The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) has strongly condemned the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) for detaining Christian pastors and church leaders across China.
On 10 October, Chinese authorities arrested Pastor Mingri Jin along with 30 other leaders of Zion Church, one of the country’s largest underground churches. USCIRF stated this is part of a wider pattern of persecution against Christians in China.
USCIRF Chair Vicky Hartzler said, “With these arrests, the CCP once again has demonstrated its utter contempt for religious freedom. We call upon the US government to press China to release Ezra Jin and all those detained for practising their faith.”
Under President Xi Jinping, the CCP has implemented its Sinicization of Religion policy, which requires religious groups to align fully with the party’s agenda and Marxist principles. Religious activities not approved by the government are considered illegal, leading to increased arrests and persecution.
“These latest arrests are a continuation of the CCP’s persecution of the Chinese people,” USCIRF Vice Chair Asif Mahmood said. “The Chinese government will stop at nothing, even beyond its borders, to restrict religious freedom.”
American political leaders have also spoken out. Former Vice President Mike Pence urged the release of Pastor Ezra Jin Mingri and other Christian leaders, describing the arrests as an attack on Christianity. He referenced Matthew 5:10: “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
In its 2025 Annual Report, USCIRF recommended that the US Department of State maintain China’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) due to systematic and egregious violations of religious freedom. On 16 October, USCIRF held a hearing on State-Controlled Religion in China to address these ongoing issues.
Adapted from ICC.
