A detained pastor of Beijing’s Zion Church has alleged that Chinese authorities attempted to coerce him into confessing to criminal charges by invoking the welfare of his young children, raising fresh concerns over the treatment of Christians detained in the country’s ongoing crackdown on unregistered churches.
According to legal filings and reports released by Christian advocacy organisation ChinaAid, Pastor Liu Zhenbin said prosecutors repeatedly pressured him during questioning, suggesting that cooperating with investigators would benefit his family and children. He maintained his innocence, insisting that the allegations against him were unfounded and refusing to sign a confession despite the emotional pressure.
Pastor Liu is among several leaders connected to Beijing’s Zion Church who have faced detention following a wider government crackdown on house churches operating outside China’s state-approved religious system. Human rights advocates argue that such prosecutions reflect increasing restrictions on religious freedom in the country, with lawyers and family members also reporting intimidation throughout the legal process.
The latest allegations come months after international attention focused on the Zion Church network following the detention of its founder, Pastor Ezra Jin Mingri, who was later released after sustained international advocacy. However, several members of the church reportedly remain in detention as legal proceedings continue.
Christian organisations around the world have called on believers to pray for Pastor Liu, his family, and other imprisoned Christians in China, while urging authorities to uphold freedom of religion and ensure fair judicial processes for those facing prosecution because of their faith.
Post a Comment
Please drop a comment and use the Social Media Buttons below to share to friends and family.