China, which cut off ties with the Vatican in 1951, appoints bishops through its Chinese Patriotic Catholic Association, which runs state-sanctioned churches. Under a deal, the Vatican could ask these underground bishops to serve under the bishops appointed by Beijing in exchange for influence over future appointments. Critics of a deal between Beijing and the Vatican say it would constitute a “moral blow” to the Catholic church. China church demolition sparks fears of campaign against Christians Read moreThere are other obstacles. We won’t listen to him ... We will keep our way as an underground church.

Source: The Guardian March 31, 2018 05:15 UTC