Chinese Govt. Bans Churches for Three Months

To the left is a copy of the letter delivered to Beijing Churches by the Chinese Government. Click here for a translation of the letter into English. The letter essentially demands that all churches in China be shut down for three months (July 15 - October 15). The letter further goes on to state that Chinese churches are prohibited from accepting help from visiting Christians such as donations or preaching. The China Aid Association has reported on this traversty of freedom in this article, and below is an excerpt,

"Beijing- CAA has discovered that a number of Chinese House Church Pastors were forced to sign a written agreement that they would not participate in religious services while the Olympic Games are taking place in China. The document, drafted by Chinese Govnerment Officials, specifies that the House Churches in China

“…refrain from organizing and joining illegal gatherings and refrain from receiving donations, sermons and preaching from overseas religious organizations and groups that have a purpose.”

The document also prohibits the churches from gathering in their communities for more than 3 months while the Olympics are taking place. Should church members violate these rules they will be subject to the disciplinary actions of the Chinese Government."
Click here for full article

Hah! So much for the "Chinese Dream" which we were presented with at the Opening Ceremony of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, broadcast to 1 billion (15% of the World's population) on TV a week ago. This is the true China.

Hat tip: Doug's blog