“Kingdom Intercession Information – Foshan Fengsheng Gospel Church” May 8, 2023

On May 7, 2023, in Gaoming District, Foshan City, Guangdong Province, more than 30 brothers and sisters gathered at a sister’s home to watch a web program related to the Christian faith via Zoom. Suddenly, dozens of police officers and staff from the Religious Affairs Bureau burst in, declaring their gathering “illegal.” The Religious Affairs Bureau issued fines to each believer, charging 200 yuan per person, and collected the fines on the spot via QR code. Subsequently, all those present were taken to the police station and were not released until around 9 p.m. That same afternoon, a co-worker who had returned from out of town to Gaoming was also summoned to the police station and has not been released yet!

“The law does not forbid, so it is permissible” – this is a fundamental principle of the rule of law. Citizens of the People’s Republic of China have the right to do anything in their homes that is not prohibited by law, including watching web programs of their choice. The actions of the authorities in Gaoming District, Foshan, in invading citizens’ private residences under the guise of participating in “illegal religious activities,” and imposing economic fines on lawful citizens under police intimidation, are blatant violations of the constitution and other laws, and constitute open discrimination against ordinary Christian believers. As citizens of the People’s Republic of China and Christians, we express our strong indignation and condemnation of this! For this reason, we ask Christian members at home and abroad to pray together:

1. Pray for God’s mercy on China and those ignorant and helpless so-called “law enforcers,” that they may come to their senses, realize the harm they are causing to the sacred sentiments of their compatriots, and act according to their conscience.
2. Pray for the protection of brothers and sisters who have suffered persecution and fear, reflecting on the teachings of Lord Jesus, understanding that those who are persecuted for righteousness are blessed, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. May they grow stronger and more courageous in the Lord after this experience.
3. Pray for the quick release of co-workers who are still detained.

Reverend Wu Guowu, Senior Pastor Foshan Fengsheng Gospel Church All Pastoral Staff of Foshan Fengsheng Gospel Church May 8, 2023