1936 Chiang Kaishek forced to agree to a united front with the CCP against Japanese invaders. Japanese invade north China. 1952 Withdrawal of all foreign missionaries from China completed. The Cultural Revolution launched by Mao who encourages the Red Guards. 1966 Red Guards close few remaining churches.
Church goes underground for thirteen years.
Nixon visits China. First reports emerge from south China of secret house church activities. House churches operate more freely. U.S. recognizes PRC as sole government of China. 1980 Formation of the China Christian Council to re-open churches and seminaries.