Several religious groups in Zhejiang Province jointly issued the "Initiative on Caring Action for Preaching Staff" on April 25.
The Initiative advocates organizing and implementing ten practices every year to "demonstrate the positive, healthy, and clean image of religions in Zhejiang," according to the WeChat account of the SARA (China's State Administration for Religious Affairs).
The initiative comprises ten points. The first point suggests that religious personnel pay attention to political guidance and read at least one book on the history of the Party and national history annually.
The second point proposes holding a series of lectures and sermons integrating culture every year. It further added, "All religious groups and places of religious activities should organize regular lectures and exchange activities titled 'Zhejiang Wisdom' in accordance with the brand building requirements of 'Unite Zhejiang with Sincerity.' Additionally, they should enrich the spiritual life of the preaching staff with elegant artistic accomplishments, such as piano, chess, calligraphy, and painting."
The third emphasizes promoting large-scale rotation training for religious personnel, who are advised to learn about excellent Chinese traditional culture and the classic teachings of various religions.
The fourth point stresses mindfulness and prudence, and advocacy of honesty and frugality in churches.
The last point advocates promoting Zhejiang religions to exchange with the outside world. "All religious groups should carry out religious and cultural exchanges with other provinces and cities or friendly overseas organizations, organize study tours, seminars, and exchanges, and enhance dialogue and communication with religious circles from other provinces and overseas. They should further strengthen unity on the basis of respect, equality, and tolerance, to show a positive image of all religions in Zhejiang Province and demonstrate the great modernization achievements in China."
In addition, the initiative recommends arranging regular physical examinations for religious personnel and believers every year, organizing cultural and sports activities annually to maintain fitness, and conducting first-aid skills training, diet, and regular treatment and rest.
- Translated by Oliver Zuo
