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Who Is Pastor John Cao? A Brief Story of Faithful Service
Born on May 3, 1959, in Changsha, Hunan Province, Pastor John Sanqiang Cao studied theology in the United States, became a U.S. permanent resident, and pastored churches there before returning to China in obedience to God’s calling. From 2013, he focused on the China-Myanmar border, building 16–20 schools, providing education and Bibles to over 2,000 children, running anti-drug programs, and training thousands of house church leaders—all through peaceful humanitarian and gospel work.
In March 2017, he was detained for “organizing illegal border crossings,” serving a full seven-year prison sentence until his release in March 2024. Even after completing his sentence, authorities continue to withhold his passport, national ID, and hukou registration, blocking reunion with his U.S. citizen wife and two sons. His prison poems, published in the book Living Lyrics, remain a powerful testimony of faith and joy amid suffering.
A Call to Stand Together
As Scripture reminds us: “If one part suffers, every part suffers with it” (1 Corinthians 12:26). Pastor Cao’s case highlights the ongoing reality faced by many faithful servants in China.
How You Can Help Right Now:
- Pray fervently for complete healing, pain relief, and peace for Pastor Cao. Pray for wisdom for his doctors and financial provision.
- Pray for family reunion — that authorities immediately return his passport so he can travel to the United States for advanced treatment and be with his wife and sons.
- Share this update widely on social media using #FreePastorJohnCao #PrayForPastorCao
- Contact your elected officials — urge them to raise Pastor Cao’s case in U.S.-China diplomatic engagements and demand his full freedom.
We thank God for Pastor Cao’s decades of faithful service and for every one of you who stands with persecuted believers. May the Lord grant him healing, comfort, and ultimate freedom.
In Christ’s love,
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