CHINA: Displaced Church Leader Continues to Receive Threats

Source: VOMC
Source: ChinaAid

Zhang Mei is pictured in front centre, wearing a red scarf. Photo: ChinaAid

Zhang Mei served as a lay leader in house churches across Yueyang, Hunan Province, for over 30 years. Zhang and her daughter, Li Dixuan, have since left China and are now living in Texas, where Li has married an American citizen. The mother and daughter have both applied for asylum in the United States.

Recently, Chinese authorities have been repeatedly contacting Zhang, demanding that she and her daughter return to China. Her husband, who remains in China, has also received similar inquiries from state security officials. This ongoing harassment comes only days after coordinated police raids targeted several house churches in Yueyang. (See more details on these incidents.) Church members and acquaintances have urged Zhang and Li not to return, warning of the potential legal consequences and personal risks they would face, particularly in light of the latest raids on Christian communities in the region.

Dr. Bob Fu, president of ChinaAid, has known Li since 2020, when she was studying at Dallas Baptist University. Highlighting the reality that persecution can continue beyond national borders, he stated: "No family seeking safety in the United States should have to fear harassment from a foreign government."
Previously published reports addressing the various challenges facing Christians in China are available at our country profile.

• Pray that Zhang, Li and other believers who have sought refuge outside of China will experience God's peace, protection and loving care as they attempt to rebuild their lives in a new country.

• May the Lord make a way for Zhang and Li to receive asylum, sparing them from having to return to circumstances through which they would risk prosecution because of their faith in Christ.

• Prayerfully uphold the many other believers in Yueyang and across China where churches have been disrupted by governmental interference. Pray that they too will be strengthened in their faith, encouraged by times of Christian fellowship, and given opportunities to worship and grow spiritually together despite the present challenges.

PAKISTAN: Christian Labourer Killed After Drinking from "Muslim" Water Cooler

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

A brick kiln factory in Pakistan. Photo: Wikimedia / Tamseel Ahmad (CC)

During a hot summer day on June 22nd, a Christian man named Sadique Masih was working at a brick kiln when he paused for a drink of water. Reaching for the nearest cooler, he took a sip. Tragically, that simple action cost him his life.

One of Sadique's Muslim coworkers immediately confronted him, claiming that the water was reserved for Muslims. Because Sadique was a Christian, the man accused him of having "contaminated" the water. An argument broke out between Sadique and the coworker, who has been identified as Ahmed. Other workers intervened, urging Ahmed to walk away and calm down. Believing the conflict had ended, they returned to their work.

A short time later, Sadique again approached a water cooler intended for the workers. Ahmed confronted him once more, but this time the dispute turned deadly. Pulling out a knife, he slit Sadique's throat, killing him. Police have since arrested Ahmed, along with three other individuals.

Sadique was the sole provider for his wife and four children. The family had already been struggling to meet financial obligations and now faces an uncertain future. Ministry partners in Pakistan are exploring ways to help them during this difficult time. Thankfully, governing officials have acted quickly to ensure that local police do not manipulate the evidence and that the family receives legal protection.

Christians in Pakistan are commonly looked down upon and treated as "Achhoot," meaning "untouchables."
To learn more about the many hardships encountered by believers in this South Asian country, go to our country profile.

• Pray that God's comforting presence would surround Sadique's widow, children and other family members as they now mourn over their tragic loss.

• Ask the Lord to provide for the practical needs of this slain Christian worker's grieving family, all the while reassuring them of His faithful care in the days ahead.

• May justice be served, helping Ahmed to recognize the seriousness of his wrongful actions, come to a point of sincere repentance, and ultimately place his faith in Jesus Christ.

• Remember the many Christian labourers throughout Pakistan who are relegated to difficult and low-paying jobs, praying that they will be treated with dignity and respect, strengthened in their witness to others residing within their communities, and encouraged to faithfully serve the Lord amid difficult circumstances.

NIGERIA: At Least 25 Killed in Latest Militant Attacks

Source: VOMC
Sources: International Christian Concern, Daily Post, Vanguard

Militants in Nigeria. Photo: Voice of America / Sani Malumfashi

At least 25 Christians were killed during attacks on the villages of Kum and Wereng-Comp in Plateau State, Nigeria, on July 11th. Among the victims were nine members belonging to a single Christian family, including a two-month-old infant.

The family was related to Pastor Ezekiel Dachomo, a Christian leader who has publicly condemned the violence targeting followers of Jesus in Nigeria. Pastor Ezekiel, whose video posts were also shared on social media, had been specifically mentioned by the American State Department in discussions concerning the ongoing persecution of Nigerian Christians.

Reports indicate that the family may have been targeted because of their association with Pastor Ezekiel. One surviving relative, James Yohanna, managed to escape by climbing through a window. Recounting the incident, James explained that the attackers broke into the family home and asked for Pastor Ezekiel by name before opening fire on those remaining inside. According to James, one of the militants declared, "Today you will learn a hard lesson." When the violence ended, James returned home to discover a scene of unimaginable devastation. Among those killed were his wife, daughters, son, daughter-in-law and infant granddaughter.

Since the July 11th attack, Pastor Ezekiel and members of his church have received written threats promising further violence and death. These threats have been reported to authorities, along with requests for increased security protection. To access additional reports regarding the violence perpetrated against Nigeria's Christians, visit our country profile.

• Please lift up the loved ones of those who were killed in these latest devastating attacks, asking God to minister His comfort within each of their lives, strengthen them as they process their grief, and fill them with the eternal hope and assurance provided by the atonement of His Son, Jesus Christ.

• May the Lord's divine protection, wisdom and courage be granted to Pastor Ezekiel, his church family, and all those who continue to encounter threats because of their Christian faith.

• Pray for the ongoing spread of the Gospel message throughout Nigeria, so that many hearts will be drawn to Christ, cycles of hatred and violence can be broken, and God's peace would take root in communities across the nation.

EGYPT: Church Attacked by Mob

Source: VOMC
Sources: Christian Solidarity Worldwide, Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights, Manassa News

A Coptic church building in Egypt. Photo: Flickr / Andrew A. Shenouda (CC)

On July 8th, dozens of local residents had gathered to protest a Coptic church in the Upper Egyptian village of El-Tal El-Qibliya. As the demonstration escalated, the mob threw stones and shouted insults at church members. Several Christians were injured in the attack, and both the church building and the priest's vehicle sustained damages.

Police were deployed to the area and eventually succeeded in stabilizing the situation. In the aftermath, four Christian men were arrested, along with an unknown number of Muslim protesters. The detained believers were released two days later after withdrawing their complaint against those responsible for the attack.

Sadly, this is not the only difficulty faced by members of this church. For many years, Coptic Christians in the village did not have a church building and instead met together in various homes. Eventually, a building was designated as their place of worship with the full knowledge of local residents and security personnel. However, some community members have since expressed opposition to the gatherings. Prior to the recent attack, the priest – Father Pavlos Kamal – had reportedly notified authorities about threats that had been made against the church.

While the Egyptian constitution upholds freedom of worship and belief, there have been several instances of localized opposition against Christian communities.
To review previously published reports concerning the persecution of Christians in Egypt, visit our country profile.

• Prayerfully uphold those who were injured and traumatized during the attack, asking the Lord to provide each one of them needed healing, comfort and encouragement.

• Also pray that the funds and practical resources required to repair the mentioned damages to property will be provided.

• May there be a greater understanding and peaceful coexistence between Muslims and Christians throughout Egypt, enabling them to respect and honour one another despite their differing religious affiliations.

• Additionally, please intercede on behalf of the governing committees responsible for approving Christian places of worship in Egypt, praying that they would carry out their responsibilities with fairness, wisdom and efficiency, so that believers can gather freely and without unnecessary delays.

CHINA: Multiple House Churches Raided

Source: VOMC
Source: ChinaAid

Church leaders in Yueyang, Hunan Province Photo via ChinaAid

Police carried out coordinated raids on multiple house churches in the city of Yueyang, Hunan Province, on July 11th. Numerous church members were taken into custody for interrogation. During the detainment, the authorities collected fingerprints, DNA samples, voice recordings and written statements.

The interrogated Christians were asked to read a prepared statement as part of the voice-identification process. One woman with poor eyesight declined but was instead permitted to offer a prayer of blessing. According to the wife of Pastor Huang Lei, Bibles and Christian books were also confiscated during the raids. Some of those questioned are concerned that the incidents could potentially jeopardize their positions of employment.

Most of those taken in for interrogation were released within 48 hours. However, at last report, six church leaders and ministry workers currently remain in detention.
For more information on the mistreatment of followers of Jesus in China, including access to previously posted video recordings, go to our country profile.

• Pray that God's protection, strength and peace will rest upon the members of these raided churches as they face the possibility of further repercussions for their faith in Christ.

• Ask the Lord to encourage and sustain the six believers remaining in detainment, granting them wisdom, courage and hope as they await their hopeful soon release and the opportunity to be reunited with their loved ones.

• May our persecuted Christian brothers and sisters throughout China remain steadfast in their witness – all the while, reflecting God's love, truth and grace to those around them.

RUSSIA: Child Evangelism Fellowship Designated as "Undesirable"

Source: VOMC
Source: Voice of the Martyrs Korea (VOMK)

Ms. Park Tae-yeon Photo: VOM Korea

The American-based ministry, Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF), was recently added to Russia's list of "undesirable organizations." This decision creates serious risks for CEF workers in the country, as well as for the churches and organizations currently using the ministry's materials.

One such worker is Park Tae-yeon, who was arrested on January 15th and is now facing charges that could result in a prison sentence of up to 17 years. The retired missionary's trial is scheduled to begin on July 28th.
See more details on her case.

The decision to designate CEF as an "undesirable organization" was made on July 6th. No explanation was provided for the ministry's inclusion on the list. According to Dr. Hyun Sook Foley of VOMK, possessing or distributing the ministry's materials, providing financial support, or maintaining any other form of association with CEF could result in criminal charges.

While Ms. Park's charges are related to immigration matters, and CEF has not been mentioned in her indictment, those following the case are concerned that it may be used to gather information about individuals, churches and organizations with ties to the ministry.

• In addition to praying for the Lord to strengthen and encourage Ms. Park as her trial approaches, ask that His mighty intervention would take place during the court proceedings relating to this retired missionary's case, so she will soon be able to return home to South Korea as originally planned.

• May God grant wisdom, discernment and protection to Christian ministries throughout Russia that are seeking to share the Gospel message with children amid increasing challenges.

• Pray that believers residing in this vast country will stand firm in their faith, and that our Almighty God's church throughout Russia would continue to grow in strength, unity and fruitfulness.

NICARAGUA: Retired Bishop Detained After Praying for the Persecuted

Source: VOMC
Sources: Christian Solidarity Worldwide, International Christian Concern

A church in Nicaragua. Photo: Pixabay

Bishop Juan Abelardo Mata Guevara, who suffers from various health concerns, has been retired from active ministry since 2020. On the evening of June 28th, the 80-year-old Christian leader accepted an invitation to celebrate mass at the La Cruz del Calvario Church. During the service, he remembered in prayer all those experiencing religious persecution within his country.

It is believed that an individual with ties to the government was present at the service and, consequently, reported the bishop's words to national police. The following day, Bishop Mata Guevara was taken into custody. Although the Christian leader had been released later that evening, he was detained again the next day for several hours. Since then, police have maintained a presence outside his home, raising concerns that he may be subjected to ongoing surveillance and restrictions on his movements.

Another church leader, Silvio José Báez, who formerly served as the auxiliary bishop of Managua, had been forced to leave Nicaragua in 2019 for his own safety and was later stripped of his citizenship in 2023. Commenting on the authorities' ill-treatment of Bishop Mata Guevara, he describes their actions as "cowardly" – further stating that they "demonstrate the weakness and irrationality of a criminal dictatorship."

According to Christian Solidarity Worldwide, Bishop Mata Guevara's arrest is one of 12 documented cases involving the arbitrary detentions of Catholic and Protestant Christians in Nicaragua during the month of June alone. In addition, numerous churches have reported experiencing harassment, intimidation and threats.
Read other reports addressing the various challenges encountered by believers in this oppressive Central American nation.

• Please prayerfully uphold Bishop Mata Guevara and the many other Christians who are undergoing detentions, threats, deportation orders, or other forms of harassment and intimidation, due to Nicaragua's dictatorship governance.

• In the midst of these challenges, may God continue to build His church, drawing many more people to faith in Christ while also further encouraging His followers to remain steadfast, joyful and filled with hope.

• Intercede on behalf of the country's political leaders, asking the Lord to soften their hearts and reveal to them His spiritual truths, so they may govern with justice, compassion and respect for the fundamental freedoms of all people.

PAKISTAN: Multiple Cases Involving False Blasphemy Allegations

Source: VOMC
Sources: Morning Star News, Lokmat News, British Asian Christian Association, India Today, Radio Veritas Asia

One of the believers facing blasphemy charges. Photo: Christian Daily International / Morning Star News

In Pakistan, the punishment for a blasphemy conviction is the death penalty. While no one has yet been executed under these laws, many allegations frequently result in lengthy legal battles, prolonged imprisonment, and significant other hardships for the accused and their families.

Regrettably, the country's blasphemy laws have often been misused as a means of either pursuing personal vendettas, settling business disputes, expressing religious intolerance, or punishing innocent individuals and their families in various other ways. Earlier this month, a federal parliamentary committee reported that the majority of the 333 blasphemy cases recorded in four different Pakistani states over the past five years involved fabricated allegations.

As awareness grows regarding the alarming abuse of these laws, some policing authorities and court officials have become more cautious when handling such accusations. Nevertheless, blasphemy allegations continue to affect numerous people throughout the country. The following situations address just a few of the more recently occurring incidents to provide examples of the ongoing challenges facing Pakistan's Christian communities.

Threatened Families Forced to Flee

In the Punjab village of Jhulan, tensions escalated after videos allegedly containing blasphemous statements began circulating online. Although the videos were posted by Pastor Sajeel Robin, who presently resides within the United States, the resulting accusations posed risk for his family members remaining in the village. When local clerics learned of the videos, they used mosque loudspeakers on July 3rd to urge residents to take action against the community's Christians.

Police quickly responded to protect the Christian residents, advising them to temporarily leave the village for their safety. Pastor Sajeel's family members were then taken into protective custody. Following discussions with the village's opposing leaders, the pastor's threatened relatives publicly apologized for the statements he had made in the videos and decided to distance themselves from any further associations with him.

As a result, local clerics signed a declaration stating that the family members have been "pardoned." Other believers in the village who were also forced to flee their homes were then allowed to return, and any potential widespread violence – such as the mass riots witnessed in Jaranwala during August 2023 – was averted.

Swift Action Prevents Another Endangering Mob Protest

In the Baldia Colony of Karachi, an angry mob surrounded a Christian neighbourhood after burned pages of the Quran were anonymously delivered in an envelope, along with photos and identification details connecting a Christian man and his mother to the incident.

Thanks to the quick intervention of state police and the Rangers (a federal paramilitary force), what could have become another potential violent attack was thankfully prevented. In addition to securing the area, the emergency responders relocated the Christian family for their protection. As tensions dissipated, Muslim and Christian leaders in the town joined together to condemn what appeared to be another deliberate attempt to incite conflict and violence.

Imprisoned Christian Dies While Awaiting Trial

The Catholic community in Lahore is mourning the loss of a 60-year-old man who died in prison while awaiting trial on a blasphemy charge. Amir Peter passed away on July 1st after developing severe medical complications during his detention.

Amir was arrested on July 19th, 2025, after a local businessman filed a blasphemy complaint against him. As the detained believer's mental and physical health deteriorated, attempts were made to secure his release on bail so he could receive proper medical care. Sadly, Amir passed away before his case could be resolved.

Acquittal for Accused Christian

Danis Albert spent nearly 27 months behind bars in Lahore after being falsely accused of tearing pages from an Islamic book. Arrested in April 2024, the Christian man remained in prison until his acquittal on July 6th.

When delivering the ruling, the judge cited a lack of evidence and an undue reliance on the testimony of an untrustworthy witness. Even the complainant was unable to identify Danis as the person allegedly responsible for the offence. While the accused believer is finally now free, the ensuing two years he spent in captivity have resulted in mental health struggles and significant emotional and financial hardships for his family.

Reflecting on this case, along with the many others involving wrongful blasphemy accusations, Juliet Chawdhry from the British Asian Christian Association declared: "Justice delayed is not simply justice denied; it is a wound carried by an innocent person and their family every single day they remain behind bars. No court can return the birthdays missed, the tears shed, the mental anguish endured or the years stolen.... We owe every victim of wrongful prosecution more than an acquittal; we owe them accountability, reform and a justice system that values truth above accusation."
To review further information, reports and/or video interviews addressing other cases in which blasphemy allegations have been wrongfully used against Pakistan's Christians, go to our country profile.

• In light of the many abuses of Pakistan's blasphemy laws, pray that the country's governing and judicial leaders will continually pursue positive legal reforms to ensure that justice is consistently being upheld and that innocent people are rightfully protected from false accusations.

• Please remember the many Christians remaining in prison, praying for their ongoing encouragement, protection and need for advocacy as they patiently await the resolution of their cases.

• Also prayerfully ask the Lord to minister in meaningful ways to these imprisoned believers' loved ones as they endure uncertainty, hardship and grief during this time of separation.

• Praise God for the authorities and community leaders who have courageously taken action to prevent violence and protect vulnerable citizens. May such valiant efforts increase – further promoting justice, peace and greater religious freedom throughout Pakistan.

IRAN: Potential Seizure of Historic Church Complex

Source: VOMC
Sources: Article18, Hengaw, Iran International, Israel365 News

St. Peter Evangelical Church Photo: Wikipedia / Herbert Karim Masihi (CC)

A historic Christian compound in Tehran, which was established in 1876 and home to Iran's oldest Protestant church, is facing possible confiscation by the country's government. The recent threat marks the culmination of a long-standing legal battle that started over 25 years ago.

St. Peter Evangelical Church was built by American missionaries on 10 hectares of land granted by the Persian monarch. The complex now consists of a church building, two schools and dozens of residential homes. For nearly 150 years, it has served Tehran's Assyrian and Armenian Christian communities.

In 1998, authorities ordered that the land be transferred to the Islamic government, along with several other church properties across the country. However, the ruling was not enforced at that time. In 2008, the Council of Evangelical Churches learned of the decision and protested, but all appeals were ultimately rejected. Given the substantial size and location of the complex in central Tehran, the property has significant value.

Recently, governing authorities ordered 20 families living within the compound to vacate their homes within two weeks. Members of the congregation have also been informed that they must find another church to attend. (In order to identify members of the congregation, security personnel reportedly attended a recent worship service.)

St. Peter Evangelical Church is one of the last remaining Protestant congregations in the city. Its potential closure is viewed as another indication of the shrinking space afforded to minority religious communities within the country.
More information concerning the persecution of Iranian Christians may be reviewed at our country profile.

• Pray that this historic church facility will be allowed to remain open to Christians in the community, and that the families residing on the property would be permitted to stay in their homes.

• In the event that the relocation orders are enforced by Iranian authorities, please pray that the affected families and church leaders will receive God's divine peace, provision, clear direction, as well as the ongoing reassurance that He will meet their every need.

• Intercede on behalf of other congregations throughout Iran that are facing similar forms of intimidation, pressure and oppression, asking the Lord to strengthen their faith and sustain them in their witness to others who need hope and eternal salvation – including those who oppose them.

• Continue to remember the many ministries and outreach initiatives that are faithfully shining the light of Jesus amid the darkness of this war-torn, oppressive nation.

CHINA: Pastor Jin Freed from Prison

Source: VOMC
Sources: ChinaAid, The New York Times, BBC

Pastor Ezra Jin Mingri Photo: ChinaAid

In a sudden and unexpected turn of events, Pastor Ezra Jin Mingri from the Beijing Zion Church was released from prison on July 3rd and allowed to reunite with his family in the United States. Arriving in Los Angeles the next day, the pastor has since been warmly welcomed by his family – including a newborn grandson.

Pastor Jin was arrested following a raid on his church in October 2024. As a result of the incident, along with the government's ensuing crackdown on the congregation, 18 church leaders were charged. Less than a month ago, it was announced that nine of those believers were released, while charges against the remaining detainees – including Pastor Jin – were increased to include fraud and "illegal business operations."
(Review a previously posted Persecution & Prayer Alert regarding the situation.)

According to reports, Pastor Jin's release is the result of direct discussions between the presidents of the United States and China. The decision was presented as a goodwill gesture coinciding with American Independence Day celebrations. In a statement issued by Pastor Jin's family, gratitude was expressed to both President Trump and President Xi. Rejoicing over the news, they stated, "We truly witnessed a miracle, and we are feeling so overwhelmed with joy!"

While Dr. Bob Fu of ChinaAid also welcomed this encouraging development, he urges that there be continued advocacy for the many believers remaining imprisoned today, including Pastor Jin's eight coworkers. "Freedom for Pastor Jin is a tremendous victory," Dr. Fu added. "But our work is not finished until every prisoner of faith is free."
For other reports addressing the persecution of Christians in China, visit our country profile.

• Let's join with Pastor Jin, his family, church congregants and other Christians around the world in thanking the Lord for this joyous answer to prayer!

• At the same time, please be mindful to prayerfully uphold the many other Chinese believers who remain imprisoned because of their faith in Christ, asking Him to not only strengthen, encourage and sustain each of them, but to also provide such needed ministry to their concerned loved ones.

• Pray that God will continue working on their behalf through international efforts and diplomatic discussions to bring about greater religious freedom in China, and thus enable all of our Christian brothers and sisters to worship openly and without the fear of governmental interference.

IRAN: Appeals Denied for Sentenced Christians

Source: VOMC
Sources: Article18, HRANA

L to R: Nasser Navard Gol-Tapeh, Joseph and Lida Shahbazian, and Aida Najaflou. Photo: Article18

In December 2025, it was announced that five Iranian Christians had received lengthy prison sentences. Although the charges against them officially involved "collusion" and "propaganda," they were imprisoned merely for engaging in typical Christian activities, such as gathering for worship, prayer, and the observance of communion and baptismal ceremonies. (Further details on the believers' convictions are available at this report. For security reasons, one of the accused believers' names was withheld from that initial report.)

Although the convicted Christians appealed their sentences, the court announced on June 22nd that the original verdicts would continue to stand. This decision was made without any hearings or opportunities for the accused believers to present their cases.

• As these believers presently face the possibility of lengthy prison sentences, pray that they will deeply sense God's comforting presence each day, giving them renewed strength, peace and unwavering hope through the indwelling work of His Holy Spirit.

• May the Lord continue to comfort, encourage and sustain the family members and friends of these imprisoned Christians, reminding them of His great faithfulness and attentive loving care as well.

• In general, please prayerfully uphold all followers of Christ throughout Iran who are encountering some form of persecution for their faith. May they too receive the strength, encouragement and empowerment to faithfully share the love of Jesus with those around them, so that many more hearts will readily experience His salvation and the resulting spiritual transformation only He can provide.

KAZAKHSTAN: Congregants Charged Following Police Raid

Source: VOMC
Source: Voice of the Martyrs USA

Several church members have been charged by police. Photo: VOM USA

A church in Semey, a bustling historical city situated in the eastern part of Kazakhstan, was raided on May 24th after police received a call that unregistered religious activities were taking place. Shortly following the notification, about 10 officers arrived at the scene during the Sunday church service.

When the service ended, all attendees – except mothers with children – were ordered to stay within the facility. Officers then explained to the remaining Christians that they were breaking the law by "performing religious rites." Charges were subsequently laid against 15 of the church members, including the pastor.

Legal restrictions, along with the mandate for church communities to receive official registration from the government (a lengthy process that often leads to denial of the required documentation), have resulted in significant difficulties for Christians throughout the country.
For a general overview of the challenges encountered by believers in this Central Asian nation, and/or to review previously posted Persecution & Prayer Alerts further addressing this particular concern, go to our country profile.

• Please prayerfully uphold the pastor of this recently raided church in Semey, as well as the accused congregants, asking the Lord to grant them wisdom and guidance as they now deal with the charges laid against them.

• As these believers navigate their way through the imposed governmental requirements, may a favourable resolution be found so that the church can continue its ministry within the community.

• In the interim, pray that the members of this church – and those belonging to other congregations in Kazakhstan – will receive the strength, grace and resilience required to victoriously overcome the oppressive challenges they are presently facing.