Cardinal Zen defends underground Church in China, criticizes government’s Patriotic Association
February 05, 2010
Following the publication of an article in the Italian magazine 30 Giorni, Cardinal Joseph Zen Ze-kiun has defended his criticism of Communist China’s Catholic Patriotic Association and his support of the underground Church.
“I absolutely support reconciliation,” he said. “However, since the government policy has not changed, I fear a unification in the structure could be done in a hurry without following the principles that the Pope has laid down.”
The retired Hong Kong bishop criticized the decision of an underground bishop to join the Catholic Patriotic Association in July 2009.
“I personally have great respect for the bishop,” said Cardinal Zen.” “He has borne great suffering for his faith,” but “respecting him does not mean we have to accept all his judgments. They are separate matters.”
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Further information:
- Zen says magazine’s criticism groundless (UCAN)
- Prelates differ on approach to China's 'official' Catholic Church (CWN)
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