The Reuters website reports today that the Vatican has condemned "a grave violation of human rights" in China, where state authorities forced several bishops and priests to attend a meeting of a state-backed church that does not have the Pope's approval.
In a statement yesterday (December 17, 2010), it expressed "profound sorrow" that the body -- known as the Assembly of Chinese Catholic Representatives -- forced Catholic clergy to attend the meeting in Beijing on December 7-9.
The Vatican said numerous bishops, priests, and lay believers loyal to the Pope were forced to attend, despite explicit instructions from the Vatican not to do so.
The Vatican said in a statement that it considers China's "persistent desire to control the most intimate area of citizens' lives as a sign of fear and weakness."
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