11/27/2018 China (International Christian Concern) – A group of eight leaders from the Diocese of Datong (Shanxi) issued an open letter addressing the governing authorities concerning their lack of religious freedom and denouncing the oppression towards Christianity in China.

Apart from the Chinese authorities, the letter also addressed the Vatican, asking how they are to behave in face of the persecution without support from the church.

A section of the letter stated: “The events that happened today around us, we suppose that everybody has already paid attention to. These facts have a close relationship with our community of believers. Because of it, we cannot sit down silent without any concern, even more we cannot stand by with folded arms. What is worth of our concern is the freedom of religious faith since it is a fundamental human right, that cannot be violated, forbidden or taken away. Obviously, many statements and proposals of the Government, we must not necessarily agree upon and accept, some of them we even oppose. But, it is not possible to take away our freedom and right because we have a different faith. As a community of believers, we are even more concerned with the freedom of speech, since it cannot be separated from freedom of religion: without one there cannot be the other!

We now receive your control. The cross of our church and even the whole church has been demolished. The freedom of the faithful to attend our meetings is opposed. The church is forced to accept the guide of the Chinese Government. All these things make us worried and dissatisfied.  As believers, we know that the future decides the present. With this joint declaration of ours we hope that you can respect the right of the Church, respect every person: this is a bottom line that cannot be overtaken….”

The letter continued and following the letter were the signatures of the eight Datong Diocese.

The letter was written in light of the new regulations on religious activities. In the last year the number of churches closed and crosses destroyed has increased. Additionally, it is harder for Christians to get their hands on religious literature and attend services.

For interviews with Gina Goh, ICC’s Regional Manager, please contact Olivia Miller, Communications Coordinator: [email protected].