Tag: SARA
The Mountains Are Shorter, Part 2
Mountains today no longer symbolize separation, but rather strength, as suggested by another phrase, tieda de Jiangshan (铁打的江山). Literally meaning “rivers and mountains forged in iron,” it is commonly translated “iron-clad country,” a fitting description of the seemingly unshakeable state power being exerted throughout Xi’s China.
Internet Regulations Six Months On
Due to the licensing and real-name requirements, these regulations… certainly make it more difficult for individuals and unregistered churches to put religious content online.
Reading Tea Leaves from the 2021 National Religious Work Conference
What can we learn from the recent conference on religious work? A comparison with the 2018 conference helps tease out key points.
Raising the Walls of the Sandbox
As churches in China experience continued tightening, it’s worth considering the wider context of the measures and what their broader purpose is.
Religion Returning to the Center
For a deeper understanding of some of the issues facing the church in China today, check out this e-journal from Germany.
3 Questions: Being Theologically Prepared
A conversation with Dr. Carsten Vala of Loyola University on the current situation of the church in China.
Regulating the Internet
The State Administration for Religious Affairs releases draft regulations calling for strict control over online religious content.
A “New” New Normal?
Management of religious affairs will be shifted from, SARA to the United Front Work Department—what questions should we be asking?
Being the Chinese Church in the Face of Growing Political Uncertainty
Chinese Christians are asking how they should respond to the new religious regulations. Here is one pastor's response.
Will New Regulations Tighten the State’s Grip on Religion?
On September 8, 2016 China's State Administration for Religious Affairs (SARA) sent a draft amendment for religious affairs administration to the Legal Office of the State Council. The amendments were posted on-line through the State Council website, requesting public opinions on the draft before October 7 of this year.