CHINA: Preacher of Early Rain Church Faces Harassment

Source: VOMC
Source: ChinaAid

Preacher Wu Wuqing Photo: ChinaAid

Since December 2018, the Early Rain Covenant Church in Chengdu, China, has been subjected to repeated raids and ongoing oppression from Communist Party authorities who seek to shut down the influential unregistered church. Though the church's pastor, Wang Yi, is serving a nine-year prison sentence, members of the church continue to boldly reach out with the Gospel message.

One church member, Preacher Wu Wuqing, has experienced persecution several times. In June 2021, he and his family were locked in their home and prevented from leaving or having any visitors. Since confining the church leader to his home had failed to dissuade him from continuing his Christian activities, the authorities blocked the family – along with numerous other church members – from entering their apartment complex in 2023. Additionally, following numerous raids on his church gatherings, Preacher Wu has been repeatedly detained. After a 14-day detention in February 2024, his wife simply stated: "14 days is nothing. We are so happy to gather today, and when [my husband] returns in 14 days, we will gather again."

More recently, Preacher Wu's family has been pressured to move out of their rental home. On July 30th, water and electricity were cut off in an effort to force the harassed Christians to move. The utilities were eventually restored in late September, only to be cut off again on October 17th. While these believers were initially able to restore the power and water (which had been turned off manually), only a few hours later, the wires to their home were then cut.

It is clear that the intention of this harassment is to force the church leader and his family to relocate. Preacher Wu has asked church members to pray for his family and remove any anger from their hearts. He wrote: "When you pray for our family, you are acknowledging that we are suffering for the sake of our faith, and you are suffering with us! May God have mercy on us and graciously help us!"
For further details on the ongoing persecution of the Early Rain Covenant Church and its members, go to our country report.

Despite the repeated harassment they have received from local governing authorities, pray that Preacher Wu and his family will maintain a forgiving and gracious attitude toward their oppressors. 

May the preacher's family, along with other members of the Early Rain Covenant Church, continue to minister the love of God and the wonderful hope He provides through His Word to those in their community and throughout China. 

Also pray for ongoing strength, encouragement and protection on behalf of Pastor Wang and the many other Christians in China who are presently serving time in prison for following the teachings of Jesus.

CHINA: Pastor John Cao and Colleague Detained for Conducting Baptisms

Source: VOMC
Sources: ChinaAid, Church in Chains

Pastor John Cao baptizing a believer. Photo: ChinaAid

On March 4th, Pastor John Cao was released from imprisonment in China after serving a seven-year sentence. Since his release, the pastor has longed to return to the United States, where he holds permanent residency, in order to reunite with his wife and family there. However, the Chinese government has prevented Pastor John from leaving the country by withholding his ID card and passport. (Read more.)

Despite this opposition, Pastor John is faithfully continuing his ministry activities. Recently, this Christian leader paid a visit to Preacher Chang Hao in Zhenxiong. While there, he participated in the baptism of 13 new believers. Since Preacher Chang is not an ordained pastor, he requested Pastor John's assistance out of respect for church tradition. However, just as the outdoor service was concluding, over 20 police officers intervened.

The 30 attending Christians – most of whom were elderly citizens – had then been taken to the police station for interrogation. While Pastor John and the other believers were finally released after midnight, Preacher Chang received a 12-day detainment for organizing an illegal religious gathering.

Altogether, Preacher Chang has received more than 20 "administrative detentions" due to his alleged illegal religious work. In May 2024, he was released from prison after serving a one-year sentence for allegedly "picking quarrels and provoking trouble." When he was younger, Preacher Chang's hands were badly burned in a factory fire, leaving him unable to hold objects. However, his injuries have not prevented him from leading a small rural church and courageously spreading the Gospel message.

Praise God for the ongoing determination of Preacher Chang Hao, Pastor John Cao and the many other faithful believers throughout China who are sharing the message of Christ's love with those around them in spite of the growing pressures they encounter. 

May these resilient followers of Jesus receive ongoing encouragement and the assurance that His presence will always remain with them. 

Please also prayerfully lift up the recently baptized believers as they now live out their commitment to following in the footsteps of Jesus. 

Finally, pray that Pastor John will be able to leave the country soon, allowing this long-suffering believer to finally be reunited with his wife and family.

PAKISTAN: Teen Girl Released from her Abductors

Source: VOMC
Sources: Morning Star News, The Christian Post

Diya Iftikhar (third from left) with parents and attorneys.  Photo: Christians True Spirit

On September 12th, 16-year-old Diya Iftikhar was abducted from her family's home by three men who are well-known for their opposition to Christians. In a video message to her parents four days later, Diya stated that she had converted to Islam and married Ghazaal Jutt, one of her kidnappers.
(Review a previous report.)

Thanks to the assistance of a Christian organization, Diya's parents were able to file a court petition requesting the custody of their daughter. When the judge noticed Diya's anxiety and fear during the October 24th hearing at the Jaranwala Sessions Court, all other civilians were ordered to vacate the courtroom. Once she was alone, the young teen was able to tell the court that she had been converted and married against her will, and that she wished to return to her family. Consequently, custody was awarded to Diya's parents.

After the court ruling, Diya and her parents were escorted from the court by police due to concerns that they could be attacked. Since the victim and her abductors live in the same village, the family may need to move to a safe house for their protection.

Kidnappings of this kind are far too common in Pakistan. Asher Sarfraz from Christians True Spirit described the situation by stating, "Diya is one of the few girls who gathered the courage to expose their abductors in court." Additionally, even when these types of cases go to court, judges frequently ignore evidence and documentation.

Pakistan is one of several nations in which Christian women and girls experience added persecution and violence.
This year's International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church – which is scheduled for this Sunday, November 3rd – will be focusing on the plight of women and girls who often silently endure great hardships for the name of Christ. To receive more information about this upcoming event, visit IDOP.ca.

Praise God that the judge overseeing Diya's case was able to perceive her plight and provide greatly needed rescue from her abductors, making it possible for this teenage girl to be safely reunited with her parents. 

As Diya and her family now recover from the trauma of the ordeal, ask our compassionate Lord to minister His healing, peace and restoration in each of their lives. 

Pray also that necessary measures will be taken to protect the members of this family from Diya's captors and any other hostile members of their community.

PAKISTAN: Bail Granted for Woman Accused of Blasphemy

Source: VOMC
Source: Morning Star News

In August of this year, two Christian sisters were accused of blasphemy when a Muslim man claimed to find ruined pages of the Quran amongst garbage, stating that one of the sisters had discarded them. Both sisters denied his allegation, believing that the pages were purposely placed there by the man himself because of the personal vendetta he had against them.
(More about the situation is available here.)

When Saima, a widowed mother of two, was taken into custody, her sister Sonia managed to flee the village with her family after the allegations had surfaced. Sonia is presently living in hiding with her three children. Although the investigating officer did not find her guilty during his inquiry, Sonia remains in grave danger from those who may impose their own forms of punishment upon her. Furthermore, the charges against her have not been fully dismissed.

In an unusual court decision, Saima was granted bail on September 10th. For security reasons, news of her release was withheld until she was able to find safety. Like her sister, Saima and her family remain in danger from militant vigilantes.

The lawyer representing the two women is filing an application to have the charges dropped. At last report, the court filing is pending.
For more reports addressing the persecution encountered by Christians in Pakistan, go to our country profile.

Praise God that Sonia and Saima are not being detained in prison at this time. 

Pray that God will guide their lawyer as he works to build his case, so that all charges against these Christian women will be dropped. 

May these two sisters – along with the many other Christians in Pakistan who are in danger simply because of their faith in Christ – be protected from those seeking to harm them. 

Throughout the process, may they also receive renewed courage, hope and strength from the Lord.

Somebody prayed for me (Persecuted Church)

Isaiah 58:6-9

“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen:

 to loose the chains of injustice

 and untie the cords of the yoke,

 to set the oppressed free

 and break every yoke?

 Is it not to share your food with the hungry

 and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter

 when you see the naked, to clothe them,

 and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?

 Then your light will break forth like the dawn,

 and your healing will quickly appear;

 then your righteousness will go before you,

 and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard.

 Then you will call, and the Lord will answer;

 you will cry for help, and he will say: ‘Here am I.’”

(NIV notes)....God says He wants our service to go beyond our own personal growth to acts of kindness, charity, justice and generosity.  True fasting is more than what we don't eat; it is pleasing God by applying His Word to our society. 

Colombia - Pastor and Family Flee for Lives from "Red Zone" Guerrillas

Source: iCommitToPray

October 17, 2024

Pastors in Colombia's red zones live in constant danger of guerrilla reprisals because of their gospel work.Oct. 17, 2024 | Colombia

After months of seeing villagers and friends extorted, abused and killed by violent guerrillas who control the dangerous “red zones” of Colombia, Pastor Santiago and his family have fled from their village to a safe location, leaving most of their personal belongings behind. According to a church member, Pastor Santiago is on the guerrillas’ hit list for his refusal to support their illicit activities, prompting his decision to flee with his family. Pastor Santiago also shared with VOM staff that he had received death threats for preaching the gospel. His greatest concern is for his family and their provision if anything happens to him. Fearing for their lives, most members of Pastor Santiago’s church have either left the village or plan to leave soon. 

Pray for Pastor Santiago and the affected families from this village, including a teenage girl from the church who was kidnapped earlier this year and has not been heard from since.

Pray for a decrease in violence, which has spiked over the last year. 

Pray that families of martyrs will remain faithful and continue to heal emotionally and spiritually. 

Pray for front-line workers who share the gospel with unreached people groups. 

Pray for widows and orphans in Colombia who are rebuilding their lives. 

Pray for churches in the "red zones," as Marxist guerrillas have been closing churches. 

Pray for missionaries who distribute Bibles in "red zones."

The Martinez Family | International Day of Prayer for Persecuted Christi...

2024 International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church | Official Tr...

Nigeria - All In: How One Pastor Risks Everything to Share Christ with Fulani Muslims

 

Source: ICC

10/23/2024 Nigeria (International Christian Concern) — A week ago, Pastor Eli Abdullahi Tinau attended a memorial service honoring 29 Christians who were killed by Islamic Fulani extremists in 2015.

The victims, who had sought refuge in a classroom at LGEA Primary School in Nkiendoro, Miango district of Bassa County, were brutally murdered after militants bypassed the military’s protection. Two survivors were critically injured, and one later died from gunshot wounds.

Pastor Tinau, 35, has come close, many times, to being a victim of Fulani extremist attacks himself. It’s simply part of his work as a missionary from Katsina state. Tinau, who also pastors the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Nkiendoro, which is about 60 miles from Jos, doesn’t let the threat of violence or even death deter him from sharing the gospel with the Fulani. So far, Tinau has led two Fulani to Christ.

“I expect persecution because I am no longer of this world,” Tinau said. “I hold firm to my faith in Christ.”
Pastor Tinau has also lost his home amid the ongoing persecution in Nkiendoro, which has recently seen seven documented attacks and ambushes, including the destruction of farms owned by Christians and the burning of churches and homes. The pastor currently lives in a burned room that stands among the remains of his home.

The ongoing persecution also takes a toll on Tinau’s family. In the attack where they burned his home, Fulani extremists confiscated the pastor’s livestock, robbing the family of their livelihood. Their financial hardship has limited the education of the pastor and his wife’s three children, with only one child able to attend school.

The pastor and his wife are also struggling to continue their education. The pastor is enrolled in a seminary in Jos, and his wife is completing her teaching degree at the National Teachers Institute. “We need support to continue our education and ministry,” Pastor Tinau said.

Despite all that he and his family have suffered through and lost, Pastor Tinau said his faith has not wavered.

“I will never go back to Islam,” he said. “Christ has not compromised; I will not compromise.”

As Muslim Fulani extremists continue to persecute Christians in Nigeria, Pastor Tinau asked that people pray for Fulani Christians to remain firm in their faith and for Fulani Muslims to hear the gospel and find the courage to accept Christ despite the challenges they may face.

In addition to his own prayers for the Fulani, Pastor Tinau will continue to do his part to ensure they hear the good news of Christ’s love for them.

“I will continue to preach and bring additional souls to Christ,” he said.

SUDAN: Military Officers Arrest Christian Refugees

Source: VOMC
Source: Christian Solidarity Worldwide

Photo: VOMC

Amid the ongoing civil war in Sudan, a group of over 100 Sudanese men, women and children travelled to the city of Shendi on the banks of the Nile River in search of refuge from the fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary group, RSF. There, the refugees – most of whom are members of the Sudanese Church of Christ – sought shelter in an affiliated church building.

Unfortunately, transferring to this location did not protect the displaced individuals from harassment, as military intelligence officers soon entered the church building to interrogate the refugees. Between October 6th and 11th, all the men over 18 years of age were detained for questioning and accused of being associated with the RSF. Of the 26 men who were taken into custody, 14 were released a few days later. At last report, 12 of the refugees presently remain in detention. To date, these men have not been allowed any visits from their families, nor have they been formally charged with any crimes. They are presently being held by the Almudada Unit of Military Intelligence – a group of officers who are notorious for their use of violence and torture against detainees.

With deteriorating conditions in Sudan, the situation for those displaced by the violence is deeply concerning. Christians in the country have encountered opposition from both the government and rebel groups. Recently, believers in the village of Al Thora Mobe in Gezira State were forced to convert to Islam by the RSF paramilitary group presently controlling the area.
For more reports outlining the difficulties facing Christians in Sudan, go to our country profile.

Pray that the refugees remaining in the custody of the Sudanese military will soon be safely released and allowed to return to their families. 

Ask God to meet the practical and spiritual needs of these displaced families, provide them a safe place to live, and pour out His love, hope and strength upon each one. 

Continue to prayerfully remember the people of Sudan who are enduring the ongoing suffering of civil war, praying for an end to the devastating conflict.

INDIA: Christians Accused of Forcibly Converting Children

Source: VOMC
Sources: International Christian Concern, The Voice of the Martyrs Australia

Photo: VOMC

Recently, 11 female evangelists from the southern states of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh travelled from Hyderabad (the capital of Telangana state) to Bhagwanpur (a town located within the northeastern state of Bihar) in order to spread the "Good News" of the Gospel in villages surrounding the area.

In one of the villages, the Christian women entered a school and, with permission from the principal, distributed books and New Testament Bibles to the children. However, as the believers left, they were stopped by some local Hindus who were opposed to the women's message and questioned their motives.

The Hindu villagers called the police, who then detained the evangelists, along with seven local Christians. After questioning the believers, the police concluded that the women had done nothing wrong and therefore were prepared to release them. However, a local member of the state legislature intervened and threatened to organize major protests if the women were released. The politician also contacted local media outlets and spread false reports about the Christians, which were published in newspapers and social media posts. After facing personal threats, the principal was forced to lodge a complaint against the women for unlawfully converting the school children.

False accusations of coercive conversions continue to take place throughout many areas of India, often spurred on by anti-conversion legislation in many states. Additional information on the persecution of Christians in India is available at our country report.

Pray that the truth will prevail in the case against these Christian witnesses, enabling them to be released from police custody and freely resume their ministry activities. 

May these faithful servants of Jesus not grow despondent as a result of the hostility they're facing, but rather may they depend more fervently on His strength and help during this time of trial. 

Ask the Lord to provide each of them ongoing peace, comfort and encouragement through the abiding presence of His Holy Spirit. 

In spite of the spiritual oppression, pray that churches throughout India will continue to spread the "Good News" of the Gospel to children and their families.

PAKISTAN: Youth Forcibly Converted by Employer and Held Against His Will

Source: VOMC
Sources: Morning Star News, Zenit

Samsoon Javed Photo: Morning Star News

The Muslim owner of a liquified petroleum gas outlet has been accused of forcibly converting a 17-year-old Christian employee and then holding him against his will, according to the youth's parents. Samsoon Javed was hired in July to work at a business owned by Umar Manzoor in the Sheikhupura District of Punjab. Soon after, Samsoon's family began noticing changes in the Christian teen's behaviour.

In September, when Samsoon did not return home from work one day, his mother Samina went to the gas station to inquire about her son. She was told that Samsoon had become a Muslim and no longer wanted to live with his family. Samina and her husband were not allowed to see their son at the time.

A few days later, when Samina managed to meet with the young man, she reported that he looked "terrorized," avoided eye contact, and stated that Umar would fire him or worse if it was discovered that he had met with his mother. "I'm certain that Samsoon is being held...against his will," adds Samina. "I have seen fear in his eyes.... I know that he'll expose the truth once he's out of [his employer's] custody." The family has approached Christian leaders for support and assistance. A major concern is that Samsoon could disappear or be harmed if the owner feels pressured.

Attempts to forcibly convert Christian men or boys to Islam are relatively rare in Pakistan. Instead, young women and girls are frequently targeted by Muslim militants, who force their victims to convert and then marry their kidnappers.
For reports addressing other incidents of forced conversions in Pakistan, go to our country profile.

As Samsoon and his family deal with this terrible situation, pray that they will experience God's peace, strength and divine intervention. 

All the while, may this young man not only experience the Lord's divine protection during captivity, but also His comforting presence, love and guidance – making it possible for him to return home unharmed and without the risk of any potential repercussions. 

Despite encountering pressure and the threat of violence from those around them, pray that our vulnerable Christian brothers and sisters in Pakistan will remain steadfast in their faith and continue to sense the Lord's unfailing love for them.

PAKISTAN: Medical Care Denied to Elderly Christian

Source: VOMC
Sources: International Christian Concern, AsiaNews

On October 1st, Yousaf Masih Gill took his gravely ill father to the Civil Hospital in Sahiwal, Punjab, for urgent medical treatment. Seeking a doctor to care for his father, Yousaf eventually located the hospital staff, who were playing a game together. Finally, one of the physicians examined the elderly man. However, the doctor told Yousaf, "If I had known earlier that you are a Christian, I would not have touched your father."

When it was determined that the elderly believer required surgery, the doctor refused to operate on him. In response, Yousaf's brother, Babu Nadeem, organized a protest outside the hospital, together with dozens of others who heard about the situation. "We have witnessed very disappointing behaviour [from] our doctors, just because we are Christians," Babu asserted.

The hospital medical officer visited the distressed family two days after the incident. Apologizing for the unprofessional behaviour of the doctors, the officer assured the family that the necessary surgery would take place in the next few days. No further updates are available at the time of publishing this report.

Unfortunately, discrimination against religious minorities is common in Pakistan. They are typically forced to work long hours in oppressive jobs and frequently denied services routinely provided to Muslim citizens.
For more information on the injustices and suffering facing our Christian family in Pakistan, go to our country report.

Please pray for the full recovery of this elderly Christian believer, asking our Heavenly Father to provide him the necessary medical treatment, along with greatly needed physical and emotional healing. 

May God's peace also rest on Yousaf, Babu, and the other members of their family who have been affected by this traumatic incident. 

Pray that the hospital staff will demonstrate more consideration towards our Pakistani brothers and sisters in Christ, and that positive changes will be made so future patients – regardless of their religious affiliations – will be treated with equality, respect and dignity.

MALAYSIA: Latest News on Pastor Raymond Koh

Source: VOMC
Sources: Mission Network News, Open Doors UK, International Christian Concern, Free Malaysia Today, Malaymail

Raymond Koh and his family. Photo: VOM USA

On February 13th, 2017, Pastor Raymond Koh was kidnapped in broad daylight. More than seven years later, his wife Susanna continues to search tirelessly for answers regarding her husband's disappearance. As part of this process, she filed a lawsuit in 2020 against the Malaysian government for negligence.

To show that Pastor Raymond's disappearance was being investigated, the government formed a task force to allegedly look into the incident. However, the government refused to release the results of the investigation, claiming that the files contained official secrets. The judge in Susanna's court case disagreed with these claims, and therefore ordered that a copy of the results be released to the missing pastor's wife. However, when Susanna received the report, the document was covered with watermarks that distorted the photographs and made much of the text unreadable.

Lawyers returned to the judge to request an unredacted copy. On September 25th, officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs announced that they would comply and release the document without any obstructive watermarks. At last report, Susanna has received the unaltered version. Neither she nor her lawyers have commented on the contents.

One of the challenges concerning the missing pastor's case is that the report was composed by a task force of the government. The government also controls the special branch of police who had been monitoring Pastor Raymond prior to his disappearance. Susanna believes that these police officers were responsible for her husband's abduction. While addressing this situation, Todd Nettleton from the Voice of the Martyrs USA asked a pertinent question: "How much truth is going to be in this report?"

Susanna's lawsuit against the government remains ongoing. The next court hearing is scheduled to take place on October 21st.
For more details on Pastor Raymond's case, see VOMC's series of report updates.

As this arduous court process continues to unfold, pray that the truth about Pastor Raymond's disappearance will be revealed. 

Prayerfully uphold Susanna and the rest of her family as they deal with this extended time of uncertainty, asking the Lord to sustain them with His abounding peace, love, strength and hope. 

In the midst of the many challenges facing Christians throughout Malaysia, may all those who have made the courageous decision to follow Jesus receive ongoing encouragement, fortitude and wisdom.

MEXICO: Displaced Christians Allowed to Return Home

Source: VOMC
Sources: Christian Solidarity Worldwide, Church in Chains

A church service in Mexico. Photo: VOMC

On April 26th, 151 members of the Great Commission Baptist Church from two villages in Hidalgo State were forced from their homes because of their belief in Christianity. These believers have experienced years of tension because of their refusal to participate in local religious festivals involving their villages' ancient tribal rituals, drunkenness and debauchery. Prior to the forced displacement, hostile community members physically attacked several of the believers, turned off the power to their homes, banned their Christian children from attending school, and committed many other incidents of intimidation and harassment.
(Learn more.)

Originally, the local leaders agreed to allow all but three Christian families to return to the area. However, those who were granted permission to return were still to be subjected to fines, in addition to the previously applied severe restrictions. (Read a previously published report.) Unable to accept this proposal, the displaced Christians found refuge in a sports complex in Huejutla de los Reyes, where they had to rely on local churches for food and use river water for drinking and bathing. During this time, many of the exiled believers, especially children and the elderly, developed waterborne illnesses and infections.

Thankfully, a new municipal government took office in September and made this case a priority, ensuring that the rights of the displaced church members were upheld. After reaching an agreement with the Christians, electricity and water services were reconnected to their homes. The believers have been given a set time to examine their properties and will be granted access to state aid for any necessary repairs. In return, members of the church have agreed to contribute financially to community funds and allow all cases involving the criminal investigations of those responsible for the initial forced displacement to be closed.

Speaking of the ordeal experienced by these believers, Anna Lee Stangl from Christian Solidarity Worldwide stated that this agreement "serves as an example of what can be achieved, in terms of protecting freedom of religion or belief and upholding Mexican law, when there is political will and an investment of time and other resources on the part of the government."

Praise God for the collaborative efforts made by those representing all levels of governance in achieving this recent agreement. 

Pray that it will be implemented as promised, without any delays or opposition, so that these followers of Jesus can resume their lives and ministries. 

May the Lord soften the hearts of all those who oppose the Gospel message in these two Mexican communities, bringing about greater acceptance and understanding, so that our family in Christ will be able to practise their faith without fear of further harassment.

VIETNAM: New Believer Slain by Unknown Assailants

Source: VOMC
Source: VOM Australia

A village in Vietnam. Photo: Flickr / Michael Mooney (cc)

In August of this year, a widower and father of two referred to as "Brother Man" came to faith in Christ. When news of the believer's conversion became known, he began to encounter intense pressure from local authorities.

In the first incident, Brother Man was ordered to leave his home. When he refused to do so, the local authorities then confiscated his land and forbade him from contacting any other Christians. Despite the opposition, the follower of Jesus remained firm in his newfound faith.

On September 24th, Brother Man had been home alone while the rest of his household was out working. When his family members returned home later that day, they found the slain believer's body on the floor. It was also discovered that the deceased Christian man had a bruise on the back of his neck.

An in-country ministry partner who works closely with Voice of the Martyrs Australia has asked for prayer on behalf of Brother Man's grieving family members during this difficult time. One of the representatives from the Australian office reported that needed financial assistance has been provided to the family.
For further reports addressing the suffering of Christians in this Southeast Asian nation, including videotaped segments, go to our country profile.

Prayerfully remember Brother Man's loved ones as they grieve their sudden loss. 

May God's loving presence, peace and comfort be tangibly experienced by this mourning family, as well as by fellow Christians in their community and other areas of Vietnam. 

Ask the Lord to provide these persecuted believers with divine wisdom and guidance as they deal with the oppressive restrictions being imposed on them from all levels of government. 

Pray that the assailants responsible for this attack would be revealed and thus duly held accountable; and that, despite the opposition towards Christianity, the message of God's saving grace will continue to spread powerfully throughout the nation.

INDIA: Pastor Sentenced for Alleged Forced Conversions

Source: VOMC
Sources: International Christian Concern, ECSPE

A pastor in India sharing God's Word. Photo: VOM International

A church leader in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh has been convicted on false charges of forcing Hindus to convert to Christianity. On September 25th, a court in Jhabua sentenced Pastor Vikas Nimach to five years in prison and ordered him to pay a fine of over $1,600 CAD. His legal team intends to appeal the recent verdict, claiming that the trial lawyer mishandled the proceedings.

The convicted pastor was arrested in December 2021, along with five other believers. The complainants claimed that these Christians had allegedly bribed Hindus to come to their church with promises to provide each of these congregants approximately $16 CAD per month, a motorbike, plus free medical treatment and education for their families. While the other five Christians were granted bail, Pastor Vikas spent nine months in jail before obtaining bail in September 2022.

Madhya Pradesh is one of the 12 Indian states that have implemented anti-conversion legislation. These laws are frequently misused by individuals with personal vendettas, as well as by those seeking to stoke religious divisions.
For more details on the persecution facing Christians in India, go to our country report.

Please uphold Pastor Vikas in your prayers as he begins to serve his prison sentence, asking our Heavenly Father to keep this church leader strong in his faith and provide for all of his physical, spiritual and emotional needs. 

In addition, pray that Pastor Vikas' appeal hearing will be successful, enabling him to soon be set free. Continue to remember the numerous other followers of Jesus throughout this nation who are facing similar situations, praying that they too will receive ongoing encouragement, strength and protection. 

Despite the many challenges being encountered by these believers, may they faithfully proclaim the message of God's free gift of salvation throughout India so that multitudes more will receive opportunities to come to faith in Christ.

PAKISTAN: Zafar Bhatti's Ongoing Struggle for Justice

Source: VOMC
Sources: British Asian Christian Association, Pakistan Christian Post, Church in Chains

Zafar Bhatti Photo: Pakistan Christian Post

Zafar Bhatti is listed as Pakistan's longest-serving blasphemy prisoner. Since the day of his arrest on July 12th, 2012, the Christian man has remained in prison. During harsh police interrogation, Zafar was forced to confess to blasphemy. He has since recanted the previously made statement, asserting that it was spoken while under duress. During his time in prison, the believer has also encountered various health concerns.
(For previously published reports on Zafar's case, see this page.)

Over the years, numerous appeals and petitions have been filed in attempts to challenge Zafar's conviction. Due to the dedicated efforts of those advocating on his behalf, the courts have scheduled ten hearings since May of this year. However, the original complainant, Ibrar Ahmad Khan, has continued to follow the case, filing applications to submit additional alleged evidence against the accused Christian man. Thankfully, the judge has rejected Ibrar's requests, emphasizing that all evidence should have been recorded earlier. Although the most recent hearing was scheduled for September 23rd, it has since been postponed.

Amid concerns for the imprisoned believer's physical condition, health issues have also been mounting for his wife, Nawab Bibi. The 76-year-old Christian woman has become very weak and suffers with failing eyesight. Despite these health challenges, Nawab continues to visit her husband in prison every month. The British Asian Christian Association, which has been supplying support and daily provisions for the elderly couple, is presently seeking to provide the financial means for Nawab to undergo cataract surgery.

In hopes of this long-suffering Christian brother's soon release from prison, pray that any further delays to the hearings of his case will be rejected. 

Throughout the process, ask the Lord to work within the hearts of the court officials, guiding them to rule in Zafar's favour. 

With thankfulness for God's faithful provision throughout this lengthy ordeal, please pray that He will continue to meet the ongoing needs of this imprisoned believer and his wife – ultimately providing this couple divine healing and restoration.

New U.N. Report Details Death Toll in Myanmar

Source: ICC -  9/18/24
 

The U.N.’s Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights released a report detailing the severe impact of military rule in Myanmar since the February 2021 coup. Key points include:

Civilian Impact: Over 5,350 civilians killed and more than 3.3 million displaced.

Economic Hardship: Over half the population now lives below the poverty line due to military violence.

Arrests and Abuse: More than 27,000 people arrested, with many subjected to abusive interrogation and inadequate healthcare.

Religious Attacks: 226 attacks on religious sites, including churches and monasteries.

Ethnic and Religious Tensions: Ethnic minorities, many with distinct religious identities, face increased violence.

Census and Elections: The military plans a national census in October, seen as a step towards elections, though its legitimacy is questioned.

The report highlights the ongoing crisis and the international community’s skepticism about the military’s actions and intentions.

Pray for safety for P. and the Christian leaders in Myanmar.

Pray that it will be a time of encouragement to Christian leaders.

Pray that Christians would be salt and light to the people of Myanmar and that they would see many coming to Jesus.

Pray for peace and safety for Christians and all people in Myanmar.

Philippians 4: 6-7

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Charity Gayle - I Speak Jesus (Lyrics)

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