EGYPT: Citizen Arrested for Expressing Concerns

Source: VOMC
Sources: Coptic Solidarity, International Christian Concern, Morning Star News, Christian Solidarity Worldwide

Sherif Wagih Fahmi Photo: Coptic Solidarity

On October 5th, National Security officers arrived at the home of Sherif Wagih Fahmi and his family whose residence is located in Alexandria, Egypt. Claiming to work for a gas company, the officers gained entry into the family's apartment and immediately arrested the unsuspecting 41-year-old Christian husband and father. News sources also report that he has since been charged with speaking against Islam through an online post.

According to sources, Sherif was arrested after expressing concerns online about the imposition of Islamic education on students across the country. While religious instruction is compulsory in schools, non-Muslim students are legally permitted to opt out of Islamic classes. In practice, however, this rule is frequently disregarded.

Sherif's case highlights the increasing crackdown on non-Muslim activists. Since mid-September, at least 14 people have been arrested on allegations such as "joining an illegal group" or showing "contempt of religion." Sherif's sister, Emy, emphasized the importance of speaking up about the increasing erosion of the country's basic human rights. She stated, "If you give up your right(s) today, you won't find [them] tomorrow."
For more information concerning the challenges facing followers of Christ in Egypt, visit our country profile.

• Pray that Sherif will experience God's peace, strength and reassuring presence while awaiting his hopeful soon release from custody, allowing him to be joyfully reunited with his family and justly granted constitutional freedom.

• Throughout the legal process, may the Lord also minister to Sherif's wife, children and the members of their extended family – providing them needed comfort, courage and peace as they too hope for a favourable outcome regarding his situation.

• In general, please uphold the many other believers throughout Egypt who have been arrested for peacefully expressing their convictions, praying that they will remain steadfast and that their rights would be duly upheld.

NIGERIA: Christian Woman Convicted for Sharing Her Faith

Source: VOMC
Sources: Truth Nigeria, Nairaland Forum, International Christian Concern, Barnabas Aid

Photo: Unsplash

In a case that raises significant concerns over increased religious restrictions in Nigeria and the relating legal implications, a Christian woman has been sentenced to 14 years' imprisonment for sharing her faith with a Muslim. The accused was convicted under Section 210 of Borno State's penal code, a provision intended to prevent the unlawful removal of a child from parental custody. In this case, however, all those involved are adults.

Liyatu Samuel Dawa is the wife of evangelist Amos Suleman, both of whom are from the Gwoza area of Borno State, an epicentre of Boko Haram insurgency. Due to militant violence and other forms of persecution, the Christian population within this region has fallen from approximately 30 percent to less than five percent during recent years. Borno State also happens to be one of the 12 Muslim-majority jurisdictions in Nigeria that have implemented Sharia law. However, because Liyatu is a Christian, Nigerian law stipulates that a Sharia court has no jurisdiction over her, raising serious questions about the legality of the proceedings.

During the court hearing, Liyatu testified that she only offered spiritual guidance to the adult Muslim woman who had voluntarily chosen to convert to Christianity. (The new convert confirmed that her decision to follow Christ was made freely and without any coercion.) As a result, an appeal is being prepared on the grounds that the law was misapplied and that the ruling violates Nigeria's national constitution, which guarantees the freedom to change one's religion.

Liyatu's husband, Amos, who is currently in hiding after receiving death threats from local militants, had also been briefly detained in connection with the case before being released. Due to the ongoing threats against him, it's unsafe for Amos to visit his imprisoned wife.
To review previously published Persecution & Prayer Alerts reporting on other incidents of persecution in Nigeria, go to our country profile.

• Pray that along with receiving God's divine protection, peace, strength and encouragement, Liyatu and her legal representatives will sense His guidance throughout the appeal process – in hopes that justice will ultimately prevail in her case.

• Additionally, please prayerfully uphold Liyatu's husband, Amos, as well as other believers who have been affected by this case (including the former Muslim woman who decided to place her faith in Christ), asking the Lord to also provide these committed Christians needed protection and courage.

• Pray that followers of Christ living in Muslim-majority areas of Nigeria will not only be granted safety and security, but also the freedom to share the hope of Christ without any risk of threats, violence or legal repercussions.

Prayer for the Persecuted - Monday November 2, 2026 @ 7 PM

 1. Open in Prayer

2. Scripture: Yesterday, Sunday, November 1st, Christians around the world united in prayer on behalf of our brothers and sisters in Christ who are facing persecution. This year's theme, Do You Know Our Suffering?, reminds us of the call to stand with those who suffer for their faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.

2 Timothy 3:10-11

10 You, however, have observed my teaching, my conduct, my purpose, my faith, my patience, my love, my perseverance,

11 my persecutions, and the sufferings that came upon me in Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra. What persecutions I endured! Yet the Lord rescued me from all of them.

3. Worship Video: Great is thy Faithfulness

 I'll Keep My Eyes On Jesus

Prayer for the Persecuted:

4. Jordan, Ethiopia Massacres Underscore Urgency of IDOP Prayer for Persecuted Christians

5. Benin: Christian Teen Flees Voodoo Violence

6. Christians in India Lose Ancestral Home for Faith in Christ

7. Asabe from Nigeria: Extremists killed my sons and husband

Recent News

Source: Morningstar News - First Light Before the Dawn

• Muslims Sentenced to Death for Killing Two Evangelists in Uganda
• Official Help Sought to Recover Pastor’s Wife, Daughter in Nigeria
• Authorities in Egypt Hold Christian Incommunicado
• Court in Pakistan Adjourns Hearing on Christians’ Abducted Daughter
• Slain Christian Harbored Converts in Western Uganda

INDIA: Christians Given Ultimatum to Convert or Leave (note: this is an update to the original posting)

Source: VOMC

Sources: Morning Star News, Catholic Connect

Villagers of Bhandardigi discussing the fate of Christian residents. Photo: Morning Star News

Bhandardigi is a tribal village in the Kanker district of Chhattisgarh. As is common in many tribal areas of India, residents traditionally practise an indigenous religion blended with elements of Hinduism. In recent years, Christians residing in Bhandardigi have faced significant pressure from community members to renounce their faith and return to the village's traditional religious observances.

The situation has now escalated to the point where believers have been commanded to forsake Christianity or leave the village altogether. On six separate occasions, the Christian residents were summoned before members of the village council, who uttered threats of physical violence and social ostracism. By this time, government-supplied rations were already being withheld from them. As a result, several believers reportedly yielded to the pressure, having felt compelled to return to their former religion.

On September 21st, a mob consisting of approximately 150 people attacked the remaining Christian families. Armed with wooden sticks, the assailants physically assaulted the believers, leaving five in need of urgent medical treatment – including an 11-year-old boy. Although police are reportedly monitoring the situation, one Christian family has decided to leave their ancestral home for the sake of safety. Speaking on behalf of the family, Vikas Salam explained, "We will not deny Christ because, since the day we started to believe, our lives have changed."

Christians in India are frequently pressured to renounce their faith, particularly in areas influenced by Hindu nationalist ideologies, which foster the belief that to be truly Indian is to be Hindu.
Previously published reports addressing the various difficulties encountered by Christians in India are available at our country profile.

• As Vikas, his family, and the other ostracized believers navigate their way during this difficult season in their lives – seeking God's wisdom and guidance throughout the process – may they providentially receive His strengthening presence, protection and peace.

• Also intercede on behalf of those who have reluctantly agreed to return to their former religious practices due to the intense pressure, asking the Lord to restore them spiritually, strengthen their faith in Him, and reassure them of His unfailing love.

• May the message of the Gospel penetrate the hearts of opposing villagers, leading many to personally experience the hope, truth and transforming love of Jesus Christ.

I'll Keep My Eyes On Jesus

 

Asabe from Nigeria: Extremists killed my sons and husband

 

Ethiopia: More than 60 Christians killed in massacre, church official says

Source: Aciafrica.org

Mass Killing of Ethiopian Orthodox Christians in Oromia

In late October, Ethiopia's Oromia region was shaken by a series of attacks that left more than sixty Orthodox Christians dead, many others injured, and numerous families displaced from their homes. The violence occurred in communities where armed attackers targeted villages largely inhabited by members of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church.

Church leaders reported that the attacks unfolded over several days. In addition to the loss of life, homes were burned, property was destroyed, and surviving residents were forced to flee in search of safety. Children, elderly persons, and entire families were among those affected. The tragedy has deepened fears among Christian communities already living amid ongoing insecurity in parts of Oromia.

The Holy Synod of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church responded with profound sorrow and strong condemnation. The bishops described the killings as brutal and unacceptable acts that violate the sanctity of human life and fundamental religious freedoms. They emphasized that no faith tradition can justify such violence and called upon all Ethiopians to reject hatred and bloodshed.

Church leaders also expressed concern that these attacks reflect a broader pattern of insecurity that has affected some Christian communities in the region. They warned that repeated incidents of violence, displacement, and intimidation have left many people living with uncertainty and fear. The bishops appealed to civil authorities to investigate the killings thoroughly, identify those responsible, and provide effective protection for vulnerable communities.

At the same time, Christian leaders urged believers not to respond with vengeance. Instead, they called the faithful to prayer, mourning, and solidarity with those who have suffered. Orthodox churches and monasteries were encouraged to remember the victims during worship services and to pray for grieving families, the wounded, and those who have been displaced from their homes.

The tragedy has also renewed calls for reconciliation and peace within Ethiopia. Religious leaders from different Christian traditions have emphasized the need for justice, dialogue, and mutual respect among the country's diverse ethnic and religious communities. Their message is that lasting peace will require not only accountability for acts of violence but also a commitment to healing divisions and protecting the dignity of every citizen.

As Christians around the world remember the victims, they are invited to:

pray for comfort for those who mourn, 

healing for the injured, 

protection for displaced families, 

wisdom for government leaders, 

and a future in which all Ethiopians may live in peace and practice their faith without fear.

Jordan, Ethiopia Massacres Underscore Urgency of IDOP Prayer for Persecuted Christians

• Please uphold all those who have tragically lost loved ones in both recent attacks, praying that they will experience God's comfort, strength, peace and hope in the days ahead through the reassuring presence of the Holy Spirit.

• Ask the Lord to also provide needed healing to the innocent civilians who were wounded during the attacks, restoring them both physically and emotionally as they recover from the traumatic incidents.

• May the Lord also minister to the terrorists who were responsible for instigating the attacks by softening their hearts, drawing them to repentance, and eternally changing the trajectory of their lives.

• Pray that the tensions resulting from these violent incidents will not escalate further and that God will ultimately bring about lasting peace and stability throughout the region.

Benin: Christian Teen Flees Voodoo Violence

Source: iCommitToPray
Oct. 8, 2026 | Benin

Benin is known as the
birthplace of voodoo.

A 17-year-old girl named Nogosa fled from her home on Sept. 13, 2026, after being severely beaten by her family for her faith in Christ. Nogosa had recently become a follower of Christ and was attending church services, angering family members who had dedicated her to become the wife of a voodoo priest. After the assault, they told Nogosa she must participate in upcoming voodoo initiation ceremonies. “These ceremonies often involve horrific assault and abuse,” said a front-line worker. Fearing for her life, Nogosa escaped to her pastor’s home, and now she and her pastor are asking for prayer in how to best help her. The front-line worker said the pastor and his family already face many pressures from area voodooists and the burdens of caring for their congregation.

Pray that Nogosa will remain faithful to Christ and be kept safe.

Pray for her to find a permanent safe place to live and for a way to earn income or for financial support.

Pray for her family that they will come to faith in Christ.

Pray for the pastor and his family, to be safe, and to be able to care for their congregation spiritually.

Benin is the birthplace of voodooism. Pray that many will flee from voodoism and find freedom in Christ.

JORDAN: Mass Shooting Attack at Funeral Service

Source: VOMC
Sources: International Christian Concern, Al Jazeera, The Associated Press, Deutsche Welle, France 24, CBS News

Footage of shooters moving towards the church. Photo: Wikipedia

On October 23rd, nine people were killed and dozens more injured when gunmen opened fire during a Christian funeral service in Hamoud, a village located within the Karak governorate of Jordan. Video footage verifies that at least three assailants began shooting as they approached the church building. At the time of publishing this report, no group has claimed responsibility for the widely condemned attack. Jordan's national political leader, King Abdullah II, promised that those responsible for committing these crimes will face the "harshest penalties."

During a subsequent raid by the Jordanian military on October 26th, three suspected perpetrators of the funeral service shooting were consequently arrested. All three suspects were wounded during the operation; one of them sustaining critical injuries. The assailants, identified as two brothers and a relative by marriage, were referred to by governing officials as "Islamic extremists."

That same night, Jordanian forces carried out retaliatory strikes in southern Syria, specifically targeting locations they claimed were linked to Islamic State terrorists. While the military reports that more than 20 militants were killed in the strikes, it acknowledges the loss of civilian lives as well. Tragically, three children were among the list of casualties.

The Karak region is home to a significant community of professing followers of Christ. Although Islam is the official religion of Jordan, the country has generally been considered a safe place for its Christian minority.
To learn more about this Southwest Asian nation, visit our country profile.

• Please uphold all those who have tragically lost loved ones in both recent attacks, praying that they will experience God's comfort, strength, peace and hope in the days ahead through the reassuring presence of the Holy Spirit.

• Ask the Lord to also provide needed healing to the innocent civilians who were wounded during the attacks, restoring them both physically and emotionally as they recover from the traumatic incidents.

• May the Lord also minister to the terrorists who were responsible for instigating the attacks by softening their hearts, drawing them to repentance, and eternally changing the trajectory of their lives.

• Pray that the tensions resulting from these violent incidents will not escalate further and that God will ultimately bring about lasting peace and stability throughout the region.

CHINA: School Children and Educators Interrogated

Source: VOMC
Source: ChinaAid

Schoolchildren in China. Photo: Pixabay

The ongoing crackdown on unregistered churches in Hunan Province has led China's Communist authorities to target schools by questioning and disciplining both students and their educators. Local Christians report that these expanded interrogations have taken place in primary and secondary schools, as well as universities.

At the Hunan Institute of Technology, one instructor has been suspended from her duties and placed on standby status. Another teacher, concerned over the political group's intense opposition to Christianity, was suspended after requesting that his membership with the Communist Party be withdrawn.

In several primary and secondary schools in Yueyang, children from Christian families were questioned by Communist Party officials. Some of the interrogations lasted for three to four hours, during which time the students were pressured to sign documents accusing the churches of religious "brainwashing." Even first-grade students were among the young children interrogated.

As a result, many Christian parents have become increasingly concerned about sending their children to school. However, homeschooling presents its own challenges, as it remains subject to significant government restrictions and scrutiny. These increased pressures follow a series of coordinated raids carried out in Yueyang on July 11th.
For more details about these incidents, see this report.

• Pray that these believers and their children will be protected from fear, and that their faith in Christ will continue to grow despite pressure from those in governing authority.

• As Christian parents throughout China consider the best course of action for their children's education, may they not only receive God's wisdom, guidance and discernment, but also His divine protection over their families.

• Prayerfully ask the Lord to encourage and provide for educators who have suffered the loss of employment because of their faithfulness to Christ, opening new doors of opportunity and strengthening them in their witness.

CUBA: Pastor Detained Following Cancelled Prayer Event

Source: VOMC
Source: Christian Solidarity Worldwide

Pastor Maikel Pupo Velázquez with his wife. Photo: Christian Solidarity Worldwide

Pastor Maikel Pupo Velázquez leads an unregistered church in Camagüey City. The Cuban church leader had also been instrumental in organizing a large prayer event that was scheduled to take place at the Cándido Gonzalez Morales Stadium on September 26th. However, police warned him to call off the Christian meeting, stating that he could face imprisonment if anyone gathered at the site.

In response to the warning, and out of concern for those planning to attend, the event was cancelled. However, Pastor Maikel wanted to ensure that any young people possibly arriving at the stadium, due to their unawareness of the cancellation, were duly informed. As he approached the venue to encourage possible attendees to disperse, state security officers arrested him and charged him with "disobedience."

Although he was previously detained in 2025 for delivering aid to the families of two political prisoners, Pastor Maikel has remained actively involved in ministry outreach by leading Cuban youth to faith in Christ.
Additional reports addressing the challenges encountered by Christians in Cuba are available at our country profile.

• Pray that Pastor Maikel will soon be released from detention and reunited with the concerned members of his family and church community.

• While upholding this faithful pastor's family, please specifically pray for the healing of his daughter who is experiencing various health challenges.

• In the meantime, may the Lord wonderfully sustain these Cuban believers, providing for their spiritual/practical needs and drawing them even closer to Himself relationally.

• As a result, may these believers be further strengthened and encouraged, seizing every opportunity to reflect Christ's love through their words and actions.