China’s weakening economy and rising social unrest have triggered a renewed wave of Christian persecution. Under Xi Jinping’s leadership, the government has intensified restrictions on religious activity, targeting both local believers and foreign missionaries. Arrests of pastors for collecting tithes and heightened surveillance in churches mark the latest efforts to suppress unregulated faith communities.
Pastors Arrested, Missionaries Expelled
Chinese authorities now classify church tithing and offerings as criminal acts, particularly in unregistered house churches. Several pastors have been imprisoned on charges of business fraud related to these religious practices. Foreign missionaries, often operating under student or business visas, have also been expelled or barred from ministry roles. New regulations, imposed on May 1, require prior approval for any religious teaching—approval that is rarely granted without Communist Party oversight.
Surveillance and State-Controlled Worship
Churches registered under the state-run Three-Self Patriotic Movement are being forced to integrate communist propaganda into their worship. Congregations must sing the national anthem and praise communist heroes before traditional hymns. Surveillance has intensified, with facial recognition cameras mandated at all church corners, including the pulpit. This move aims to monitor attendance and deter unapproved religious gatherings.
Public Dissent and Spiritual Awakening
China’s declining economy, partly due to increased U.S. tariffs, has sparked large-scale protests. Students and workers are calling for democratic reforms, reflecting a broader discontent with the regime. Jeff King, president of International Christian Concern, views these pressures as an opportunity for spiritual growth. “In pain, people search for meaning,” he said, pointing to increased interest in Christianity amid turmoil.
Christianity Grows Despite Repression
Despite Xi’s crackdowns, Christianity is continuing to expand across China. Bob Fu of China Aid notes that house churches continue to grow, even under severe persecution. The Early Rain Covenant Church, despite its pastor serving a nine-year sentence, has planted new congregations. King believes the government underestimates the resilience of Christian communities. “The more you press down, the more the church spreads,” he said.
Source:
China Uncertainty Leads to New Christian Crackdown, ‘Face Recognition Cameras’ in Churches
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