Head of the Chinese Church of Zion Arrested in Guangxi

The head of the Chinese Church of Zion, Kim Myung-il, was arrested at his home in Guangxi on October 27. The arrest followed a period of increased police scrutiny targeting three pastors, including Kim Myung-il, who were investigated for alleged violations such as “illegal use of information networks,” “illegal operation,” and “fraud.” The Chinese aid news network reported that the focus of police interrogations centered on these individuals, with their activities scrutinized in both their daily business and church operations.

Kim Tianya, the daughter of Kim Myung-il, has been actively seeking support from the Chinese Parliament and international entities. She stated that her father had opportunities to settle abroad but chose to remain in China, aware of the risks. Kim Tianya emphasized that her father and other elders have health concerns, and their families are deeply worried about their current situation in custody.

The 23 church leaders currently detained were reportedly held for approximately 20 days before being formally charged and arrested. Kim Tianya has used this time to engage with international events, aiming to generate sustained pressure on the Chinese government. She described the circumstances of their arrests, noting that many were taken in front of their young children, leaving families in distress.

Kim Tianya expressed concern over the Chinese Communist Party’s efforts to control private beliefs, stating that such actions are counterproductive. She highlighted the historical pattern of government attempts to suppress the Zion Church, which she claims has ultimately strengthened the faith of its members. In 2018, the government confiscated the Church’s wealth and property, leading to significant growth in its membership, which reached 10,000 daily attendees at one point.

Kim Tianya described the persecution of her father and others as deeply distressing. She recounted feeling helpless upon witnessing individuals who simply sought to live out their faith and serve their communities being dragged from their homes in handcuffs. She noted that her father’s imprisonment is a result of his love for China and its people, despite the challenges faced.

The situation underscores the broader struggle between religious freedom and state control, with implications for the rights of believers and the role of faith in society. The Church’s resilience in the face of adversity reflects a complex interplay of personal conviction and institutional resistance.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Mandarin Chinese)