China’s communist authorities issued new measures by prohibiting the transmission of Masses, homilies, and religious education by virtual means, without their authorization. This is another means of their oppression of religious freedom.
The State Administration of Religious Affairs, a body under the State Council of the Government of China, announced that “Administrative Measures for Religious Information Services on the Internet,” reported Asia News.
As Asia News explained, “religious information services” include “Masses, homilies, ceremonies, training activities aimed at religious bodies, monasteries, churches and individuals”, among others.
The provisions, which will come into effect on 1 March of next year. These rules will apply to both Chinese organizations and foreign entities present in the country.
Asia News specified that churches or religious organizations will be able to continue offering these religious services only if they manage to obtain a special license.
However, it is prohibited for a religious organization or individual to raise funds “in the name of religion” on the Internet.
Likewise, it is prohibited the communication through virtual channels with young people to “induce minors to become religious”, nor to “organize or force them to participate in religious activities”.