Grace Drexel’s Hope for Her Father’s Return Amid Growing Concerns in China
With just five weeks to go before the arrival of her third child, Grace Drexel spoke in Washington about her father, Pastor Ezra Jin, and her desire for him to come home. Her father has been detained in China for the past seven months, along with many other Christian leaders, amid what advocates call a significant crackdown on underground Protestant churches.
As President Donald Trump prepares to meet with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, Drexel expresses a small spark of hope that the situation may improve. Trump has stated he will bring up Pastor Jin’s detainment during his discussions with Xi.
“I’m grateful to hear that. It’s a true honor for my father’s name to be recognized by such a powerful leader,” Drexel told reporters. A White House spokesperson affirmed Trump as a strong supporter of religious freedom.
This period has been especially painful for Drexel and her family. Their separation has lasted nearly a decade, as her mother and younger brothers left China in 2018 when authorities closed Zion Church, fearing they might be caught in the crackdown. Pastor Jin chose to stay back with members of his congregation, feeling a strong duty to support them.
Drexel hasn’t seen her father since 2020, and her wish is for her children to get to know him. “All we want is for our kids to experience their grandfather,” she said.
Drexel describes her father as a gentle pastor focused on serving his community and being true to his faith. He is a man who leads his church with kindness and does not seek confrontation.
Tragically, recent reports indicate that Pastor Jin is struggling with his health while detained. “This man, who is so kind, is now in prison for simply leading a church,” she said.
The government’s crackdown on Zion Church dates back prior to Pastor Jin’s arrest, intensifying around 2016. As restrictions tightened, the church faced demands from authorities to monitor attendees. After refusing to implement surveillance, church members began to face intimidation, resulting in job losses and other pressures.
Drexel highlights that her father’s struggle is a part of a broader issue in China, where many pastors and religious leaders face similar persecution. She notes that this is a critical time for many Christians in the country.
As Trump and Xi meet, Drexel holds onto the hope that there can be a shift in the situation, leading to her father’s release. In her view, Trump’s acknowledgment of her father’s plight brings light to the ongoing struggles for religious freedom in China.
In response, a representative from the Chinese Embassy stated that China protects religious freedom according to the law and claims to oppose illegal activities related to religion. They urge an understanding of China’s policies and practices regarding religious matters.
Drexel remains hopeful and continues to advocate for her father and others in similar positions.
