PERSECUTION CONTINUES ON EVE OF GAMES

In a story for Associated Baptist Press Rachael Mehlhaff stated "While China appears to be making some religious-liberty concessions on the eve of the Olympics, critics in the United States say Chinese persecution of Christians in the country is on the rise."  She went on to say, "China is on the U.S. State Department's list of 'Countries of Particular Concern' as one of the world's worst persecutors of religious freedom. China Watchers report that there has been a significant Chinese crackdown on dissenting groups -- including Christians in churches not officially registered with or sanctioned by the government.

SURPRISE FOR OLYMPIC VISITORS

"We are seeing an increase in persecution across the board," Dan Burton of China Aid Association said. “All foreigners [in China for the games] are going to be closely watched." Senator Brownback of Kansas disclosed that China has carefully plotted to take advantage of the thousands of foreign visitors on its soil and has set up a system to be able to spy and gather information about every guest at hotels.” Hotels have been ordered to install monitoring equipment or face the loss of their license to operate. The ruling Communist Party doesn't want to take chances that the games will become a platform for critics of Chinese policies.

ARRESTS OF CHRISTIANS IN EARTHQUAKE AREAS

Churches in earthquake stricken Sichuan face Government persecution for various infractions of the law such as passing out literature and Bibles to the people, holding unauthorized Christian meetings, and for praying for people with tragic needs.  As more than 50 house church members gathered at a residence in Qujiang Township, they were confronted by more than 20 Public Security Bureau officials, Homeland Security Defense Brigade, the local police station, Office for Religious Affairs and cadres from neighborhood committees. The house church members were accused of "engaging in cult activities through an illegal gathering." Seven women were immediately taken away, while officials confiscated Bibles, books and other objects.

Li Chixia, the head of the group, was accused of "undermining the implementation of the state law and regulations by utilizing a cult organization." He has been sentenced to one year of education through labor.

BUT GOD’S WORK CONTINUES WITH GREAT BLESSING

• Thousands of people are coming to Christ every month and Christians are begging for literature to disciple these new converts. The persecution has not dampened the spirits of the people, but instead it has emboldened them to share their faith.

• One group engaged in training workers for outreach and church planting on the way back to Jerusalem, report that more than 40 people are in training in just one of several training centers.  

• Two trainees are already working among Tibetans, but are being hindered by the loss of their language teacher due to the recent rioting. 

• A worker deployed to Egypt reports being strengthened and given boldness by the knowledge that the prayers of those still in training are earnestly upholding them in prayer as they face the spiritual darkness of the land God has called them to. 

• Many are joining in earnest prayer for visas to be granted to workers waiting to depart for their mission fields.

• A growing number of prayer partners are getting involved in praying for the urgently needed funds to continue the training programs that are preparing workers for the great advance of church planting and witnessing in Muslim nations.

• In spite of the dangers to trainees and teachers who are under great stress from possible arrest if discovered, the training goes on unabated.

Beth Moore captured the spirit of Chinese believers as well as many others when she wrote: “Life shouldn’t be a journey with intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well-preserved body, but rather, to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, and loudly shouting, ‘Wow! What a ride!  Thank you Lord.”

YOUR PRAYERS AND SUPPORT ARE URGENTLY NEEDED  

Last month you were invited to help provide funds for earthquake victims. The response was unusual. Many do not have a way to transmit funds for China’s needs. If that is your case, here is a good solution that guarantees 100% of your gift reaching the needy.

·        Make your check out to First Alliance Church Orlando.