The Sinicization of Christian Sacred Music in China represents a cultural integration movement.
Chinese churches and theological institutions organize nationwide events that blend Chinese cultural traditions into Christian worship to ensure religious activities support state ideology.
Professor Yang Yifu performed piano solos while regional choirs sang and Professor Zhuang Dekun delivered vocal technique lectures during the May 5 event at Hanjiang Church.
China’s attempts to suppress religious activity during the Cultural Revolution have been reversed by new governmental policies that now allow some religious practices to flourish among a population that includes anywhere from 350 million to 850 million adherents.
However, the government maintains CCP authority over religious practices by implementing sinicization through symbol replacement and content control within religious communities. The government’s initiative continues to breach religious freedom by incorporating traditional Chinese elements into Christian practices while restricting personal freedom of expression.
[Image: China Christian Daily]
