MEXICO: Over 100 Protestants Forced from Their Homes

Source: VOMC
Sources: Christian Solidarity Worldwide, VOM Australia, Evangélico Digital

A church building in Hidalgo. Photo: Wikimedia / Frankms (cc)

For several years, leaders in the villages of Coamila and Rancho Nuevo, which are both located within the state of Hidalgo, have been pressuring members of the Great Commission Baptist Church to participate in religious festivals that go against their beliefs. In December 2022, one of the non-compliant Protestant believers was admitted to hospital after being tied to a tree and beaten. Additionally, since 2018, the children of church members in these villages have been banned from attending school.

After years of tension between village leaders and members of the Protestant community, matters came to a head this spring. On March 25th, Pastor Rogelio Hernández Baltazar and other church leaders were arbitrarily detained for 48 hours. Subsequent to their detainment, five plots of land belonging to members of the church were taken over by village leaders in early April.

Since then, church members have been attacked on several occasions, and three Protestant families were prevented from returning to their homes. Furthermore, 139 church members – including at least 70 children – were forced to flee their homes on April 26th after village leaders cut off their electricity. The church building was also vandalized, and guards were posted at the entry points of the two villages in order to keep church members out.

The displaced Baptists are currently being sheltered in a municipal building in Huejutla de los Reyes where they are requesting assistance from the government. Local churches are providing humanitarian aid and have joined in the call for governing municipal leaders to intervene.

When speaking earlier in the year about the treatment of his church members, Pastor Rogelio stated, "When you convert from Catholicism, you lose all rights and all standing in the village."
For more reports on persecution in Mexico, go to our country report.

Please prayerfully uphold these displaced Mexican believers, asking God to provide for their practical and spiritual needs. As they determine what steps to take next, may they receive greatly needed guidance, encouragement and strength. 

Pray that the state government will also respond to the 'call for action' by ensuring these persecuted Christians are duly granted 'freedom of belief,' and thus treated respectfully by village leaders – particularly in areas of Mexico where communities practise a combination of ancestral indigenous beliefs with traditional Catholicism. 

As a result, may peace and justice be upheld throughout the country.

INDONESIA: Two Women Injured in Attack on Prayer Meeting

Source: VOMC
Sources: Morning Star News, Jakarta Globe

A church building in Indonesia. Photo: Wikimedia / F-GSPY (cc)

Two young women were slightly wounded when a mob attacked a Catholic prayer meeting on May 5th in the city of Tangerang, Banten Province. The group meeting, which consisted of 15 Catholic students who had gathered in a home for prayer, was disrupted when armed assailants forced their way into the residence, injuring two females during the intrusion. Some concerned local Muslims attempted to defend the students, with one of them sustaining a minor cut from the attack.

One of the intruders has since been identified as the local village leader – a Muslim man named Diding. According to police, the conflict began when Diding started shouting threats and statements of profanity in an attempt to incite other members of the community to attack the Catholic group. Diding claims that he was disrespected by the students, whom he had told earlier that worship was only permitted within a church building and not in a home. Four local residents, including Diding, were later arrested by police on charges of assault.

Religious gatherings in homes are frequently targeted by those in the predominantly Muslim country of Indonesia who are opposed to minorities. However, despite local opposition, there are no legal restrictions outlawing citizens from gathering for worship in private homes.
To review additional reports addressing the challenges of Christians in this Southeast Asian nation, go to our country report.

Pray that a radical cultural shift would take place in Indonesia, bringing the members of this society to a greater tolerance of the religious differences among them. 

May Christians throughout the country be filled with God's compassion and wisdom as they interact with those around them, serving as testimonies of His love and grace so that many spiritually needy people will likewise come to faith in Christ.

KAZAKHSTAN: Multiple Raids of Unregistered Gatherings

Source: VOMC
Source: Forum18

A Bible study in Kazakhstan Photo: VOMC

Police in the Shu district of southern Kazakhstan raided four worship gatherings during the months of March and April, resulting in a total of seven fines being laid. During the raids, officers filmed those who were present and demanded that they provide written statements explaining the reasons for their gatherings. These raids affected the worship activities of three unregistered Protestant churches.

On the morning of March 3rd, police invaded the home of Valter Mirau, whose residence is located in the village of Koneyeva, just before he and his fellow church members were about to begin their Sunday worship meeting. Valter was issued a fine for his "leadership of an unregistered, halted, or banned religious community or social organization." Two other church members who had attended the gathering were also fined.

In another incident, police raided a Council of Churches Baptist meeting that was led by Pastor Andrei Boiprav in the village of Shu on April 14th. While no fines were issued at the time, officers took photos and videos of the attending Christians and warned them to stop holding unregistered religious gatherings.

Police returned to Pastor Andrei's congregation on April 28th, claiming that they had received complaints from neighbours, though all nearby residents denied having contacted the authorities. One officer later appeared apologetic, explaining that the order had come from the Religious Affairs Department. Fines were issued against the congregants as a result of their involvement in an unregistered religious gathering. Immediately after raiding Pastor Andrei's church, officers moved on to another Protestant community in the village known as "the Children of God."

Religious groups in Kazakhstan are required by law to register with the government. However, the process to do so is very complex, expensive and restrictive. Some groups, such as those affiliated with the Council of Churches Baptist, choose not to register, sometimes due to concerns that it could lead to increased government interference – as was the case under the country's former Soviet rule.
Further information on the persecution of our Christian brothers and sisters in Kazakhstan is available here.

Pray that God will grant wisdom, protection and encouragement to believers throughout Kazakhstan as they navigate how to best deal with opposing officials of the country's governing forces who are mandating the cease of all worship activities. 

May those directly affected by these recent raids not grow despondent in the face of opposition, but rather become further empowered to effectively live out their Christian faith and witness. 

As a result, may the Gospel message of God's love and saving grace spread throughout the country, leading many more people to eternal salvation through the provision of His Son Jesus – the Risen Saviour.

NIGERIA: Violence Continues Unabated

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

A Nigerian church service. Photo: Flickr / SIM USA (cc)

In areas throughout Nigeria, violence has continued relentlessly, disproportionately affecting the Christian population. Those responsible for the brutality are generally members of Islamic terrorist groups such as Boko Haram or the nomadic Fulani herdsmen. While attacks perpetrated by the herdsmen often stem from conflicts over their free-ranging cattle, the accompanying violence also commonly involves a religious element, as militant members of the predominantly Muslim group specifically target Christians and churches. Within the past month, multiple attacks have occurred in at least four different Nigerian states.
(For previously published reports on the suffering of Nigeria's Christians, go to our country report.)

Kaduna State
Pastor Manasseh Ibrahim, who led a church in the Kurebe area of Kaduna State, was ambushed and killed on April 23rd as he was travelling to a church conference. Although the motive and identities of the perpetrators remain unknown, it is believed that the pastor was attacked by bandits.

In a separate incident, the village of Ambe was raided around midnight on May 5th by a large number of Fulani herdsmen armed with guns and machetes. During the attack, six Christian villagers were killed and eight others wounded. According to a police spokesperson, one of the assailants was apprehended by the villagers, and a police investigation is underway.

Plateau State
In the early morning of April 19th, militant Fulani herdsmen attacked the farming community of Tilengpan Pushit while the residents were sleeping. During the raid, a total of 12 people were killed. According to a survivor, most of the victims were women and children.

The state's governor, Caleb Mutfwang, expressed his "heartfelt condolences" to all those who have been affected by the attack. He also appealed to Christians to remain steadfast, stating that his government will continue to collaborate with security forces to better protect vulnerable communities.

Benue State
At least 28 Christians were killed in Benue State between April 20th and April 22nd. Dozens of surviving victims have been treated for injuries sustained during the violence, and several other believers were reportedly kidnapped. The attacks happened in three villages located within the Gwer West area of the state.

In response to the recent wave of attacks, protestors blocked a major roadway on April 23rd to protest the inaction of the government in addressing the issues leading up to the violence. One of their demands includes the need for enforced legislation to prohibit open grazing, a practice that has resulted in many of the attacks perpetrated by Fulani herdsmen.

Enugu State
At least six Christians were killed in the southeastern Nigerian state of Enugu on April 28th. The slain victims, who included children, were from the village of Ugwujoro Nimbo. As a result of the incident, seven other believers were treated for injuries caused by machete cuts.

While the state governor has assured local villagers that those responsible for the attacks will be pursued and captured, residents in the area remain fearful of further violence. According to a community leader, villagers have been leaving their homes each evening and staying in safer locations to avoid possible repeat of attacks.

Please prayerfully remember all the innocent Nigerians who have been affected by these recent attacks, including survivors suffering from physical and emotional wounds, family members mourning the loss of their loved ones, and villagers living in dread of other similar incidents possibly occurring. 

May God minister complete healing to each of these traumatized believers – comforting their grieving hearts and providing them His peace, strength and protection. 

Further, pray that the country's governing authorities will actively work to resolve the various issues associated with this violence, and that those responsible for committing such horrific crimes would be brought to justice.

ALGERIA: Sentence Upheld for Pastor Youssef Ourahmane

Source: VOMC
Source: Middle East Concern

Pastor Youssef Ourahmane Photo: Middle East Concern

Pastor Youssef Ourahmane is a senior pastor and vice president of the Église Protestante d'Algérie (EPA). In March 2023, he was charged with organizing an unauthorized religious assembly and sentenced to two years in prison, along with a fine of 100,000 dinars (approximately $1,000 CAD). Following an appeal of the verdict, the pastor's conviction was upheld, but his sentence was reduced to one year in prison.

Another appeal hearing took place on April 23rd. The verdict of this most recent hearing, which was released on May 2nd, upheld the one-year prison sentence and fine. However, the sentence has since been suspended pending a further appeal to the Supreme Court.

In an episode of the Closer to the Fire podcast, host Greg Musselman interviewed three Algerian church leaders about the challenges they are encountering. You are encouraged to view this inspiring video. For more reports on the persecution facing Christians in Algeria, go to this report.

Continue to prayerfully uphold Pastor Youssef during this difficult time, asking that his case be heard soon by the Supreme Court. May God's truth and justice ultimately prevail. 

Please also pray for the many other church congregations throughout Algeria that are being subjected to ongoing restrictions from the government. 

For believers who are able to gather together, even if done so in an informal manner, may they be a tremendous source of blessing and encouragement to one another.

CHINA: High Security for Trial

Source: VOMC
Source: ChinaAid

Evangelist Chen Wensheng Photo: ChinaAid

The case of Chen Wensheng was heard by the Hengyang City Shigu District People's Court on April 18th. However, when Chen's relatives and friends arrived that morning to attend the trial, they found about 40 black-clad special force officers guarding the entrance of the court building. In addition, the entire street was blocked off under the pretext of performing a "drill" so that any supporters could be prevented from attending the trial. Despite aggressive actions by the police, Chen's supporters are reported to have demonstrated "patience and calmness."

Chen Wensheng is a street evangelist who has gained a reputation as a "Gospel Warrior." Having been arrested several times, Chen is now on trial for allegedly "organizing and financing illegal gatherings." Sources report that he is "radiant and joyful" despite his imprisonment and actively spreading the Gospel message while in detention.
For more information on this believer's case, see this page.

Pray that the case against Chen will soon be dropped so he can be rightfully released from custody. 

In the meantime, may this dear brother in Christ receive ongoing strength, encouragement and wisdom as he faithfully ministers the hope of the Gospel to those imprisoned along with him. 

Continue to remember his wife, along with other family members and friends, who are missing him during this time of separation, praying that they too will receive greatly needed encouragement from the Lord.

CHINA: Verdict Against Christian Elders

Source: VOMC
Source: ChinaAid

Elder Hao Ming with his wife. Photo: ChinaAid

In November 2021, Wu Jiannan and Hao Ming were arrested on suspicion of fraud. On March 15th, 2023, after spending more than two years in detention, the two Christian elders were released on bail pending their trials.

On April 9th of this year, the trials for both of these Christian workers finally took place. Considered guilty by the Jingyang District People's Court, they were each sentenced to three years in prison with a five-year suspended sentence. Each of these accused men were also fined 30,000 yuan (approximately $5,700 CAD). Additionally, Elder Wu was ordered to return all the funds received from the church, which amounted to approximately $20,000.

Elder Hao Ming, who has rejected all the accusations, never pleaded guilty nor accepted the punishment. This Christian elder says that he does not plan to appeal the verdict; rather, he is relying on God's righteousness for vindication.
To learn more about the cases against these two church leaders, along with reports addressing the many challenges encountered by our persecuted Christian brothers and sisters in China, go to our country report.

Prayerfully ask God to minister great peace and comfort to both of these accused men and their individual families. 

May He also continue to guide, strengthen and encourage all other followers of Jesus throughout China who are likewise facing governmental opposition because of their faith and Christian activities. 

May the Lord work mightily in the lives of the country's authorities – softening their hearts towards the things of God – so that His people will be permitted to worship openly and freely without any threat of arrest or harassment.

How Can Spiritual Leprosy Be Healed?

 The Persecuted Church 101

"Some 365 million Christians worldwide suffer, not only for their faith but for ours as well. How is it possible that, for much of the body of Christ, we do not feel the pain of persecution with our brothers and sisters?"

1 Corinthians 12:26
New International Version
26 If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.

WORLD WATCH LIST 2024

EGYPT: Christian Homes and Businesses Burned

Source: VOMC
Sources: Mission Network News, International Christian Concern, Christian Solidarity Worldwide

Late into the evening of April 23rd, Islamic militants set fire to several homes and shops owned by Coptic Orthodox Christians in the village of Al-Fawakher, which is located in Egypt's southern Minya province. Although the attackers attempted to prevent the occupants from leaving their burning homes, thankfully there were no reported fatalities.

It is believed that the attack may have been triggered by plans to build a new church building in the village. The local Christians had received a permit to build the new place of worship, but they then began receiving threats from opposing community members. Even though the threats were reported to the authorities (who promised to provide protection), no assistance was given to the Christians during the attack, and security forces arrived only after it occurred. Arrests were made in connection with the incident but, at last report, no official statement has been issued by the police.

Rev. Riadh Jaballah, VP of International Ministry for The Voice of the Martyrs Canada, believes that the attack was intended "to create sedition and division between the community's Muslims and Christians." He adds that the persecution of those practising Christianity is not new, especially leading up to the Orthodox observance of Easter. In the aftermath of the violence, Rev. Riadh urges us as fellow believers to respond in four ways: 1) encourage one another, 2) be aware of the situation, 3) share that information, and 4) pray. "We are [all] believers," he further explains. "It doesn't matter about [our] denominations. We need to stand up together."
To review more reports addressing the challenges facing followers of Jesus in Egypt, go to our country report.

Prayerfully remember the many Christians in this village who are now homeless and/or without a source of income, asking God to fill them with His peace and provide for their daily needs – including those such as protection and encouragement. 

May His Holy Spirit convict the militants responsible for perpetrating this violent attack, stirring their hearts to the point of repentance and the surrender of their lives in faith to Jesus. 

Further, pray that our Christian brothers and sisters in Egypt will respond to the opposition in a Christ-like manner – serving as testimonies of His love, mercy and grace to the community members who stand against them – resulting in an easing of tensions and the cultivating of harmonious relationships among all the villagers.

VIETNAM: Christian Found Dead After Meeting with Police

Source: VOMC
Sources: Christian Solidarity Worldwide, Morning Star News, International Christian Concern, Radio Free Asia

Pray that believers in Vietnam will remain faithful to Christ. Photo: VOMC

On March 8th, the body of Pastor Y Bum Bya was found hanging from a tree at a cemetery near his home in the Dak Lak Province of Vietnam. Though local authorities declared the Christian leader's death a suicide, reports indicate that his body showed signs of torture. The believer's death happened shortly after he had been summoned to meet with police.

Pastor Y Bum Bya, who served as the leader of an unregistered evangelical church, was experiencing severe persecution because of his Christian activities. Prior to the fatal incident, he had been publicly humiliated and charged with trying to "destroy the great national unity." Additionally, in December of 2023, he was beaten and forced to renounce his association with the church. Also during that time, the pastor's cell phone was confiscated.

On the day of his death, local police contacted the targeted church leader, allegedly to arrange a meeting with him in order to return his cell phone. However, about the time the officers were scheduled to be at his home, they sent word to him requesting that the meeting take place at the nearby cemetery instead. When Pastor Y Bum Bya did not return home from the meeting, his relatives began searching for him – only to discover his body hanging by a rope.

Calling for an investigation into his death, local Christian leaders organized a petition, which has been signed by 31 associated congregations. In doing so, the leaders of these unregistered churches have placed themselves and their congregations at risk of retribution from the authorities.
For additional reports on the persecution of believers in Vietnam, and/or to view formerly videotaped documentaries, go to our country report.

Pray that our Heavenly Father will intervene in this situation, ensuring that justice prevails and that those responsible for Pastor Y Bum Bya's death are held accountable for their wrongful actions. 

May God's comfort, peace and strength rest on the slain church leader's family and congregation members as they now mourn this unexpected loss. 

Please also pray that the Lord will provide for the physical and spiritual needs of all those who are facing danger or imprisonment because of their Christian activities, asking that these persecuted followers of Jesus will be reassured of His unfailing presence and sustaining promises during difficult times.

INDONESIA: Pastor Accused of Blasphemy

Source: VOMC
Sources: Morning Star News, Jakarta Globe

During a recent Sunday sermon, Pastor Gilbert Lumoindong made mention of Islamic prayer and compared the practice of almsgiving with Biblical tithing. After being posted online, the sermon quickly gained attention on social media. According to Jumzar Rahman, who serves as the head of the South Sulawesi Arimathea Forum, offence was taken by some Muslim viewers. "The video hurt us," he states. "We Muslims feel offended." Consequently, two complaints were filed with the police, claiming that Pastor Gilbert had blasphemed against Islam.

The Jakarta Metro Police have taken the lead with the investigation but, at last report, official charges have not yet been laid against the accused Christian leader. Pastor Gilbert has offered his heartfelt apologies, stating that he had no intention of insulting Muslims nor their Islamic practices. He further claims that some social media users had edited his video to render his comments offensive.

Pastor Gilbert has since personally met with leaders of the Indonesian Mosque Council (DMI) and the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) to offer his apologies. After meeting with the pastor, Cholil Nafis from the MUI council said that he accepts the apology. "Gilbert Lumoindong said that he had no intention of insulting Islamic teachings, let alone creating divisions," he explained after the meeting on April 16th. "We as religious people certainly accept his apology. We all forgive as we ask that this incident be a lesson for him and all of us."

Indonesia has the largest Muslim population in the world. While freedom of religion is mandated by law, followers of Islam – who account for more than 85 percent of the country's population – often receive preferential treatment by the government. Churches also frequently encounter opposition, particularly from local governments and organizations.
To learn more about the persecution of Christians in Indonesia, go to our country report.

Pray that this investigation will conclude without any charges being laid against Pastor Gilbert. 

On behalf of this accused church leader, ask the Lord to provide him continued guidance, direction and needed assistance as he endeavours to wisely deal with the situation. 

The same applies to other Christians who are residing in the country, especially as they seek ways to minister to their unbelieving neighbours. 

May this incident bring about opportunities for the message of the Gospel to spread throughout Indonesia, leading many more people to faith in Jesus Christ.

IRAN: Ebrahim Firouzi Dies of Heart Attack

Source: VOMC
Sources: Release International, Article18, Open Doors

Ebrahim Firouzi Photo: Article18

Ebrahim Firouzi, an Iranian convert who was arrested several times for his Christian activities, unexpectedly passed away on February 20th from a heart attack. The Christian man's body was found in his home by his brother, who went to check on the believer after not hearing from him for a few days. Ebrahim was only 37 years old.

Following his first arrest in January 2011, Ebrahim was held in custody for several months before being conditionally released. He was arrested again in 2013 and sentenced to six years in prison because of his involvement in a house church. Throughout his time in prison, Ebrahim sought ways to make the Scriptures available to those who were imprisoned with him.

Upon his release in 2019, the persecuted believer was banished to a remote region of Iran for two additional years. During his exile, Ebrahim became a respected member of his new community, where he started his own business and volunteered to serve in local schools. While paying tribute to the deceased Iranian believer, Mansour Borji from Article18 said: "Ebrahim did not lose hope, even during all those years in prison. He had an incredible fighting spirit."

In 2020, Ebrahim was interviewed during his time in exile by Joseph Hovsepian, founder of Hovsepian Ministries. 

You may view this videotaped interview which has been translated into English. For previously published Persecution & Prayer Alert posts reporting on the opposition Ebrahim endured due his faith in Jesus, along with information about the many other believers imprisoned in Iran, see our country report.

While Ebrahim is assuredly now in heaven rejoicing in the wonderful presence of our Saviour, please prayerfully uphold his family members and friends who are now grieving over the sudden loss of their loved one. 

As they mourn the end of Ebrahim's young earthly life, may they tangibly experience the peace, love and blessed assurance that comes from the "Father of mercies and God of all comfort" (2 Corinthians 1:3). 

May the Lord also minister to the individual needs of our other Christian brothers and sisters in Iran, ensuring that they are equipped spiritually, emotionally and physically to continue serving as lights amid the darkness of this needy world by conveying the hope of the Gospel.

Crowns of Courage: Serving the Lord in Temporary Bodies

 Source: ICC

04/29/2024 Afghanistan (International Christian Concern) – For those who choose to work and serve in modern Afghanistan, there is no mystery as to the severe risks involved. Yet for many brave believers, the importance of their mission far outweighs the dangers.

This was the case for Gayle Williams, a 34-year-old aid worker with SERVE Afghanistan of British and South African nationality.

Leading up to her work in Afghanistan, Williams worked in Pakistan, serving displaced Afghans living in refugee camps. As her love for the Afghan people deepened, she persevered in her journey to serve in-country and eventually made her way to southern Afghanistan in 2006.

Here, surrounded by Taliban violence, she humbly served disabled children and those who had been injured in the conflict. While SERVE Afghanistan is Christian in its beliefs, it was not evangelistic in nature, focusing more on tangible relief projects than gospel outreach. Williams’ colleagues recalled that she was personally very cautious not to openly share her faith with Afghans.

Yet, despite its efforts to keep a low profile, SERVE Afghanistan still attracted the attention of local Taliban militants. Their targeted violence against the organization and other Christian groups sought to deter aid workers from the region and undermine the government’s security efforts.

Shortly before her own death, Williams grieved at the funeral of a colleague. Here, she told a friend that she hoped to be buried in the same Christian cemetery in Kabul and said, “These bodies are only temporary. When I get to heaven, I will have a new body.”

Sure enough, only a few weeks later on October 20, 2008, Taliban militants fatally shot Williams as she walked down a quiet street in the capital city of Kabul.

The Taliban claimed responsibility immediately for the attack. “This woman came to Afghanistan to teach Christianity to the people of Afghanistan,” Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid told The Associated Press. “Our [leaders] issued a decree to kill this woman. This morning our people killed her in Kabul.”

Around the world, family, friends, and world leaders grieved the senseless murder. Coming down harshly on the attack, the UK Secretary of State for International Development said, “Her killing was a callous and cowardly act by people who would take Afghanistan back to the dark days of the Taliban tyranny which scarred the country for so long.”

Perhaps most touching, Gayle’s sister Karen expressed that she and her family had forgiven the assailants because they knew Gayle would have done the same.

While the work in Afghanistan remains perilous, hope is not lost. As long as there are brave men and women like Gayle Williams bringing light into the darkness, the gospel will continue touching hearts in the most difficult places on earth.

Breaking News: Islamic Extremists Set Fire to Homes of Christians in Southern Egypt

Source: ICC

4/24/2024 Egypt (International Christian Concern) — Around 11 p.m. on Tuesday, April 23, Islamic extremists set fire to several homes and shops owned by Coptic Orthodox Christians in Al-Fawakher village in Saft Al-Khammar Al-Gharbiya, Minya Governorate.

As the flames grew, the extremists attempted to prevent Christians from leaving their burning homes. However, authorities reported that there were no fatalities. The attack occurred after word spread that residents of the village, which is home to 3,000 Christian families, had obtained a permit to construct a church building. Some associated with the church received threats after the building permit was issued, prompting Abna Makarios, Archbishop of Minya, to alert authorities.

Despite promises of safety from security forces, the cries of help from the archbishop and the local Coptic community went unanswered as the attack unfolded. Security forces arrived only after the attack, leaving a yet unknown number of Christians to perish in their burning homes. 

Extremists later shared a video on social media showing Coptic homes on fire as a song praising the attack played in the background. 

Early Wednesday morning, the archbishop posted on Facebook that authorities had contained the fire and arrested the suspects. 

VIETNAM: New Regulations Bring Tighter Restrictions

Source: VOMC
Sources: Christianity Today, Morning Star News, Government Religious Committee of Vietnam

Flags of Vietnam and the Communist Party of Vietnam. Photo: Wikipedia / Vuong Tri Binh (cc)

With the release of Decree 95, which took effect on March 30th, Vietnamese governing officials declared that the new regulations they were instituting would ensure freedom of belief for all people within the country, enhancing the responsibilities of individual agencies and organizations. The decree expands on the "Law on Belief and Religion" that was implemented in 2018, which outlines additional policies and procedures regulating religious activities in Vietnam.

In the view of the country's spiritual leaders, however, the new decree has added regulations that will further restrict religious freedoms. Two of the most significant changes revolve around financial reporting and the rights of local officials to suspend religious activities for unspecified "serious violations."

The decree requires that all finances and in-kind goods be reported within 20 days of receipt. Yet this rule is impossible to follow for many religious communities, since they are often not registered due to the government's stringent registration criteria. As a result, the requirement to report income, as well as expenditures, may be onerous for many churches throughout the country.

A third of the policies presented in the Decree 95 document focus on suspending religious activities for various violations. Such infractions include "infringing on the morality of our indigenous culture" and "using religion for personal aggrandizement." The use of such vague terminology could allow local Communist authorities to shut down any group considered a threat to the authoritarian government in Vietnam.

For Christians in Vietnam, how the new rules will actually play out is yet to be seen, as not all religious regulations have been strictly enforced in the past. As one local church leader states, "In Vietnam everything is open; everything is negotiable." Despite the new regulations, Hien Vu from the Institute for Global Engagement is confident that the country's pastors and church leaders will remain steadfast and resilient. "They are used to these restrictions," he explains. "We'll deal with it when it comes; but we'll do whatever God calls us to do."
For more reports on the challenges facing Christians in Vietnam, go to our country report.

On behalf of church leaders throughout Vietnam, pray that God will grant them wisdom as they deal with the outcome of the newly implemented regulations. 

May their ministries not in any way be thwarted by the potential challenges, but rather further thrive due to the help and guidance provided by our Heavenly Father. 

For believers who have been arrested or otherwise persecuted for their faith in Jesus, ask the Lord to impart to them His sustaining grace and strength so they will remain resilient amid opposition. 

Also, pray for the outpouring of God's Spirit upon the citizens of this country in general, leading all those who view Christianity as "a threat" to acknowledge their need for repentance and salvation through Christ.

NIGERIA: Chibok Victim Recovered Ten Years After Kidnapping Attack

Source: VOMC
Sources: Open Doors UK, The Guardian, People, BBC, Punch

Lydia Simon and one of her children. Photo: Zagazola

The Nigerian army announced on April 18th that one of the schoolgirls who had been abducted from the town of Chibok more than a decade ago has been safely rescued. The statement issued by the military provided a photo of Lydia Simon, who is five months pregnant, along with the three children whom she gave birth to while in captivity. No further details were given surrounding Lydia's rescue, other than the fact that she was found in the community of Ngoshe. At last report, the young woman was yet to be reunited with her family.

On April 14th, 2014, a total of 276 girls were abducted by Boko Haram militants while at their secondary school in Chibok, a predominantly Christian town in Borno State. While many of the students have either escaped or been freed over the years, it is believed that approximately 90 victims remain missing today. Since many of the recovered girls were forcibly married to their captors, they may be at risk of the cultural stigma associated with their pregnancies or having borne children during captivity. While speaking at a 10th-anniversary service, Yana Gala – whose daughter is one of the 90 girls still missing – is more concerned about their safe return. "My hope and prayer is that the God [who] doesn't fail will bring back our own children," she says. "Even if they have children now, no matter the condition they are in, we want them that way."

The attack on Chibok is just one of many kidnapping incidents perpetrated by militant Islamic groups in Nigeria.
To view previously published reports on this attack, and/or to learn about the other challenges Nigerian Christians encounter, go to our country report.

Praise God for the rescue of Lydia and her children, along with the other young women who have been recovered over the past ten years! 

As they re-adjust to their daily lives, pray that each one of them will receive emotional, physical and spiritual healing. 

As for the Chibok schoolgirls who remain missing and separated from their families, pray that the Lord will provide them ongoing grace and protection, as well as the help they need. 

Wherever these young women are located, may they continue to sense His unfailing love and presence in their lives. 

Please also prayerfully uphold their concerned families as they anxiously await news of the missing girls' rescue and well-being. May they too experience God's strength, comfort and hope.

PAKISTAN: Murder Victim's Family Members Face Threats

Source: VOMC
Source: Morning Star News

Farhan Ul Qamar Photo: Morning Star News

On November 9th, a 20-year-old Christian student named Farhan Ul Qamar was killed in his family's home by a man known for his hatred towards Christians and Jews. The attack is believed to have occurred as a result of religious tensions escalated by the violence in Gaza.
For details on Farhan's murder, go to this page.

After the attack, Muhammad Zubair confessed to the killing, though he claimed to have mistaken Farhan for one of two brothers who had earlier expressed support for Israel. In court, however, Muhammad later retracted his confession. Since the incident, the family members of the murdered student have faced threats, demanding that they drop all charges against Muhammad.

On March 18th, six men held the Christians at gunpoint, warning that they would all be killed unless a settlement is reached and the accused killer is released. Thankfully, another family member living nearby was able to call the police who subsequently arrested the intruders. However, local authorities released the men after warning them to not intimidate the family again. Though shaken, and despite ongoing warnings to drop all charges, the family is determined to pursue justice for Farhan.

In the midst of the threats against Farhan's family members, may the Lord provide each of them His divine protection. 

And as they continue to grieve the tragic loss of their precious loved one, pray that the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard their hearts and minds. 

Ultimately, may the Lord's mercy and justice prevail, not only in Farhan's case, but also in the lives of other potentially hostile community members. 

Keeping this in mind, please intercede for all those in this South Asian country who desperately need a revelation of God's tremendous love for them. As a result, may they seek to live in peace and harmony with Him and the members of their communities.