In a sweeping operation that began about two months ago, Chinese authorities deployed 300 to 400 police officers in 200 vehicles to target Christians linked to house churches across different areas in East China. One of Open Doors’ local partners remarks, “We have not seen such a massive force used to address church-related matters; this is something that warrants serious attention.”
More than 70 individuals have been detained, including pastors, co-workers, host families, and even a few seekers who had not yet formally joined the faith. Some were caught during church gatherings, and others were taken from their homes or workplaces. Authorities concentrated their questioning on financial matters and denominational affiliations. So far, 20 individuals have been fined. Penalties range from several thousand to tens of thousands of yuan. The fines appear to be tied to the church financial offerings and the “illegal” family gathering place.
Jason*, another local partner, shares: “Due to the recent crackdown, our church ministry has come to a standstill. Some brothers and sisters have left the church while several others are on the verge of losing their faith. The number of full-time ministry workers has dropped from six to just one, as the rest have stepped down from their position and are now seeking employment elsewhere. More than 80 small fellowship groups within the house churches have ceased meeting. Of the original 14 churches, only a few remain.”
As for the reasons behind the crackdown, Jason shares, “According to some church friends, it’s possible they were reported as heretical, or betrayed by an informant within the church, or suspected of having foreign ties but these are all just speculations. The exact reason remains unclear.”
Meanwhile, another gospel team in the same region had all its gathering sites interrogated and warned. This reflects a growing trend of tightened religious control across East China.
*Name changed for security purposes
Please pray:
- Pray for the churches, believers, and seekers who experienced or are currently facing persecution. Ask the Lord to comfort them, strengthen their faith, and give them His peace. May the Holy Spirit lead the Church and believers to live victorious lives in the midst of the storm.
- Please pray for the spiritual environment in East China. May the Lord use this environment to draw the Church and believers into deeper unity in Him: supporting, encouraging, and strengthening one another. May He raise up more believers to engage boldly in this spiritual battle.
Stay updated with the latest prayer requests from the persecuted church.
