Photo from ChinaAid

Pastor Lou Yuanqi, who was arrested in May on charges of "inciting separatism" (click here for more information), was released at approximately 6:00 p.m. on April 24, according to an April 27 report from ChinaAid. The pastor was freed under the provision of "bailed out waiting for trial," which allows for future arrest and prosecution. It also prevents him or his family from filing an administrative lawsuit against the state to compensate for his illegal imprisonment. Authorities could not find sufficient evidence to continue Pastor Yuanqi's prosecution and indictment. He has returned home and is reportedly in poor heath due to a blood condition and the mistreatment he sustained in prison.

For more updates on the persecution of Christians in China, click here.