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Beijing House Churches pledged not to meet during the Olympics

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, reports Michael Ireland, chief correspondent, ASSIST News Service.

According to China Aid Association, (CAA), the document, drafted by Chinese government 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."

CAA also says 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.

In a media advisory, China Aid says: "The discovery of this document provides further evidence of the PRC's hypocrisy towards creating a 'harmonious society' marked by religious freedom and rule of law.

"The fact the document was issued while the world's focus is on China, is a blatant challenge to the International community and an apathetic stance toward seeking to correct human rights violations even as world leaders are directly confronting the Government at the Beijing Olympics.

"If China is seeking to put on the mantle of a world superpower, it must first acknowledge the unalienable rights of its own people. CAA calls on the international community and those concerned to voice their complaint to the relevant Chinese Government authorities."

Below is an English translation of the document drafted by Chinese government officials:

"Guarantee Statement of Holding No Activities at Christian Gathering Sites on the Temporary Basis during the Olympic Games

"We will abide by the relevant provisions in the Constitution of the People's Republic of China and Regulations on Religious Affairs and persevere in patriotism and love for one's religion.

"We will observe the relevant codes of conduct and the law and refrain from doing anything that endangers the society. We will also 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.

"During the Olympic Games, activities at the gathering sites will be shut down for three months (July 15---October 15)

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[08/14/2008]

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