CHINA: Christian Leaders Released from Prison

Source: VOMC
Sources: ChinaAid, Church in Chains

Church leaders in front of a banner stating, ”Dad, welcome home.” Photo: ChinaAid

In August 2022, police raided a family camp run by the Linfen Covenant House Church, resulting in numerous arrests and the closure of both the church and its affiliated school. (For additional details, see these reports.) Among those arrested were Pastor Li Jie, Han Xiaodong and Wang Qiang.

Since Wang had been released in September 2024, after serving a two-year prison sentence, he was present on April 19th to welcome the release of Pastor Li and Han following the completion of their respective sentences. According to reports, the release process for each of these believers proceeded relatively smoothly, and they were not required to sign any documents that compromised their faith principles. Staff from the judicial bureau were said to be friendly and even volunteered to assist in taking commemorative photographs. Family members added that, although their loved ones had been physically imprisoned, their spirits remained free through their steadfast faith in Christ.

Despite this encouraging news, the persecution of Christians in China remains ongoing. Believers continue to face pressure to conform to the requirements of the Chinese Communist Party, placing significant strains on the ability to freely live out their faith.
For additional reports addressing persecution in China, visit our country profile.

• Pray for Pastor Li, Han, Wang and their families as they adjust to life beyond imprisonment, asking the Lord to restore their strength, grant them healing, and guide their next steps through the restorative process.

• Remember our Christian brothers and sisters throughout China whose lives and religious freedoms are continually at risk because of their commitment to Christ.

• Lift up believers throughout this East Asian nation who are presently imprisoned for their faith, praying that they too would be further encouraged by God's presence, sustained by their eternal hope in Him, and given opportunities to rejoice and share the Gospel in the midst of their challenging circumstances.