CCP Replaces Crosses With Xi Jinping Portraits In Churches, Alters Religious Practices

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is allegedly removing crosses from churches and replacing them with portraits of President Xi Jinping as part of its effort to control religious practices in China. A recent report from the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom reveals that this is part of the “Sinicization of religion” campaign, which seeks to align religious practices with Communist Party ideology.

The CCP has also reportedly edited religious texts and required clergy to incorporate Communist messages into their sermons. Catholic churches in China are facing heavy scrutiny, as they are required to register with state-controlled bodies like the Bishops’ Conference of the Catholic Church in China, which is managed by the CCP.

The report highlights that those who refuse to comply with these regulations face persecution. Underground Catholics are particularly vulnerable, as they face imprisonment and indefinite detention under China’s anti-cult laws. Those who choose to worship through state-sanctioned channels must adhere to strict government regulations.

The report revisits the 2018 agreement between the Vatican and China concerning the selection of bishops. The CCP has bypassed the Vatican in numerous cases, often detaining bishops it views as politically dangerous. One such figure, Cardinal Joseph Zen from Hong Kong, was convicted in 2022 for his involvement in aiding democracy protesters.

In addition to the issues in China, Christian communities in Western nations are facing their own challenges. Churches in countries like France and Canada have been targeted for vandalism, while organizations such as the Olympics have openly mocked Christianity, raising global concerns about religious freedom.