President Bush Says it was a "Joy and a Privilege" to Worship With Chinese Christians Again
"A children's choir sang 'Amazing Grace' and 'Edelweiss' in English, which Mr. Bush described as a 'touching moment.' Mr. Bush left the church to the notes of 'Onward Christian Soldiers.'"
(Beijing, China)—President Bush, who joined 500 Christians in prayer at a state-sanctioned church service Sunday, at Kuanjie Protestant Christian Church, said it was "a joy and a privilege" to worship with Christians in Beijing again. (Photo: BBC News)
"It just goes to show that God is universal," said President Bush. "No state, man or woman should fear the influence of loving religion."
According to a Washington Times report, aides to Mr. Bush said in previous reports that the Chinese authorities flatly denied the President's request to visit a house church instead of the official Kuanjie church.
Li Jian'an, pastor of Kuanjie Church was quoted as saying his church had strong links with house churches. "We are all one family under God," he said. "The house churches need time. One day the Lord will show the way to all people who worship Him. We hope we will have more communication and connections with our brothers and sisters in the house churches."
Bush also told Chinese President Hu Jintao, in front of reporters, "As you know, I feel very strongly about religion, and I am so appreciative of the chance to go to church here in your society."
A video of President Bush at church in China is also available by CLICKING HERE:
