Photo: ChinaAid
On the evening of December 9th, 2018, a coordinated attack against the Early Rain Covenant Church began, ultimately leading to dozens of arrests and the closing of the church (see this report). Over a year later, Pastor Wang Yi and others remain uncertain of the future, as they now contend with the outcome of court proceedings.
On November 29th, an elder of the church, Qin Defu, was sentenced to four years in prison. This verdict is in contradiction to the promise his family had received of Qin's conditional release, provided he accepted a state-appointed attorney. Qin was charged with "illegal business operations" because of the Christian books used by the church. His lawyer adds that Pastor Wang could be facing a ten-year sentence, in part, for his admitted involvement with the use of the Christian materials.
Please remember Qin, Pastor Wang, and other imprisoned congregation members from the Early Rain Covenant Church, as they endure separation from their loved ones this Christmas season. Ask God to give each of these believers His peace, strength, provision, and anything else they need, while awaiting vindication and eventual release. Pray for the ongoing ministry of the church, that it will not only be able to meet the spiritual needs of the congregants but also continue its wonderful outreach in the community despite opposition.
Population
