Beijing Summer Olympic Games 2008
The 2008 Beijing Olympics and Paralympics opened a new window on China. The successful hosting of the world's largest sporting event was an important statement of the contribution China is making to the global village.
The optimism, strength and human achievement exemplified in the opening ceremonies will live long in the memory. Over eighty heads of state attended these ceremonies, but it was the contributions of thousands of Chinese artists, athletes, dancers, children and volunteers that were particularly jubilant, reflecting China's rich cultural heritage and dynamic optimism for the future.
The Olympics and Paralympics also offered an opportunity for the registered churches in Beijing to join in worship with foreign visitors, and mark their contribution to the world church. The representation at the Olympics of the Catholic Co-adjutor Bishop of Hong Kong, John Tong Hon, while merely friendly protocol, highlights the possibilities of increasing dialogue. George Bush was welcomed to worship at the Kuanjie Protestant church. Fifty thousand bilingual New Testaments were printed and distributed in the Olympic Village.
Many foreign observers have also pointed to tightening restrictions on unregistered churches and the careful monitoring of all religious leaders during the Olympic period. China's concern that the Olympics were a success, has not led to the relaxation of religious controls as some had hoped, but the progress that China has made in the last thirty years was also clearly on display in the Olympic cities.
