The Vatican has announced the first appointment of a Chinese bishop under Pope Leo XIV, marking continued support for a contentious agreement with Beijing on bishop nominations.
Joseph Lin Yuntuan was named auxiliary bishop of Fuzhou, the capital of southeastern China’s Fujian province. The nomination, made by Pope Leo on June 5, was officially recognized by the Chinese government.
“This event is a positive outcome of the ongoing dialogue between the Holy See and Chinese authorities,” the Vatican said in a statement, calling it an important step for the Fuzhou diocese.
Although the Vatican and China do not have formal diplomatic ties — due to the Holy See’s recognition of Taiwan — both parties agreed in 2018 to jointly oversee bishop appointments. The deal, renewed most recently in October 2024 for another four years, remains controversial and its details undisclosed.
Critics within the Church argue the agreement gives Beijing too much influence over Chinese Catholics, estimated to number around 12 million.
Following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, and the election of Pope Leo XIV on May 8, Beijing went ahead with the appointment of bishops in Shanghai and Xinxiang — a move viewed by observers as an effort to assert control during the Vatican’s leadership transition.
Despite ongoing tensions, the recent appointment underlines the Vatican’s commitment to the fragile yet significant relationship with China.
