Crackdown in China: Pray for Christians Now Targeted as Members of "Evil Cults"

Annie Dee : Nov 30, 2015
The Gospel Herald

The report comes following a secret government conference held last week in Beijing to discuss how to create "submissive" Chinese Christians.

(China)—Christians in China's Zhejiang province, where authorities have carried out a devastating cross-removal campaign, say they will remain vigilant amid signs that elements of the hardline strategy could spread to other jurisdictions. (Photo via Gospel Herald)

Chinese authorities are increasingly targeting Chinese Christians in their hunt for "evil" cults. The growing number of Christians in China claimed that authorities are just using the crackdown on dangerous cults as an excuse, and in reality, curtailing momentous growth in their number.

China Aid reports that five church leaders have been detained over the religious meetings and activities. They are accused of leading a cult and using their organization "to undermine law enforcement." The five leaders were identified as Shen and Li Jianghua from Taiwan, 71st Street Church's pastor Li Jia'en, a Shanxi pastor, Ms Li Jiangtao, and a Henan pastor, Liang Jing.

"According to the facts of your violations, the characteristics, circumstances, and degree to which they harm society and other related truths, your law-violating actions are severe," their penalty notice reads.

Pastor Li Jia'en shared to China Aid that they have been ordered to stop all their religious activities. They can no longer hold meetings even though they must still continue to pay rent on its building. Nearby shops were told to report to the authorities if meetings are observed in the future.

Activists believe that China is cracking down on Christians in the country because of the growth in their numbers. Up to 1,700 churches have since been destroyed. Crosses in Zhejiang province have also been removed. Activists believe that these...

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