Xian'an Christian Church in Hubei is currently administered and shepherded by the district's CCC&TSPM. Pastor Wu Motai works as the chairman and president of the CCC&TSPM, and Pastor Cai Shijin and Wu Motai both work the Secretary Generals in the CCC&TSPM. There are over 5,000 registered believers and 38 Christian gathering sites in Xian'an District. Amongst the sites are 7 downtown churches: Xian'an Central Church, Wenquan Grace Church, Dafan Chruch, Shuangquan Church, Hongqiao Church, Guanbu Church, and Shuangquan True Jesus Church.There are also churches and meeting places in the villages and towns of Xian'an District.
Regarding the pastoral staff in Xian'an District, there are seven pastors, seven teachers, one elder, and 50 preachers, 14 of which are full-time.
Below are some main characteristics regarding Christianity in the region:
1. The number of believers is increasing.
The number of Christians in Xian'an has increased each year to varying degrees, with significant increases in the downtown area.
2. The demographics have obviously changed.
Regarding age, believers are younger, with an average age between 30-50 years old, and it is showing a tendency to grow over time. Also, education levels amongst believers has improved.
3. Religious activities.
The styles of religious activities have become diversified, and there are more types of activities held in churches today:
- Sunday services
According to the teachings of the Bible and church tradition, services are held once a week. Most churches in Xian'an hold services on Sunday mornings, and a few areas have afternoon services. Some churches hold services on Saturdays instead.
- Bible studies
Churches hold meetings to pray for humanity, the world, peace of the nation and the people, church ministries, and for believers and their families. Each gathering prays according to its own condition and time.
- Youth Fellowships
Churches hold meetings during the week to complement the Sunday service based on the unique characteristics and needs of the young people.
- Choir practice
Choir members gather to practice singing hymns, usually on Saturday evenings.
- Weddings and funeral services
It is traditional for churches to host weddings and funerals for believers with those needs.
- Large scale worship
Special large-scale services are held on important holidays like Christmas, Good Friday, Easter, and others.
Translated by: Grace Hubl
