New security laws recently passed by the Chinese government could further limit religious freedom on the Chinese mainland and beyond. China Aid warns that the wording of these new laws is "intentionally vague" and may prompt greater "persecution and abuse based on perceived threats to national security." Among its provisions are further restrictions on "foreign influences" and what they consider "cults."
The new security laws also expand China's restrictions on religion into Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan. Some Hong Kong-based pastors fear that they might be penalized for activities such as serving mainland Christians via the Internet, hosting their visits, or even preaching to people from mainland China who are presently living in Hong Kong.
On July 1st, the same day the new laws were enacted, Hong Kong pastor Wu Xiaohe was summoned by the Religious Affairs Bureau in Shenzhen city and told he could no longer invite mainland Chinese Christians to Hong Kong for training. Officials told him that "at least 300 more religious leaders" would receive similar summons. Informative video clips and reports on the challenges facing believers in China are available at this page.
Please remember our brothers and sisters in China and surrounding areas. Pray that the country's officials will no longer see the church as a threat to national security but rather as a positive force for the good of society as a whole. Ask God to continue overseeing the growth of His church in this part of the world, calling even those who would try to hinder religious freedom. Also pray for wisdom on behalf of the Christian leaders as they strive to carry out the Great Commission. Thankfully, He will never abandon the Godly, nor will He forsake His faithful ones (Psalm 37:28).
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