Huang Yizi (left) just following
his release from a black jail.
Photo: China Aid
Authorities have recently released a church pastor in China's southeastern coastal Zhejiang Province. Pastor Huang Yizi, who was detained since September 12th in what is referred to as a "black jail" had been accused of "stealing, spying on, buying or illegally providing state secrets for institutions and people outside the country."
The term, "black jail," is used to describe "residential surveillance in a designated location." Considered a more severe form of holding than "criminal detention," individuals under residential surveillance are held in undisclosed locations. Since no outside contact is allowed, those detained in "black jails" are not permitted to speak with family members or legal representatives for the duration of their confinement. A previous report relating to this topic can be found here.
While we can praise God for Pastor Huang's release, pray that he will be undaunted by the obstacles he has faced. May he instead be further strengthened and imbued to more effectively resume his ministry. Let's also uphold the other Christians still being detained in this manner, as well as their concerned families, asking that they be encouraged to remain steadfast in their faith, drawing even closer to the Lord during this difficult time of trial. May the government's unrelenting pressure on churches and their leaders not cause the believers to waver spiritually or become discouraged. Rather may they be more fervent in their resolve to follow Christ, serving as vibrant witnesses to those around them who are desperately in need of God's eternal salvation.
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