[ebb tide]

The selection of the new bishop of Hong Kong, since Tong too is on his way out now that he is past the age limit, will be a considerable puzzle for Pope Francis, who between rebellion and dialogue naturally leans toward the latter, if not toward outright submission, but he will also have to take into account the thirst for freedom and dignity of many Catholics - and bishops - of Hong Kong and of China as a whole.

[Andyman]

Wow, this is SUCH a surprise! Who could possibly have seen this coming?

[ebb tide]

Ping

One of these had died two years before, but the government of Beijing demanded and obtained this anomalous posthumous amnesty as well.

In exchange, however, Francis did not obtain the corresponding recognition, on the part of China, of the so-called “underground” bishops, consecrated by Rome without the government’s agreement.

[Hieronymus]

Vatican Uneasy

---

When a few of the frogs notice that the water is close to boiling and smells a bit like sulfur, uneasiness may be appropriate and possibly even contagious. The frogs could think about getting out of the water, or they could try croaking a few rounds of “Make Me a Channel of Your Peace” and “Michael Row Your Boat Ashore.”

“I do not think there are many among Bishops that will be saved, but many more that perish.”
St. John Chrysostom, Extract from St. John Chrysostom, Homily III on Acts 1:12.2