(ZENIT News / Rome, 15.08.2024).- In an interview last May, which was only made known this August, Pope Francis shared his yearning to visit China and, in particular, to pray at the Shrine of Our Lady of Sheshan, close to Shanghai. This desire reflects his profound respect and admiration for Chinese Catholics, who have kept a firm faith despite the adversities they have faced over the years.
Historically, relations between the Vatican and China have been complicated, marked by the Chinese Government’s distrust of the influence of Catholicism. However, significant progress was made in 2018, when both sides signed an Agreement, which regulates the appointment of Bishops in the country, making it possible for them to be approved both by the local Catholic community as well as the Pope. Although this Agreement has been renewed on two occasions, in 2020 and 2022, its implementation hasn’t been exempt of tensions, with incidents in which the Chinese Authorities have taken unilateral decisions in the appointment of Bishops, challenging the spirit of the Agreement.
During the interview, broadcast on the YouTube channel of the Jesuits’ Chinese Province, Pope Francis pointed out the patience and capacity to wait of the Chinese, describing them as “masters” in these virtues. Referring to the challenges that Catholics face in China, the Holy Father sent them a message of hope, acknowledging that the faith and resilience of the Chinese people are a powerful testimony of their dedication and trust in God.
The Demands of Being Pope and the Handling of Criticisms
The Pontiff also reflected on the exigencies of his role as leader of the Catholic Church. At 87, he attributes his capacity to manage such an intense agenda to an organized life and the support of trustworthy collaborators. However, he admits that the criticisms, although sometimes difficult, are essential for his personal growth and for the Church in general. Even when he faces direct opposition, Pope Francis insists on the importance of patience and reflection, recalling that some resistances can contain constructive criticisms that benefit the Church.
Confronting Global Crises and Challenges
The Holy Father has not dodged the challenges he has faced during his papacy, from the pandemic to the current wars. Speaking of these challenges, he stressed the importance of humour and prayer, mentioning his daily devotion to Saint Thomas More’s prayer, who asks for a sense of humour. This attitude has helped him to remain serene and to seek solutions always through dialogue and patience.
A Call to Avoid Clericalism and Worldliness
Looking to the future, the Pope warned about the dangers of clericalism and spiritual worldliness, regarding them as the greatest threats for the Church, even worse than the scandals of the past. In this connection, he urged his future Successor to maintain a constant life of prayer, reminding that it is in prayer where the Lord communicates and guides.
The interview with Father Peter Chia, filmed in the library of the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace, offers an intimate vision of Pope Francis, a leader that, despite the challenges he faces, has an unbreakable faith in the Church’s capacity to overcome difficulties. His message to Chinese Catholics and to the world is clear: hope, patience, humour and prayer are key to navigate through difficult times and to continue to go forward with fortitude and trust in God.
