PAKISTAN: Blasphemy Allegation Sparks Mob Attack

Source: VOMC
Sources: CLAAS, Pakistan Christian Post, UCA News

A village in Pakistan. Photo: Wikimedia / Adeel.Ch (CC)

An angered mob recently set fire to the home and medical clinic of a Pakistani Christian man the day after police arrested him on allegations that he had shared blasphemous content on social media. Kamran Gill, a father of three, operates a pharmacy and clinic in the village of Gharial Kalan, Punjab Province.

The targeted believer was arrested on October 8th for allegedly sharing a previously posted video (reportedly containing offensive material) that he received from another Facebook user. Due to the threat of possible violence following his arrest, Kamran's family and several other Christian residents were forced to flee the village. The next day, after Friday's Islamic prayers, a mob of enraged activists gathered outside his clinic and the family's adjoining residence. After breaking into the premises, frenzied members of the mob proceeded to damage the property and set fire to the building.

Although emergency personnel were able to extinguish the flames, those responsible for the attack fled the scene before they could be arrested. In the days that followed, police detained five suspects in connection with the incident. Prior to the apprehension of the suspected perpetrators, Kamran's family and neighbouring friends had thankfully found protection in a temporary shelter outside of their village community and were able to return to their homes the next day. Despite this, Kamran's wife, children, mother and three brothers continue to face uncertainty and concerns for their security.

Vigilante violence is common in cases involving allegations of blasphemy. Speeches by opposing Islamic leaders regularly call for retribution, and anger over such accusations is often directed not only at the accused but also towards their family members and other innocent Christians within the community.
For additional reports addressing the many challenges facing believers in this South Asian nation, go to our country profile.

• Pray that the truth surrounding the blasphemy allegations against Kamran and other accused believers in Pakistan will be brought to light, so that justice can prevail in each of their cases.

• In the process, may God's perfect peace and love for His beloved humankind take precedence in areas of the country where anger and hostility presently exist.

• Ask the Lord to minister in tangible ways to Kamran's threatened family – and others facing similar challenges – ensuring they receive His divine strength, protection and daily provisions.

• Pray that Pakistan's governing authorities and judicial officials will act courageously and impartially, providing effective advocacy and legal safeguards for all those who are at risk of injustice and life-threatening danger due to the country's blasphemy laws.

IRAN: Wife of Jailed Pastor Summoned to Lengthy Prison Term

Source: VOMC
Sources: Article18, Middle East Concern

Lida Alexani Photo: Article18

On October 21st, 2025, five Iranian Christians were sentenced to lengthy prison terms. Among those convicted was Pastor Joseph Shahbazian, who received a 16-year sentence for leading a house church; and his wife, Lida Alexani, who had been sentenced to 13 years' imprisonment.
(Review a previously posted Persecution & Prayer Alert report on these Iranian believers' initial sentences.)

While Pastor Joseph and fellow believer Nasser Navard Gol-Tapeh have both been imprisoned since February of 2025 (prior to the official October 2025 sentencing), Lida and the other two convicted women were freed on bail. However, on October 9th of this year – almost 12 months after her initial conviction – Lida was summoned to report to the officials of Evin Prison where she has been ordered to begin serving her sentence. The charges against her include "deviant proselytizing" and "gathering and collusion."

Added Note: Some of the details pertaining to the prison sentences of these Iranian Christians have varied over the past year without clear explanations. The information included in this week's "Persecution & Prayer Alert" report indicates the latest numbers available.

• Pray that Lida would experience a keen awareness of God's abiding presence with her throughout this difficult season, along with the assurance that He will protect and sustain her physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually as she begins serving her prison sentence.

• In the meantime, please pray for the safe release of all five imprisoned Iranian believers, asking the Lord to intervene on their behalf by touching the hearts and minds of the country's national leaders and those administering in other levels of governance.

• Overall, may the Holy Spirit continue moving powerfully throughout the nation of Iran, drawing many more people to faith in Christ while providing opportunities for believers to worship and serve Him freely without any restraint, risk of imprisonment, or threat of death.

PAKISTAN: Differing Court Verdicts for Christian Brothers

Source: VOMC
Sources: International Christian Concern, Anglican Ink, CLAAS

Supreme Court of Pakistan building. Photo: Wikipedia / Usman.org (CC)

In 2018, two brothers were sentenced to death on allegations of blasphemy. The charges brought against these Christian men stemmed from website material that had been posted back in 2009. (The content in question was deemed offensive to Islam.) After fleeing the country, and seeking asylum elsewhere, the brothers returned in 2014 to Pakistan where they were subsequently arrested. (See further information about each of their cases.)

Although the convictions were later challenged, the Lahore High Court rejected the brothers' appeals in June of 2022. The case was then brought before Pakistan's Supreme Court. To the dismay of the accused brothers and their families – along with many others who have been rallying for the Christian men's acquittals – the Supreme Court dismissed the appeal that was presented on October 7th for Qaiser Ayub, thus upholding his initial death sentence. Qaiser presently remains imprisoned in Sahiwal Jail, separated from his devastated wife and three children. However, in the case of Qaiser's brother, Amoon, the court ruled to acquit him of all charges due to lack of sufficient evidence.

Throughout their lengthy legal ordeals, both brothers have been supported by the Centre for Legal Aid, Assistance and Settlement (CLAAS). While welcoming Amoon's acquittal, the organization describes the ruling against his brother as "deeply distressing." Plans are now underway to pursue every remaining legal avenue to save the accused man's life.

Commenting on Pakistan's blasphemy laws, Nasir Saeed of CLAAS-UK stated: "We have repeatedly witnessed how blasphemy allegations can be misused to settle personal disputes, intimidate vulnerable people, or target individuals because of their religious identity. An accusation alone can destroy a person's reputation, livelihood and family life, even before any evidence has been tested in court." Additional reports concerning the persecution of Christians in Pakistan are available at our country profile.

• While thanking God for Amoon's acquittal, please pray that Qaiser and his loved ones will be further strengthened, encouraged and protected as they continue to endure this prolonged ordeal – in hopes of obtaining increased prayer support and effective legal intervention.

• As representatives explore every remaining legal strategy, in order to secure Qaiser's release and reunification with his loved ones, may they receive God's sovereignly imparted wisdom, discernment and guidance.

• In a broader sense, prayerfully ask the Lord to bring about lasting changes in Pakistan's judicial system so that the country's blasphemy laws can no longer be misused against innocent people.

• Throughout the process, may God supernaturally sustain the persecuted members of our Christian family who are currently experiencing imprisonment or facing legal challenges because of such allegations, as they patiently await their hopeful vindication and freedom.

Jehovah | a song written by a persecuted Nigerian Christian

 

NIGERIA: Pastor Among Dozens Killed in Plateau State

Source: VOMC
Sources: International Christian Concern, Morning Star News

Photo: Flickr / UN Development Programme (CC)

A pastor was killed, and his son has been wounded, while travelling to a church in Nigeria's Plateau State on Sunday, September 20th. This attack was one of many violent incidents throughout the state that have claimed dozens of lives in recent weeks.

According to available reports, Pastor Samuel Nandi and his son were ambushed while they were on their way to a church service in the town of Maraban Kantoma, which is located in the Barkin Ladi area. Along with this unprovoked attack, numerous other deadly incidents were reported throughout Plateau State, where the violence perpetrated by Fulani herdsmen appears to have intensified during the month of September.

In response to the increased unrest, the Plateau State government imposed a curfew on September 21st. The curfew, which runs from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., will remain in effect until further notice. Nigerian authorities hope the measure will enable security forces to restore stability and provide increased protection for residents, particularly within the three regions of the state most affected by the violence.

While numerous factors contribute to the ongoing insecurity in Nigeria – resulting in thousands of fatalities over the years – hostility towards Christianity remains a significant element of the atrocities carried out by Fulani herdsmen and others who are affiliated with militant Islamist groups.
To review previously published Persecution & Prayer Alert reports addressing the persecution of Christians in this West African nation, go to our country profile.

• Please prayerfully uphold Pastor Samuel's surviving family as they grieve their sudden loss, asking the Lord to provide them greatly needed comfort, strength and peace throughout this difficult time.

• Also pray for the healing of the slain pastor's injured son, who is not only recovering from the tragic loss of his father, but also from the resulting physical wounds and emotional trauma of the targeted attack.

• Ask the Lord to equip Nigeria's authorities and security forces with wisdom and perseverance as they work to restore peace and stability in the area.

• May those responsible for perpetrating such horrific attacks against innocent fellow Nigerians be convicted of their wrongdoings and brought to justice, in hopes that they will ultimately surrender their hearts to Christ and turn from their wicked ways.

• Continue to pray for Christians throughout Nigeria who live under the shadow of violence and uncertainty, asking that they be strengthened in their faith, encouraged by God's presence, and filled with hope as they look to Him each day.

RUSSIA: Sentencing of Elderly Korean Missionary

Source: VOMC
Sources: Voice of the Martyrs Korea, Mission Network News

Ms. Park Tae-Yeon Photo: VOM Korea

In January, Ms. Park Tae-Yeon was planning to return to her home country of South Korea after compassionately ministering to children for many years in eastern Russia as a missionary. However, one week before her scheduled departure, Ms. Park was detained by Russian authorities and charged with immigration-related offences.
(See more information on her arrest.)

On October 8th, the 70-year-old believer was sentenced to a total of five years and eight months in a general-regime correctional colony. (A Russian co-defendant, Zinaida Ustinova, received a six-year suspended sentence with five years' probation.) The court also ruled that the number of months Ms. Park had already spent at a detention centre for foreign nationals would not be credited towards her sentence. When delivering the court's verdict, an appointed judicial representative only cited the formal charges; not the reasoning behind the sentencing. Hopefully, the official written judgement, which was expected to arrive within days of the hearing, will provide a proper explanation.

The court's harsh sentencing has been described as "extraordinary" for an immigration violation. During an interview with Mission Network News, Dr. Eric Foley of VOM Korea stated, "If there was an immigration violation…normally the person would simply be kicked out of the country, especially if they had a plane ticket in their hand and were 70 years old." Considering that Ms. Park was questioned during the trial about her faith, as well as the ministry organization that she had been serving, Dr. Foley suspects that other factors may have contributed to the prosecution.

Although an appeal to a higher court has been planned, the detained believer will remain in custody pending the outcome. If the initial sentence is upheld, Ms. Park would likely be transferred to a women's correctional colony in Zaozernoye, a village near the city of Khabarovsk, where the missionary had been working with Child Evangelism Fellowship. Incidentally, this organization was added to the Russian government's list of "undesirable" organizations this past July.

• Pray that the planned appeal will be successful, allowing for Ms. Park's due release from imprisonment and safe return to her home country as originally intended.

• While this believer awaits a hopeful favourable outcome to the future appeal hearing, may she remain deeply aware of the Lord's comforting presence – strengthening, encouraging and sustaining her daily with His perfect peace which surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7).

• Despite the Russian government's efforts to intensify restrictions against religious organizations, pray that those serving in Christian ministries will faithfully proclaim the "Good News of the Gospel" with courage, wisdom and perseverance.

OCCUPIED UKRAINE: Appeal Denied for Pastor Facing Deportation

Source: VOMC
Source: Forum18

Pastor Vladimir Rytikov Photo: Council of Churches Baptist via Forum 18

Pastor Vladimir Rytikov was born and raised in the Luhansk region of Ukraine. Ordained during 1995, he has faithfully served in ministry within this area for more than 30 years. Despite this, the pastor now faces deportation to an unknown location following Russia's occupation and subsequent annexation of the region. Apparently, Russian officials refuse to recognize Pastor Vladimir as a citizen due to his ministry involvement with an unregistered church.

Earlier this year, authorities ordered his deportation, prompting him to file an appeal. (See more details.) Officials contend that the church leader is a foreign citizen who "advocates for the violent change of the foundations of the constitutional order of the Russian Federation; or by other actions, creates a threat to the security of the Russian Federation or citizens of the Russian Federation."

On October 6th, the Russian-controlled Luhansk Supreme Court rejected Pastor Vladimir's appeal. Officials have also seized official documents pertaining to the ownership of his house and land, refusing to return them despite the ruling that his wife, Lyudmila, is permitted to remain within the region. In addition, the elderly couple, who are both caring for a son who has lived with a disability since 2015, were denied their government pensions. Compounding the family's multiple difficulties, Lyudmila is experiencing health complications.

Pastor Vladimir intends to continue appealing the case – even presenting it before Russia's Supreme Court if necessary. Meanwhile, his lawyer plans to request a suspension of any deportation order while the appeal process remains ongoing.

• Pray that Pastor Vladimir's appeal will be rightfully honoured, allowing him to stay in the country where he has lived, served and faithfully ministered for decades.

• During this season of uncertainty, may the Lord strengthen and encourage this church leader and his family, graciously providing for each of their physical, emotional, spiritual and practical needs.

• Intercede on behalf of other believers residing in occupied regions of Ukraine who are facing increased pressures and restrictions, asking that they too would remain steadfast in their faith and further sustained by God's wisdom, grace and hope.

• May the Lord work powerfully in the hearts of all those involved, opening the way for a just and peaceful resolution to the ongoing military conflict.

SYRIA: Community Tensions Heightened by Threats

Source: VOMC
Sources: Christian Solidarity Worldwide, Syriac Press

A church in Syria. Photo: Flickr / Hovic (CC)

Christians in the city of Al-Qusayr have expressed concerns over threats and other forms of intimidation, calling on the authorities to take necessary measures to protect residents and their properties. The situation follows the arrest of a male instigator identified as Abdo Idris, who had posted photographs of a Christian man online and encouraged other Muslims to attack the believer and boycott his business. Abdo accused the young Christian man of sympathizing with militia groups that are loyal to the former Assad regime.

Following Abdo's arrest, members of the Muslim community took to the streets, threatening Christians and forcing them to close their businesses until Abdo is released from custody. In response, followers of Jesus in the affected community issued a statement urging authorities not to treat such situations as "mere passing disputes or individual incidents," further emphasizing that "Christians are an integral part of Syria's history, present and future."

Reflecting on the incident, VOMC CEO Floyd Brobbel states: "The situation in Al-Qusayr reflects broader challenges facing Christians across the region. Ongoing insecurity and pressure continue to drive Christian families to leave, eroding the church's historic presence and witness. This underscores the importance of supporting local believers and strengthening the church for long-term ministry."
To learn more about the persecution of Christians in this Middle Eastern nation, visit our country profile.

• Prayerfully uphold the Christian residents of Al-Qusayr who have been subjected to threats and other forms of intimidation, asking the Lord to encourage their hearts, strengthen their faith, and reassure them of His abiding presence and providential care.

• In general, pray that peace, mutual respect and understanding will prevail among the members of Syria's various religious communities, and that governing authorities would act with wisdom and impartiality as they work to protect all citizens.

• Even though the ongoing pressure has prompted many believers to leave the region, pray that those who remain will be empowered by the Holy Spirit to continue serving as faithful witnesses of Christ – sharing the hope of the Gospel with courage, grace and love.

INDIA: Maharashtra's Conversion Law Now Challenged in Court

Source: VOMC
Sources: Mission Network News, International Christian Concern, Times of India, BBC

The Bombay High Court building. Photo: Wikipedia / A.Savin (FAL)

Maharashtra has become the latest state in India to enact legislation restricting religious conversions. The law, which came into effect on August 28th, imposes particularly stringent conditions. Any conversions suspected to have been achieved through either coercion, misrepresentation, allurement or undue influence can result in up to seven years' imprisonment. Even harsher penalties apply in cases involving the conversion of women, minors, persons with disabilities, or members of tribal communities.

In states with comparable legislation, allegations of coercion have frequently been used as a pretext to target Christian individuals and congregations. The law's broad definition of "allurement" could be used to describe even basic acts of hospitality, such as serving coffee before a church service. In response, many churches have begun asking worshippers to sign weekly declarations affirming that they are attending the services of their own free will.

Whether such declarations will have legal standing in the event of an accusation remains untested. Even so, Todd Neddleton of VOM USA has expressed concern that maintaining these records could potentially create additional risks for identified church worshippers should the lists fall into the hands of militants affiliated with the state's Hindu nationalist groups.

A legal challenge has been filed with the Bombay High Court, arguing that the legislation oversteps constitutional limits and infringes on citizens' fundamental rights to privacy, dignity and personal autonomy. The petition, which was submitted by a Muslim citizen named Maulana Halimullah Khan, calls on the court to either declare the act unconstitutional or at least ensure that it is applied strictly to cases involving genuine force, fraud or coercion.

In conjunction with the new legislation, the Maharashtra state government has also ordered an audit of all properties owned by Christian organizations.
See more details regarding this decision. To review other previously published reports addressing the persecution of Christians in India, go to our country profile.

• As church leaders representing congregations across the state of Maharashtra navigate the present legal challenges, may each one of them diligently seek God's wisdom and guidance that they may be fully equipped to respond with prudence and Christlike grace.

• Intercede on behalf of the judges presiding over the Bombay High Court, praying that those considering the recently submitted petition will exercise discernment and impartiality, so that their ruling would uphold justice and protect India's fundamental freedoms.

• Pray that as believers faithfully continue sharing the Gospel message throughout the nation and beyond, they will remain steadfast in their faith and confident in the Lord's ultimate sovereignty.

CHINA: Concerns Over Isolation of Imprisoned Pastor

Source: VOMC
Source: ChinaAid

Pastor Wang Yi in prison. Photo: ChinaAid

Recent reports indicate that Wang Yi, the imprisoned pastor of Early Rain Covenant Church, may be suffering from advanced liver cancer. Unfortunately, severe restrictions on family contact and communication have prevented anyone from verifying these claims or assessing Pastor Wang's current physical condition.

In response, the church has released an open letter expressing deep concern. According to the statement, his wife and family have only been permitted to visit him five times throughout the duration of Pastor Wang's eight-year incarceration. As a result, while they are unable to verify the accuracy of the reports, neither are they willing to dismiss them.

If the reports prove accurate, timely medical intervention is critical. Dr. Bob Fu, founder of ChinaAid, has expressed concern not only for Pastor Wang's health but also for the ongoing denial of family contact. He stated, "Whatever the Chinese government's position regarding Pastor Wang Yi's imprisonment, there can be no justification for denying a seriously ill prisoner access to his family and adequate medical care."

As Pastor Wang serves the remaining 15 months of his sentence, the church is calling believers around the world to uphold him in prayer: "We pray that the Lord will especially protect His servant, making [Pastor Wang's] body, mind and faith strong, blocking all attacks and schemes of evil; and, according to the Lord's will and timing, bringing him safely back to his family and the church."
To review additional reports concerning Pastor Wang and other Chinese believers who are suffering for their faith in Jesus, visit our country profile.

• If the reports concerning Pastor Wang's health are indeed accurate, pray that he will not only receive urgently needed medical care, but ultimately the Lord's divine healing touch, comfort and peace.

• During the remainder of his imprisonment, may this faithful servant be further strengthened spiritually and emotionally through tangible reminders of God's never-ending presence, sustaining grace and supernatural protection.

• Also pray for Pastor Wang's wife – along with other concerned members of his family and church community – asking the Lord to encourage their hearts, deepen their trust in Him, and provide them opportunities to meaningfully engage in fellowship with this beloved Christian leader while eagerly awaiting his release from imprisonment.

Prayer for the Persecuted - Monday October 5, 2026 @ 7 PM

1. Open in Prayer

2. Scripture: Psalm 13: How Long, O LORD?

3. Worship Video: How Long, O Lord | Worship from persecuted Nigerian Christians

Prayer for the Persecuted:

4. Nigeria - The violence continues

5. Pakistan: Inside Pakistan’s Brick Kilns

6. Lebanon - Martyr's Widow Begins Cancer Treatment

7. ALGERIA: 12 Christians Arrested During Worship Service

8. Bangladesh - Conditions Worsen for Stateless Rohingya Christians

Recent News:

   Seven Letters from the Persecuted Church

   Canada Grants Asylum to Iranian Christian Deported from US - ICC

• Muslims Protest against Pork Restaurant in Indonesia
• More Christians Killed in Previously Attacked Area in Nigeria
• Muslims Stall Construction of Church Building in Indonesia
• Baptist Pastor, other Christians Killed in Plateau State, Nigeria 
• Police in Algeria Arrest 12 Christians during Worship

ALGERIA: 12 Christians Arrested During Worship Service

Source: Morning Star News

Police in Algeria raided a Christian worship gathering at the House of Refuge shelter near Oran
on September 4, arresting all 12 believers present. Authorities confiscated Christian literature, mobile phones, and identification documents before detaining the group for questioning. 

The Christians may face prosecution under Algeria's restrictive Ordinance 06-03, which regulates non-Muslim worship and can impose prison terms and heavy fines for unauthorized religious gatherings. 

The incident reflects ongoing pressure on Christians in Algeria, where many Protestant churches have been ordered closed and numerous believers have faced legal action in recent years. Christian leaders say the raid is part of a broader pattern of government efforts to restrict and control Christian activity in the country. 

Pray for the 12 detained Christians, for legal protection and courage, and for greater religious freedom for believers throughout Algeria.

Pray that Christians will find a way to continue to worship together even though many churches have been closed.