The Church of Almighty God, also known as Eastern Lightning, emerged in China during the early 1990s. Founded by Zhao Weishan, who proclaimed himself to be the reincarnation of Jesus Christ, the group combines elements of Christianity with its own unique doctrines. They believe that Jesus has returned as a Chinese woman named Yang Xiangbin, also known as Lightning Deng, and that she is the Almighty God incarnate. Central to their beliefs is the notion of “God’s end-time work,” which they claim is to cleanse humanity and establish God’s kingdom on Earth. The group has been labeled as a cult by many religious scholars and government authorities due to its secretive nature, manipulation tactics, and reports of violence towards dissenters. Despite efforts by the Chinese government to suppress it, the Church of Almighty God has spread to other countries through its missionary activities and online presence, drawing in followers with promises of salvation and spiritual enlightenment.