Story perspectives

Pastor Arrested as China Cracks Down on Religious Groups

10/17/2025

Summary

Story summary

Pastor Ezra Jin Mingri of Zion Church was detained along with about 20 leaders as authorities intensified their crackdown on unregistered religious groups.
Jin Mingri was arrested on October 10 in Beihai and faces charges of "illegal use of information networks."
Liu Chunli, Jin Mingri's wife, expressed concern for his health.
The U.S. Secretary of State condemned the detentions and urged China to respect religious freedoms, and advocacy groups warn this marks a significant escalation.

History

Historical Context

Since 2012, under Xi Jinping, the Chinese government has intensified its crackdown on unregistered religious groups, including Christianity and Islam, viewing them as threats due to perceived foreign ties. In 2018, authorities closed over 1,500 churches, and Pastor Ezra Jin Mingri's detention highlights ongoing repression. This has raised significant international concerns regarding human rights and religious freedoms, prompting condemnation from figures like U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

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Story summary

Pastor Ezra Jin Mingri of Zion Church was detained along with about 20 leaders as authorities intensified their crackdown on unregistered religious groups.
Jin Mingri was arrested on October 10 in Beihai and faces charges of "illegal use of information networks."
Liu Chunli, Jin Mingri's wife, expressed concern for his health.
The U.S. Secretary of State condemned the detentions and urged China to respect religious freedoms, and advocacy groups warn this marks a significant escalation.

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