What happens when a church service suddenly turns into a police operation?
Worshippers at one of China’s most closely watched underground churches found out firsthand this weekend.
Members of Early Rain Covenant Church say armed police stormed their Sunday service in Jiangyou, southwest China.
Interrupting prayers and detaining dozens of congregants, including children.
Videos shared by the church showed worshippers surrounded by officers, with some continuing to sing hymns despite repeated orders to stop.
The church, founded in 2008, has long faced pressure from Chinese authorities.
Its founder, Wang Yi, is currently serving a nine-year prison sentence on charges linked to state security.
According to church leaders, more than 30 members were taken to a detention centre for questioning.
Raid Raises Religious Freedom Concerns
Elderly worshippers and children were held inside the venue for hours as officials checked identities.
Two church leaders, Yan Hong and Wu Wuqing, remain in custody, though authorities have not publicly explained why.
Religious freedom advocates say the incident reflects a broader crackdown on independent Christian groups.
“The Chinese Communist Party continues to treat peaceful Christian worship as a threat to state control,” said Bob Fu of ChinaAid.
China officially recognises Christianity but encourages believers to attend state-approved churches.
Many worshippers instead choose underground congregations.
For critics, the raid raises a lingering question: where is the line between maintaining control and restricting religious freedom?
