Church Members Arrested for Alleged Illegal Business Activities

Four Christians from the Shingjia Church in Shunde City have been arrested on suspicion of conducting "illegal business practices." The accused believers include Pastor Deng Yanxiang and three coworkers: Zhu Longjiang, Wang Weicai and Zhu Qiaoling.

On the morning of May 24th, police officers raided the church's education centre. After the facility was searched, all educational materials – including computers, desks, chairs and books – were loaded into a truck. The door to the facility was then sealed and the four Christians were taken into custody. They were given a 30-day administrative detention. However, none of the detained believers were released at the end of that term.

Zhu Longjiang's wife describes him as a devout Christian. She prays that he will soon be released so he can continue to serve his elderly parents who need extensive care. Wang Weicai's wife questions the reasons for the charges against her husband. "He is always devout and loves the Lord and actively helps brothers and sisters," she stated. "How does he suddenly become a criminal?" Zhu Qiaoling is known for her hospitality and, through an online group, often distributed items to Christians in need.

The Shingjia Church is one of many places of worship in China presently facing opposition in the form of arrests, harassment or fines. To learn more about the persecution of Christians in this Communist nation, go to our country report.

Pray that these detained believers will be released from custody and not subjected to further legal problems. Also remember the family members who are missing their loved ones during this time of separation. Continue to pray for the ongoing ministries of Christians throughout China, asking the Lord to bless and multiply their efforts so that the message of the Gospel will continue to transform many lives in spite of governmental opposition.