China Church Arrests, Demolitions Reported as Pressure Mounts

Leaders of a prominent Christian church in China have been arrested, according to international religious freedom monitors. A separate church building is also being demolished. The reports involve two groups in Sichuan province. Members of the Early Rain Covenant Church in Chengdu say several of its leaders were taken into custody. Separately, the Yayang Church in Guanghan is reportedly being torn down by authorities. These events are seen as part of a wider government campaign. In recent years, China has increased oversight of all religions, requiring groups to operate under strict state control. Unregistered churches, which operate outside this official system, face particular pressure. The Chinese government states its policies maintain social stability and protect lawful religious activity. It defines unregistered groups as illegal and a threat to order. The situation highlights the ongoing tensions between China's growing Christian population and the state's efforts to manage all religious practice.