A Christian evangelist and former drug addict, Chen Wensheng, was released from prison on 2 April after one year and seven months in prison for “organising and funding illegal gatherings” due to his years of street evangelism. On the day of his release, Chen Wensheng was escorted by local police from Deshan Prison to a hotel in Hengyang city. He and his wife resumed street evangelism that same day.
In August 2023, Chen Wensheng was taken to the local police station and given a 15-day administrative detention for his plans to share the gospel. Upon completion of his administrative detention, the Shigu Branch of Hengyang Public Security Bureau criminally detained Chen on charges of “organising and funding illegal gatherings” and held him at Hengdong County Detention Centre in Hengyang. On 25 October of the same year, Chen was formally arrested on the same charges and detained at Hengdong Detention Centre in Hengyang.
On the morning of 18 April 2024, the case was tried at the Shigu District People’s Court in Hengyang. With large numbers of security and police officers, authorities used roadblocks and other measures to prevent people from attending his hearing. Only four of Chen’s relatives were allowed to attend – his wife, son, elder brother, and sister-in-law. Chen’s second brother was refused entry, and Chen’s mother was restricted to her home by community management officials. The verdict was announced on the morning of 20 June 2024, with Chen sentenced to one year and seven months in prison.
Following his release, Chen Wensheng appears physically much thinner than before his imprisonment, but his mental state is good, smiling and full of joy. He revealed that he continued to evangelise during his time in prison, with more than 300 fellow inmates praying with him and three being baptised.
On 5 April 2025, Chen Wensheng share these verses as encouragement to other believers: “But I want you to know, brethren, that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel, so that it has become evident to the whole palace guard, and to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ; and most of the brethren in the Lord, having become confident by my chains, are much more bold to speak the Word without fear.” Philippians 1:12-14 (NKJV)
Lord,
May this dear brother continue to be blessed in abundance as he finds his everlasting joy in You, and wholeheartedly serves you by blessing others with the good news of Jesus Christ no matter the circumstances. Amen and Hallelujah!