Beijing: Concerns are mounting among Christian communities and international rights groups following the detention of around 30 members of China’s Zion Church network, marking one of the largest crackdowns on underground churches in years.
Pastor Jin Mingri, known as Ezra Jin, founder of the influential Zion Church, remains in detention in Beihai, Guangxi province. Authorities have accused him of “illegal use of information networks,” a charge that rights groups say is often used to silence religious leaders operating outside state control. Jin, who reportedly suffers from diabetes, has not been allowed to meet with his lawyer or family.
The arrests, carried out last weekend across multiple cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Zhejiang, and Henan, targeted pastors, preachers, and members associated with the church’s extensive online and in-person network.
Human rights organizations such as Human Rights Watch and Open Doors say the coordinated operation signals a new phase of repression against unregistered Protestant groups, often known as house churches.
“Zion Church has been at the forefront of independent worship in China, and its influence has made it a target,” said Corey Jackson, founder of the Christian advocacy group Luke Alliance. “We believe this is just the beginning of a broader campaign to bring all religious activity under tighter control.”
China officially recognizes only state-registered religious bodies under the Catholic Patriotic Association and the Three-Self Patriotic Movement.
However, millions of believers continue to gather in unregistered churches, which the government views as illegal. Recent regulations have tightened control over online religious activities, banning unauthorized streaming of sermons and restricting foreign involvement in local faith groups.
Rights advocates say the authorities’ decision to charge Pastor Jin under laws related to online activity reflects growing concern about the digital presence of house churches, many of which expanded during the pandemic through livestreamed services.
The Chinese government, meanwhile, insists that all citizens enjoy freedom of religion under the law, provided that religious practices comply with national regulations. A spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in London reiterated this stance, saying that “all religious groups and activities must operate in accordance with the laws of China.”
Family members of the detained Christians have called for their immediate release, expressing fears about their health and safety. Reports suggest that some detainees have been freed after questioning, while others remain held without formal charges.
Analysts warn that the crackdown on Zion Church could be a warning to other unregistered congregations.
“Authorities appear determined to dismantle organized religious movements that they cannot control,” said Sean Long, a Zion pastor now based in the United States. “But persecution cannot destroy the church it often strengthens it.”
As global pressure mounts, Beijing has yet to provide any official explanation for the arrests. Advocacy groups say the fate of Pastor Jin and his followers will test how far China is willing to go in its campaign to align religious practice with Communist Party doctrine.