Preface

Published by: Early Rain Ministries (ERM)

Editor's Preface and Notes

Purpose and Statement of Faith

This report aims to record and testify to the persecution, challenges, and responses experienced by Chinese house churches in 2025 under an environment of sustained high-pressure religious policies. We do not intend to engage in mere human rights observation or political accusation; rather, grounded in the Christian faith, we are committed to presenting a true picture of a suffering church that prays in tribulation, proclaims the gospel in chains, and remains strong in grace.

Our core purpose is to bear witness for those "ambassadors of the gospel in chains who are faithful in Christ and strong in grace" (2 Tim. 2:1, 9), and to record the footsteps of the saints in mainland China in this era who are "persecuted for righteousness' sake" (Matt. 5:10). We believe that these records are not merely historical memos, but marks of the Lord and His church suffering together and being glorified together in the last days.

Research Methodology and Safety Principles

The primary information sources for this report are rooted in the daily intercession information released by the "China at 5 PM" Kingdom Prayer Meeting, as well as first-hand materials provided and confirmed by various local churches and Christian media platforms. This source determines the internal perspective and grassroots nature of this report; it does not come from external observation, but originates from the resonance of the pulse of the suffering church.

To ensure the rigor and safety of the report, we follow these core principles:

Safety and Ethical Tips

We are deeply aware that behind every piece of information are real lives and suffering. Therefore, we handle all materials with reverence, avoiding unnecessary sensationalism of details, and focusing on the impact of the events themselves on the faith community.

1. Evidence Grading: We classify information sources into three levels and use them prudently in the report to ensure the accuracy of factual statements.

   • Primary Evidence: Legal documents (verdicts, detention notices), first-hand testimonies of the parties involved, unmodified original audio and video.
   • Secondary Evidence: Reports from trustworthy third-party institutions (such as reports from well-known human rights organizations, in-depth reports from credible media).
   • Tertiary Evidence: Indirect retelling, unverified online information, personal comments, etc.

2. Delayed Disclosure Rule: This is not a formal rule, but a core principle based on ethics and safety. To protect the safety of information sources, witnesses, or victims, based on risk assessment and the informed consent of the parties involved, we anonymize or delay the reporting of sensitive information (such as real names, specific locations).