Loyal Chinese bishop reverses stand, endorses Patriotic Association

June 15, 2016

After four years under house arrest, Bishop Thaddeus Ma Daquin of Shanghai has shocked loyal Catholics by endorsing the government-backed Catholic Patriotic Association.

Bishop Ma dramatically renounced his membership in the Patriotic Association at his episcopal consecration in July 2012. As punishment, he has been confined to his quarters and unable to engage in public ministry, although he has been able to communicate with the faithful by means of a blog.

On June 12, Bishop Ma unexpectedly praised the Patriotic Association. It is not clear what caused the bishop to abandon the stand that had led to his confinement under house arrest, but his reversal is a major propaganda victory for the Chinese government, which insists that the Patriotic Association must control the Catholic Church in China. The Vatican refuses to recognize the Patriotic Association, and has denounced the group as an affront to the autonomy of the Church.

 

---

For all current news, visit our News home page.

---

 
Further information:

• Shanghai Bishop Ma's open repentance shocks Catholics (UCANews)
• Shanghai’s Bishop Ma in Surprise Reversal on 'Official' Church Group (America)
• ‘The bishop who stood up to China" (CWN, 4/1/14)