Chinese authorities recently detained individuals associated with the Early Rain Covenant Church in Chengdu and commenced the demolition of the Yayang Church building in Wenzhou. These events unfold amidst what Christian organizations describe as an intensified enforcement of regulations concerning religious groups operating outside state-sanctioned frameworks, as the government continues its policy to "Sinicise religion."
Recent Incidents
Chengdu Detentions
In early January, nine individuals associated with the Early Rain Covenant Church (ERCC) in Chengdu were detained following police actions at their homes and offices. Five of these individuals were subsequently released by the following day. Among those reportedly remaining in detention are current church leader Li Yingqiang and his wife, Zhang Xinyue.
A church update indicated that one detainee was suspected of "national security–related crimes." US-based organization China Aid, citing lawyers for the detained individuals, reported a lack of formal legal documents presented to families and noted that specific charges or detention locations remained unclear. The church itself has not confirmed the specific grounds for these detentions or if charges have been filed. Prior to these events, Li Yingqiang had reportedly communicated to church members in November regarding the potential for further large-scale actions affecting the community.
Wenzhou Demolition
Earlier in the week of the detentions, the Yayang Church building in Wenzhou began demolition. Video evidence obtained by ChinaAid reportedly showed local authorities deploying armed and special police officers to the site. ChinaAid also reported that residents in the vicinity were moved, and instructions were issued against recording or photographing the activity.
Broader Context of Religious Enforcement
Government Policy and "Sinicisation"
The Chinese government's constitution ostensibly guarantees freedom of religious belief. However, the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is officially atheist and recognizes only two specific Christian bodies: the Three-Self Patriotic Movement for Protestants and the Chinese Patriotic Catholic Association, which operates independently of the Vatican. Government policy mandates that Christian groups align with state-sanctioned churches and approved clergy.
Under President Xi Jinping, the government has pursued a policy to "Sinicise religion," which aims to integrate faiths with "Chinese characteristics." Professor Gerda Wielander of the University of Westminster stated that Mr. Xi has significantly tightened control over all religions, reducing previously tolerated "grey" spaces for religious activity since 2017. This policy has also targeted ethnic Uyghurs and other Muslims under the stated guise of counter-terrorism.
Christian organizations claim a noticeable increase in arrests of unauthorized church leaders, a shift from previous practices that often involved warnings and fines before detention. Judy Yang, identified as a representative of an unregistered church using a pseudonym, stated that finding a safe venue without fear of being reported is a challenge, and parents are reportedly compelled to exclude children under 18 from religious activities.
Vulnerability of Unregistered Churches
Open Doors International, a Christian missionary organization, included China in its annual World Watch List among countries with significant challenges for Christians. The organization's 2026 World Watch List report indicated that members of unregistered churches are particularly vulnerable to "surveillance, harassment, imprisonment, abduction, and physical abuse," noting that this targeting often serves to intimidate entire congregations.
Prior Incidents
These events follow prior detentions last year, which Christian groups interpret as part of government efforts concerning churches operating outside state-sanctioned frameworks. In October, dozens of Zion Church network pastors and leaders were arrested. A statement from Zion Church leaders described the suppression as affecting "the church in China as a whole."
Demographics and Oversight
The Chinese government reported 6 million Catholics and 38 million Protestants in 2018. This figure does not specify the inclusion of members from independent churches. Scholars generally estimate the total number of Christians in China to be around 90 million, a number comparable to the membership of the CCP.
International Context and Response
Reported International Connections
Professor Gerda Wielander suggested that some Christian groups in China have links to the American right wing, which could be a factor in renewed enforcement amidst US criticism of China. Grace Jin Drexel, identified as the daughter of arrested Zion Church founder Jin Mingri, reportedly works for a US senator, and her husband, Bill Drexel, is a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute. Professor Wielander added that the majority of Chinese Christians do not have a political agenda and primarily seek to practice their faith, noting that severe repression often leads to growth in the number of believers or affirmation of existing faith. Adam Holland, Australia's Open Doors leader, also noted a general suspicion that Chinese Christians maintain connections with global Christian communities.
International Calls for Action
Australia, along with other Western nations, issued a joint statement at the United Nations in November 2025, expressing concern for ethnic and religious minority groups in China, including Uyghurs, Christians, and Tibetans. The statement highlighted issues such as child separation in boarding schools, torture, and destruction of cultural heritage. Mr. Holland suggested Australia could exert more pressure on China through channels like the United Nations Human Rights Council and bilateral negotiations. Open Doors hopes to discuss concerns, including alleged surveillance of Chinese Christians in Australia, with Foreign Minister Penny Wong.
Judy Yang expressed limited optimism regarding an immediate relaxation of restrictions by the Chinese state but affirmed the historical resilience of the church in China and its commitment to continue its mission.