China Detains Leaders of Underground Church Amid Religious Crackdown

Photo: opendoors.org.za

BEIJING — Chinese authorities have intensified their campaign against unsanctioned Christian groups, detaining leaders of Early Rain Covenant Church in Sichuan province this week. The church, a prominent Protestant “house church,” reported that at least four members, including elder Li Yingqiang and preacher Dai Zhichao, were taken into custody, while two others remain missing.

The crackdown comes despite calls from U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, urging China to allow citizens to worship freely. Early Rain, known for advocating religious freedom, has long faced government scrutiny. Pastor Wang Yi, the church’s founder, was sentenced in 2019 to nine years in prison on charges he denies.

China’s government has increasingly pushed the “Sinicization” of religion, demanding that churches align with state ideology. Many unsanctioned congregations, which operate independently of state-run churches, face heightened risks of detention, particularly amid fears of foreign influence. Observers warn the campaign may further strain U.S.-China relations ahead of planned high-level meetings.

Faithful continue to pray for unity and resilience amid persecution.

Previously, the UOJ reported that the Ukrainian courts have extended the detention of Fr. Arseniy. 

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