Chinese authorities have detained the head pastor of one of the country’s largest underground evangelical churches and nearly 30 other religious leaders across multiple provinces, sparking fears of widespread persecution. The arrests have intensified concerns among the church’s followers and family members, who are urging the U.S. government to intervene. The detention of Jin, a prominent figure in the underground Christian community, has drawn attention from international observers and religious groups, who are warning of an intensified crackdown on religious freedom in China. The arrests come amid a broader effort by the Chinese government to suppress religious activities, particularly those that operate outside state-sanctioned institutions.
Pastor Ezra Jin of Zion Church was arrested by Chinese authorities, with his daughter Grace Jin reporting that nearly 30 Zion Church pastors and workers were detained or went missing across Beijing, Shenzhen, Shanghai, Chengdu, Beihai, Jiaxing, and Huangdao. The Associated Press reported that dozens of church leaders in Beijing and at least five other provinces across China were also arrested. Grace told Fox News Digital that the arrests have been systematic, with leaders being taken one after another, often without prior notice. The charges against the arrested individuals reportedly include the online dissemination of religious materials, though the families have not received official paperwork.
Jin’s family is calling on the U.S. State Department to demand the Chinese Communist Party release him