Reverend Baudening Statements Address Henan Arrest and Local Christian Activities

Rev. Dennis Balcombe, a well-known pastor, recently shared an account of his detention by local authorities in a city in southern China. In a statement posted on his international Facebook account, Balcombe described the incident as an “arrest,” though he emphasized that the situation was resolved without prolonged detention. He noted that the religious authorities returned his passports and all financial services to him, facilitating his return to a hotel of his choice.

Balcombe also reported that local members of his congregation and two sisters from Hong Kong were released on the same day. These individuals were allowed to meet with local Christians freely in the following days. After a day of conversations with priests in a private room, Balcombe was permitted to leave without any further restrictions. He confirmed that all Christians involved, including two Hong Kong individuals who had previously engaged in business with him, were free and safe.

The incident occurred on April 20, and Balcombe suggested that local authorities may have been involved if the meeting was somehow reported. He noted that there were only 70 local cases in the area, but recent activities such as Easter Lighting and other gatherings prompted authorities to investigate the meeting. The event was organized by a local Prayer Mounted delegation in Nanyang, Henan Province. The primary purpose of the gathering was to uphold Biblical truths and to prepare for a reformation through consensus, particularly focusing on the East Lighting credit.

Balcombe mentioned that the PSB offices in Hong Kong had observed them and provided a DVD and information on how to prepare for the crediting of Christian fellowships. He described discussions with individuals from various departments, who all affirmed his role as a good pastor and expressed support for his reformation efforts. They also praised the orthodoxy and technical aspects of Pentecostal churches in China.

After one day, Balcombe and his group moved to another hotel in the city on their own. His passport was returned, and he was told he could return at any time, bringing in Three-Self procedures or even house churches, but was advised not to engage in religious activities in Henan before his return. He plans to take up this offer in the near future, focusing on the work of the Holy Spirit in healing and transforming people across China.

Balcombe reflected on the historical context of China, drawing parallels to the legacy of Zhuge Liang, a chancellor from the Three Kingdoms period. He emphasized the importance of standing firm against authorities and wrongs, particularly in the face of Chinese challenges. The situation highlights the ongoing tensions between religious freedom and state oversight in the region.

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