Bishop Peter Shao Zhumin of the Diocese of Wenzhou in Zhejiang, China, has reportedly been apprehended by Chinese security forces on January 2, as reported by AsiaNews. During his arrest, a source mentioned that the bishop was instructed to pack clothing for all seasons, implying an extended period of detention.

The specific location of Bishop Shao's detention remains unknown, a common situation when senior clergy are detained in China. Speculation arises that the arrest may be linked to a letter he wrote expressing dissatisfaction with changes made in the diocese without his consent.

Bishop Shao, ordained in 1989 and appointed coadjutor bishop of Wenzhou in 2011, has faced challenges from Chinese authorities who refuse to recognize his ministry and ordination. His refusal to align with state-controlled bodies governing the Church in China, such as the Bishops’ Conference of the Catholic Church in China and the Chinese Catholic Patriotic Association, has resulted in frequent harassment and arrests.

This recent arrest follows Bishop Shao's previous detentions in February 2023 and October 2021, as well as several instances between his appointment and 2018. The 61-year-old bishop has consistently resisted legitimizing the state-run Church, leading to his relocation by authorities in 2018.

Despite the 2018 Sino-Vatican Accord, which outlines a power-sharing agreement for the appointment of bishops, Chinese authorities continue to target clergy who resist registering with state-controlled religious oversight bodies. The agreement, set for renewal in October 2024, has brought about unity between the underground and patriotic churches, aligning them with Rome.

The Holy See Press Office has yet to release a statement on Bishop Shao's recent arrest, but in 2017, they expressed "grave concern" about his situation after being forcibly removed from his episcopal see. The ongoing harassment of clergy who refuse to register with government bodies overseeing religious activities persists, with the National Religious Affairs Administration launching a compulsory clergy database in May 2023.

The Diocese of Wenzhou, often referred to as the "Jerusalem of the East," holds historical significance for Chinese Christians, witnessing substantial growth in the 19th century. The region remains one of China's largest Christian urban centers, despite the challenges faced by clergy in the current political climate.