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China Imposes Special Rules For Sports Chaplains At Olympics

By Howard M. Friedman

The Canadian Press reported Friday on the special rules imposed by the government of China on sports chaplains who traditionally accompany athletes to Olympic games. Daily religious services will be available to athletes at next month's Olympics, but they will be run by Chinese religious leaders and seminary students. At other Olympic games, members of the international confederacy of sports chaplains have officiated, however foreign chaplains are not being used this year. China generally prohibits its citizens from attending religious services conducted by foreigners. China is printing 100,000 copies of the New Testament with special Olympic logos; foreigners are restricted in bringing religious materials into the country. Some countries are sending official chaplains with their Olympic teams. Six unofficial chaplains from different countries (including the U.S. and Canada) will also be in China "on call" if their services are needed for counselling. (See prior related posting.)

Full post as published by Religion Clause on July 20, 2008 (boomark / email).