The Holy See is watching events unfold in Tibet very quietly and this author is quite sure there will be a statement from the Vatican Diplomatic Service shortly. Tibetans need reassurance that the prayers and hopes of the Catholic people are with the Tibetan people as they struggle with China’s martial crackdown in their mountain society. In defense of Benedict XVI’s silence, this author knows well that the behind the scenes activities of the Holy See are relatively unknown to the world’s public. However, with prayerful solidarity the Catholic Church supports the people of Tibet in their struggle for autonomous rule and freedom from Chinese martial law. However, the delicate relationship between the Holy See and the Chinese government requires delicate balancing to preserve the progress of the Catholic Church in China.
For over fifty years, the Catholic Church in China has been under persecution and government interference. Since Benedict’s ascent to the papal throne, diplomatic progress has made great movement towards some restoration of Catholic freedoms in this Communist country. One of the greatest aspects that have materialized is the Chinese government’s willingness to permit Benedict to appoint bishops for the faithful Catholics in China. This is a great and significant departure from the government’s appointed bishops and clergy. Any miscalculation on the part of the Vatican could result in retaliatory and suppressive actions against Chinese Catholics, an action both parties do not wish to occur.
Benedict XVI’s papal message has consistently been towards developing strong compromises with opposing political and doctrinal ideologies. The situation in Tibet clearly requires the Holy See to consider the larger implications that would result in any premature and anti-Communist statement made by Benedict. On the surface for now, it seems that the Holy See is quiet on this matter. This author suggests that behind the quiet facade of Benedict there are strong diplomatic negotiations taking place to assure a peaceful and nonviolent solution to Tibet’s antagonism with China.
The Church historically has always played a diplomatic role in negotiations of global proportions. Secular observers need to realize that the Church has had a diplomatic corps of some nature since the journeys of Saint Paul. Besides prayerful support, the quiet interventions of Benedict’s diplomats are working to ensure all faiths are reassured in Tibet and China. As a Church, the Holy See has offered diplomatic resources throughout most of recorded modern history. This political and religious problem in Tibet requires peaceful and prayerful activities.
Catholics worldwide are united spiritually with the Tibetan people. Benedict’s perceived silence so far on this crisis should not be misconstrued as inactivity on the part of the Church. One can be certain; the Catholic Church needs to weigh all options involved in this troubled conflict. This author has no doubt that Benedict prayerfully supports and prays for the unity of the people of Tibet.
Hugh McNichol writes on Catholic topics and matters. He writes daily @ http://verbumcarofactumest.blogspot.com
4 users commented in " Tibet…Prayer and Catholic Diplomacy! "
Follow-up comment rss or Leave a TrackbackThis is no time for quiet diplomacy on the Tibet issue, nor on the issue of catholics in China. The Holy Father should speak out clearly in support of the rights of both. You cannot play diplomat with the PRC. They should first correct their human rights abuses. Then they will be worth dealing with diplomatically.
When we in the West really begin to understand the aqenda of the Dali Lama,then we will understand the plight of Tibets tiny Christan Community ! We who revolted aganist the abuses of all monarchys in the west,should not let the crinson coloured clothed monks install a THEOCRATIC goverment any where on the planet.When the so called God King returns to power,after courting western govermemts for over 3 decades is by the West placed in power,can we expect a free country?This poor soul cannot even bring peace among his own people,and where are all the Buddist monks and nuns now that we need them to show COMPASSION in CHINA after the earthquake?Maybe the speaking program could not be changed,and then again wheres the check?Well its not in Burma thats for sure,thats 90 percent Buddist and without a word from the LIVING BUDHA !!!! HELLO GET A LIFE
Sirs, Can you help me get the texts of these prayers in Tibetan: SIGN OF THE CROSS, OUR FATHER, HAIL MARY, GLORY BE TO THE FATHER, APOSTLES’ CREED. I need them for a collection in different languages. Thank you.
As a priest (Missionary Oblate), I have had the privilege and wonderful experience to work with the Chinese community in Washington, D.C. and have been invited twice to China to lecture at the universities on Christian thought. The Chinese have a magnificent tradition of philosophy which in so many ways parallels the humanistic traditions of our Church. I have found them to be a people of great warmth and big hearts.
I also met the Dalai Lama. The encounter was deeply moving, his words filled with peace and compassion, his perspective non-violent. I felt I was before a great and holy man, like Gandhi. While I, of course, argue with various religious doctrines, I firmly believe in mutual respect and reverent diologue.
When His Holiness embraced me in a huge bear hug, which shock everyone including me, I promised I would continually for him and the Tibetan people. This I’ve done for 17 years, and I wish I could let him know I’ve kept my promise.
A few years ago, a friend visited Tibet and, at my request, carried a miniature version of the Oblate mission cross and a medallion of St. Eugene de Mazenod, both blessed by John Paul,the Great. These were left in the Pótola Palace as a constant prayer for the return of the Dalai Lama with the exiles of Tibet.
I pray for the day when the great Chinese people open their warm hearts to hear the Dalai Lama’s sincere request only for the spiritual and cultural autonomy of Tibetans. His sense of non-violence is radically based in his religious belief and spiritual leadership. A mutual embrace of friendship and mutual respect could only benefit the two wonderful peoples.
Fr. James A. Loiacono, OMI
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