The Telegraph reported that Christians have flocked to defend a church in eastern China after Communist Party officials claimed it was an “illegal construction” and announced plans to demolish it. Thousands of Chinese Christians defend this building around the clock in Wenzhou, a city called “The Jerusalem of the East” about 230 miles south of Shanghai.
Christians began guarding the building, Sanjiang Christian Church, early last week when a notice appeared on the newly constructed church saying it was built illegally and had to be bulldozed. Hundreds of people, including elderly and in some cases disabled women, have now occupied the church to prevent demolition teams moving in.
“There are bad people out there trying to damage our church so we must defend it,” said Li Jingliu, a 56-year-old former factory worker who has been sleeping in one of its back offices since Wednesday.
“I’ve come here today to show my support. A church is a sacred place and we are all brothers and sisters.” said Jin Yufu, 55, from the nearby community of Wenling. “Christianity has made a big contribution to society in many ways. Thanks to Church we don’t smoke, gamble or drink. Christians are good people.”
A kitchen has been created behind the church’s altar feeding those guarding the church inside and out. At night, worshippers take turns keeping watch and sleeping on the wooden pews.
He Hongying, an 81-year-old member of the resistance, said she would stay for as long as necessary. “I slept here last night and I will do the same again tonight. We pulled two pews together so it was quite all right. We feel at peace and fearless when we are with our God.”
