A New Asian Mission

PUNIT PARANJPE / REUTERS

Cardinal Dias was promoted by the Pope

Many bosses of western multinationals have Asia on their minds. Though Pope Benedict XVI's global conglomerate is focused on converts, not consumers, the Roman Catholic Church also appears to be shifting its gaze eastward. The Vatican held a special meeting on Jan. 19-20 to forge a new policy on China.

This follows several trips to Asia by top cardinals, and Benedict's choice last year to name then Archbishop of Mumbai (formerly Bombay ) Ivan Cardinal Dias as head of the powerful Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples, which oversees all Catholic missions around the world.

One Vatican...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!