Victoria Ma

The Chinese government has not said whether the bishop of Yixian is still alive or dead. White roses and carnations are offered to honour bishops who died in prison, and those alive but still in prison. Chinese authorities violate their own constitution. Protesters called for the release of Mgr Su Zhimin, who disappeared in police custody 17 years ago.

The Occupy Movement's last occupied site of Causeway Bay, a business and shopping district, was cleared by police today. Yesterday PIME fr. Franco Mella presided the Mass: "Don't be upset. We should have hope, like John the Baptist, who prepared the way for Jesus Christ".

After a night in jail, pan-democrat legislators and Student Federation secretary are released. Although they refused to post bail, they were freed unconditionally. A few diehard remain in in Causeway Bay; for them, "The clearance of occupied areas cannot extinguish the fire of democracy."

Cardinal Tong's appeal to police and students to renounce violence and return to dialogue on democratic reforms. Student leaders, parliamentarians, sit-in supporters in the area prepare to undergo arrest. University professors oversee the use of force by police. Some students cry. Others say that they will find new ways to fight for democracy.

From the Marian shrine of Sheshan where he is confined, Mgr Thaddeus Ma Daqin sends a prayer for the three new episcopal brothers ordained by Card Tong in the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. He asked "the almighty God to bless them, and under the leadership of Cardinal Tong the new bishops will serve in charity, help pastoral work and evangelization work to grow, and bring blessings to Hong Kong". Bishop Ma also "wished peace in Hong Kong and peace in their motherland China".

Catholics in Hong Kong and mainland China welcomed papal appointments with joy. A Catholic from northern China hopes to see the Holy See choose new bishops for the Chinese Church. The three new bishops will be ordained on 30 August. Card Tong's episcopal mandate has been extended for another three years.