Pope Leo XIV Prays for Unity of 12 Million Chinese Catholics

Pope Leo XIV, in his first Regina Coeli prayer, emphasized the Day of Prayer for the Church in China, established by Pope Benedict XVI to unite the estimated 12 million Chinese Catholics divided between the state-controlled church and the underground church loyal to Rome. He prayed for Chinese Catholics to be strong and joyful witnesses of the Gospel amid trials and called for peace and harmony, extending prayers to all peoples suffering from war. The pope also acknowledged Pope Francis's 2018 controversial agreement giving the Chinese state-controlled church a role in bishop nominations while retaining Vatican veto power, a deal criticized by some for conceding too much to Beijing. Leo XIV faces the decision of whether to renew this accord, especially amid reports of Beijing appointing bishops without papal consent. The pope's remarks reflect ongoing Vatican efforts to maintain communion with Chinese Catholics and promote unity despite political and religious challenges. Additionally, Leo cited the tenth anniversary of Laudato Si', urging care for creation and the poor, highlighting the Church's broader mission beyond China.