Bishops from mainland China express regret they couldn't attend synod

Published: 2005-10-18

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Four bishops from mainland China, appointed by Pope Benedict XVI to the Synod of Bishops on the Eucharist, wrote to express their regret at not having been able to attend. The Latin-language letter, sent on behalf of the bishops by 83-year-old Bishop Luke Li Jingfeng of Fengxiang, was read to the synod Oct. 18 by Cardinal Angelo Sodano, Vatican secretary of state. The synod's English briefing officer told reporters the bishop said he was sorry he could not attend the synod, citing his own health problems, but also acknowledging there were other difficulties. The bishop expressed his hopes that diplomatic relations between China and the Vatican could be restored and expressed his unity in prayer with the synod, the briefing officer said. The Vatican said it would release the bishop's letter and Pope Benedict's response at a later date.

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