[1][2] Yao is the first Chinese bishop appointed by Pope Francis.

He pursued advanced studies in the United States, earning master's degree of church etiquette from St. John's University.

He took part in short-term training at the school of rites of Paul VI in the Philippines.

In 2010 he became vicar general of Bishop John Liu Shi-gong in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Jining.

In August 2019 he became Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Jining.