On March 10, 2019, the Dunhua China Christian Councila (CCC) & Three-Self Patriotic Movement (TSPM) of Jilin held a transition ceremony for the head of a rural church.
Elder Shi Xiuyun who was in charge of the Hebei Church in Dashitou Town, Dunhua, for about 30 years, retired, and was succeeded by Preacher Chai Yanxia.
In the church's early days, the congregation had to gather at believers' houses due to the absence of a religious venue. Owing to the rapid increase in membership, in 1990 the church purchased a bungalow as a temporary premises for its 150 members.
In 1992, a new church was completed with an area of 300 square meters (0.074 acres). Afterward, additional facilities were built including dormitories and a canteen. However, a serious fire destroyed the church in May 2012.
Then Elder Shi undertook the burden of the reconstruction project that was completed in 2012. The congregation grew from 150 to 1,000 and 24 more churches and meeting points were set up.
Shi was awarded the title of honorary elder. Later the new leader Chai answered questions and received a key that symbolized the authority of the church.
- Translated by Karen Luo
