The cross of Grassland Church is removed on April 21, 2019. (Photo: CAA) |
ChinaAid
(Linyi, Shandong—May 19, 2019) Authorities in China’s Shandong province tore down the cross of a church on Easter Sunday, despite previously praising the church’s societal contributions.
According to a video clip recorded at the scene, officials removed the cross of Grassland Church using a heavy-duty crane on April 21. Local Christians say that people can feel the severe tension between church members and the government, to the point that many dare not discuss it.
When the church was founded 25 years ago, many officials privately praised it for its contributions to society, including a decrease in crime rates and the construction of a society that respects the elderly and loves young people. However, the church has also been oppressed multiple times, with the pastor and church members being arrested in 2008 and 2013, respectively. In the past, the church’s property has also been confiscated, and 100 SWAT agents intimidated the church’s attendees with guns, according to an unnamed Christian.
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