China

What does persecution look like in China?

Christianity in China is a threat that must be tightly controlled and contained – according to the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

While there are registered churches in China – falling under either the Three-Self Patriotic Movement (TSPA) or the Catholic Patriotic Association (CPA) – these are closely overseen by the state, which monitors what is preached and who is present. Under-18s are not permitted to attend. These strictures are to ensure the ‘sinicisation’ of churches – that is, the aligning of religious doctrine with Communist ideology.

This intrusion means that many churches decide not to register, meeting underground instead as house churches. This is an enormously brave move because it can bring raids, fines, arrests, imprisonments and the confiscation of materials. With incentives offered to report on such ‘illegal’ activities, the risks facing those involved in house churches, particularly leaders, are deepening.

A revision of religion laws in 2018 is driving much of this opposition, and this includes – alongside highly sophisticated surveillance – regulations covering the internet. It means believers must be careful what they share online, even among friends in private chats.

Converts from Islam or Tibetan Buddhism can face threats and even physical harm from their families and communities.

Who is most vulnerable to persecution?

Those involved in house churches are especially susceptible to hostility. This particularly impacts leaders, Christians under the age of 18 and ministry workers focused on the next generation of Christians. Converts from Muslim and Buddhist backgrounds can be at greater risk.

Meet "Brother Kai"

"Sharing the gospel is our calling. Some of us have written farewell letters and prepared for prison. We’ve chosen to follow Christ through any storm while shepherding wisely, caring for the weak, protecting them and strengthening their faith."

"Brother Kai"

What has changed this year?

Very little has changed for Chinese Christians since last year. The crackdown on Christians in China continues, and the impact of laws banning the involvement of children in church activities is increasingly coming to the fore.

As parents and churches courageously seek creative ways to reach out to the next generation, it comes with a risk, even online. This, in turn, limits the positive impact on young people’s lives. Consequently, there are concerns over what this means for the future of the church in China.

What does Open Doors do to help Christians in China?

Open Doors partners support persecuted Christians in China in various ways: practically, and by providing literature and discipleship training.

How can you pray for China?

• Pray for protection and courage in the face of uncertainty.Many believers in China worship in unregistered churches, knowing that at any point their church could be shut down.
• Pray for young believers and their parents, that God would raise up a new generation of Chinese Christians. Under-18s are forbidden from attending church or religious gatherings.
• Pray for church leaders who feel caught between protecting their congregations and fulfilling their calling. Pray for wisdom and strength.