Vatican’s Choice of Hong Kong Bishop Charts Course Independent of Beijing

Newly appointed Bishop of Hong Kong Rev. Stephen Chow (R) speaks at a press conference with Cardinal John Tong (L) in Hong Kong on May 18, 2021. Peter Parks/AFP via Getty Images

News Analysis

VATICAN—After two years of consultation, the Holy See announced on May 17 that Pope Francis has selected Jesuit Stephen Chow Sau-yan as the next Bishop of Hong Kong, passing over the individual said to be Beijing’s choice for the position.