Czech Cardinal Dominik Duka raises alarms over an agreement between the Vatican and China, fearing it might endanger the Catholic Church’s autonomy.
At a Glance
- Cardinal Dominik Duka cautions against Vatican-China agreement, drawing on personal experience under communism.
- The deal allows CCP to appoint bishops, casting doubt on Vatican’s influence.
- Catholic believers in China are pressed to affiliate with state-controlled church.
- Scrutiny rises on Vatican’s approach as new papal candidates are considered.
Vatican-China Accord: Concerns from Cardinal Duka
Cardinal Dominik Duka, with a history of being persecuted under communist rule in Eastern Europe, has voiced substantial concerns regarding the Vatican’s agreement with China. His apprehensions center around the potential risk the agreement poses to Catholic Church independence, as it permits the Chinese Communist Party to appoint bishops. This deal, in effect since 2018 and set to last until 2028, supposedly gives the Pope a veto, which critics argue has been largely ineffective.
“The question of the position of the Catholic Church in China, in light of my experience of persecution during communism, leads me to express some caution.”, said Cardinal Dominik Duka, O.P.
Duka warns that the ongoing scenario, particularly the pressures on Chinese Catholics to align with the state-backed church, is reminiscent of communist-era persecution. These moves have made the Vatican’s bond with China contentious, with former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo criticizing the deal’s inability to safeguard Catholics from Chinese government actions.
Impact on Papal Candidates and Vatican’s Diplomatic Stance
Cardinal Pietro Parolin’s role in this agreement has drawn scrutiny, particularly affecting his standing in potential papal succession. As Vatican Secretary of State, Parolin championed the deal, which many see as ignored by China. Bishop appointments have proceeded without Vatican input, prompting questions about the agreement’s efficacy.
Despite the debate, the Vatican continues its dialogue with China, defending this stance as necessary under the current international conditions. The discussions have influenced ongoing papal conclave considerations, where Parolin’s chances remain uncertain amid these controversies.
Looking Forward: Challenges and Potential Changes
The Vatican-China agreement extends for four more years, despite calls from Human Rights Watch and China Aid for a reevaluation, citing religious freedom concerns. Other papal candidates like Cardinals Luis Antonio Tagle and Matteo Zuppi have downplayed the controversies, while Michel Chambon noted the necessity of Vatican dialogue with global powers.
“The past 10 years were not the ideal international context to approach and discuss with China. The Vatican does need working relationships with the most powerful world powers. You cannot not have a working relationship with China.”, said Michel Chambon.
The Vatican remains in a delicate balance, navigating its relationship with China while addressing the broader implications on religious freedom and Church autonomy. As the Catholic community in China grapples with state pressures, potential changes in Vatican policy depend on both diplomacy and internal leadership decisions.
