Chinese Authorities Persecute Catholic Groups During Festivities

Chinese Communist Party officials are targeting Catholic groups with targeted arrests during religious celebrations. At least seven individuals have been detained to prevent faithful from participating in festivities. The situation for Catholics in China has not improved according to reports. These actions are described as part of ongoing religious persecution. Those remaining in the underground Catholic church report feeling increasingly marginalized. The tension follows a period of unilateral decision-making by the Chinese government during a recent vacancy in the papacy. Reports suggest the persecution follows a period of unilateral government action during a recent papal vacancy.