Vladimir Putin has apparently signed a law that restricts evangelizing, especially for foreigners.
http://www.charismanews.com/world/58295-...cution-law
My first thought was that this may be about reducing foreign influences on Russia, since Russia has had trouble from Soros-backed groups and "charities" before, and has restricted them as well. According to other sources there are also some anti-terror aspects to the law that allow for increased surveillance of private communications.
Still, this a very strange thing to hear. Although it's possible that the info may be from a biased source, I don't really like the sound of it. Any thoughts?
http://www.charismanews.com/world/58295-...cution-law
Quote:Quote:
Furthermore, Great Commission Ministries Chairman Hanny Haukka tells Charisma News the law entails:
Foreign guests are not permitted to speak in churches unless they have a "work permit" from Russian authorities
If a friend or relative from outside Russia wishes to share his/her faith in your home the guest will be fined and expelled from Russia.
Any discussion of God with non-believers is considered missionary activity and will be punishable.
Missionary activity will be permitted by special government permission. Example: If one traveling on a train shares his faith without written permission the offender will be taken into police custody for the duration of the journey and will be fined 50,000 rubles ($1,000).
Offenders from the age of 14-years-old will be subject to prosecution
Religious activity is no longer permitted in private homes. Most churches in Russia meet in homes.
Every citizen is obligated to report religious activity of neighbors to the authorities. Failure to be an informant is punishable by law.
One may pray and read the Bible at home but not in the presence of a non-believing person. You will be breaking the law and be punished.
If the church has purchased property it cannot be converted into a place of worship.
In church buildings, it is not permitted to invite people to turn to God. Worship services are permitted but making a non-believer a follower of Christ is against the law.
In response, thousands of churches across the country have come together to cry out to God.
"The church is appalled at the news of the new law. About 7,000 evangelical/protestant churches are in fasting and prayer at the moment over the news," Haukka tells Charisma News via email.
Churches aren't the only residents enraged by the law.
American refugee Edward Snowden tweeted: "#Putin has signed a repressive new law that violates not only human rights, but common sense. Dark day for #Russia."
My first thought was that this may be about reducing foreign influences on Russia, since Russia has had trouble from Soros-backed groups and "charities" before, and has restricted them as well. According to other sources there are also some anti-terror aspects to the law that allow for increased surveillance of private communications.
Still, this a very strange thing to hear. Although it's possible that the info may be from a biased source, I don't really like the sound of it. Any thoughts?