(13 Mar 08 RV) The Commission on China ended its three day session Wednesday and
issued the follwoing statement:
The Commission established by Pope Benedict
XVI to study the most important questions concerning the life of the Church in China
met in the Vatican from 10 to 12 March. The meeting had as its theme the Letter which
the Holy Father sent to Chinese Catholics on 27 May 2007. Participants first examined
the reaction to the pontifical document both inside and outside China. They reflected
on the theological principles that inspired the Letter in order to comprehend the
future prospects they bring for the Catholic community in China. In concrete terms,
in the light of the papal text consideration was given to certain important aspects
regarding the Church's mission as 'instrument of salvation' for the Chinese people:
evangelisation in a world experiencing globalisation; the application, in China's
current situation, of the Vatican Council II doctrine on the nature and structure
of the Church; forgiveness and reconciliation within the Catholic community; the requirements
of truth and charity; the government of dioceses, which has great relevance for pastoral
activity and for the formation of priests, seminarians, religious and lay faithful.
In line with the indications expressed by the Pope in His Letter, the will for a respectful
and constructive dialogue with the authorities was reiterated. Finally, and still
in the light of the pontifical document, the participants exchanged information and
experiences concerning the life and activity of the Church in China. The meeting concluded
with a meeting with the Holy Father. He listened to a brief report of the work accomplished
over the three days and encouraged the participants to continue their commitment in
favour of the Catholic community in China. He also mentioned the forthcoming event
of 24 May, the Universal Day of Prayer for the Church in China.