By International Christian Concern’s field leader for South Asia
Monday, September 28, 2026
Sunday, September 27, 2026
Saturday, September 26, 2026
MYANMAR (Burma): Pastor Fatally Shot by Burmese Military
Source: VOMC
Sources: International Christian Concern, Burma Research Institute
Members of Myanmar’s Armed Forces.On the afternoon of September 14th, while travelling to the village of Lamzang in Myanmar's Chin State, Rev. Dal Thawn Tuang was wounded by the gunshots of armed military forces and killed. According to reports, he had been shot a total of three times. The assistant pastor was returning home after conducting ministry activities in another village when the fatal attack took place. Rev. Tuang, who had faithfully served at the Lamzang Baptist Church for 22 years, is survived by his wife and two children.
Since 2021, when a military coup overthrew Myanmar's formerly elected government to enforce a dictatorship regime, its armed forces have been fighting various opposition groups. Areas under the control of pro-democracy leadership, such as the states of Chin and Kachin, happen to be predominantly comprised of Christians.
There are documented reports clearly indicating that the military has been targeting adherents of Christianity. Since the coup began, more than 340 churches and associated buildings were damaged or destroyed – with 149 believers killed and more than 200 imprisoned. The killing of Pastor Tuang follows the deaths of Pastor William and another Chin believer which took place this past June.
In these previously occurring cases, the two Christians had been in military custody where they were both executed without trial, following accusations that they supported one of the groups opposing the country's dictatorial government.
For further information concerning the atrocities perpetrated against followers of Christ in Myanmar, go to our country profile.
Pray that "the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding" (Philippians 4:7) will greatly comfort the families and friends of all three recently slain believers, as they grieve the tragic loss of their loved ones.
In addition, please remember those belonging to these believers' churches and communities who are likewise reeling from shock and grief in the aftermath of the recently occurring tragedies.
Intercede on behalf of all citizens residing in this war-torn nation – including those who have yet to receive the Lord's salvation – so Myanmar can be governed with His justice and peace, a respect for the sanctity of life, and the freedom to worship Him in both spirit and truth (John 4:24).
CHINA: Arrest and Detainment of Elderly Believers
Source: VOMC
Sources: ChinaAid, International Christian Concern
Church members gather outside the policeOver the years, the Early Rain Covenant Church has faced significant opposition, dating back to a large raid that occurred in December 2018 when more than 100 believers were arrested. The raid also involved the arrest of the church's senior pastor, Wang Yi, who was sentenced to nine years in prison.
(The initially posted Persecution & Prayer Alert reporting on this situation may be accessed here.)
Since the initial raid, police have regularly harassed the church, detaining several congregation members. Despite the relentless opposition, the church continues to find ways to worship together and meet the spiritual needs of its participating community members. For example, on September 10th, some of the elderly congregants had gathered at a teahouse in Chengdu to conduct a small-group Scripture reading. However, police officers disrupted their meeting and detained the 11 attending believers, many of whom were over 70 years of age.
When other church members heard about the incident, they went to the police station – calling for the release of the detainees. They were especially concerned for those suffering from chronic age-related health conditions. At one point, an ambulance arrived at the police station. It was speculated by observers that one of the elderly members being held in detention required urgent medical attention.
Finally, at 10 o'clock on Saturday morning, police released nine of the detained Christians. The remaining two, Elder Wu Wuqing and Brother Shen Xiaoqing, were sentenced to 10 days of administrative detention for "illegally organizing proselytizing activities."
The Chinese Communist Party has been increasing its pressure on congregations that are unwilling to join the country's state-sanctioned church and conform to the socialist teachings imposed on them.
More reports addressing the various challenges facing our oppressed Christian brothers and sisters in China are available at our country profile.
Continue to prayerfully uphold the members of Early Rain church, along with the many other believers throughout China who are facing harassment and imprisonment because of their unwavering commitment to Christ.
Pray for those who are presently being detained, as well as their concerned families, asking the Lord to sustain each one of them with His comfort, strength, provision and other means of divine intervention.
Despite the governmental oppression, may the message of Christ's love and salvation continue to spread exponentially throughout China, reaching multitudes for His eternal Kingdom.
INDIA: Seven Ministerial Leaders Released on Bail
Source: VOMC
Sources: Church in Chains, Barnabas Aid
One of the imprisoned individuals.On June 12th, seven Christians – at least six of whom are pastors – were convicted under the anti-conversion laws of Madhya Pradesh state and sentenced to five years in prison, along with orders that each one of them also pay a substantial fine. The allegations relate to a social event that took place in June of 2024 when the accused believers had attended a child's birthday party.
(For more details regarding this case, see our previous report.)
Since none of the accused believers had any previous criminal record, the High Court in Jabalpur granted all seven ministerial leaders leave on August 18th so they could appeal their sentences. Even though they were all granted bail, and subsequently released from prison, the court ordered them to return on January 7th, 2027, for trial.
Those arrested included Jeet Singh Dhurve, a lay leader from the village of Pipariya where the party took place. The other six were pastors from Diwari village. While imprisoned, Jeet's steadfast dedication to Christ served as a strong testimony among prison authorities and fellow prisoners. In fact, prison officials acknowledged his special ability to foster peace within the prison institution. Jeet testified when responding to this statement that the peace ultimately came from Jesus Christ.
The esteemed prisoner was then given the opportunity to deliver a speech to his fellow inmates on August 15th (India's Independence Day), providing many of them greatly needed encouragement. Some of the inmates have now begun warmly greeting Jeet with the words, "Jai Masih Ki," which is similar to our English saying, "Praise the Lord!"
While we can praise God for the wonderful testimony that Jeet was able to provide among the prison staff and his fellow prisoners, please pray for the Holy Spirit's continual transformative work to take place in their hearts – leading them to call on the powerful name of the Lord in repentance and faith.
Additionally, we can give thanks to God that all seven of these ministerial leaders have been granted bail until January's court hearing.
In the interim, may those involved in the preparation of the legal appeals receive wisdom and guidance, so their efforts will result in the successful acquittal of the charges laid against these faithful Christian leaders.
Pray that the controversial anti-conversion laws being enforced (and often abused) in various Indian states will be changed so true justice can prevail and churches – along with other Christian organizations – would be allowed to meet the dire needs of the impoverished through provisions of humanitarian aid and other tangible expressions of God's compassionate care for them.
Thursday, September 17, 2026
PAKISTAN: Two Christians Recently Arrested for Blasphemy
Source: VOMC
Sources: CLAAS, AsiaNews, UCA News, Voicepk.net, International Christian Concern
Believers in Pakistan join in worship.In two separate cases, Christian men in Punjab, Pakistan, have recently been charged with blasphemy. In both instances, family members and supporters are calling for transparent investigations and the implementation of proper judicial processes.
On August 11th, Christian labourer Amir Masih was arrested in the community of Dhala Sharif. This believer has been accused of sharing a video on social media that was perceived to compare Islam with Christianity. Questions have since been raised about whether the social media account used to publish the video genuinely belonged to Amir. Consequently, human rights advocates are calling for an independent review to verify the video's authenticity and origin. Due to security concerns, Amir's family was initially placed in protective custody before subsequently going into hiding. Several other Christian families residing within the community have also fled their homes to avoid mob violence.
In an unrelated case, Samuel Arif was accused of making derogatory remarks about the Islamic prophet Muhammad and the religious leader's third wife, Aisha. A Muslim man alleged that Samuel confronted his young daughters on the evening of August 28th, claiming that the prophet had instructed him to marry them, while also making critical comments about Muhammad and the young age of the Muslim founder's third wife at the time of marriage. When news of the alleged incident spread, a mob pursued and physically assaulted Samuel before police were able to intervene.
Samuel and his family deny the accusations, stating that the entire incident was fabricated. They believe that the allegations stem from a longstanding personal dispute between him and his accuser, Muhammad Umair Alam Khan. Human rights advocates report that blasphemy allegations are frequently weaponized in cases involving personal conflicts and grievances.
While cases such as these continue to occur in Pakistan, statistics indicate a significant decline in registered blasphemy accusations, with reported cases decreasing by approximately two-thirds thus far during 2026. Reports suggest that this trend may be linked to a government crackdown on hardline Islamic militant groups. However, observers note that these measures appear to be motivated primarily by international relations rather than an overall commitment to protecting personal and religious freedoms.
To access previously published reports concerning Christian persecution in this South Asian nation, visit our country profile.
Pray that the truth will come to light in both of these cases, and that God's wisdom and justice will guide all those involved in the legal proceedings.
May Amir, Samuel, and their families – along with others who are encountering similarly challenging times of uncertainty and fear due to persecution – experience the Lord's divine protection, comfort and peace.
In keeping with the recent decrease in blasphemy cases, ask God to continue ministering in and through the lives of Pakistan's governing authorities, stirring them to diligently work for the benefit of all the nation's various people groups.
NIGERIA: Crackdown on Unauthorized Sharia Police
Source: VOMC
Sources: International Christian Concern, The Guardian, This Day
Governor Caleb Manasseh MutfwangThe governor of Nigeria's Plateau State, Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has raised concerns about a group attempting to enforce Sharia law in the state without official authorization. In response, authorities have initiated measures to stop the group's activities.
In northern Nigeria, 12 states have enacted Sharia law and established religious police, known as Hisbah, to enforce Islamic law among Muslim citizens. A recent Persecution & Prayer Alert report highlighted a specific case that had recently taken place in Kano State as a result of the enforced law, where members of the Hisbah Corps brought charges against a Christian woman despite lacking the authority to do so.
(See more details.)
Unlike many northern states, Sharia law has not been instituted in Plateau State, where Christians make up the majority of the population. Despite this, a group began operating as self-appointed Hisbah police, reportedly harassing residents, demanding money from them, and imposing rules and restrictions without any legal authority. Upon learning about these abusive activities, Governor Mutfwang warned those involved to cease their actions or face arrest and prosecution. Security agencies have been instructed to identify those responsible and ensure that residents are protected from harassment, intimidation and coercion.
This development comes amid ongoing religious tensions and insecurity in Nigeria, where Christian communities frequently encounter brutal attacks from militant Islamic groups. Over the years, thousands of innocent Nigerians have lost their lives due to such violence.
For more information, including informative video interviews, go to our country profile.
Please pray for the many followers of Christ in Nigeria who are presently experiencing intimidation, discrimination and threats of violence from Islamic militants and vigilante groups, asking God to daily strengthen, protect and encourage them.
Ask the Lord to minister His peace, healing and comfort to those who are mourning the loss of loved ones who had been slain during previously occurring attacks, praying that His presence will continue to sustain them in the midst of their sorrow.
Intercede on behalf of Nigeria's governing leaders, in hopes they would consistently promote justice, protect the rights of all citizens, and administer diplomatically to ensure peace and security are being rightly upheld within their communities.
ALGERIA: Christians Receive Differing Court Outcomes
Source: VOMC
Sources: Morning Star News, VOM USA
Worshippers in Algeria.The House of Refuge, a ministry located in the community of L'Ayaida (or "El Ayaida"), Oran province, serves as a haven and restoration centre for vulnerable women and their families. The facility formerly included a worship hall, which was shut down by authorities in 2019. Since that time, Christians have continued to meet for worship in apartments located on the premises.
On September 4th, special police forces raided the site with a warrant. During the operation, 12 believers were arrested. In addition, their Christian literature, mobile phones and identity cards were seized. During detainment, these dedicated followers of Jesus were interrogated, some until late the following night. Although all of them were eventually released from custody, and have not yet appeared before a prosecutor, they may still face charges under laws governing non-Muslim worship. If convicted, the Christians could receive fines and prison sentences of up to five years.
In a separate development, a court recently dismissed the cases involving 10 other Algerian Christians, each of whom had faced the possibility of significant jail time. Instead, they were individually required to pay fines of approximately $1,000 CAD. In response to the dismissal, a Christian ministry worker stated, "I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Lord, our God, for answering our prayers and being favourable to the prayers of all His saints."
Over recent years, Christians in Algeria have been subjected to consistent restrictions and pressure from governing authorities. Nearly all places of worship affiliated with the Protestant Church of Algeria have been ordered to close.
To review previously published reports addressing the various challenges encountered by believers in this restricted North African nation, go to our country profile.
Praise God for the encouraging outcome in the cases of the 10 believers whose charges were dismissed, thanking Him for His faithfulness in answering the prayerful petitions of His people.
May the recently arrested Christians likewise be acquitted from any formal charges and, while awaiting further developments, may they be filled with God's peace, wisdom and assurance of the Holy Spirit's advocacy on their behalf.
Continue to remember other believers throughout Algeria who are presently facing legal challenges, restrictions or imprisonment because of their faith in Christ, asking the Lord to continually strengthen, encourage and sustain each one of them.
Thursday, September 10, 2026
IRAN: New Restrictions on Christian Media Channels
Source: VOMC
Sources: Article18, Heart4Iran, Open Doors
Believers at a house church.As Iran continues its repressive actions against the country's Christians, the church as a whole has nevertheless experienced remarkable growth, with numerous people coming to faith in Christ. Because opportunities for Farsi-speaking believers to gather for worship have been severely restricted over the years, many Christians relied on satellite television broadcasts for Biblical teaching and encouragement. However, a new directive from the country's Ministry of Intelligence has now made accessing these resources much more dangerous.
The Iranian government has classified dozens of officially unapproved broadcasts, websites and individuals as "hostile," including many Christian media ministries. As a result, anyone found viewing these banned programs – or cooperating with the organizations behind them – could face prosecution under Iran's espionage laws. At the time of compiling this report, at least five Christians have already been charged.
The list of banned media outlets includes popular Christian broadcasters such as SAT-7, Mohabat TV, Nejat and Seven. Edwin Abnous, Executive Director for Heart4Iran, says that these organizations have played a significant role in the expanse of Christianity throughout the country. Referring specifically to Heart4Iran's broadcast channel, Mohabat TV, Edwin expects communication from viewers inside the country to decrease as they become more cautious. "Our audience will be much more careful, and they would know that they need to take the security measures much more seriously," he further explains.
Despite these added restrictions, observers remain confident that the church will continue to grow. "Mahsa," an Iranian believer living abroad (whose name has been changed for security purposes), remarked: "The government's latest measures reveal not the weakness of the church, but its enduring influence. If these broadcasts carried no significance, they would not be treated as a threat." While Christians will need to exercise wisdom and caution, Edwin believes their commitment to Christ will remain steadfast. "Iranian Christians understand the price of the faith; and, no matter what, they will follow Christ to the end," he affirms.
To review previously published Persecution & Prayer Alert reports concerning the oppression of Christianity in this war-torn Persian country, visit our country profile.
Pray for God's divine protection, wisdom and continued blessings upon ministries that are faithfully proclaiming the "Good News of the Gospel" across Iran through satellite television broadcasts and other forms of media outreach.
Ask the Lord to strengthen our Iranian brothers and sisters in Christ through His sustaining presence – granting them discernment, courage and unwavering faith as they navigate the increased risks and challenges now set before them.
Pray that a powerful outpouring of the Holy Spirit will take place throughout Iran, leading many more who are searching for spiritual truth to salvation in Christ; and then filling the hearts of these new believers with His everlasting love, supernatural peace, and unquenchable joy.
INDIA: Audit of Christian Properties in Maharashtra
Source: VOMC
Sources: International Christian Concern, The Indian Express
A village in India.The state government of Maharashtra has ordered an audit of all land and properties owned by Christian churches and charities following allegations that some have been misused for private or commercial purposes. The decision was made following a case of alleged fraud involving a Christian organization in the state's Nashik region, where parcels of church-owned land were reportedly leased or sold using forged ownership records.
Various churches and Christian organizations in India have legally held property for many years, with some ownership records dating back to the British colonial era. Even so, committees have been tasked with compiling full ownership records and reporting their findings to officials of the state government by early October.
The mandated review has raised concerns among Christian communities, particularly because it applies exclusively to affiliated churches and organizations, while properties belonging to other religious groups are not being subjected to the same scrutiny. Furthermore, the audit comes amid a broader climate of pressure and intimidation following the approval of Maharashtra's "Freedom of Religion Bill" in March.
State authorities have also recently ordered the demolition of several unauthorized church buildings, leading some believers to fear that similar actions could continue under the guise of the property investigations. Christians in other parts of the country are now concerned that comparable measures may eventually be introduced within their states.
While India is officially a secular nation with constitutional protections for religious freedom, minority religious communities have frequently been targeted, often in connection with anti-conversion regulations.
For more information on the various challenges being encountered by followers of Jesus in India, visit our country profile.
Prayerfully ask God to grant all involved in this recently mandated audit (including Maharashtra's state officials and commissioned committees, as well as the leaders/representatives of the targeted churches) wisdom and guidance throughout this investigation, ensuring that all information is handled with efficiency, fairness and honesty.
Pray that churches and ministries throughout the state will be protected from any unjust treatment, and that believers will experience God's peace and reassurance during this time of heightened interrogation and uncertainty.
May Christian organizations across India faithfully serve with all diligence, transparency and indisputable Christlike integrity, shining as powerful testimonies of His righteousness and grace within their communities.
BELARUS: Exiled Religious Advocates Face Charges
Source: VOMC
Source: Forum18
Natallia VasilevichCriminal charges have been brought against at least two religious freedom advocates currently living outside the country of Belarus. Both individuals have been added to Russia's federal list of wanted persons, meaning they could risk deportation to Belarus if found residing within countries that maintain close ties with the Russian Federation (such as Kazakhstan, Tajikistan or Uzbekistan). When inquiries were made regarding the specific charges against the two believers, Belarusian authorities provided no details.
One of the charged advocates at risk of prosecution is Sergiy Melyanets, a Protestant preacher who fled Belarus in 2024. Prior to leaving the country, Sergiy had regularly supported Christians facing arrests. In fact, he himself had served a short prison sentence due to his ministerial work. Beginning in January, authorities questioned the preacher's parents about his whereabouts and activities, eventually leading to a formal investigation. Despite the pressure, Sergiy remains resolute, stating: "They want me and my family to be in fear. But I continue to do what my Christian conscience leads me to do."
The second believer reportedly under investigation is Natallia Vasilevich. Natallia happens to be an Orthodox theologian and moderator of Christian Vision for Belarus, a Lithuanian-based organization that was officially banned by Belarusian authorities in April 2025. (See more details.) Natallia only became aware that she had been placed on Russia's wanted list after being informed by concerned friends. When asked about the investigation against her, she commented, "It was expected, and it doesn't even really stir up any emotions." While reports indicate that Natallia is being sought by authorities, it remains unclear whether any formal charges have been officially laid against her.
Belarus has consistently maintained restrictive policies towards religious groups operating outside of the Belarusian Orthodox Church. However, even within this state-approved church, individuals perceived by the government as "extreme" could still experience opposition. As a close ally of Russia, Belarus has also taken action against those expressing views contrary to its governmental policies, including oppositional stances that are against the war in Ukraine. Other published reports addressing Christian persecution in this restricted country are available at our country profile.
Pray that Sergiy and Natallia – along with other believers living outside Belarus who are facing accusations or threats because of their faith – will be divinely protected and encouraged to remain steadfast in their commitment to Christ.
Please remember Belarusian Christians remaining within their homeland who are similarly at great risk of persecution due to their beliefs, asking the Lord to grant them guidance, courage and peace as they endeavour to honour Him in a country regulated by oppressive political policies.
Despite the present challenges, may God continue to minister mightily in and through the churches of this restricted region as they faithfully proclaim the life-transforming message of our Lord's sacrificial love and eternal salvation, so that many more spiritually needy souls will discover the blessed hope and fulfillment that's only found in Him.
Sunday, September 6, 2026
Prayer for the Persecuted - Monday September 7, 2026 @ 7 PM
1. Open in Prayer
One of the most famous statements in The Insanity of God. It comes from Stoyan, a believer from the former Soviet Union who suffered deeply for his faith. He says it directly to Nik Ripken as a challenge to Western Christians:
“Don’t ever give up in freedom what we would never have given up in persecution! That is our witness to the power of the resurrection of Jesus Christ!”
2. Scripture: "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." Ephesians 6:12
We as believers are not to treat people as the ultimate enemy; we are called to love, forgive, pray, and bear witness to those who oppose us.
3. Worship Video: Praise the Lord
(Video: In the Hidden Places - An Anthem for the Persecuted Church)
Prayer:
4. NEPAL: Efforts to Reinstate Hindu Nation Spark Concerns
5. RUSSIA: Prosecutions for Cooperating with "Undesirable Organizations"
6. Nigeria - Victoria escaped captivity
7. From Wanda:
Last October we prayed for the Zion Church in Beijing and their imprisoned pastor and leaders. After Trump's visit to Beijing, Pastor Jin was released in August. PBS reported on this story and interviewed Pastor Jin and his daughter.
When I saw it, I jumped for joy and praised the Lord. Thank you my friends for standing together in faith to pray for Pastor Jin's release. The Zion Church is now scattered. Many other churches in the Capital are under the watchful eyes of the Party. However, believers are still meeting faithfully in small groups in their homes.
China - Pastor Jin Released from Prison
Recent News
- Father in Uganda Beaten by Muslim Sons for Accepting Christ
- Pakistan Court Rules Marriage to Underage Girls Is Child Abuse
- Two Christians Arrested under Blasphemy Laws in Pakistan
- Muslim’s Custody of Christian Girl in Pakistan Condemned
- U.S. Lawmakers Urge Protection for Christian Girl in Pakistan
- China - Pastor Jin Released from Prison
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