In Chains: Christian Persecution - 2019, Issue 1

But the Chinese
government isn’t just
spying on social media,
it is actively installing
cameras everywhere in
order to actively
monitor its citizens.
This new program,
called “Sharp Eyes,” is to
monitor citizens in realtime.
A recent incident
involved a citizen
putting trash in a gutter.
Immediately he heard
his name being barked
over a loud speaker. He
immediately ended his
activities. This new
program is especially
threatening to Christians
as many are already
hiding their activities
due to persecution.
Many meet illegally, own
illegal religious
materials, or speak
about their faith,
illegally, to others.
So far, 53 religious
institutions in Xun Country, Henan Province
have had these cameras installed. Five are
now closed. Those churches who refuse to
install the cameras are closed.
Because of the persecution already going on,
many Christians have Yled to rural and
forested areas. Unfortunately, this is where
the program is focusing; rural areas.
But in Henan Province, Christians have to
worry about their neighbors as well. The
government is asking people to report
“illegal religious activities” via a hotline. If a
tipster gives up the location of a religious
gathering, they get paid 20,000 - 200,000
yuan (almost $3,000 USD). Those found to
participate in religious activities will be reeducated.
The Chinese government is on a mission to
eradicate religion. Communism can be the
only religion and the government is well on
its way to try and make that happen. The
Chinese people need our prayers. They
aren’t cowering before their government.
Our prayers are needed to give them
strength to stand up and perseverance to
endure.