A Christian who has stayed in a city for the first time during the Chinese New Year noticed that the number of people attending the urban churches during the festival is small, with some churches having only a quarter of their original number, and midweek fellowships also being suspended.

As urbanization accelerates in China, rural churches are witnessing a decline in attendance and financial support, with younger generations migrating to cities. Urban churches are stepping in to provide aid and resources, helping to sustain and revitalize these struggling rural congregations.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the rural and urban churches were both faced with challenges and responded differently. The resilience of the rural church and villagers' dependence on the Christian faith stood out despite having irregular meetings.

Brother L resolutely chose to return to a rural church in his hometown to serve and care for elderly people all day. In today's rapid urbanization process in China, this is an unusual scenario.

Churches in cities (or coastal areas) should not only focus on spreading the Gospel to migrant workers, but also should focus on cultivating, equipping and training them for churches in underdeveloped areas.

Undoubtedly, the majority of Christians in China have always been rural-oriented. The main motivation for conversions to Christianity may be felt needs: to heal diseases, loneliness, and have a meaningful cultural and social life.

From a Christian perspective, what are Chinese people like with the rapid urbanization?

Since Christianity in China is different from the past, a pastor suggests nurturing congregations in a more specific way.

Keep evangelizing people in a one-on-one approach and pray together.

Founded in 1965, Changlepo Church gathers underground for four years after three relocations.