Benedict Rogers calls for a rethink of Sino-Vatican relations as Christians face intense persecution under the Chinese regime.
Benedict Rogers argues that Christians in China are experiencing the most severe persecution since the Mao era due to the deification of Xi Jinping. The Chinese Communist Party has launched a "Sinicization of religion" campaign, which seeks to co-opt and control religious practices to serve state interests. This has resulted in the destruction of churches, constant surveillance, and the arrest of those worshipping in unregistered locations. While the administration recently saw the release of Pastor Ezra Jin, Benedict Rogers warns that this single success should not overshadow the continued detention of many other leaders. Rogers urges Pope Leo XIV to take a firmer stance by publicly praying for persecuted Christians and signaling that the 2028 bishop appointment agreement could be suspended if religious freedom does not improve. He also advises the US-China Catholic Association to prioritize human rights over simple diplomatic engagement. Rogers emphasizes that while dialogue is valuable, it must be an honest exchange that holds the repressive regime accountable for its human rights violations.