CHINA | JUL. 24, 2026 — Pastor John Cao Diagnosed with Stage 4 Cancer
John Cao was released from prison in 2024 but remains closely monitored.
In late April, Pastor John Cao, who served seven years in prison before his release in 2024, was diagnosed with late-stage prostate cancer and a spinal tumor.
He has remained under heavy surveillance since his release and has been prevented from reuniting with his family abroad. Christians and civil rights groups have called for the Chinese authorities to return his passport on humanitarian grounds so he can be with his family and receive better care. But because of his faithful gospel ministry across China, he has repeatedly been denied his passport. Despite failing health, Pastor Cao has steadfastly served the Chinese church since his release. He has traveled across China to encourage other persecuted believers. He has hosted daily online prayer meetings. He has preached the gospel and even baptized several new believers in the presence of security officers. Ever since his release from prison, he has never stopped preaching the gospel!