(Beihai, China — October 16, 2025) Since October 9, 2025, the Yinhai Branch of the Beihai Public Security Bureau in Guangxi has detained at least 22 pastors and co-workers from an active local Christian group, Zion Church, sparking a round of renewed international concern over the state of religious freedom in China.
According to a statement released by the church on October 16, with the church’s assistance, families of 16 detained individuals have hired lawyers to participate in the defense process. According to arrangements, each detained individual is represented by two lawyers; so far, 32 attorneys have formally joined the case, with 13 having completed initial meetings with their clients.
Additionally, families of three detained individuals have independently hired their own lawyers; one individual has not yet decided whether to retain legal representation, and the families of two individuals remain in consultation with the church regarding legal assistance. The church stated it will continue to pursue all legal avenues to protect the fundamental rights of those detained.
Despite facing criminal charges, church leaders firmly believe that the arrests constitute suppression of their religious activities. Senior Pastor Jin “Ezra” Mingri stated that Zion Church operates under a senior pastor accountability system and that he has violated no law but is “willing to bear the consequences that come with faith.”
While China’s Constitution nominally guarantees citizens the freedom of religious belief, authorities have in recent years intensified crackdowns on unregistered “house churches.” Zion Church, which has not registered with the system of the official religious authorities, is regarded by the government as an “underground church.”
The church expressed that it will continue publishing updates on the case through its independent website and expressed gratitude for support and prayers from all sectors of society during this sensitive time. “We pray that truth will be revealed and justice will ultimately prevail,” the statement wrote.
ChinaAid Association
