Summary
In December, Chinese authorities in China issued new regulations mandating that all Catholic clergy and religious must surrender their passports for state custody. This measure was adopted by the Chinese Catholic Patriotic Association (CCPA) and the Chinese Catholic Bishops’ Conference (BCCCC), entities operating under direct supervision of the Chinese Communist Party. These organizations do not recognize the authority of the Holy See. The regulations require priests to hand over their travel documents, including those related to Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan, for state storage. For official trips, priests must obtain prior approval from authorities. Private trips are even more restricted; individuals must submit detailed applications at least 30 days in advance, outlining the itinerary, purpose, duration, and list of participants. After approval, they must sign a commitment to follow the plan. Upon return, religious personnel must return their passport within seven days. The new measures fit into China’s broader policy of state supervision over religious life. This includes restrictions on worship services being held in unauthorized places or presided over by unregistered clergy. These regulations also reinforce China’s efforts toward “sinicization,” requiring religious groups to adhere to communist principles and limiting foreign clergy activities. The provisional agreement between China and the Holy See, which was renewed until 2028, is now under increased scrutiny as a result of these state-imposed controls. Pope Leo XIV has approved episcopal appointments from Chinese authorities without explicitly commenting on the tightening of state control over religious institutions.
Key Topics
Vatican City, CCPA, BCCCC
