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Chinese Authorities Crack Down on Unregistered Churches

1/11/2026

28 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Li Yingqiang of the Early Rain Covenant Church in Deyang, Sichuan, was detained by police with his wife and other members.
This crackdown targets unregistered Christian groups, following 18 members' arrest from another church in October.
Experts suggest repression targets prominent churches while smaller groups may grow and recruit.
The church remains a vital part of Chinese civil society despite ongoing persecution.

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Story summary

Li Yingqiang of the Early Rain Covenant Church in Deyang, Sichuan, was detained by police with his wife and other members.
This crackdown targets unregistered Christian groups, following 18 members' arrest from another church in October.
Experts suggest repression targets prominent churches while smaller groups may grow and recruit.
The church remains a vital part of Chinese civil society despite ongoing persecution.