Religious activity is kept under close watch in China, sometimes creating tension between believers and the state. Despite Protestantism and Catholicism being officially recognised religions, restrictions and attacks on church buildings, pastors and ordinary Christians alike are not uncommon. To add to this instability, over 280 activists and lawyers, many of whom have defended Christians and other religious communities, have been detained or disappeared since July.

Last week President Xi Jinping made his first state visit to Britain, a milestone moment for relations between China and the UK. Although the visit focused mainly on developing commercial ties, we have faith that it can mean more than that. President Xi’s visit could mark the start of conversations with British politicians that challenge the state of human rights in China and work towards its improvement.

This week, please:

• Pray that President Xi’s visit to Britain will be the start of a fruitful new relationship with the UK, which will delve into matters of human rights and make a positive impact;
• Thank God for the concern that is being expressed by the UN, and the unity of CSW and 45 other organisations that demanded an end to the illegal detention of lawyers and citizens;
• On International Religious Freedom Day, 27 October, remember especially the many Christians in China who cannot worship freely;
• Ask God to intervene and bring an end to the Chinese state’s ill-treatment of lawyers and activists in cases such as the reported kidnapping of Gao Zhisheng last month, and pray for the safe and quick return of those detained;
• Pray for spiritual and physical protection for the Church in China and their leaders and pastors. May no harm come upon them;
• Pray for the renewal and revival of churches in Zhejiang province which had their buildings demolished and crosses torn down last year;
• Ask the Holy Spirit to bring a spirit not of timidity and fear, but of power and courage to Christians in China.