In recent years, different religious sects have expanded their influence in China, showing an extensive interest in participating in China's political affairs. But meanwhile, foreign elements are penetrating China by making use of different forms of religion.

There are various ways of penetration. Those who try to overthrow China's regime and the socialist system under the disguise of religion are dangerous.

Besides, the religious organizations that do not hold an anti-China stance politically but attempt to interfere in China's religious affairs should also be watched out for.

With the exception of Taoism, major international religions have all challenged the religious sovereignty of China, intruded into the principles of independence in the management of churches. China's religious pattern has met unprecedented challenges.

Some hostile overseas forces are doing missionary work in China's western regions which aim at interfering religious freedom.

The three forces in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, namely religious extremists, ethnic separatists and international terrorists, commit subversion with the support of the East Turkestan Islamic Movement under the disguise of a "holy war."

Meanwhile, the Dalai group has been grabbing the leadership of Tibetan Buddhism and fanning the flames of resentment, in an attempt to press the Chinese government and seek the "independence" of Tibet.

The more China opens up itself, the more it should insist on the principles of independence in the management of churches and resist external penetration.

As the number of religious groups and believers increases, the task of managing religions in China has become tougher.

It is worth considering establishing a religious law enforcement team to secure legal religious activities in China.

Grass-roots religious departments can undertake important tasks by enhancing intelligence work and properly dealing with religious penetration.

Taoist beliefs originated from China, but were fostered and enhanced in other countries, reflecting the shortage of talent studying religion.

Therefore, we must attach great importance to the cultivation of talent, and the education level of religious staff must be raised.

But meanwhile, it should be stressed that any religious activities that violate Chinese laws and regulations should be dealt with severely.

Authorities that monitor these activities must also avoid public panic that is caused by rumor.

Besides, we should protect the passion of the religious field to carry out philanthropy activities but prevent campaigns under the pretense of charity.

Religious development must be guided with a softer and more flexible approach, and its further legalization and standardization should be promoted.

The author is a scholar of religious studies based in Beijing. opinion@globaltimes.com.cn