China Recognizes Authority of Bishop Melchior Shi

The Chinese government has officially recognized Melchior Shi Hongzhen as the Catholic bishop of Tianjin, a significant development in church-state relations after Shi had faced house arrest for resisting the state-backed church structure. This recognition follows ongoing dialogue between the Vatican and Chinese authorities, highlighting the 2018 agreement concerning the appointment of bishops, which allows some influence from Chinese officials. The Vatican views this as a positive outcome of their discussions and a milestone in improving religious freedom in China. Bishop Shi, 94, who has been an outspoken opponent of the state church, was ordained in 1982 and became Tianjin's bishop in 2019. This development may reflect a broader shift in China's religious policy and its relationship with the Vatican. Both parties are expected to discuss the renewal of their agreement this autumn.