IRAQ: Church Leader Faces Accusations of Blasphemy

Source: VOMC
Sources: Middle East Concern, Rudaw

Bishop Bahzad Mziri Photo: Middle East Concern

Bahzad Mziri, the bishop of an Anabaptist church in the Kurdistan city of Duhok, is facing threats of blasphemy charges after social media comments were published. Considered by some Iraqi Facebook recipients to be offensive to Islam, the post comparing Jesus to the Islamic prophet Mohammed was made in response to insulting statements published online earlier by a Muslim leader. The post on the bishop's Facebook account was reposted on February 16th by Muslims intent on inciting anger.

The Iraqi Ministry of Religious Affairs, along with several Islamic leaders, has filed a court case against Bishop Mziri. In his defence, the bishop has apologized and explained the context of the statements. Unfortunately, the original post from the Muslim cleric could no longer be found online. Bishop Mziri also stated that he was not the one to make the responding post. Instead, someone in his office had posted the comment without his approval. Bishop Mziri told reporters that he has been actively involved in promoting religious tolerance in the Duhok region and, therefore, would never have done anything to jeopardize religious coexistence.

Despite the Christian leader's apology, the authorities are intent on proceeding with the charges against him. However, they have also assured the church that protection would be provided against any reported threats, and that further measures will be taken to contain outrage from militant Islamic groups. Despite these assurances, the church has been curtailing its public activities – including worship services – at last report.
For more information on the difficulties facing Christians in Iraq, go to our country report.

Ask God to provide protection, peace and wisdom to Bishop Mziri, as well as members of the affiliated church, during this time of heightened tension.

In light of the circumstances surrounding the social media post, pray that those who have been offended by the responding statement will extend mercy and forgiveness. As a result, may the charges against this Christian leader be dropped. 

Ultimately, may the light of the Gospel spread throughout the country so that many Iraqis will have opportunities to respond to God's provision of eternal salvation by placing their faith in His Son, Jesus Christ (John 3:16).

LAOS: Homes Demolished for the Second Time

Source: VOMC
Source: Open Doors Canada

A village in Laos. Photo: Vinko Rajic (cc)

For the second time within the past five months, the homes belonging to a group of believers in Laos were demolished by angry villagers. The village is located in an area of the country considered a "hot spot" for persecution because of the increasing number of Christians.

In November, the homes of five Christian families had been destroyed by other community members who were intent on driving them from the village. Needing shelter, the families set up temporary tent structures in a nearby rice field. However, when the believers went to visit another village for fellowship, they returned to find the shelters destroyed, along with the barns they used for storing their rice.

According to a local source, many of the villagers and community leaders reacted in anger driven by fear over the expanding number of Christians in the area. They had been told that placing one's faith in Jesus would upset the spirits, and thus bring harm to their village.
To learn more about the challenges encountered by Christian in Laos, go to our country report.

As these Laotian followers of Jesus seek answers to resolve the ongoing onslaughts perpetrated against them, may they receive His divine guidance and provision. 

Pray that this persecuted group of believers, as well as the many other faithful followers of Christ living in Laos, will be effective testaments of His grace, love and peace to those who have yet to receive His gift of eternal salvation. 

Please specifically intercede on behalf of the Christian villagers who have lost their homes and belongings because of their faith, asking God to greatly encourage them and provide for their every need.

PAKISTAN: Court Sends Child Bride to Shelter

Source: VOMC
Sources: Pakistan Christian News, CLAAS-UK, AsiaNews, Pakistan Christian Post

Hoorab Masih went missing on December 28th after she failed to return from grocery shopping. It was soon discovered that the 12-year-old had been kidnapped by a local shopkeeper, Muhammad Mustafa, and his co-worker, Muhammad Usman, who then forcibly converted the Christian girl to Islam. A few days later, Hoorab was found in a women's shelter after the arrests of Mustafa and Usman. However, when the two men were released on bail, they disappeared, along with Hoorab.

Ultimately, Hoorab and her captors were found by the authorities and, on February 17th, the young girl was brought to court. After a statement was made that she had converted to Islam of her own free will and no longer wanted to live with her single-parent family, the court sent Hoorab to a women's shelter where she was to live. Hoorab's father, Basharat, is a poor labourer whose wife passed away six months ago. He has since been raising their four children on his own. Not having the money to pursue legal action, Basharat is calling on governing officials to intercede.

The kidnapping and forcible conversion of young girls from religious minority groups is far too common in Pakistan. In the aftermath, some, like Hoorab, make false statements out of pressure from their kidnappers or others, or due to societal shame. Speaking of this particular case, Lala Robin Daniel, from the National Minorities Alliance of Pakistan, stated: "This is a very unfortunate situation for underage Christian girls and for their families. We don't know when the government will realize and stop this ongoing situation." For more reports addressing the injustices and violence committed against Christians in Pakistan, or to view videotaped podcasts/commentaries, go to our country report.

Pray that the Lord's peace, comfort and hope will surround Basharat and his children as they grieve their loss and now must face this terrible family situation. 

Prayerfully intercede for young Hoorab, asking God to replace feelings of fear or bondage over the situation with His love, strength and encouragement, so she will readily receive continued help and protection. 

Additionally, pray for the ongoing efforts of Lala Robin Daniel and the many other human rights advocates who are diligently working to achieve equality for all members of Pakistani society, especially those who are most vulnerable.

SOUTH ASIA: Persecuted Christians Translate New Testament

Source: VOMC
Sources: Mission Network News, Wycliffe Associates

"Seeds of the Gospel often grow in secret in this part of the world.... Oppression and persecution are lurking around every corner...and everyone is watching. Always. To lead a Bible translation team in this part of the world – coming up against spiritual strongholds that have been in place for centuries – men and women risk everything." This is the way that the Wycliffe Associates ministry describes the Bible translation work that is being done by dedicated servants in Asia. Despite the dangers, these believers are responding to the need for the Gospel message to be spread.

Persecuted Christians in a particular South Asian country (unnamed for security reasons) were recently able to celebrate the work of local translators, together with the team at Wycliffe Associates, over the completion of the first New Testament in the "heart language" of a minority people group. The translation team is excited to now receive an opportunity to translate the Old Testament as well. Wycliffe has also identified five other languages used within the nation that are still in need of Bible translations.

Tony Tophoney, Director of Field Operations for Wycliffe Associates, entreats Christians around the world: "Join us in prayer for these brave souls who are really serving Christ, in some cases being martyred, for the cause of Bible translation in their area."

Praise God that His Word is now being made available to this rural people group, thanks to the dedication of faithful servants who are willing to risk their lives in order to translate the Scriptures for their people. 

May He continue to bless their efforts by providing the resources needed to complete the translation of the Old Testament and protection from opposition throughout the process. 

As a result of their unwavering commitment to ensure community members have access to the Scriptures in their own language, may many new names be written in the Lamb's "Book of Life" (Revelation 21:22-27).

CHINA: Uyghur Pastor Released After 15 Years

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

Alimujiang Yimiti and his family several years ago. Photos: ChinaAid

After serving 15 years in prison, Alimujiang Yimiti has finally been released. While other details relating to his release are unconfirmed, the house church pastor, also known as Alim, is now home with his family. Ethnically, this faithful Christian leader happens to be of the Uyghur (Turkic) minority group, which is also experiencing severe human rights abuses in China.

Alim's sentence took place as a result of a phone call he had with an American colleague in 2007. During their conversation, Alim reminded the businessman that the call could be monitored. He was correct. Yet, because Alim merely pointed out that possibility, he was charged with "unlawfully providing state secrets to overseas organizations." During his trial, no reference was made to indicate that any sensitive information had even been shared during the call.

Despite this lack of evidence, Alim was sentenced in 2009. His two consequent appeals, which took place during the years of 2010 and 2011, were both rejected – though the additional charge of "inciting separatism" was eventually dropped. Throughout the trials, members of Alim's family were prohibited from attending. For more information on the persecution of Christians in China, including reports detailing Alim's previous trials, go to our country report.

Praise God that Alim has finally been released from prison and reunited with his loved ones! 

After so many years of separation, may their time of adjustment be filled with grace and joy. 

Pray that government officials will not opt to renew the prosecution of this long-suffering church leader, but instead may they allow him to resume his ministry of reaching out to others – including the oppressed Uyghur people – with the message of the Gospel.

MYANMAR: Terrorism Charges Filed Against Detained Church Leader

Source: VOMC
Sources: Human Rights Watch, Christianity Today, Reuters

Rev. Dr. Samson Photo: VOMC Contacts

On December 5th, a prominent Christian leader of the Kachin Baptist Convention, Dr. Hkalam Samson, was arbitrarily arrested at the airport as he was boarding a flight to Bangkok for medical treatment. (For details on Dr. Samson's arrest, go to this page.) In the weeks that followed, his concerned family members were forbidden visitation. They were also not allowed to provide the 65-year-old Christian man any food or medication, raising more concerns about his ongoing health needs.

Since Dr. Samson had been charged under the regime's counterterrorism law, the hearings relating to his case were held in secret at a special court located within the Myitkyina prison. The charges against him arose from instances when the church leader met with former leaders of the country, including a prayer meeting that took place in January 2022 with members of the National Unity Government (NUG) – a group of elected lawmakers and members of parliament who were ousted when the military overthrew the government in 2021. The ruling junta has since declared the NUG to be a terrorist organization.

Human Rights Watch refers to Dr. Samson's arrest, among others, as "a heavy-handed attempt to chill all dissent among ethnic minority leaders." For more reports addressing the persecution of Christians in Myanmar, go to our country report.

Please prayerfully uphold Dr. Samson during this time of incarceration, asking the Lord to strengthen him both physically and emotionally. 

Pray that the charges against him will soon be dropped so he can be freed and reunited with his family. 

While awaiting due vindication, may they experience a renewed sense of God's "ever-present help in times of trouble" (Psalm 46:1). 

Also pray that the Lord's work will powerfully continue through the ministry of the Holy Spirit among the Kachin people of Myanmar.

PAKISTAN: Acquitted Christian Remains in "Virtual Prison"

Source: VOMC
Source: Steadfast Global

Sawan Masih and his family. Photo: Steadfast Global

In 2013, Sawan Masih was arrested after his neighbour accused him of committing blasphemy. When the accused Christian man was convicted in 2014, he received the death sentence. After serving six years in prison, he was acquitted of all charges on October 5th, 2020, by the Lahore High Court. For more details on his case, go to this page.

Over five months ago, a Persecution & Prayer Alert report was posted describing the dire situation facing Sawan and his family (read more). 

Sadly, even though he has been acquitted, the persecution still being experienced by him and his family is cause for great concern. Steadfast Global, VOMC's partnering ministry in Scotland, reports that the family is unable to leave the refuge of a safehouse because of ongoing death threats. As a result of the circumstances, they remain virtually in prison.

Steadfast Global has been able to arrange living accommodations for them in Scotland, provided the UK government gives Sawan and his family permission to enter the country. Petitions to governmental leaders continue to be made on behalf of this persecuted family, in hopes they will be allowed to travel soon.

Praise God for the diligent advocacy work of the Steadfast Global team in their efforts to provide Sawan and his family safety and freedom in the UK. 

May these endeavours be used to raise greater awareness of their plight and further encourage governmental leaders to proactively respond, so this endangered family can be rescued from their virtual prison. 

In general, please pray for persecuted believers throughout Pakistan, asking God to give them wisdom and guidance as they interact with those opposed to the Gospel, so that similar situations would not arise. 

Ultimately, may God's Spirit work throughout the nation of Pakistan, enlightening many who are living in darkness with the light of His truth and bringing conviction to the hearts of sinners in need of the Saviour's mighty rescue.

66 Indian Christians Kicked Out of Their Village

BENIN: Church Building Destroyed on National Vodun Day

Source: VOMC
Source: VOM USA

The pastor in front of the destroyed church building. Photo: VOM USA

Considered the birthplace of the ancient tribal faith of vodun (commonly referred to as voodoo), many residents in the West African country of Benin continue with religious practices that commonly involve animal sacrifices and talismans to ward off evil. These practices are so widespread in Benin that January 10th is celebrated as National Vodun Day.

When local Christians residing in a small town of central Benin refused to participate in the national celebrations, a group of vodun followers burned their church building to the ground. In the aftermath of the attack, the church's pastor requested prayer, asking that: 1) the people of the village will be set free from their bondage to vodun, 2) the church would be strengthened, and 3) his congregation's destroyed house of worship would soon be rebuilt.

Let us prayerfully lift up the Christians residing within this predominantly vodun nation as they continue sharing the Gospel message with villagers caught in the grip of spiritual darkness. 

Despite the adversity facing these ministering believers, may they consistently serve as conduits of God's shining light by conveying the "Good News" of His salvation and deliverance. 

Ask the Lord to empower them with His Holy Spirit, so that many more villagers will experience freedom from darkness and the assurance of eternal life. 

May these believers' courage and conviction in the Gospel message be used to mightily transform this land and its people. 

Also pray for the provision of resources needed to rebuild their church facility.

SRI LANKA: Church Under Investigation for Worship Services

Source: VOMC
Source: NCEASL

Roughly 70 percent of Sri Lankans follow Buddhism.

The Pentecostal Assembly congregation in Dodangoda, Sri Lanka, is made up of about seven families who regularly meet in the home of their pastor. On February 12th, while the Sunday worship service was in progress, approximately seven police officers arrived at the home. They informed the pastor that local monks, who had issued a complaint about the Sunday services, claimed that the meetings were being conducted illegally.

The next day, the pastor and another church member went to the local police station where they were met by seven monks, along with other villagers. One of the monks stated that because theirs was a Buddhist village, all Christian services must be discontinued. The monk continued by explaining that while the pastor is permitted to pray with his own family, he must refrain from conducting services involving other villagers. The pastor replied that no one was forced to join in the church meetings, further stating that he is the legal owner of the property.

Shortly after the incident at the police station, plans were made for another church meeting to take place on February 17th. On that scheduled day, however, approximately 50 villagers gathered around the pastor's house, demanding an end to all worship activities. In addition, they threatened the pastor if he continued. Because of the antagonistic nature of this demonstration, police were called to the scene. However, by the time the officers arrived, the crowd had dispersed. The commissioned officers then asked the pastor to inform them of any future incidents.

Opposition from local Buddhist monks is common, particularly in rural areas of Sri Lanka. For more information, and/or to review previous reports, go to our country report.

On behalf of the Christians facing opposition in this predominantly Buddhist nation, pray that the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard the hearts and minds of the pastor and congregants in Dodangoda, as well as those in Sri Lanka's other Christian communities. 

May these believers consistently demonstrate God's love to fellow villagers – including those who oppose them – so that many will readily receive His wonderful gift of salvation. 

Pray that the issues of concern being experienced in various areas of country will be resolved, and that there will be no further incidents of intimidation or violence.

CHINA: Early Rain Church Faces Violent Raid

Source: VOMC
Sources: Early Rain Church, ChinaAid

The choir continues to sing “Near the Cross” during the raid. Photo: ChinaAid

The Early Rain Covenant Church has been a target of Chinese Communist Party officials since the church was raided in December 2018 (read more). The church's lead pastor, Wang Yi, was sentenced to nine years in prison and other members have faced detention and pressure. Despite ongoing intimidation and arrests, the ministry of the church has faithfully continued, though generally online or in small groups.

In January of this year, the church decided to resume meeting as a larger group. However, the authorities had them evicted each time, forcing them to move to different venues. On March 12th, police once again forcefully raided the church.

At 8:50 a.m. that day, one church leader, Jia Xuewei, was violently removed from the meeting and then beaten when he failed to show identification. As the service began at 9 a.m., the supply of electricity was abruptly shut off to the room where their meeting was being held. Despite this interference, the service continued anyways with preacher Wu Wuqing leading. An hour later, several officials stormed the pulpit and shut off the computer that was being used for the live broadcast. Other officers began seizing cell phones, and pushing some of the worshippers to the ground, resulting in several injuries. Throughout the violence and mayhem, the choir quietly sang the hymn, "Near the Cross."

While the almost 100 believers in attendance left peacefully, they then gathered downstairs to continue worshipping. Some of the leaders, along with a group of church members, were taken to the police station. Other church members gathered outside the station to sing hymns and provide water and food to those who had been arrested during the recent raid. Thankfully, the detained congregants were released later that evening.

To read more about the ongoing persecution encountered by members of this church, and many other Christians in China, go to our country report. Please note, that along with the provided written reports, this webpage features numerous video reports and interviews. In September 2022, Closer to the Fire podcast host Greg Musselman interviewed special guest Dr. Bob Fu of ChinaAid about the increasing crackdown against house churches in China. To view the report, go to this page.

Please remember the leaders and congregational members of the Early Rain Covenant Church in your prayers. 

Although the members of this church continue to be targeted by governing Communist officials, may they persist in seeking ways to gather together for worship. 

Pray that God will further strengthen Pastor Wang Yi and provide needed guidance to those who are faithfully leading the ministry of the church despite ongoing oppression. 

May the actions, words and attitudes of the persecuted church members be a powerful testimony to all the officials opposing them.

The Deep Lesson of Your Trial

VIETNAM: Christian Woman Slain by Husband

Source: VOMC
Source: The Voice of the Martyrs Australia

Praying for new believers in Vietnam. Photo: VOMC

After hearing the "Good News" of the Gospel about a month ago from missionaries visiting her local village, Nga, a 42-year-old Vietnamese woman, turned in faith to Christ. She was the first in her village to respond to God's message of salvation, which had been presented to her by the evangelizing Christians. However, unlike Nga, her husband Vu was not open to hearing the missionaries' message.

When local authorities discovered that Nga had left their traditional religion of Buddhism and ancestor worship, they approached Vu and demanded that he convince his wife to renounce her new faith. When Nga refused, the authorities notified Vu that if his wife persisted in her adherence to Christianity, he and his family would be cut off from any future governmental aid. Angered by this news, Vu beat his wife so severely that she was admitted to the hospital. Soon after, Nga died of her injuries.

Following the incident, Vu fled the area leaving behind the couple's four children, who are between the ages of eight and 14 years old. Although Vu has not been charged with his wife's death, there appears to be little interest in filing any charges against him.

At the funeral held for Nga, Vu sent word that the children were to be taken to a government-run orphanage. Instead, a Christian worker affiliated with The Voice of the Martyrs offered to adopt the two youngest children, and has been providing assistance in search of good homes for the others. For additional reports addressing persecution in Vietnam, and/or to learn of ways you can pray for believers in this Southeast Asian country, go to our country report.

Prayerfully remember these four hurting children as they deal with the sudden loss of their mother, and now also the rejection of their father. Ask God to minister comfort, emotional healing, and provision for their practical and spiritual needs. 

As you think of the situation surrounding Nga's death, please uphold the many other believers whose lives are likewise targeted, threatened and endangered for following Jesus – not only by authorities in the land, but also by their own family members. 

Specifically, pray that the Spirit of God will bring needed conviction and accountability to Vu, bearing witness to the truth and leading him to sincere repentance. All the while, may the Gospel message continue to spread in Nga's village and throughout the country so that many lives will be transformed by the power of God's Word.

MYANMAR: Pre-Registration Required to Attend Services

Source: VOMC
Sources: Myanmar Now, Barnabas Fund

Judson Baptist Church Photo: Graham Norton

Military authorities in Chin State, Myanmar, announced on February 13th that Christians residing within areas governed under martial law will be forced to register with township administrators seven days in advance of attending any church services. No information about the form of punishment that will be administered to those failing to comply had been provided at that time.

Concerned about the fear and distress this new requirement will cause among his predominantly Christian community, a pastor from one of the affected areas explained: "This is yet another act of terrorism by the military council. It's been very distressing for the public, regardless of race or religion, since they declared martial law." Another Christian resident declared: "The military not only bombed, burned and destroyed our churches, they're now also restricting our rights to go to church."

Under the pretence of fighting separatist forces, the military has frequently targeted Christians and church buildings. To learn more about the challenges being encountered by followers of Jesus in Myanmar, go to our country report.

Although we can praise God for the wonderful work that He has accomplished in Myanmar over the years through the transformation of many lives, please join us in praying for the continued outreach of the Gospel throughout this war-torn nation. 

Be mindful to pray for the protection of Christians in the affected areas who are at risk of persecution by those opposing them. 

Also ask God to grant these believers wisdom, peace and direction as they contend with these new requirements and discern how to best respond in the situation.

CHINA: Officials Raid Another Church Service

Source: VOMC
Source: ChinaAid

Chinese Bible Photo: Wesley Fryer (cc)

Since 1990, Yuhuan Church's Chengguang Branch has carried on with its ministry in this coastal city of Zhejiang province. In 1997, four buildings were constructed to host church functions. Even though gathering together was banned in 2020, many believers continued to assemble for smaller scale meetings.

On Sunday, February 12th, the church was raided by governmental workers. During the raid, three church leaders were taken away for questioning before being released later that day. However, their congregational meeting space was permanently sealed, and all the Bibles and hymn books found on the premises were confiscated. For more information on the ongoing oppression of Christians by the Chinese Communist Party, or to review previously published reports, go to our country report.

While the members of this church contend with the forceful closure of their worship facility, may they find new ways to gather together for needed ministry and fellowship. Pray that they will receive guidance, strength and encouragement from the Lord, as well as the replacement of confiscated Bibles and other Christian resources. 

In the meantime, may the materials that were seized during the raid be mightily used to touch the hearts of the authorities involved. 

Overall, please continue to pray for believers throughout China who are facing renewed oppression from governing officials, asking that our Chinese brothers and sisters in Christ will grow even stronger in their faith as they navigate the challenges imposed on them.

Todd Smith - "Dmitri's Song (Jesus Is Alive)"

INDONESIA: Official Stops Church Service

Source: VOMC
Sources: Morning Star News, Asia News, Tempo.co

An evangelist in Indonesia. Photo: VOMC

A local village official in Indonesia stopped a church service on February 19th, demanding that the church discontinue meeting. This is only one example of the many challenges recently experienced by Christians in Indonesia. For previous reports, and to learn how you can further pray for believers in this Southeast Asian nation, go to our country report.

While members of the Tabernacle of David Christian Church in the village of Rajabasa Jaya were praying together on Sunday morning, a local chief named Wawan Kurniawan leapt over a metre-high fence and stormed into the service. Pushing the pastor aside, Wawan took to the pulpit and demanded that the service end. In response, some of those in attendance asked the chief to be patient, for they were only praying.

While this was happening, ten other villagers entered the church and joined in the chief's demands. During the ensuing turmoil, someone grabbed the pastor by the neck and began to choke him. Eventually, the congregation was forced to disperse. In his defence, Chief Wawan claims that the church does not have a permit to meet – a requirement frequently demanded by local authorities despite the fact that governmental laws guarantee the constitutional right to gather for worship. Because of the violent nature of the confrontation, the matter has been referred to the police.

Speaking of the incident, the Indonesian Churches Association has called on the authorities to take the matter seriously and not "ignore such intolerant actions." The concern is that, if appropriate action is not taken, others could be emboldened to carry out similar acts of harassment against Christians. "At any time, [social friction] can ignite into an open conflict," explains the association's General Secretary, Jacklevyn F. Manuputty.

Pray that Indonesia's authorities will take appropriate action against the villagers involved in this violent incident, and that the country's governing leaders would strive to ensure greater religious freedom is granted to all people. 

Further, ask God to strengthen the members of this recently attacked church so they will not succumb to the tactics of the enemy. Rather, may they be encouraged to seek His wisdom and guidance so they can respond appropriately in the midst of a potentially volatile environment and, ultimately, continue meeting together for worship without further threat of interference or violence.

INDIA: Christians Denied Humanitarian Aid Rations

Source: VOMC
Source: International Christian Concern

A girl cooking for her family. Photo: Flickr / India Water Portal (cc)

Ten Christian families in Bara Chomri village, Madhya Pradesh, have been denied government rations due to their faith affiliation. These families were summoned to a village gathering on January 26th where they were pressured to give up their Christian faith. The believers were told that if they did not comply, they would be denied provisions distributed to the poor by the government.

According to local sources, the families came to faith in Christ four years ago and, consequently, have faced harassment and abuse ever since. About eight months ago, a visiting pastor was leading a worship service when the believers were attacked by militant Hindu nationalists. The pastor was taken into custody and questioned but eventually released with a warning to never enter the village again.

Madhya Pradesh is one of 11 Indian states that enforce anti-conversion legislation, which militant Hindus frequently misuse to harass Christian minorities. For more information on the persecution encountered by Christians in India, go to our country report.

Prayerfully uphold these impoverished Christian families, asking the Lord to meet their urgent practical needs – whether it be through the fair disbursement of provided humanitarian aid or another viable means. Either way, may each one of them find assurance, comfort and peace in the fulfillment of His promised presence and provision (Philippians 4:19). 

All the while, may the state's governing leaders become enlightened to the various ways their anti-conversion laws are being abused and, as a result, be prompted to duly revise the legislation so justice and harmony will be encouraged among citizens of diverse religions. 

Although Christians have encountered numerous restrictions and difficulties due to the present laws, pray that their responses would serve as powerful testimonies of God's grace and faithfulness to all who are around them – especially those in need of His eternal salvation.

ALGERIA: Only Ten Churches Remaining Open

Source: VOMC
Source: Mission Network News

One of the many church closures in Algeria. Photo: Morning Star News

Over the past few years, numerous reports have surfaced from Algeria describing the forcible closure of church buildings and the detainment of various Christian leaders. In one instance, Pastor Salah Chalah and three other believers were charged in December 2021 with "practising non-Muslim rites without permission." To learn more about this incident, and/or to review previously published news reports, go to our country report.

According to the most recent report, four pastors are presently facing trial. The accusations against these Christian leaders include holding a church service in a home and producing Christian media content. As another church was forced to close in January, there are now only ten churches remaining open throughout the entire country of more than 40 million people. The situation remains difficult for followers of Jesus in this nation. "We don't know what's going to happen," states one of them. "Algeria doesn't have democracy or freedom, so they can charge [Christians] with anything."

Continue to pray for Christians in Algeria who are facing uncertainty and ongoing threats. May they be given the strength to respond to situations of persecution with unwavering faith, courage and perseverance. 

Please also remember those who are being brought before the courts because of their Christian beliefs, asking the Lord to work in the hearts and minds of the judges so they will be encouraged to bring about equitable rulings in each case. Additionally, in the words of a local believer, 

"Pray that this persecution may lead into a greater expansion [of the church], and that the Gospel may spread even to different nations across North Africa."