Beijing: The Chinese government has issued new regulations prohibiting Catholic priests and religious clergy of all faiths from preaching or evangelizing online. The State Administration for Religious Affairs released the “Code of Conduct for Religious Clergy on the Internet,” outlining 18 specific rules that govern online religious activities.

Under the new regulations, clergy are required to demonstrate loyalty to the Chinese Communist Party and the country’s socialist system. They are barred from conducting religious services, educational activities, or rituals through live broadcasts, short videos, or online meetings. Religious activities are now allowed only on government-approved platforms run by religious organizations, schools, temples, monasteries, or churches. Clergy must also provide proof of registered religious status when using social media or messaging apps for religious communication.

The code further prohibits online evangelization or education for minors, organizing online camps or seasonal educational events, and raising funds for religious purposes, including church construction or other activities. Violations could result in corrective actions by religious affairs departments, and in serious cases, institutions could face suspension or revocation of their religious status.

This move reflects China’s ongoing efforts to tightly regulate religious practices and ensure alignment with state policies. Observers note that the restrictions could significantly affect religious communities’ use of digital platforms, which have become key tools for outreach and education, especially in areas with limited access to physical places of worship.

The enforcement of these regulations may vary across regions and religious groups, but the measures mark a major step in the government’s control over online religious expression.