Chinese Underground Church Leader Jin Mingri Released from Custody

Chinese underground church figure Jin Mingri – In a notable development, Jin Mingri, a prominent figure in China’s unregistered religious community, has been freed from prison and is now in the United States. The release of the founder of the Zion Church came less than two months after his detention was highlighted during a direct meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Jin, also known as Ezra Jin, had been arrested in October 2025 following coordinated raids that targeted his congregation across multiple cities. Christian organizations described the operation as one of the most severe suppression campaigns against religious activity in China’s recent history.

Jin Mingri’s imprisonment was part of a broader effort by the Chinese government to regulate religious practices. The state exerts strict oversight over faith groups, requiring them to align with state-sanctioned structures. Unregistered churches, like the Zion Church, face particular scrutiny, as their activities are often seen as a challenge to official control. Jin’s church, which began with just 20 members in 2007, had grown to a network spanning 40 cities and 10,000 adherents by the time it was outlawed in 2018. The decision to ban the group followed its refusal to install security cameras on its premises, a move that drew criticism from authorities.

Jin’s family expressed gratitude to supporters and the Trump administration in a statement, calling the release a “miracle.” They emphasized the emotional impact of the event, stating, “We are overwhelmed with joy and deeply grateful for the support we received.” The family also attributed the decision to Jin’s release to the “tremendous leadership” of Trump, suggesting that his direct engagement with Xi played a crucial role. They added that this outcome could signal a shift in the treatment of religious believers in China, offering hope for improved relations between the two nations.

“We truly witnessed a miracle and we are feeling so overwhelmed with joy.”

The Chinese foreign ministry has yet to issue an official statement regarding Jin’s case, leaving room for speculation about the motivations behind his release. While some see it as a diplomatic gesture, others remain cautious, noting that the government has not softened its stance on religious matters. Christian groups have long been pressured to join state-approved denominations, with government-approved pastors leading the way. Jin’s church, which operated outside this system, became a symbol of resistance against strict religious oversight.

Following Jin’s release, US-based rights organization ChinaAid confirmed his arrival in Los Angeles. The group’s founder, Bob Fu, praised the decision, acknowledging its significance but stressing that many other religious practitioners are still imprisoned. “Countless believers remain behind bars,” he remarked, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by faith communities in China. The organization has documented the detention of 30 church leaders in October 2025, with additional arrests in January targeting members of another congregation. These actions have raised concerns about a possible escalation in the government’s campaign against religious dissent.

During his state visit to Beijing in May, Trump directly appealed to Xi to grant Jin Mingri freedom. In a post-meeting interview, he stated, “He said he’s gonna strongly consider the pastor.” This moment underscored the U.S. leader’s focus on religious freedom as a key issue in bilateral relations. Trump also brought up the case of Jimmy Lai, a Hong Kong media magnate, who was sentenced to 20 years for conspiring with foreign entities under the city’s national security law. While Lai’s case is separate, it illustrates the broader political tensions influencing China’s treatment of religious and civil liberties.

The Zion Church’s journey reflects the resilience of underground faith groups in China. Despite being banned in 2018, its branches continued to operate in secret, drawing the attention of authorities. The government’s crackdown in October 2025 targeted not only Jin’s network but also others, with 30 leaders detained overnight. This operation was followed by similar actions in January, further tightening the grip on religious activities. Such measures have led to fears that the government is preparing for a larger campaign against faith communities, potentially affecting thousands of practitioners.

As Jin Mingri settles into his new life abroad, the focus shifts to the broader implications of his release. While it represents a victory for religious freedom advocates, the case also highlights the complex dynamics between China and its international partners. The Trump administration’s efforts to leverage diplomatic channels for the release of faith leaders demonstrate a strategic push to address human rights concerns. However, the absence of an official Chinese statement leaves questions about the sustainability of this progress.

International Response and Ongoing Concerns

The Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China, a coalition of Western lawmakers including numerous UK members, celebrated the news of Jin’s release. The group described the event as “overjoyed” and a step toward recognizing the importance of religious liberty. Yet, they also urged continued vigilance, noting that the crackdown on Christians has intensified. The arrests of 30 leaders in October and nine others in January suggest a pattern of systematic targeting, raising concerns about the future of faith in China.

Jin’s case is emblematic of the struggles faced by underground churches, which often operate in defiance of state regulations. These groups provide spiritual guidance to millions, yet they remain vulnerable to government action. The Zion Church’s expansion from a small gathering to a nationwide network underscores its influence, but also its role as a focal point for repression. While Jin’s release may offer a glimmer of hope, the persistence of other detainees indicates that the government’s resolve remains strong.

Religious persecution in China continues to be a pressing issue, with many believers enduring harsh conditions in detention. Jin’s family’s statement highlights the emotional toll of imprisonment, as well as the significance of his freedom. “This could not have happened without the direct intervention from Xi Jinping,” they claimed, pointing to the leadership’s pivotal role. The Trump administration’s involvement, however, adds a layer of international pressure, potentially influencing future decisions.

As the situation evolves, the role of faith groups in shaping China’s religious landscape remains uncertain. The release of Jin Mingri is a testament to the power of diplomatic engagement, but it also serves as a reminder of the challenges that persist. With the government maintaining its control over religion and promoting atheism, the fight for religious freedom in China is far from over. The upcoming months will be critical in determining whether this case marks a turning point or merely a temporary reprieve in an ongoing struggle.

The broader impact of Jin’s release extends beyond his personal freedom. It signals a possible shift in the government’s approach, though the effectiveness of such changes remains to be seen. For now, the case stands as a symbol of hope for those who have endured years of scrutiny and imprisonment. As the world watches, the question remains: will this moment inspire greater openness, or will it be another step in a prolonged campaign against religious expression?