The rapprochement between China and the Vatican continued in September as the appointment of a bishop by China’s Patriotic Church (catholic) was tacitly approved by the Vatican.
Pope Benedict previously initiated reconstruction of the relationship by writing to the Patriotic Church. China severed ties with the Vatican in 1951, angry at the Vatican’s recognition of Taiwan, and the Vatican has been unwilling to recognise China’s sovereignty over appointing church officers. The fact that the Vatican commented positively on the appointment of Bishop Joseph Li Shan shows that the both sides see something to be gained. Perhaps the Vatican sees a large population with which it wants to rebuild ties …
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