Public worship for foreign Christians living in Guangzhou has, for the most part, been subject to little interference from local authorities and businesses. But now, it seems, the privilege of meeting in a large group is about to end.
The Guangdong Religious Affairs Bureau has not renewed the operating licence for a group of foreign Christians, known as the Guangzhou International Christian Fellowship.
The licence, which gives the fellowship the legal right to meet for corporate worship, was first issued by the bureau in 2000 and has been renewed annually. The latest licence expired in August.
The licence was the first of its kind issued to foreigners living in China. According to the agreement, the fellowship can meet regularly only at the Star Hotel, with the stipulation that no local Chinese take part in services.
It is unique in that it allows the fellowship to operate independently, separate from the state-run Three-Self Church.
So far, the bureau has not given any reason for not renewing the licence. Meanwhile, hotel officials have set an October 14 deadline for the fellowship to get their licence renewed, otherwise members will no longer be allowed to use the facilities for worship. The interdenominational Christian group currently meets every Sunday on the third floor.
Some fellowship members suspect that the growing number of worshippers could be one reason for the religious affairs bureau's decision. In 2000, the group had about 150 regular attendees. This year, the fellowship has grown to more than 350.