Pope gives ‘noble’ Chinese people a shout-out at Mass in Mongolia in bid to warm ties

Pope Francis extended a special acknowledgment to the Chinese populace, referring to them as “noble,” during a Mass conducted in Mongolia, aimed at fostering improved relations. This gesture took place amidst the papal visit to Mongolia, where the focus was overshadowed by the ongoing concerns over Beijing’s actions towards religious minorities. Pope Francis addressed the assembly, including numerous Chinese pilgrims, and took the opportunity to convey his warm regards to the people of China. He expressed his wish for their continuous progress and encouraged Chinese Catholics to uphold their faith while also being responsible citizens.

The pontiff’s visit marked the sole instance during his four-day journey where he made a public reference to China, despite China’s significant influence over both Mongolia and the trip itself. China’s Communist Party has persistently enforced strict controls on religious practices, particularly targeting Christianity and Islam, viewing them as foreign influences and potential challenges to their authority. The suppression of Uyghurs in the Xinjiang region has been particularly severe, drawing international concern. Reports suggest that over a million ethnic minority individuals have been subjected to forced detention in reeducation centers, where allegations of torture, abuse, and coerced renunciation of their faith and culture have emerged.

While the pope extended a telegram of goodwill to President Xi Jinping as his aircraft traversed Chinese airspace, the absence of mainland Chinese bishops during the papal visit underscored the delicate nature of the 2018 Vatican-China agreement regarding Catholic bishop appointments. This agreement had been compromised by unilateral appointments made by Beijing.

During the visit, Pope Francis emphasized Mongolia’s historical tolerance for diverse faiths, contrasting it with China’s ongoing crackdown on religious groups. He presided over an interfaith event featuring Mongolian shamans, Buddhist monks, Muslim, Jewish, Shinto leaders, and a Russian Orthodox priest. In this diverse gathering, he recognized the potential for religious traditions to contribute positively to society. He underscored the significance of dialogue and encounter among leaders of nations as a means to alleviate global conflicts.

Pope Francis’ presence in Mongolia aimed at nurturing the emerging Catholic community while also highlighting Mongolia’s tradition of tolerance. The visit transpired in a region where relations between the Holy See and neighboring China and Russia have often been strained. Despite China’s repression of religious minorities casting a shadow, the Vatican aimed to emphasize Mongolia’s unique aspects and its small Catholic population.

Amid these dynamics, Cardinal-elect Chow from Hong Kong expressed the growing importance of the Asian church within the universal church, pointing to its role alongside the fast-growing African church. As China continues to push for the Sinicization of religions, adhering to party directives, the delicate balance between maintaining diplomatic relations and expressing concerns about religious freedom persists. Pope Francis has maintained a cautious approach, avoiding direct confrontation with Beijing, and emphasizing dialogue and engagement.

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