CHINA: Preacher Charged with “Picking Quarrels”

12 December 2023

Source: ChinaAid

Chang Hao is a house church preacher in Zhenxiong, Yunnan Province. Because of his Christian faith, as well as his frequent advocacy for social justice issues, he has been interrogated by police several times.

On the evening of 14 April, Chang was taken into custody by the Public Security Bureau. The believer’s Bible was also confiscated by authorities, along with various other items.

For more than four months, no information had been made available regarding Chang’s welfare, and his lawyer was prohibited from meeting with him. When the concerned legal representative was finally able to connect with the detained house church leader, he discovered that Chang was suffering from significant health issues, such as elevated blood sugar levels and high blood pressure.

Further compounding these challenges is the fact that Chang happens to be near-sighted and struggles with an additional physical disability, yet he has not been allowed to wear glasses while in custody. His wife, Yao Fazhen, who is also in poor health, has been advised by doctors that she receive medical treatment as soon as possible.

On 28 November, it was announced that formal charges had been laid against the preacher for apparently “picking quarrels and provoking trouble”. The procuratorate accused him of repeatedly spreading false information and inappropriate remarks on the Internet. His case has been submitted to the Zhenxiong County People’s Court for prosecution.

Chang Hao is one of the many Christians currently incarcerated in China because of their faith in Jesus.

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    Pray for them

    Prayerfully ask the Lord to help Preacher Chang by renewing his strength and advocating judicially on his behalf, in hopes of a miraculous release from custody.

    May this faithful servant and his wife, Yao, receive greatly needed healing, peace and comfort during their difficult time of separation.

    Pray for many other believers in China who are presently being detained because of their faith and ministry, as well as those throughout the country who continue to courageously gather together for worship despite the dangers.

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    One response to “CHINA: Preacher Charged with “Picking Quarrels””

    1. Janet Brumby says:

      For Inn – Jesus would have provided for His mother, brothers and sisters after Joseph died. by the time he was ready to enter ministry the next oldest brother would have been ready to take on the support role.. When he was on the Cross He asked the youngest apostle John to look after His mother. Inn you are not alone – you have a great example in your Saviour Jesus Christ.

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