An influential Protestant church in China reports that prominent leaders were arrested in a crackdown on underground Christian movements. On Tuesday, police raided the homes and offices of the Early Rain Covenant Church in Chengdu, detaining nine individuals, five of whom were released by the following day.
Meanwhile, authorities in Wenzhou began demolishing parts of the Yayang Church building, as documented by video obtained by ChinaAid, an organization monitoring religious persecution. This marks the latest in a series of government efforts aimed at eliminating churches that do not align with Communist Party ideology.
The degree of suppression has noticeably increased, with authorities rapidly arresting unauthorized church leaders and demolishing unregistered places of worship. At least two church leaders indicated that arrests, which previously followed a warning and a fine, have now become much more immediate.
China's government, which promotes atheism and enforces strict controls over religious practices, has stated an estimated 44 million Christians reside in the country; however, this figure does not account for individuals engaged in underground church activities. The Party has long pressured Christians to adhere solely to state-sanctioned churches led by government-approved pastors.
In the midst of these developments, Li Yingqiang, leader of the Early Rain Covenant Church, recently expressed concerns over the imminent threat of another large-scale crackdown. He urged church members to prepare for difficult times ahead in a letter sent to the congregation.
As the situation evolves, Early Rain Covenant Church administrators have stated that they are praying for the safety and perseverance of their congregation members. Local authorities have fortified their presence around the Yayang Church, deploying hundreds of armed police as demolition efforts ramp up.
This concerted government action against major independent church networks signals a determination to suppress Christian communities in China unless they fully conform to the Communist Party's ideological framework. Renowned activist Bob Fu highlighted the substantial mobilization against these church groups, underscoring the government's intention to eradicate unaligned Christian practices.
Concerns continue to mount internationally regarding the heavy-handed approach of the Chinese government toward religious freedoms. Experts, including rights advocates, are calling for global entities and religious leaders to pressure the Chinese government to respect and uphold religious freedom rights.
Under President Xi Jinping, religious freedoms in China have faced increasing restrictions, with calls for the 'Sinicization' of religions, compelling faiths to align their doctrines with Chinese cultural and political ideology. This campaign is evidenced by legislation prohibiting clergy from broadcasting sermons online and organizing remote church activities without government oversight.
