**Persecution: A Stark Reminder of What We Stand Against**
In a stark reminder of the ongoing struggles for religious freedom worldwide, reports emerge detailing the dire state of Chinese Christians under the Communist regime.
During a recent hearing, Grace Jin Drexel, daughter of the imprisoned pastor Ezra Jin of Zion Church, recounted the chilling conditions her father faces behind bars.
Arrested amid the Chinese government's aggressive crackdown on religious practices, her father and 17 other church members are emblematic of a broader war against independent faith in China.
As Jin Drexel aptly put it, “Christians in China today are facing the worst persecution since the end of the Cultural Revolution.”
This severe oppression raises critical questions about the approach the United States should take towards China, especially as President Donald Trump prepares for a visit to the country in April 2026.
Bob Fu, founder of China Aid, asserts that Trump should not proceed without first securing the release of prominent prisoners of conscience, including Jin's father.
His warning underscores the necessity for the U.S. to adopt a more assertive stance against Beijing, which continues to demonstrate its intolerance for religious freedom.
The contrast between the repression witnessed in China and the celebration of faith seen in other parts of the world is striking.
For instance, while Christians in Iraq recently gathered to commemorate the birth of Christ, celebrating messages of love, humility, and peaceful coexistence, millions in China cannot worship freely without fear of state-sanctioned imprisonment.
This discrepancy starkly illustrates the importance of protecting religious liberties—a cornerstone of American values and an essential topic in discussions around international relations.
China's recent actions serve as a rallying cry for those who champion freedom of belief.
As millions of Chinese Christians adapt by joining underground churches, their stories of faith amidst adversity resonate loudly in the halls of power.
It's imperative that our leaders remain vigilant against such tyranny and stand steadfast with those who seek to worship freely, ensuring that the shadows of oppression do not creep into our own society.
As we celebrate Christmas, it is essential to remember those who cannot partake in the joys of the season due to the imposition of oppressive regimes.
In unison, we must strive to support our fellow believers globally, advocating for their rights and freedoms, reinforcing that “no suppression can conquer faith.”
This Christmas, let us not only celebrate the light of liberty but also commit ourselves to being advocates for those still trapped in darkness.
Sources:
theepochtimes.comdallasexpress.comiraqinews.com