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Reflecting on the recent election of Pope Leo XIV, Cardinal Stephen Chow of Hong Kong expressed hope that the new pope will maintain dialogue and engagement with China, following the path set by his predecessor. The Vatican's 2018 agreement with China regarding the appointment of bishops has been a contentious issue, with several instances of violations reported despite its renewal in 2020 and 2022.
In an interview published by Kung Kao Pao, Cardinal Chow emphasized Pope Leo's familiarity with Chinese culture, stating, "He knows about China. And he follows the track of Pope Francis, wanting to have dialogue." Retired Cardinal Joseph Zen has been a vocal critic of the agreement, describing it as detrimental to the Catholic Church in China.
Human Rights Watch urged Pope Leo XIV to reassess this deal due to ongoing persecution faced by Catholics in China. They stated that Pope Leo should advocate for the release of imprisoned or harassed clergy.
Cardinal Chow noted his limited personal knowledge of Pope Leo but expressed optimism about future conversations under his leadership. He recalled gifting a statue of Our Lady of Sheshan to Pope Leo after his election as a reminder not to forget the Chinese church and people.
The cardinal recounted that during the conclave there was a shared sentiment among cardinals not to seek an exact replica of Pope Francis but rather elect "the successor of Peter." He highlighted their impression of then-Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as "kind of low-key" and "a good pastor."
Pope Leo's emphasis on synodality in his initial address was welcomed by many who were concerned about its continuity under new leadership. Cardinal Chow remarked that Pope Leo clearly intends for synodality to persist with courage.
Junno Arocho Esteves contributed this report from Malmö, Sweden.
