Resource Corner

Regulations on Religious Affairs

国家宗教事务局-- Decree of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China No. 426


Conversations abound discussing what can and cannot be done in China with regards to expressing and practicing faith. Can a Christian hold a Bible study at home? Do pastors have to be approved by the Religious Affairs Bureau? Is it legal to hold Sun-day School classes for children?

While many of these questions will remain, becoming familiar with the Regulations on Religious Affairs will provide an official reference point for informed discussion.

This decree, identifying and explaining the Regulations on Religious Affairs, was adopted at the 57th Executive Meeting of the State Council on July 7, 2004 and became effective March 1, 2005. It includes the following chapters:

Chapter I General Provisions

Chapter II Religious Bodies

Chapter III Sites for Religious Activities

Chapter IV Religious Personnel

Chapter V Religious Property

Chapter IV Religious Personnel

Chapter V Religious Property

Chapter VI Legal Liability

Chapter VII Supplementary Provisions

Read the entire five-page document here

Image Credit: Joann Pittman

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ChinaSource Team

ChinaSource Team

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