Official statements from the Vatican or major news outlets

China Cracks Down on Catholic Churches, Replacing Jesus Images with Xi Jinping Photos; 10 Vatican-approved Bishops Persecuted

Oct 22, 2024, 12:59 PM

The Chinese government is intensifying its crackdown on religious institutions, particularly targeting Catholic and Protestant churches. Recent reports indicate that images of Jesus are being removed from places of worship and replaced with photographs of President Xi Jinping. This move is part of a broader effort to suppress religious expression in the country. Notably, at least ten bishops, who are recognized by the Vatican, are currently facing persecution by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The situation has drawn attention from various human rights advocates, including Lord Alton, who has spoken out on behalf of the persecuted bishops and the underground Church in China. Reports suggest that the persecution of these bishops has intensified following a controversial agreement between the Vatican and China regarding the appointment of bishops.