Pastor Ezra Jin Released After Detention

Ezra Jin Mingri, a prominent pastor from an underground church in China, has been released after spending several months in detention. The pastor, known for founding the Zion Church in Beijing, has arrived in Los Angeles, according to his family and a Christian rights organization.

Detention and Release

The rights group ChinaAid reported that Pastor Jin, also known as Ezra Jin, was detained from October in Beihai, a city in southern China. He was released on July 4 and subsequently traveled to the United States. ChinaAid expressed gratitude for his release, highlighting the significance of this event for the underground church community.

Background on Zion Church

The Zion Church, established by Jin in 2007, is one of the largest underground churches in China. These churches operate without official registration, defying government regulations that mandate worship only in authorized congregations. Despite the closure of its physical location by authorities in 2018, the church has continued to function online, serving thousands of followers.

Crackdown on Religious Leaders

In the previous year, Chinese authorities detained Jin along with 17 other leaders from the Zion Church as part of a broader crackdown. These leaders faced charges related to "illegally using information networks." Jin's family expressed immense relief and joy over his release, attributing it to divine intervention and diplomatic efforts.

Diplomatic Efforts and Reactions

Grace Jin, the pastor's daughter, mentioned that former U.S. President Donald Trump discussed her father's case with Chinese President Xi Jinping during a visit to Beijing in May. Trump indicated that Xi was considering Jin's release seriously. Jin's family acknowledged the role of diplomatic discussions in his release, hoping it signals improved relations for religious communities in China.

Ongoing Concerns

While Pastor Jin's release has been positively received, concerns remain about other detained church members. Human Rights Watch's deputy Asia director, Maya Wang, highlighted that at least eight members of the Zion Church are still in custody. Wang urged for their release, emphasizing the need for broader improvements in religious freedom.

There has been no immediate response from China's foreign ministry regarding Jin's release or the status of other detained church members.

Source: Original Article