Pope Francis Appoints Bishop Joseph Shen Bin as bishop of Shanghai, China - Confirming Decision of Chinese Authorities on the Appointment
The Holy See today, confirmed the appointment of Bishop Joseph Shen Bin as bishop of Shanghai, China. Secretary of State explained the situation of Bishop Joseph Shen Bin of Shanghai, appointed today by Pope Francis, whom the Chinese authorities had in fact already transferred to the new post from his previous Diocese of Haimen, informing the Holy See but without involving it in the decision as the Agreement provides. This already took place about a month after the most recent renewal of the Agreement, that Beijing had installed the Bishop of Yujiang, John Peng Weizhao, as Auxiliary of the Diocese of Jiangxi, which is not recognised by the Holy See, news received with "surprise and regret."
Describing Bishop Shen Bin as an “esteemed pastor,” in the interview Cardinal Parolin explained that the Pope has "decided nevertheless to rectify the canonical irregularity” for the “greater good of the diocese.” However, the Secretary of State notes, this way of proceeding “seems to disregard the spirit of dialogue and collaboration established between the Vatican and the Chinese side over the years and to which is referred in the Agreement." For example, there are other “pending issues” related to two auxiliary bishops - Thaddeus Ma Daqin, still blocked, and Joseph Xing Wenzhi, retired - that require a “just and wise solution.”
In his response to interview questions, Cardinal Parolin insists on the need for “open dialogue” and “respectful encounter with the Chinese side.” (Vatican News)
Holy See Release on the Appointment of the Bishop of Shanghai
The Holy Father has appointed Bishop of Shanghai, in mainland China, H.E. Bishop Joseph Shen Bin, transferring him from the Diocese of Haimen, Jiangsu province.
Curriculum vitae
Bishop Joseph Shen Bin was born on February 23, 1970 in Qidong, in the Jiangsu province. After completing his philosophical studies in Sheshan (Shanghai) and theological studies in Beijing, he was ordained a priest on 1 November 1996. He then carried out his pastoral ministry in the Diocese of Haimen, first as parish vicar, in the Parish of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, then as Vicar General and, finally, as parish priest, in the Parish of the Mother of God. On 17 April 2010 he was nominated to the See of Haimen, with the consent of the two Parties, and on the 21st following he was consecrated Bishop. Since 2022, Msgr. Shen Bin has also been President of the body called the "College of Chinese Catholic Bishops".
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