Photo: ChinaAid
Zhang Chunlei is an elder with the Ren'ai Reformed Church in Guiyang, China. He was detained in March 2021 and remained in detention without charge until his trial in November 2022, when he was accused of "inciting subversion of state power." The trial was held in secret, without any witnesses, and a verdict has never been announced since then. In the meantime, Elder Zhang continues to remain imprisoned. (Review previously published reports about this church leader's case.)
On June 4th of this year, Elder Zhang's lawyer was finally notified that he could review the case files and transcript of the trial. While in prison, the Christian leader has been encouraging believers, saying that it is an honour to be imprisoned for the Lord. However, his wife Yang Aiqing has revealed that the church elder is suffering with worsening health conditions. In August 2023, he was taken to the hospital due to inflammation of his gallbladder (read more).
It has now been revealed that Elder Zhang has been diagnosed with liver cirrhosis. Other prisoners have also developed liver problems while in custody which may be related to a long-term diet of mouldy spoiled rice. Yang has asked Christians to pray that her husband will be released for medical treatment and ultimately completely healed of his present liver condition.
Pray that God's ministry of physical healing, protection and strength will take place in Elder Zhang's life. May the Lord work powerfully within the hearts and minds of China's court officials and various other authorities so that this Christian leader will be able to receive the medical help that he urgently needs. Also pray that God's comforting peace will rest on his wife Yang – along with all their concerned loved ones, friends and church members – as they await the hopeful release of this beloved church leader.
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