China's House Church Leaders and Family Appeal to International Community for Release

Gao Pu, son of imprisoned Chinese house church leaders Pastor Gao Quanfu and his wife Pang Yu, is appealing to the international community for their release. He draws hope from the recent freedom of Pastor Ezra Jin, who was released after 266 days of detention, and urges similar support for his parents. Pastor Gao Quanfu has served as a minister for over 40 years, mentoring future leaders and supporting congregants, even when public religious practice was scarce in China. His wife, Pang Yu, was a former actress, TV anchor, and producer. However, on May 16, 2025, Pastor Gao was arrested, initially charged with "using superstition to undermine the implementation of the law," a charge later altered to "fraud." Three weeks later, Pang Yu was detained due to her marital connection to Pastor Gao. These events are seen as part of a broader crackdown on unregistered house churches in China, which have drawn the ire of authorities for refusing to comply with state surveillance and restrictions, including sermon content control. Pastor Gao maintains that Christian churches should respect governing authorities but insists on preserving their autonomy and biblical convictions regarding worship, doctrine, and church governance. Both Pastor Gao and Pang Yu are nearing 70 years old and suffer from severe health concerns. They are reportedly held in overcrowded conditions, with insufficient meals and untreated medical needs. Pastor Gao faces a potential sentence of 12 to 13 years, with Pang Yu's trial also imminent. Gao Pu fears that without international support, his parents may spend the rest of their lives in prison. Gao Pu urgently calls on governments and policymakers worldwide to show solidarity with his parents. He also implores consulates and embassies in the PRC to attend their trials in Xi'an, China. Visible diplomatic engagement, he believes, will signal that represented countries protect freedom of belief and religion and send a message to Beijing that the world has not forgotten Pastor Gao Quanfu, Pang Yu, and other detained Christians. Gao Pu expresses gratitude for his parents' lifelong devotion to him and their congregation, and he eagerly anticipates the day they are reunited and can once again make music and sing together. He vows not to rest until his parents walk free, even if it requires a miracle.