Bishop francis Li jianlin Ordained in China, Marking Continued Vatican-Beijing Dialog
The episcopal ordination of Bishop Francis Li Jianlin took place on Friday, December 5, 2025, in the apostolic Prefecture of Xinxiang, Henan Province, China. This significant event underscores the ongoing dialogue between the Holy See and the People’s Republic of China regarding the appointment of bishops.
Bishop Li Jianlin was appointed by Pope Leo XIV on August 11, 2025. His appointment proceeded with the approval of candidates within the framework of the Provisional Agreement between the Holy See and China, following the acceptance of the resignation of Bishop Joseph Zhang Weizhu from his pastoral duties.
A Life Dedicated to Faith and Service
Born on July 9, 1974, in Huixian, Henan Province, Bishop Li Jianlin comes from a devout Catholic family. His journey to the priesthood began in September 1990, with formation and discernment studies spanning nine years. He initially studied at the seminary in Zhengding before continuing his education at the seminary in yixian (Hebei).
He received priestly ordination on July 23, 1999, from Bishop Nicola Shi Jingxian of Shangqiu, specifically for service within the Apostolic Prefecture of Xinxiang.From July 1999 to June 2000, he served as the Parish Priest of Qinyang. Recognizing his aptitude for formation, he was entrusted with the responsibility of guiding seminarians and religious within the prefecture beginning in 2000. Most recently, since 2011, he has served as the Parish Priest in Jiaozuo.
The ordination of Bishop Li Jianlin represents a crucial step in the continued pastoral care of Catholics in the Xinxiang Prefecture and highlights the delicate but persistent efforts toward normalized relations between the Vatican and China.
