know, Gabrielle--but I'm sure that someone somewhere will find some reason not to like it. Peacemaking is risky business. It's like showing mercy and love. There's always somebody who's going to tell you that you're doing it the wrong way.
Onward we go anyhow...
Posted by: Deacon DW | January 22, 2007 at 10:56 PM