Imam Seeks Truth After Discovering Bible

Source: iCommitToPray 
Mar. 26, 2026 | Sudan

Mustafa reading from
 his son's Bible.

A Muslim religious leader is seeking truth about Christ after encountering a Bible for the first time. Mustafa is an imam of his local mosque, but he discovered a Bible in his son’s room. He became curious about what the Bible teaches as he noticed many in his community turning away from Islam. “When I open any pages and read, this book continues to give truth that I never heard,” he said. “As I continue to read, the tears run from my eyes [because I see] how many people in my life I misled. But as I have this book now, I want to continue studying so that I can teach its truth.” Pray that as Mustafa searches for truth in God’s Word, he will repent and place his trust in Christ.

IRAN: Heightened Concerns for Christian Prisoners

Source: VOMC
Sources: Article18, BBC Persian

Evin Prison in Tehran, Iran. Photo:  Flickr / sbzphoto (CC)

As political conflict continues in Iran, serious concerns have been raised about the safety of the country's prisoners of conscience, including at least 48 Christian captives. In June 2025, Evin Prison was struck by an Israeli missile, resulting in major damages to the facility which houses many religious and political prisoners. Those in custody were transferred to other locations of the country where they were imprisoned amid unsanitary and overcrowded conditions until the repairs were completed. Human rights advocates warn that the renewed instability raises the risk of similar incidents occurring.

According to reports by Amnesty International, detainees are frequently held in or near security facilities that have become targets of U.S. and Israeli attacks. In one recent example, the Greater Tehran Prison sustained damages when a nearby military garrison was struck. It remains unknown how many prisoners had been killed by guards who attempted to prevent the captives from escaping.

Some prisoners were transferred to undisclosed locations or areas near potential military targets, placing their lives in further danger. There have also been reports of "enforced disappearances," and situations in which many detainees are being denied access to adequate supplies of food and water. Despite the completion of repairs at Evin Prison, its administration is allegedly in "serious disarray," with lockdowns in certain wings that are preventing prisoners from accessing basic necessities.

While Iran's theocratic government has imposed severe restrictions on Christians for many years, the country's underground church has been referred to as 'the fastest growing in the world.'
To view a recent video interview regarding the situation in this Middle Eastern country, and/or to access previously published reports, visit our country profile.

• Pray for a just and peaceful resolution to the conflict; and, in the interim, for the protection of innocent civilians caught in its path.
• Ask our Heavenly Father to strengthen, comfort and secure the release of Christian prisoners of conscience who are being detained because of their faith in Jesus.
• May God's Spirit continue to move powerfully throughout Iran, leading many more to true deliverance and eternal hope in Him.

CHINA: Church Elder Released After Five Years' Imprisonment

Source: VOMC
Source: ChinaAid

Elder Zhang Chunlei Photo: ChinaAid

Zhang Chunlei is an elder with the Ren'ai Reformed Church in Guiyang, China. Following his arrest in March 2021, he was sentenced to five years in prison for allegedly "inciting subversion of state power." The Christian leader also received accusations of fraud relating to the receipt of church offerings – a charge commonly used to suppress unregistered congregations. Fellow believers describe the elder as a "gentle, yet firm spiritual leader."

Over the years of his imprisonment, Elder Zhang had been hospitalized due to very painful gallbladder inflammation and was later diagnosed with liver cirrhosis and hypertension. His release from custody finally took place on March 16th upon the completion of his full sentence.

Despite the church leader's release, it is anticipated that government harassment will continue. As a high-profile religious leader, Elder Zhang may face ongoing surveillance, travel restrictions and social isolation.
 A listing of previously published reports on this believer's case can be accessed here.

• Praise God for bringing Elder Zhang safely through these past five years of imprisonment and, as a result, making it possible for him to now be joyfully reunited with his loved ones.
• Pray for this spiritual leader’s complete physical healing and renewed inner strength, as well as long-awaited restoration through the loving support of his family and church community.
• Ask God to guide Elder Zhang during this next season of his life, fortify the ministry of the Ren'ai Reformed Church, and uphold the faithful witness of unregistered congregations throughout China.

RUSSIA: New Charges Filed Against Retired Missionary

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

Ms. Park Tae-yeon Photo: VOM Korea

In January, Ms. Park Tae-yeon – a long-serving missionary who lovingly cared for children in Russia – was planning to retire after 33 years of ministry. However, before she could return to South Korea, Russian authorities prevented the Christian woman from leaving the country. In the process, they also arrested her for alleged immigration violations.
(For more details, see this report.)

Investigators recently filed two additional charges against Ms. Park, whose case has been extended by another month. A hearing is now expected to take place in late April. With the new allegations, the arrested missionary could face up to 17 years in prison. In response to these developments, Pastor Eric Foley from VOM Korea stated: "Her activity hasn't changed for more than 30 years. The only thing that has changed is that now Russian authorities call people like her 'extremists,' 'brainwashers,' and 'conspirators against Russia,' despite all common-sense evidence to the contrary."

The Voice of the Martyrs Korea is collecting signatures on a petition calling for her immediate release. The petition will be presented to the Russian embassy in Seoul. Those wishing to add their names may do so at VOMKorea.com/en/petition-2026.

• Praise God for Ms. Park's decades of steadfast and loving ministry to children and families in Russia.
• Please pray that Russian authorities will respond with justice and compassion, allowing this faithful follower of Jesus to return safely home to her family in South Korea.
• While awaiting vindication during this time of detention, may God empower Ms. Park so she can bring His comfort, hope and light to all those around her – including the facility's prisoners, members of its staff, as well as the officials overseeing the prison.

CUBA: Pastor Detained After Posting Video

Source: VOMC
Sources: Christian Solidarity Worldwide, Cuba Headlines, Evangélico Digital

A police car in Cuba. Photo: Wikimedia / Dickelbers (CC)

Each week, Pastor Rolando Pérez Lora visits a park in Matanzas, Cuba, where public Wi-Fi is available, to film a series of Bible teachings for his YouTube channel. As he records, people often gather around to listen, sometimes asking him for prayer.

On March 15th, as Pastor Rolando was returning home after completing his latest video recording, two police officers approached the church leader and forced him into a patrol car. The pastor was then taken to the Playa Police Station and detained for three hours before being released. No official explanation was given for his arrest. This is not an isolated incident, for Pastor Rolando stated that he has been targeted by the authorities since becoming a pastor in 2011.

The Cuban Christians Alliance documented that Communist officials have committed 996 repressive actions against the country's religious leaders in 2024 alone, demonstrating a consistent pattern of harassment. This recent arrest comes during a time of significant civil unrest in Cuba, as demonstrations are being held throughout the country in the face of major shortages of food, medicine and fuel.
To access additional reports addressing the oppression of Christianity in this island nation, visit our country profile.

• Prayerfully remember Pastor Rolando and other church leaders in Cuba who are faithfully sharing the Gospel message despite the increased opposition and unrest.
• Ask the Lord to provide national political leaders wisdom and guidance as they navigate how to effectively resolve the ongoing economic crisis.
• Pray for lasting peace to take place in this troubled country. In the process, may there be an end to the government's harassment of Christians who are diligently working to serve and support the Cuban people.

CHINA: New Policy Restricts Travel for Clergy Members

Source: VOMC
Source: ChinaAid

A passport and travel pass in China.

Religious rights advocates are raising serious concerns regarding the increased level of control that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is presently exerting over the Roman Catholic church in China. As a result of a 2018 agreement between the Vatican and the Chinese government, state officials have already been given the authority to appoint bishops – ensuring that the church's leadership remains amenable towards the policies of the CCP.

However, since December of 2025, the Chinese Catholic church has now adopted a new policy that restricts the travel of all clergy. Under this directive, priests and bishops must surrender their passports and travel documents to a CCP-controlled religious bureau. Any clergy member who wishes to travel must submit a detailed itinerary and statement of purpose for the trip well in advance, followed by a mandatory "post-travel accountability report" upon return. These added procedures mirror those used for monitoring governing officials in politically sensitive positions. Reports indicate that a similar system is also under consideration for the state-controlled Protestant church.

According to ChinaAid, these measures go beyond the ongoing "Sinicization" of the Chinese church. The religious rights organization warns that the implementation of the new policy will result in a "systematic severing of China's churches from the global religious community."
More details concerning the persecution of Chinese Christians, including recorded video reports, are available at our country profile.

• Please prayerfully uphold Chinese believers who are encountering ever-growing restrictions and pressures on their faith practices, asking the Lord to spiritually strengthen and encourage them.
• Pray that there will be meaningful and lasting changes made to governing policies that are currently suppressing and tightly regulating religious activities throughout China.
• In the meantime, despite the government-imposed barriers presently facing church congregations, may God provide committed believers creative and innovative ways to proclaim the Good News of His salvation so many others will likewise experience His sacrificial love and eternal hope.

INDONESIA: Local Residents Oppose Church Renovations

Source: VOMC
Sources: International Christian Concern, Morning Star News, RiauOnline, Suara.com

A church in Indonesia. Photo: PxHere

The Batak Protestant Christian Church has been meeting at its current location in the village of Kulim Jaya since 1995. In addition to receiving official registration with the government, this congregation holds a documented proof of property ownership. Unfortunately, their church building has deteriorated significantly over the years and is now considered unsuitable for regular gatherings. These Christians have been planning renovations – including the construction of a new foundation – since 2010. However, residents of the community have consistently opposed these efforts.

On February 25th, a group of around 70 local residents had gathered outside the church building, demanding a stop to all renovation work. Questioning the legality of the construction, 20 of the demonstrators entered the building and insisted on viewing the church's permits. This protest was supported by police presence.

Indonesia's official permit process requires community approval for religious building projects – a condition that frequently prevents any progress for Christian places of worship. Despite repeated delays and ongoing opposition, the church's leader, Pastor Faber Manurung, intends to continue pursuing cooperation with governing authorities so the building can once again be safely used.
To review further reports outlining the challenges encountered by Christians in Indonesia, go to our country profile.

• Pray for wisdom and perseverance on behalf of Pastor Faber and the other members of this Indonesian congregation as they seek to obtain the necessary approvals for these long-overdue renovations.
• May God touch the hearts and minds of the opposing local villagers – fostering within each of them a greater understanding, respect and tolerance for the Batak Protestant Christian Church – so the Lord's peace and ministry will prevail throughout the community.
• Intercede for officials who are administering at every level of governance, asking that they would work fairly and compassionately to safeguard the rights and needs of all people within Indonesia.

SOUTH SUDAN: Pastor and Associates Abducted and Slain

Source: VOMC
Sources: Morning Star News, VOMC Contacts, Divine Mission Pentecostal Church

Stephen Wesley teaching in South Sudan. Photo: VOMC

For the past 10 years, South Sudan has struggled under the weight of unrest and civil war. This upheaval has led to ethnic tensions, political instability, and the ongoing trauma that accompanies prolonged conflict.

Due to economic challenges, Pastor Lino Pasquale had been working for a fishing business in Gondokoro, a region located south of the capital city of Juba. On February 19th, the church leader was returning home with three other men when they were suddenly captured by unknown gunmen. A few days later, the bodies of Pastor Lino and two of the men were discovered. At last report, the fourth victim remains missing.

Pastor Lino served faithfully as the leader of an outreach branch for the Divine Mission Pentecostal Church in Juba. Church leaders have condemned the attack as "barbaric," believing that the pastor and his associates were deliberately targeted. Those who knew Pastor Lino remember him as a devoted shepherd who was committed to sharing the hope of the Gospel.

On the same day that Pastor Lino was abducted, VOMC's Director of Global Education and Discipleship, Steven Wesley, had been visiting South Sudan to teach local believers about the theology of persecution and discipleship. Providentially, Pastor Lino's wife, Eva, was present at that very training session. It was only later that she discovered what had happened to her husband. Tragically, on the same day that she received news of his death, Eva's mother passed away following a short time of illness.

Upon his return from South Sudan, Stephen recorded an interview to share insights from his recent ministry trip. To watch this video report, go to VOMCanada.com/video/TOPAD-SSudan. More information about the challenges encountered by Christians in South Sudan can be accessed at our country profile.

• Prayerfully remember Eva as she now deals with the immense grief of suddenly losing both her husband and her mother. Ask God to lovingly surround this dear follower of Christ – and all who are mourning the loss of those mentioned in this report – with His strength, comfort and peace.
• As the authorities conduct their investigation into this violent incident, may they not only safely locate the missing abducted victim but also bring those responsible for committing the crimes to justice.
• Pray for VOMC's "Theology of Persecution and Discipleship" ministry, asking that this training program will continue to encourage and equip Christians in South Sudan (and other areas of the world) who are enduring persecution because of their faith.

INDIA: Christians Denied Burial Permission

Source: VOMC
Sources: Morning Star News, Catholic Connect, Christian Today

A village in India. Photo: Flickr / Rakshit Pandey (CC)

A Christian family residing in a tribal village of Chhattisgarh state has been denied permission to bury a relative who passed away, unless they first convert to Hinduism. Local villagers claim that allowing a Christian burial would defile their land and anger their deities.

Sambai Mandavi, a 34-year-old Christian woman from the village of Amodi, passed away on February 24th. When her husband Kamlesh attempted to arrange her burial – either in the village's public cemetery or on privately owned family land – both of his options were refused. According to village leaders, the burial could only proceed if the family renounced their Christian faith and converted to Hinduism. As a result, Sambai's body remains in the hospital's mortuary while the dispute continues.

A formal complaint has been filed with local authorities after Kamlesh received threats of violence against both himself and his property. This conflict arises only six days after a court ruling that halted the exhumation of Christians' bodies in tribal villages throughout the state.

Commenting on this difficult situation, a spokesperson for the Progressive Christian Alliance stated that "the persistence of such threats underscores a blatant disregard for judicial directives." The organization is calling for direct intervention by state authorities.
To review other reports addressing the persecution of Christians in India, go to our country profile.

• Prayerfully uphold Kamlesh and his family, asking the Lord to greatly comfort and strengthen them as they now must contend with this troubling situation while grieving the loss of their loved one.
• Pray that state officials would intervene in their case, working to enforce the court's decision and protect the constitutional rights of these citizens.
• May God work powerfully within the lives of villagers in Amodi so that, in the midst of this conflict, their hardened hearts would be softened, and thus receptive to the truth of the Gospel.

NIGERIA: Fulani Militants Face Terrorism Trial

Source: VOMC
Sources: International Christian Concern, Premium Times, Vanguard, Punch

Video screenshot showing some of the destruction following the Benue massacre. Photo: Stefanos Foundation

In a rare court case, nine Fulani herdsmen are facing trial for their roles in the massacre of more than 200 Christians in Benue State during the month of June, 2025. Prosecutors filed a total of 57 charges against the accused individuals, and additional suspects are still being pursued by authorities.

The leader of the violent group, Ardo Lawal Mohammed Dono – along with the other eight offenders – pleaded "not guilty." Ardo has been accused of organizing and funding terrorism activities, plus recruiting complicit participants to join him. Similar charges relating to acts of violence and terrorism were brought against the remaining accused members of the group. Although the trial has experienced various delays, the presiding judge cautioned the defence against unnecessary stalling, stating that the matter is of "significant public interest." In the meanwhile, the alleged perpetrators have been remanded to custody for the duration of the trial.

All of the apprehended defendants are members of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, an organization representing Fulani herders. While the group has been accused of financing attacks on Christian villages, its leaders continue to deny any involvement.

Violence against Christians – often involving militant Fulani herdsmen – has been a major concern for several years, particularly in northern Nigeria. The indiscriminate raids, village burnings, as well as targeted killings, have devastated entire communities and resulted in the displacement of countless families.
Further information concerning the atrocities experienced by believers in Nigeria can be obtained by reviewing VOMC's previously published reports.

• Pray that God will impart wisdom and guidance to court officials as this trial proceeds, in hopes that the outcome will mark meaningful progress towards the cessation of violent activities perpetrated by militant groups across Nigeria.
• May the Lord provide protection, comfort and healing to our Nigerian brothers and sisters in Christ, who are not only suffering deep grief and loss in the aftermath of the attacks, but also living under the perpetual threat of further danger.
• Pray that international attention and pressure will help strengthen the pursuit of justice for the thousands of innocent Nigerian believers whose lives have been devastated by the violence.

IRAN: Urgent Prayer Needed for Middle East

Source: VOMC
Sources: VOMC Contacts, Open Doors, Al Jazeera

Overlooking Tehran. Photo: Shutterstock / PedramRostamian_shr

On February 28th, the United States and Israel launched a major military operation against Iran. The strike resulted in hundreds of casualties, including the country's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, along with dozens of other government officials.

In response to this campaign, Iran and its allies have carried out counter attacks on Israel and countries in the Middle East that are perceived to be supporting the Israeli-American military efforts. Public protests have also begun in some Muslim-majority nations. As of March 2nd, at least 20 people have died in Pakistan as a result of pro-Iranian demonstrations; 10 of those fatalities occurred during a protest at the American consulate in Karachi.

Amid the crisis, many Christian leaders are hoping for major changes to take place within Iran, as well as opportunities to minister to the hurting people of this nation in peril. Under its oppressive government, believers in Christ have suffered intense persecution, even to the point of torture and imprisonment. In recent weeks, renewed calls for reform have resulted in widespread unrest within Iran and demonstrations around the world condemning the present regime. With the sudden loss of much of Iran's governing leadership, many citizens are now longing for a hopeful future. Dr. Hormoz Shariat of Iran Alive Ministries declared, "History is in the making in Iran today."

The situation across the Middle East remains volatile, placing innocent civilians in serious danger – including Christian minorities who are particularly vulnerable. VOMC's CEO, Floyd Brobbel, issued the following statement: "The crisis in Iran will ignite widespread outrage and provoke retaliatory violence against Christians in Iran and neighbouring countries. We must remember our brothers and sisters who are helplessly caught in the midst of this conflict."
For further reports addressing the persecution of Iranian believers, along with specific ways you can pray, visit our country profile.

• As you pray for God's intervention and ministry to take place in the lives of people throughout Iran, please be mindful to uphold our Christian brothers and sisters who are presently at risk of retaliatory attacks.
• May the Lord also bring greatly needed comfort to those in Iran and its surrounding countries who have lost loved ones or suffered trauma during the conflict.
• As this Persian nation now faces the possibility of major political change, pray that wise and just leadership will be raised up, and that decisions made during this season would promote religious freedom and human dignity.
• Amid the turmoil, prayerfully ask God to reveal His unchanging character to people throughout the region – leading many more to an understanding of His eternal love, spiritual truth and redemptive grace.

INDONESIA: Social Media Comments Lead to Arrest

Source: VOMC
Sources: Morning Star News, BITV, USCRIF

Photo: Pixnio

A Christian leader in Indonesia was arrested on February 18th following the online comments he made about Muhammad. According to reports, Dedi Saputra allegedly referenced the Muslim prophet's multiple wives on his TikTok account. Before being removed, Dedi's video was viewed almost two million times and sparked widespread backlash.

In response to the public reaction, several Islamic organizations brought the matter to the police. As a result, Dedi has been accused of insulting the prophet and offending the religious sentiments of local Muslims within the region. As of the latest update, he remains in police custody while the allegations continue to be investigated.

This incident comes shortly after major amendments to Indonesia's criminal code took effect on January 2nd. Portions of the updated code apply directly to activities on social media and other digital mediums. Human rights observers have noted that the language used in the amendments relating to apostasy and blasphemy is "intentionally vague, allowing for broad interpretation and application."
Learn more about the challenges facing our Christian brothers and sisters in Indonesia at our country profile.

• Pray for the Holy Spirit (Scripturally referenced as the "Advocate" and "Mediator") to work mightily on behalf of Dedi, so the truth would be made clear and this accused Christian leader can be acquitted of all allegations.
• May wisdom, discernment and protection be granted to all Christians in Indonesia as they navigate conversations of faith in an increasingly sensitive environment.
• As believers across the country courageously share the hope of God's salvation through Christ, may their words and lives reflect His compassion, mercy and grace.