Located on China’s central coast, Shanghai is the country’s largest city and a global financial powerhouse. As one of the world’s busiest seaports, it stands as a major industrial and commercial hub for China. Historically, Shanghai was one of the first Chinese ports to open to Western trade, and plays a significant role in the nation’s commerce.

At the heart of the city lies the Bund, a renowned waterfront promenade lined with colonial-era architecture. Across the Huangpu River, the Pudong district showcases a stunningly modern skyline, featuring the 632-meter-tall Shanghai Tower and the iconic Oriental Pearl TV Tower, with its distinctive pink spheres.

Shanghai is home to a diverse array of religions, including Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, and Popular Folk Religion. Taoism and Buddhism have the largest followings, and the city also boasts the largest Catholic population in mainland China.

However, the Chinese government strictly controls religious activity, limiting it to state-approved religious bodies. Independent congregations, such as those in the underground house church movement, are considered illegal. These churches face the threat of property confiscation, imprisonment of leaders, and fines for members.

Despite these restrictions, Christianity has grown rapidly in China over the past four decades, outpacing growth in any other nation. Underground cell churches are thriving across Shanghai. It is estimated that more than 100 million Chinese people are now followers of Jesus.