Infirmed Pastor Handcuffed in Hospital

Pastor Ru Zongren, who suffers from kidney failure, was in the hospital for kidney dialysis on July 30th when police handcuffed him to his bed. He was detained in the hospital for five hours before finally being released.

Originally from a rural area of Anhui Province, Pastor Ru came to faith in Christ at an early age through the Christian witness of his parents. He eventually went on to study theology, graduating from seminary in 2007, prior to returning to his hometown where he has compassionately served the community since. Through his faithful ministry over the years, the Chengxi Christian Church has grown to establish a membership presently consisting of about 400 believers.

In May 2015, when local urban management officials entered the community, they destroyed the church's building. As Pastor Ru attempted to stop them, he was strangled and badly beaten. His injuries resulted in the permanent kidney damage he is dealing with today. The reasons behind his recent detention in the hospital are unclear.

Over the years, Pastor Ru has frequently encountered harassment from government officials, including added surveillance during times that were considered by authorities as "sensitive." To read more accounts of the challenges experienced by China's Christians, and/or to view recorded video reports further addressing these concerns, go to our country report.

Please pray for the physical healing of Pastor Ru. May this faithful brother in Christ receive daily strength, comfort and peace through the power of God's indwelling Spirit. Also pray that the Lord will enable other believers in this community to persevere amidst governmental opposition so that the work of the Gospel will continue to thrive and spread throughout this Communist nation.