Chinese Bishop Arrested for "Serious Crime" of Celebrating Mass
The prelate was taken into custody on March 7, reports AsiaNews.it.
The Eucharist was held on December 27 to inaugurate the Jubilee Year and was attended by 200 people.
China imposed a fine of 200,000 yuan (US$ 26,500), which Monsignor Shao contested. He insisted that the church's activities do not violate the law.
As a result, the prelate was arrested for his own "safety".
His whereabouts are unknown and it is unclear how long he will be detained. The faithful are concerned for his safety and health.
Bishop Shao has refused to join "Catholic" organizations controlled by the Chinese Communist Party.
In addition, the Chinese authorities prevented several hundred people from participating in a pilgrimage organized by the Cangnan parish, which is part of the underground church in Wenzhou.
In recent years, plainclothes agents have also entered underground churches in Wenzhou, to prevent children and teenagers from attending Eucharists.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin is in no hurry to comment on the persecution.
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