As in previous years, the National Religious Affairs Administration (NRAA) extended its "Christmas Greetings to the Catholic and Christian Communities" on December 23.
The letter begins with the message, "Friends in the Catholic and Christian communities, on the occasion of Christmas, we extend our sincere greetings and best wishes to you!"
“Over the past year, the Catholic and Christian communities have fully implemented the Communist Party of China's (CPC) religious affairs theory for the new era, adhered to the basic policy on religious affairs, and upheld the principle of developing religions in the Chinese context. They have maintained the principle of independence and self-management, upheld the banners of patriotism and socialism, and actively celebrated the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. Additionally, they have conducted educational activities focused on the 'Three Loves' (love for the country, the Communist Party of China, and socialism) and the 'Five Histories' (the history of the Party, New China, the reform and opening-up, socialist development across Chinese society, and the development of the Chinese nation). Religious activities have been carried out within the scope stipulated by laws and regulations, and efforts to improve self-education, self-management, and self-discipline have been strengthened, ensuring strict governance of religious affairs. These efforts have led to significant progress and notable achievements.”
As 2025 marks the final year of the 14th Five-Year Plan, the NRAA hopes that "friends in the Catholic and Christian communities" will continue to uphold the principle of independence and self-management, systematically advancing the development of religions in China with a Chinese orientation while promoting comprehensive and strict governance of religious affairs.
