Prayer for the Persecuted - Monday December 1, 2025 @ 7 PM

 1. Open in Prayer:

Nigerian Christians Defy Genocide Through Worship Caci Africa

2. Scripture: John 15:18 “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first.
19 If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.
20 Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also.
21 They will treat you this way because of my name, for they do not know the one who sent me.

3. Worship Video:   Video: CeCe Winans - Come Jesus Come 

                                            In the Hidden Places - An Anthem for the Persecuted Church

Prayer for the Persecuted

4. CHINA: Coordinated Arrests Against Church Leaders

5. NIGERIA: Hundreds Kidnapped in School Attacks
                           

6. IRAN: Christian Prisoner Denied Adequate Medical Care

 
7. LIBERIA: Pastor Presently Awaiting Trial

 
Recent news:

• 
  Kidnapped Anglican Priest Dies in Captivity in Nigeria
• Christian Woman in Pakistan Forcibly Converted, Married, Brother Says
• Sudanese Christian Family Threatened with Death in Uganda
• Legality of Rajasthan, India’s ‘Anti-Conversion’ Law Challenged
• Anti-Child Marriage Bill Passed in Province in Pakistan

Vietnam - Thai court caving to pressure from the Vietnamese Communist Party to extradite Christian?

Sources: ICC, 8thirty8

Y Quynh Bdap (32), a Christian leader in Vietnam, fled to Thailand in 2018 due to persecution for his faith. Bdap has since sought asylum in Thailand.

Bdap is part of the Montagnard minority community in Vietnam, a predominantly Christian ethnic group that lives in the Central Highlands of Vietnam and Cambodia. The Montagnards have long faced harassment, persecution, and arrests by Vietnamese officials who crack down on church groups not sanctioned by the government. Vietnam allows some semblance of religion in the form of tightly controlled registered religious groups.

“During one visit, we saw dozens and dozens of Montagnard Christian families living in very basic and harsh conditions while waiting for years in Thailand, hoping for resettlement,” an ICC staffer said. “We met with Montagnard pastors and church leaders who were doing their best to strengthen their people spiritually through Bible studies and small group fellowships. Despite the extreme challenges in Thailand, they are still faithful and hopeful. But help is desperately needed for these Christian refugees.”

A Thai court in Fall 2024 ordered Bdap, 32, to be extradited to Vietnam to face charges and a 10-year sentence for alleged terrorist and anti-Communist government activities tied to protests in June 2023 in Vietnam. The Vietnamese government made the unusual extradition request to Thai officials even though Bdap was not in Vietnam during the protests.

“If extradited to Vietnam, Bdap will likely face torture, violence, and imprisonment. It looks like the Thai court is caving to pressure from the Vietnamese Communist Party to extradite him. This will set a dangerous precedent for the thousands of other Christian refugees in Thailand who could also be extradited to their home country, where they fled persecution,” reported a staff member of International Christian Concern in the region.

CeCe Winans - Come Jesus Come (Live From The GMA Dove Awards)

YESU YA CICE NI || cover by CACI AFRICA

China

"Coming out of prison during this month of [China's] Thanksgiving has

been full of God's grace – I have seen

the Holy Spirit's presence every day."

~ Pastor Zhang Shaojie

NIGERIA: Hundreds Kidnapped in School Attacks

Source: VOMC
Sources: BBC, CBC, Aljazeera, AP, Pique Newsmagazine, Reuters, Peoples Gazette

Photo: Unsplash / Samuel Martins

Shock and grief have spread through Niger State in central Nigeria after gunmen raided a Catholic boarding school in the village of Papiri on November 21st, taking 303 students and 12 staff members captive. According to the Christian Association of Nigeria, 50 of the kidnapped students managed to escape within the first two days and have been reunited with their families, leaving 265 still missing.

In a separate raid, gunmen abducted 25 girls from a high school in Kebbi State during the early morning hours of November 17th. A teacher and a guard were both killed in the assault. One of the kidnapped girls has since been located, while authorities continue to search for the remaining 24 students. At the time of publishing this report, no group has claimed responsibility for either of the recently occurring school attacks, and the abductors' motives remain unclear. The total number of victims resulting from these two incidents now surpass the infamous Chibok school kidnapping of 2014, when 276 students were abducted.

Security agencies and local hunters have been "combing the forests" in search of the remaining captive students. In response to the kidnappings, Pope Leo issued the following statement: "I make a heartfelt appeal for the immediate release of the hostages and urge the competent authorities to take appropriate and timely decisions to ensure their release."

Abductions and other atrocities continue to surge across Nigeria, leaving authorities struggling in their attempts to curtail the violence. The Christian Association of Nigeria is calling on churches throughout the country to come together in prayer on December 7th, interceding for the following five needs:

1) Divine intervention to end Christian killings in Nigeria, 2) the resettlement of displaced churchgoers, 3) a stop to the activities of terrorists, 4) heavenly wisdom for political decision-makers, and 5) restoration of peace in the country.
For more reports addressing the violence facing Nigeria's Christians, see our Nigeria profile.

• Please join in the call to prayerfully uphold our long-suffering Nigerian brothers and sisters in Christ, pleading for an end to the perpetual onslaught of violence in their nation.
• Intercede for the kidnapped students and staff members, asking that they would be divinely shielded from harm, immediately rescued from their plight, and safely reunited with their concerned loved ones.
• In the interim, pray on behalf of the abducted victims' families as well, that they will receive great comfort, peace and strength while awaiting urgent intervention.
• Lift up those who are responsible for these attacks, praying that they would repent, turn from their wicked ways, and receive the truth, forgiveness and eternal salvation that have been made available to them through Christ.

CHINA: Pastors Released from Prison

Source: VOMC
Sources: ChinaAid, Church in Chains, Release International

Pastor Zhang Shaojie (left) and Pastor Xing Wenxiang (far right) Photo: ChinaAid

In November 2013, Pastor Zhang Shaojie was arrested on charges of fraud and "disrupting public order." Despite multiple appeals, the church leader was sentenced to 12 years in prison. His family reported that, while imprisoned, Pastor Zhang suffered mental and physical mistreatment – including a time of "concentrated education." With great thankfulness, he completed his sentence this month and has since been freed from prison.

Upon his release, the pastor stated that he feels "deeply grateful" for the support of the international community. "Otherwise," he remarked, “I might not be here today, and might have...'disappeared.'" However, even though he has been physically released from prison, Pastor Zhang is still not free from the oppression of the Chinese Communist regime. Authorities have installed facial recognition cameras throughout his home and restricted his ability to receive visitors.

In 2016, Pastor Xing Wenxiang was also sentenced to 12 years' imprisonment after being arrested on similar charges. She had been ministering with her husband, Pastor Bao Guohua, in an officially recognized "Three-Self Church." Yet, when the pastoring couple refused to comply with the Zhejiang provincial government's widespread order to remove all crosses from church buildings, both of these believers were arrested. Pastor Bao, who was sentenced to 14 years in prison, presently remains in custody.

After a two-year sentence reduction, Pastor Xing was recently released. According to ChinaAid, "The decade behind bars has left visible trauma on her physical and emotional well-being." Upon regaining her freedom, Pastor Xing's first action was to visit the grave of her mother, who had passed away during the recently released church leader's imprisonment.
More information concerning Christian persecution in China, including video-recorded interviews, are available at our country profile..

• Praise God for His sustaining grace throughout the years of imprisonment endured by each of these dedicated pastors, whose perseverance amid trial and mistreatment is in itself a powerful testimony to numerous people in China and many other parts of the world.
• As Pastor Zhang and Pastor Xing readjust to life outside prison walls, and yet remain under continued government surveillance, may they receive further strength and healing in every area of their lives (physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually and relationally).
• Prayerfully remember all those in China who are presently imprisoned for their faith, including Pastor Bao, asking that their lives would brightly shine the light of Christ's love and hope – even in the darkest places.

BELARUS: Priests Pardoned by the Nation's Presidential Leader

Source: VOMC
Source: Forum18

Father Henryk (second from left) and Father Andrei (second from right), along with two archbishops. Photo: Catholic.by

Two Catholic priests who had been convicted and sentenced to more than 10 years in prison were pardoned and freed from a Belarusian labour camp on November 20th. State media claimed that the church leaders, who were granted clemency by President Alexander Lukashenko, had been "convicted of serious crimes against the state, as well as other crimes."

Father Henryk Okolotovich served as the priest of St. Joseph's Church in Volozhin, a town located near the country's capital of Minsk. He was arrested in November 2023, and then sentenced for treason one year later. During his imprisonment, the Soviet Union's KGB officers approached him on multiple occasions to offer freedom in exchange for planting evidence against the Vatican's nuncio (official state representative). The priest refused each time.

Father Andrei Marianovich Yukhnevich was arrested on May 8th, 2024. Originally, he was given a short-term sentence for posting an image of a Ukrainian flag on his Facebook page. Following this initial sentence, Father Andrei was then subjected to fabricated accusations of committing sexual abuse against minors, resulting in an extended sentence of 13 years in prison. Other reports referencing his crimes against the state reflect the questionable nature of the added allegations.

While the presidential pardons for the two church leaders were unexpected, it is unknown whether these priests will be allowed to return to their ministerial roles. Upon their release, they were taken to the airport for flights to Rome where both of them are presently staying.
To review further reports, outlining the Belarusian government's harsh regulations regarding religious registration and practice, go to our Belarus profile.

• In addition to thanking God for the unexpected release of Father Henryk and Father Andrei, please pray that He would minister healing and restoration in each of their lives following the ordeals of their trials and imprisonment.
• Continue to pray for other Christians who are currently imprisoned in Belarus because of their faith, asking the Lord to sustain them with His strength, peace and hope.
• Pray for wisdom on behalf of church leaders throughout the country as they faithfully minister under oppressive restrictions – asking the Holy Spirit to not only inspire them with innovative ways of sharing the Gospel, but to also provide further opportunities for their congregations to meet the spiritual and practical needs of those in their communities.

FULL MOVIE: GO Africa: Skyboy and the Woman of Honor

A new movie produced by YWAM proves why the U.S. designation is accurate while also highlighting the ways in which missionaries are advancing the Kingdom of God in a hostile nation. The film features testimonies from child soldiers who've surrendered their lives to Jesus Christ, along with other inspiring stories.

The movie, Go Africa, also honors the wives of pastors killed by beheading in northern Nigeria. Up to 150 widows come to a YWAM base there every six months to heal from trauma.

True stories of brutality and satanic rituals are depicted in the film, along with the official account of the birth of YWAM in one capital city.

In announcing the movie's release across 240-plus locations on six continents recently, a YWAM news host said its missionaries have corroborated horrendous actions by Boko Haram in northern Nigeria.

Simultaneously with the release of the film, a female missionary confirms CBN News reports of widespread, mass murder of Christians in greater numbers than in all the nations of the earth combined.

LIBERIA: Pastor Presently Awaiting Trial

Source: VOMC
Source: VOMC Contact

A scene in Liberia. Photo: Wikipedia / Sahmeditor

A pastor in Liberia is facing ongoing legal challenges following a dispute with Muslim community members over his ministry activities. According to a local source, the situation began in 2023 when Pastor Sylvester led two individuals to faith in Christ. Following their conversions, he has been accused by opponents of preaching against Islam, praying loudly, and playing musical instruments early in the morning.

The church leader was arrested in late October. Although he was initially released by police, prosecutors convinced the court to once again detain him. Since then, Pastor Sylvester and his family have been experiencing health issues due to a lack of food and other basic necessities. At the time of publishing this report, the official charges against the believer remain unclear. On November 18th, the Christian lawyer hired to assist with the pastor's defence requested additional time to study the case. The next hearing is scheduled to take place on November 24th.

• Please prayerfully uphold Pastor Sylvester and his concerned family during this difficult time. In addition to meeting their daily practical needs, ask God to provide them renewed spiritual strength, encouragement and peace.
• May the Lord also intervene in the legal process – giving greatly needed wisdom and guidance to the defending Christian lawyer – so the detained pastor will be set free.
• Pray on behalf of all followers of Jesus throughout Liberia as they seek to build congenial relationships with their Muslim neighbours and peacefully live out their faith.

NORTH KOREA: Imprisoned Church Leader Released!

Source: VOMC
Sources: Voice of the Martyrs Korea, Release International, Church in Chains

Deacon Jang Moon Seok Photo: VOM Korea

In November 2014, Deacon Jang Moon Seok (also known by his Chinese name, Zhang Wen Shi) was kidnapped in China while ministering in the town of Changbai, which is located near the country's border with North Korea. Following his abduction, the church leader was transported to North Korea where he was subsequently sentenced to 15 years' imprisonment.

Deacon Jang, along with a pastor named Han Chung-Ryeol, had been regularly hosting North Korean visitors in Changbai, offering them warm clothing, food and other necessary provisions. Although it is illegal for North Koreans to cross into China without permission from governing officials, many do so in hopes of receiving needed medical care or purchasing practical goods that could be resold in their homeland. Sadly, in April 2016, only 15 months after Deacon Jang's kidnapping, Pastor Han was lured out of his home and tragically stabbed to death.

According to Dr. Hyun Sook Foley from Voice of the Martyrs Korea (VOMK), a number of the visiting North Koreans became Christians through the ministry of these dedicated Christian leaders. "Some returned to Deacon Jang's home repeatedly for more Bible training," she states. "Deacon Jang and Pastor Han also taught them how to share their faith with their loved ones. Their goal was always to see North Koreans return home."

Throughout the years, VOMK and its ministry partners organized letter-writing campaigns, urging the North Korean government to free Deacon Jang. Finally, after more than a decade of captivity, the believer was released from prison on November 5th and permitted to return home to China.

One of VOMK's primary ministry outreaches involves sharing the message of the Gospel with North Koreans. In a recent video interview, the Korean mission's CEO, Dr. Eric Foley, spoke of the organization's expanding radio broadcasts which are being used to reach the citizens of their extremely restricted neighbouring nation. To hear his discussion with VOM Canada's podcast host, Greg Musselman, go to the video, "North Korea: Gospel Radio Penetrates the Hermit Kingdom."

• Let us rejoice with our Christian brothers and sisters in East Asia and other areas of the world by giving thanks to God for His faithfulness in securing Deacon Jang's release after so many years of imprisonment.
• As this released believer begins the process of readjusting to life and ministry in his home community, may he experience emotional healing, relational restoration, spiritual and physical strength, as well as further guidance.
• Ask God to open more incredible doors of opportunity so the Gospel can effectively reach the people of North Korea, while providing protection and wisdom to all who are courageously sharing His Word.

BANGLADESH: Christians Targeted in Bombing Attacks

Source: VOMC
Sources: AsiaNews, International Christian Concern, Catholic News Agency, Arab News

St. Mary's Cathedral Photo: Wikipedia / Grentidez (CC)

Just before midnight on November 7th, two improvised explosive devices were thrown at St. Mary's Cathedral in Dhaka. One exploded near the front gate, while the other landed inside the church facility. Thankfully, the second one failed to detonate within the building and no injuries were reported. Despite the attack having occurred only hours before an important event was scheduled to take place – involving the attendance of hundreds of people from across the country – the gathering went ahead as planned.

A few hours later, another homemade bomb exploded inside the compound of a Catholic school in a Dhaka neighbourhood. There were no injuries resulting from the November 8th school attack, and classes resumed the following Monday. A churchgoer who had attended a worship service at St. Mary's Cathedral on Sunday, November 9th, which also proceeded as usual, described their concern over the recently occurring attacks as an "eerie feeling," noting that anxiety has gripped many fellow believers within the congregation.

To date, no group has claimed responsibility for either of the two recently occurring attacks nor provided any explanation as to why the Christian community was targeted. A police spokesperson states, "[Although] we are trying to determine whether the incidents are connected or isolated, they are certainly aimed at terrifying people."

Authorities have since detained a suspect for questioning. The individual has been identified as a member of a student organization linked to the banned Awami League – the political party of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who was ousted from her dictatorship role following mass protests in 2024. In the wake of these recent attacks, members of the police force have increased security at religious sites throughout the capital.
For previously published reports addressing Christian persecution in Bangladesh, visit our country profile.

• As members of the Christian community in Dhaka recover from the resulting fear and anxiety of these recent bombing attacks, may God's peace and comfort greatly calm their troubled hearts.
• In addition to praying that justice will prevail in this situation, ask the Lord to work mightily within the hearts of those responsible for carrying out the attacks, ultimately leading them to repentance and eternal salvation.
• Pray for God's continued protection over the churches and Christian schools of Bangladesh; and, in the event of any further threats, that the country's political and spiritual leaders will respond wisely and proactively.