How The Vatican And China Are Trying To Make Up After A Decades-Long Dispute

A long-standing dispute between the Vatican and China could be resolved by the end of the month as representatives from both sides are expected to meet in Rome.

Sources familiar with the negotiations told Reuters that China is hoping to finalise a deal on the ordination of bishops on the mainland.

Relations have historically been strained between the Catholic Church and China's ruling Communist party (CCP) over irreconcilable claims to authority. The Vatican does not accept the validity of episcopal consecrations by the Chinese Catholic Patriotic Association – the government's state-approved Catholic body – while the CCP has strongly opposed Rome's right to ordain Chinese bishops.

An underground Catholic Church refuses to compromise with the state and is loyal only to the Pope. The feud has been ongoing for more than six decades, alongside growing concerns from the CCP about the growth of Christianity in China.

The government has signalled a crackdown on churches, and closely monitors members of even state-controlled institutions.