A senior US lawmaker has expressed concerns about China’s treatment of religious freedom, particularly targeting Christians, just before Easter. Chairman John Moolenaar of the Select Committee on China highlighted the persecution faced by Christians in China under the Chinese Communist Party’s rule. He emphasized the importance of religious freedom and the inspiring faith of imprisoned Christians in China.
Moolenaar referenced the imprisonment of Christians in China, drawing parallels to the early Christian persecution. He stated that despite the repression by the Chinese Communist Party, the faith of believers like Pastor Jin and Jimmy Lai continues to spread the message of Christ’s victory over adversity. The lawmaker urged the Chinese leadership, including Xi Jinping, to reconsider their stance and allow religious freedom in the country.
The remarks by Moolenaar coincide with the ongoing scrutiny in Washington concerning China’s treatment of religious minorities, including Christians and Muslims. Both Republican and Democratic lawmakers have raised alarms about the restrictions on worship, surveillance, and detention related to religious practices in China. The statement also underscores the broader tensions between the US and China, where human rights issues, along with trade and security disputes, remain contentious topics.
