CNHRA PERSON RECORD · CNHRA-P-537230
Jin Mingri
Born
Unknown
Occupation
Christian pastor
Role
Religious Figure
Record ID
CNHRA-P-537230
Biography
Jin Mingri, also known as Ezra Jin, is the founding pastor of Beijing Zion Church. The church operated outside the official registration system. USCIRF identifies his religious activity and leadership as the background to his case.[1]
In 2018, authorities shut Zion’s premises after the church refused to install surveillance equipment. USCIRF reports subsequent harassment of Jin and church members and exit restrictions on him and his family.[1]
After his release in July 2026, Jin traveled to the United States. On July 23, Senator Dick Durbin’s office reported their meeting in Washington and recalled the Senate resolution urging that his release be raised with China.[1][2]
Case Summary
Jin was detained in October 2025 during arrests targeting Zion Church across several regions. USCIRF records custody at Beihai Detention Center, allegations of illegal use of information networks and illegal business activity, and the detention of numerous church leaders and members.[1]
USCIRF’s update records Jin’s release in July 2026. Durbin’s July 23 meeting statement confirms his presence in the United States and also calls for the release of other Zion Church members still detained.[1][2]
Timeline
2018
Church premises closed
USCIRF reports that authorities closed Zion’s premises after refusal to install surveillance equipment. Harassment of Jin and members continued, alongside exit restrictions on him and his family.[1]
2025-10
Multiple Zion Church arrests
Jin and numerous church leaders and members were detained in a multi-region operation. He was held in Beihai, with USCIRF listing information-network and illegal-business allegations.[1]
2026-07
Released and travels to the United States
2026-07-23
Meets Durbin in Washington
Durbin’s office published a meeting statement confirming Jin’s release and arrival in the United States. It also noted that other Zion members remained detained and called for their release.[2]
Related Events
Sources
- [1]
CNHRA-S-500138USCIRF
Evidence location: Religious activity and 2018 closure; October 2025 arrests and Beihai detention; July 2026 release update.
- [2]
CNHRA-S-398316Office of Senator Dick Durbin
Evidence location: July 23, 2026 office meeting statement: Jin’s release and other members still detained.