Police Raid on Church in Jiangyou: Details and Context

A worship service at a prominent church in Jiangyou, a southwestern city in China, was interrupted on Sunday morning as a large contingent of police officers conducted a raid. Members of the congregation reported that two senior members remain in custody.

Videos posted on the church’s Telegram channel captured the moment the enforcement action started at the Sichuan Province church, approximately 100 miles north of Chengdu. Witnesses mentioned on the church’s account, managed by a person seemingly outside of China, estimated that 60 to 70 personnel, including local police, officials from the Religious Affairs Bureau, and state security officers, were involved.

The Early Rain Covenant Church, well-known for its resilience, faced the authorities as they surrounded the congregation, which included children. Despite the intimidation, church members stood firm, singing hymns. A total of 31 individuals were detained and questioned at a detention center. Officials attempted to coerce them into signing undisclosed statements, yet most refused according to the Telegram account.

Most detainees were released by 11 p.m., except for two elders, named Yan Hong and Wu Wuqing. Attempts to reach out for official comment were made, including contacting China’s National Religious Affairs Administration.

According to the Chinese General Social Survey (CGSS), conducted by Renmin University, about 1 to 2 percent of Chinese adults identify as Christian. Despite Christianity not being banned outright, stringent controls over religious activities exist. Worship is restricted to state-approved locations and requires registration.

Religious oversight also extends to teachings, publications, and online platforms. China’s Foreign Ministry defended its stance on Monday. Lin Jian, a spokesperson, stated that religious activities are managed legally and people’s freedoms regarding belief are protected, denouncing foreign criticism as interference.

The Early Rain Covenant Church symbolizes the challenges independent Christian groups face in China. There has been a noticeable crackdown on unregistered religious activities. In December 2018, a major crackdown resulted in the detention of the church’s founding pastor, Wang Yi, and over 100 congregants. Wang later received a nine-year sentence for charges including “inciting subversion of state power.” He had opposed registering the church with the state and the government’s push to make religious practices align with Communist Party doctrines.

This recent raid is part of continued efforts against unauthorized churches, including a network known as Zion Church, targeted last year.