Pope Leo XIV called for prayers for Chinese Catholics to remain united with the Vatican, addressing the longstanding division between the state-controlled church and the underground community loyal to Rome. His remarks coincided with a feast day established to support China’s Catholic faithful. As the first American pope, Leo faces key decisions on renewing the Vatican’s 2018 agreement with Beijing on bishop appointments, an accord criticized for undermining papal authority.
Asia Daily: May 26, 2025
Pope Leo XIV called for prayers for Chinese Catholics to remain united with the Vatican, addressing the longstanding division between the state-controlled church and the underground community loyal to Rome. His remarks coincided with a feast day established to support China’s Catholic faithful. As the first American pope, Leo faces key decisions on renewing the Vatican’s 2018 agreement with Beijing on bishop appointments, an accord criticized for undermining papal authority.