The Harmonious Society Continues Oppression

The Communist Chinese government, who speaks of creating a “harmonious society” characterized by religious freedom and rule of law, coerced many Chinese house church pastors into signing a written agreement stating they would not participate in religious services while the Olympics were being held. Drafted by government officials, the document specifies house church pastors are to “refrain from organizing and joining illegal gatherings and refrain from receiving donations, sermons and preaching from overseas religious organizations.” It also prohibits churches from gathering in their communities during the Olympics. Church members violating these rules are subject to punishment.

A well-known human rights activist and Christian, Hua Huiqi, was arrested once again by Chinese police on August 10. Huiqi, and his 51-year-old brother, Hua Huilin, were arrested while making their way to the government-established TSPM Kuanjie Church. The arrest prevented the pair from speaking with President Bush, who attended the church that morning. Hua Huiqi was baptized at the Kuanjie Church over ten years ago. Many church members and most non-Chinese media were prevented from meeting President Bush during the visit.

Pastor Zhang Mingxuan, president of the Chinese House Church Alliance, was arrested by Chinese police two days prior to the opening ceremonies of the Olympics. The arrest occurred when Pastor Mingxuan was trying to deliver medicine to his ailing wife. She was also arrested at the time, as well as another Chinese pastor, Pastor Wu. The three are still being held at the Jing Ba Lu Branch office of the Public Security Bureau.

Known as “Bike” for traversing the Chinese countryside on a bicycle (he has ridden over 10,000 miles and visited 24 Chinese provinces) and proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ despite constant harassment, Pastor Mingxuan was the inspiration for the recent partnership between the Voice of the Martyrs and China Aid Association in creating the Olympic Prayer Band.

More than 800,000 prayer bands have been requested since Pastor Mingxuan pleaded with the VOM staff to ask Christians around the globe to pray during the Olympic games for their Chinese brothers and sisters who are facing persecution. Chinese authorities are opening a full investigation into the distribution of Olympic prayer bands to house church members within China.

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