The Chinese Communist Part postponed the trial of former bishop of Hong Kong and retired Cardinal Joseph Zen due to the presiding judge's COVID-19 infection.
Cardinal Joseph Zen speaks during a Mass at the Holy Cross Church on May 24, 2022, in Hong Kong, China. The cardinal was set to stand trial on Sept. 19, 2022, in connection to his role as a trustee of a pro-democracy legal fund, which he and other trustees are accused of failing to register civilly. The trial was delayed. / Photo by Louise Delmotte/Getty ImagesSt. Louis, Mo., Sep 19, 2022 / 11:51 am (CNA).The criminal trial of Cardinal Joseph Zen of Hong Kong has been delayed after the judge presiding over the case tested positive for COVID-19, Hong Kong media reported. Zen, 90, was to have stood trial beginning Monday in connection to his role as a trustee of a pro-democracy legal fund, which he and other trustees are accused of failing to register civilly. Zen is the bishop emeritus of Hong Kong, an outspoken advocate for religious freedom and democracy, and a sharp critic of the Vatican s 2018 agreement with Beijing on the appointment of bishops. Local media report.
Cardinal Joseph Zen, the 90-year-old former archbishop of Hong Kong, begins his formal trial after having been arrested in May for allegedly colluding with foreign forces.