Christian schools rising in China: 'Chinese parents begging us to teach their kids about Jesus'

Students and teachers of Veritas Christian Academy in Beijing pose for a group picture during a summer camp programme.(Facebook/Veritas Christian Academy)

There's no stopping the growth of Christianity even in a communist-ruled country like China with a leadership that does not tolerate religious freedom.

Despite the relentless persecution of Christians in Asia's biggest nation, Christianity is growing there at a phenomenal rate, according to Yu Jie, a best-selling Chinese author, in an op-ed article published in the August edition of First Things.

"The number [of Christians in China] grows by several million each year, a phenomenon some have described as a gushing well or geyser," Yu wrote.

"At this rate, by 2030, Christians in China will exceed 200 million, surpassing the United States and making China the country with the largest Christian population in the world," he said.

Another indication of the growing Christian presence in China is the increasing demand for Christian schools in the country.

Speaking to CBN News, Sean Elgut, the headmaster of Veritas Christian Academy of Virginia, said more American Christian schools are rising in China.

Elgut said many Chinese parents have expressed openness to Christianity, with some even encouraging their children to learn more about Jesus Christ.

"Chinese parents start to realise Christian education is beyond textbooks. The parents want their kids to live with faith. They are begging us to teach them about Jesus," Elgut said.

Christianity is also capturing the hearts of Chinese millennials, with some of them professing that the Bible is not just a book but a way of living where they can find pure joy and happiness, two Christian converts told CBN News.

"Before attending school, I knew little about Jesus. While I was attending classes, I learned so much about God and His love for His children," Crystal Lu said. "My Christian parents are extremely happy that the Lord finally provided a way for me to know Him, too. My whole family are Christians today."

Wang Zhao Yuan, another Christian convert, said biblical values taught in Christian schools have touched his heart.

"I also enjoy having one-on-one conversation with the teacher. When they prayed with me, I felt so much better. My heart didn't feel so heavy anymore," Wang said.