NIGERIA: Expanding Dangers for Christians

Source: VOMC
Sources: Mission Network News, BBC, Morning Star News, International Christian Concern, Christian Solidarity Worldwide, Truth Nigeria

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

In recent weeks, the Voice of the Martyrs Canada produced a special two-part video series on Nigeria, highlighting the dangers facing Christians in the northern region of the country while focussing on the urgent need for prayer.
If you have not yet taken the time to view these two brief but powerful videos, please do so at our country report.

The persecution of believers in Nigeria continues to escalate, fuelled by intensifying attacks from more than six different militant groups vying for control of the nation. As a result, hundreds of Christians have been killed, injured or kidnapped in recent months. In mid-June alone, more than 200 villagers lost their lives in the state of Benue and thousands of others were displaced. While economic and cultural factors contribute to the unrest, religion remains a major catalyst of the ongoing violence. For instance, during the recent raid in Benue, eyewitnesses reported that the attackers shouted, "Allahu Akbar," as they targeted predominantly Christian communities, leaving devastation in their wake.

The scale of violence in Nigeria has reached such a magnitude, that there are urgent calls from around the world prompting decisive action against the country's militants. Yet, despite assurances from Nigerian political leaders, the attacks have continued unabated. Less than three weeks after the Benue massacre, four more Christians were killed in the same area.
An in-depth video interview about the ongoing violence is available here.

Militant Fulani herdsmen also attacked the villages of Dogon Fili and Attang in Kaduna State on July 7th, resulting in the deaths of two Christians, as well as injuries to three others. Several individuals were also reportedly kidnapped, although the exact number remains unknown. That same evening, a pastor and another worshipper were killed in a separate attack when militants stormed a worship service at the Bege Baptist Church in Yari Bori, Kaduna. Armed assailants shouted, "Death to infidels," before fatally shooting Pastor Emmanuel Na'allah Auta and Mallam Samaila Gidan Taro. During the raid, an unidentified woman was also taken captive.

Since Yari Bori is a religiously mixed region, comprising both Muslim and Christian residents, Pastor Emmanuel served as a strong advocate for interfaith dialogue and peace between its religious communities. According to one local farmer, this church leader is remembered as "a fearless voice for unity" who "worked with Muslim youth and never stopped speaking out against violence."

• Amid the escalating violence against Christians, please continue to lift up the nation of Nigeria in your prayers, especially interceding for all those who have been directly affected by the recent attacks.
• Pray specifically on behalf of Nigerians within these targeted communities who are now mourning the tragic loss of loved ones, asking the Lord to provide them greatly needed comfort and peace.
• Also ask God to minister healing – mentally, emotionally and physically – to all who are suffering in various other ways as a result of the violence.
• Pray that He will continue to raise up courageous Christian leaders, like Pastor Emmanuel, who are willing to serve as Godly advocates for peace, unity and reconciliation in the face of fear and division.

INDIA: Legislator Issues Bounties on Evangelists' Lives

Source: VOMC
Sources: International Christian Concern, Mission Network News, The Times of India, India Today, The Indian Express

A village in Maharashtra Photo: Wikimedia / Nikhil More (cc)

A legislator in India's Maharashtra state has publicly announced the issuance of bounties on the lives of Christians who visit villages for the purpose of proselytization. In a speech that he made on June 17th, Gopichand Padalkar offered rewards ranging from 300,000 rupees (about $4,800 CAD) for assaulting a Gospel worker to over one million rupees (approximately $17,500 CAD) for killing a pastor. The legislator's remarks were made in retaliation, following the suicide of a young woman who had allegedly been pressured by her in-laws to pay a customary dowry and adhere to the family's belief in Christianity.

The official's recent announcement has sparked widespread concerns among India's Christians. Various protests have since been held throughout Maharashtra, with demonstrators demanding that Gopichand Padalkar face criminal charges for inciting violence and promoting religious hatred. The Christian community is also calling for the governing official's expulsion from state legislature. Thankfully, some dissent over the official's life-threatening stance has even taken place within his own political party. While Gopichand is a member of the Hindu-nationalist BJP – a party known for supporting anti-conversion legislation – some BJP leaders have publicly condemned his remarks which they consider "irresponsible" and unrepresentative of the party's official stance.

This incident comes amid a broader rise in hate speech and hostility towards religious minorities throughout various parts of India. Additionally, the enforcement of anti-conversion laws, which are often used to target Christians, has been gaining traction across the country. On July 9th, officials working for the Maharashtra state government announced that they will be enacting their own anti-conversion legislation, making this Indian state the 11th with related laws. Such measures have frequently been used to intimidate and oppress religious minorities.
To review previously published reports addressing the challenges encountered by Christians in India, go to our country profile.

• Pray that our Christian brothers and sisters in India will receive God's wisdom and discernment as they seek ways to appropriately deal with the hostility inflicted against them, so that they may respond to their opposers with grace and unwavering hope.
• Ask the Lord to shield the pastors and evangelists in Maharashtra state from harm by thwarting any violent schemes of the enemy and ensuring peace prevails over discord.
• May the Holy Spirit move mightily within the hearts of India's governing and judicial leaders – at the local, state and federal levels – bringing about policies that promote tolerance, justice and mutual respect for all of the country's religious communities.

PAKISTAN: Court Decisions Render Justice for Christians

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

Adil Babar Photo: Morning Star News

Christians in Pakistan often encounter intense opposition, particularly through the country's legal system. However, three recent court rulings have brought about a measure of relief and a renewed hope for justice.

In 2023, two Christian youths, Adil Barbar and Simon Nadeem, were accused of blasphemy after a neighbour claimed to have overheard them calling a dog "Muhammad Ali" and laughing about it. Although the families of both teens denied the presence of any dog, Adil and Simon were charged for allegedly insulting the Islamic prophet Muhammad.
(Read more details on the incident.)

On July 8th, after more than two years of legal uncertainty, the two Christian youths were acquitted and dismissed of all charges. While they are now considered free, concerns remain for their safety due to the threat of vigilante violence. Regrettably, Pakistan's blasphemy laws have been frequently misused to settle personal disputes, incite violence and persecute religious minorities.

In a separate case, 14-year-old Elishba Adnan was abducted from her home on June 11th by Baba Mukhtar, a 28-year-old man known to the family. Though members of the Christian girl's family turned to the local police for assistance, their pleas were repeatedly ignored.

Elishba's father eventually sought help from a human rights activist named Albert Patras, who discovered that the teenage girl had supposedly converted to Islam on June 12th and married her kidnapper. Albert was able to bring the case to court, arguing that – since Elishba was under the age of 16 – the marriage constituted statutory rape under Pakistani law. On July 3rd, the judge ruled in favour of the family, denying custody to Baba and placing Elishba in a women's shelter. Her parents remain hopeful that she will soon return home now that she is no longer under the influence of her captor.

In a similar ruling on July 9th, a judge in Lahore sentenced Ahmed Raza to life in prison for the rape of a 12-year-old Christian girl. The victim, whose identity has been withheld for security reasons, was kidnapped in 2023 and assaulted by Ahmed and his three accomplices. The perpetrator then fabricated documentation indicating that the girl had converted to Islam and married him. Ahmed was ultimately found guilty of rape, though the judge did not rule on the legitimacy of the conversion or marriage. However, during a separate proceeding, a family court issued a decree in the girl's favour and thus declared the marriage void.

Blasphemy accusations and forced marriages remain two of the most prevalent threats against Christians in Pakistan. While the courts often succumb to pressure from militant groups, these recent rulings offer a glimmer of hope that justice and protection for minorities are still possible.
To learn more about the incidents of persecution encountered by our Christian brothers and sisters in Pakistan, go to our country report.

• Praise God for the courage and integrity of judges who upheld justice in these recent cases, even in the midst of opposing societal and political pressures.
• Pray for further reforms to take place within Pakistan's government and its operating legal system, asking that laws respecting the rights and dignities of all citizens – regardless of their faith – will be duly upheld.
• Lift up all those in Pakistan who have suffered from abductions, false blasphemy accusations and threats of violence, asking our Heavenly Father to minister healing, restoration and peace to these believers and their families.

SYRIA: Suicide Bomber Attacks Damascus Church

Source: VOMC
Sources: BBC, International Christian Concern, Middle East Concern, ECSPE

The Mar Elias Greek Orthodox Church after the bombing. Photo: Middle East Concern

At least 20 worshippers were killed and dozens of others wounded when a lone attacker targeted the Mar Elias Greek Orthodox Church near Damascus on June 22nd. Approximately 350 people were inside the church building when the assailant suddenly opened fire and then detonated a suicide vest near the entrance of the church. The resulting blast not only killed those inside the building but also several people who had been standing within the immediate vicinity.

This incident marks the first major attack on a church within Syria in several years. Syrian authorities believe that the male bomber was affiliated with the Islamic State terrorist group, though it has not yet claimed responsibility for the attack. The interim government, which took power in December 2024, has condemned the bombing and promised to take appropriate action.

In the meantime, many church leaders have expressed frustration over what they perceive to be inadequate protection for the country's Christians. At the funeral for the victims, the Orthodox Patriarch of Antioch, John X, remarked: "We are grateful for the phone call [from Syria's interim president], but the crime that took place is a little bigger than that."

The country of Syria remains in a period of political transition after the overthrow of the authoritarian government under Bashar al-Assad.
To review more reports concerning the persecution of our persecuted Christian family in Syria, visit our country profile.

• Remember all those who are mourning the loss of their loved ones as a result of this tragic attack, praying that they would sense the nearness of God's presence, as evidenced by His abiding comfort and peace.
• Also prayerfully lift up the surviving church members who sustained injuries and trauma, asking for God's healing power to be manifested in their lives – physically, emotionally and spiritually – leading them to full recovery.
• Pray for the establishment of a stable government in Syria; one that will pursue peace, justice and protection on behalf of all citizens residing within the country, including those of vulnerable Christian communities.

CHINA: Arrests of Church Leader and Four Other Christians

Source: VOMC
Sources: Open Doors Canada, ChinaAid, Bitter Winter

Pastor Huang Yizi Photo: ChinaAid

Pastor Huang Yizi is a well-known house church leader in China's Zhejiang Province. For more than a decade, he has encountered repeated harassment and imprisonment for his Christian faith. In 2014, the pastor was arrested and sentenced to one year in prison after publicly protesting the government's campaign to remove crosses from church buildings across the province. He was arrested again in September 2015 and held for five months in a "black jail," where he had been forbidden from contacting his family and legal representatives. In 2021, Pastor Huang reported that he was being constantly monitored by the authorities and subjected to random interrogations (read more).

On June 26th, 2025, the church leader was once again taken into custody by local police and placed in detention. According to his wife, the authorities also searched the Christian couple's home and confiscated several items. At around the same time, four other believers were reportedly arrested as well. Following Pastor Huang's detention, lawyers attempted to visit the detained church leader but were denied access and told to return in 48 hours. A complaint has since been filed against the detention centre for violating the pastor's right to receive proper legal representation.

Pastor Huang has allegedly been accused of conducting "illegal business operations," a charge frequently used by Communist authorities to target religious dissidents.
For other reports addressing Christian persecution in China, go to our country profile.

• Pray that Pastor Huang's legal team will be granted wisdom, favour and full access to their detained client so they can effectively represent him.
• During this time of incarceration, may God sustain this Christian leader with supernatural strength, endurance and hope.
• In addition, prayerfully uphold this imprisoned church leader's wife, asking that she too would sense the Lord's comforting presence with her daily.
• As Pastor Huang awaits vindication, pray that he will receive divinely appointed opportunities to serve as a testimony of the Lord's love and grace to those around him.

PAKISTAN: Christian Acquitted After 23 Years

Source: VOMC
Sources: UCA News, Independent Catholic News, Barnabas Aid

Photo: Pixabay

In 2001, during the aftermath of the World Trade Centre attacks in New York, a Christian man in Pakistan named Anwar Kenneth published a letter defending Christianity and expressing his belief that Muhammad, the founder of Islam, was not a prophet of God. As a result of the letter, Anwar was charged in 2002 and ultimately convicted of blasphemy – a crime that carries an automatic death sentence under Pakistani law. The imprisoned believer has remained on death row for the past 23 years.

In 2014, Anwar's legal representatives argued that he suffered from mental illness and therefore should not have been found guilty. Despite these claims, the Lahore High Court ruled to uphold the Christian man's original sentence. In March 2024, however, the Supreme Court of Pakistan acknowledged the possibility that Anwar may not be guilty under Pakistan's blasphemy laws, noting that, as a Christian, he has the constitutional right to express his religious beliefs (read more).

Following years of repeated appeal rejections from judiciaries representing the lower courts, the country's Supreme Court finally ordered an official acquittal on June 25th, declaring Anwar to be of unsound mind and thus not criminally liable under Pakistan's blasphemy laws. Finally, after more than two decades behind bars, the 72-year-old Christian man is now scheduled to be freed from prison.

As Anwar's release date approaches, his lawyer has expressed concern for the family's safety, warning of threats from militant Islamic vigilantes who consider it their duty to kill those accused of blasphemy. The lawyer, who happens to be a Muslim, has been under police protection himself after receiving threats for publicly speaking out against the misuse of Pakistan's blasphemy laws.
For more details on the difficulties facing Christians in this South Asian nation, go to our country profile.

• Praise God that Anwar has been acquitted after experiencing so many years of imprisonment.
• Uphold this believer in your prayers as he adapts to life outside the prison walls – and reenters a world that has changed significantly during his time behind bars – asking that he and his family will receive the Lord's divine peace and protection.
• May Anwar also be provided the support of a caring community of fellow believers as he begins this new chapter of his life.
• Pray that Pakistan's court officials and governing leaders would consider the harmful consequences of the country's existing blasphemy laws, and thus make necessary changes to prevent further abuses and cases of injustice from taking place.

Nigeria: The most dangerous country in the world to be a Christian. - Part 2

 

SPECIAL MEDIA PRESENTATION Second of a Two-Part Series   VOMC's production team has filmed on location in Nigeria a special two-part "Persecution & Prayer Alert" video series. We now invite you to view the second part of this informative series. (To watch the previous week's video presentation, and/or to explore published written reports addressing persecution in Nigeria, visit our country report.)   The focus of this week's video presentation shifts to the vital need for unity among members of the Nigerian church, where a divide has emerged between persecuted believers in the north and the more prosperous Christian communities in the south. Encouragingly, some church leaders in the south are beginning to recognize this separation and, as a result, are calling for greater solidarity and support for fellow Nigerian believers who are suffering horrific abuses for their faith. Stephen Wesley, VOMC's Director for Global Education and Discipleship, leads us in prayer for healing, love and unity to take place among the body of Christ in what is statistically known as Africa's most populous nation. Please join us in this special time of intercession as we prayerfully uphold our Nigerian brothers and sisters in Christ.

Watch the Video Now

Pray that the Holy Spirit will move powerfully among members of the Nigerian church – spanning across all regions, denominations and backgrounds – so that followers of Jesus throughout the country will unite together in love, humility and purpose. Please remember the grieving families of those who have been tragically slain because of their faith in Christ, asking that they would tangibly experience the great comfort of the Lord's abiding presence with them. Continue to pray that the peace of God would reign – not only within the hearts of His people in Nigeria but also throughout the nation as a whole.

A Message from the Iranian Church to the American Church in the Midst of US vs. Iran war.

Nigeria: The most dangerous country in the world to be a Christian. - Part 1

 

SPECIAL MEDIA PRESENTATION

Part One of a Two-Part Series

Nigeria is considered the most dangerous country in the world to be a Christian. Each year, more believers are killed for their faith in this West African nation than in all the other countries of the world combined. The dangers are most prevalent in the northern region of the country where violence and targeted attacks are part of daily life.

This week's featured video report focusses on Northern Nigeria where persecution is evident in many forms. Not only do Christians frequently face systemic discrimination in their workplaces and schools, girls and young women are often kidnapped, forcibly converted to Islam, and then married to Muslim men against their will. And, every year, thousands of believers are killed for following Jesus. These persecution tactics are intended to demoralize and silence the Nigerian church in the north.

Yet, in spite of the many challenges, persecution has not stopped the growth of the church in this region. Rev. Joseph John Hayab, the Chairman for the Christian Association of Northern Nigeria, leads us in prayer for the persecuted church in the north.

• Pray that followers of Jesus in Northern Nigeria will continue to reach out with the compassion, hope and peace of Christ – spreading the "Good News" of the Gospel throughout the region.
• Intercede on behalf of pastors and their church members, asking that they would be given the spiritual strength to stand firm in the midst of persecution.
• Pray that God's people will continue to reflect the heart of Jesus by extending grace, love and forgiveness towards those who persecute them.

INDIA: Christians Hold Peaceful Protests for Equality

Source: VOMC
Sources: Open Doors, UCA News, Mission Network News

Believers in India. Photo: VOMC

Amid escalating violence and discrimination against Christians in India, the need for greater awareness and advocacy has become increasingly urgent. On June 9th, a group called the National Christian Front organized peaceful demonstrations in the state of Odisha to protest against government policies that promote Hindu nationalism. Additionally, the protests drew attention to the many challenges facing religious minorities across the country.

Christians from numerous denominations joined together and presented a petition requesting the protection of all citizens within the country. Similar demonstrations were reported to have taken place in several other Indian states as well. One of the major concerns raised by the protestors was the harmful anti-conversion legislation that has already been passed in 12 states. While these laws were officially intended to prevent abusive and coercive religious conversions, in reality, they have often been used to oppose the evangelistic activities practised by adherents of Christianity. Within the first five months of 2025 alone, more than 950 incidents of persecution against Christians have been documented throughout India.

In light of the recent protests, Greg Musselman from VOM Canada reported that India’s churches are banding together to place pressure on Hindu nationalist BJP leaders, urging them to do more to legally protect religious minorities. While emphasizing the importance of intercessory prayer, he encourages believers to pray that the Gospel message will continue to spread – even through peaceful demonstrations like these. "Let's pray that the church in India would be unified," he adds.
For reports addressing more specific cases of Christian persecution in this South Asian nation, go to our country profile.

• Pray that India’s governing officials would recognize the need to protect the vulnerable members of their communities, including those belonging to religious minority groups.
• Prayerfully uphold our Christian brothers and sisters in India, asking our Heavenly Father to not only strengthen them spiritually so they can overcome the daily challenges, but also unite their hearts with a greater sense of camaraderie and ministry purpose.
• As a result, may the message of God’s love and grace spread throughout the country, even in the face of systemic opposition.

OCCUPIED UKRAINE: Churches Encounter Continued Oppression

Source: VOMC
Source: Forum18

Police questioning church members. Photo: Baptist Council of Churches

Churches in occupied areas of eastern Ukraine continue to experience ongoing opposition from Russian-installed authorities. For Christians within the region, this has led to harsh restrictions on places of worship that are not affiliated with the Russian Orthodox Church, as well as those that do not comply with the imposed regulations.

On May 23rd, Pastor Vladimir Rudomyotkin was fined for alleged “missionary activity” because he did not receive permission from officials to hold regular worship services at his church. Along with requiring permits for Christians to meet, the authorities have also forced pastors to submit their sermons for review and report the names of attending church members.

On June 8th, a Council of Churches Baptist congregation in Krasnodon was celebrating Pentecost Sunday when their service was suddenly raided by police. The intruding officers alleged that the church was not registered with the Russian-controlled authorities. Congregations belonging to the Council of Churches Baptist oppose government registration for numerous reasons. According to Pastor Vladimir Rytikov, "One of the reasons is the [newly imposed] duty of the pastor to report to the authorities about the life of church members and about the service.... This is betrayal."

Other church leaders report that Russian officials have met with them to "discuss" the content of their sermons and the way in which the worship services are conducted. For example, one priest was confronted by the authorities because he failed to praise the Russian military and their campaign against Ukraine in his Easter message.
To review previously published reports concerning the restrictions imposed on Christians in Ukraine’s Russian-occupied areas, go to this list.

• Please continue to prayerfully remember our Ukrainian brothers and sisters in Christ as they deal with the restrictions imposed on them by occupying forces, asking that they would remain encouraged and steadfast in their faith.
• Ask God to grant wisdom, courage and discernment to church leaders who are serving within Ukraine’s occupied areas so they can honour and glorify Him through their appropriate responses to the harsh regulations and policies.
• In general, may the Lord guard the hearts and minds of Ukrainian believers with His perfect peace while bringing about a lasting and just resolution between the two warring Eastern European nations.

MEXICO: New Beginnings for Exiled Christians

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

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

Members of the Great Commission Baptist Church in the Mexican villages of Coamila and Rancho Nuevo have frequently encountered opposition from hostile community leaders. About a year ago, more than a hundred church members were forced to flee their homes and villages.
(Click here to read more details regarding the displacement of these believers.)

Despite efforts made by state officials to mediate in the situation, all their attempts to achieve a resolution have failed. Even though a settlement was reached in September 2024, allowing the Christian residents to return to their homes, the believers soon discovered that the opposing villagers had no intention of honouring the agreement. The unresolved matter forced the believers to flee once again.

After relocating to the neighbouring state of Veracruz, the Christian families have begun settling into their new homes. With the support of various Christian organizations, they were able to purchase building materials for the construction of 42 houses on a plot of agricultural land – naming their small community “La Paz” (meaning “Peace”). In addition to plans for establishing essential sanitation systems, a school for the children, and a church building, the new settlers are endeavouring to rebuild their livelihoods.

While these believers are working to establish their new community in a different Mexican state, similar forms of opposition continue to persist for other followers of Jesus throughout the country. In the municipality of Contepec, for instance, a group of Christian residents are being pressured to participate in local religious rituals that conflict with their values. If they don’t comply, they too risk expulsion from their community.
For more reports on the challenges facing Christians in various regions of Mexico, go to our country profile.

• Please pray on behalf of the exiled members of the Great Commission Baptist Church, asking the Lord to grant them the provisions, strength and hope they need to establish their new community and rebuild their lives.
• Pray that the residents of “La Paz” (“Peace”) will indeed be filled with the Lord’s peace, and that He would greatly bless their efforts to create a safe and welcoming environment for their families.
• Remember the many other Christians throughout Mexico – including those in Contepec – who continue to experience harassment because of their faith in Christ.
• May the resilience and perseverance of these persecuted believers in Mexico demonstrate the reality of the Living Christ to all those around them – including their opponents – enabling them to serve as powerful testimonies of His love, forgiveness and grace.

The Prodigal Son

ETHIOPIA: Evangelist Martyred for Sharing the Gospel

Source: VOMC
Sources: Steadfast Global, The Voice of the Martyrs USA

Ibrahim Mohammed Photo: Steadfast Global

Ibrahim Mohammed became a follower of Jesus in 2021 and immediately began sharing the "Good News" of the Gospel with others in his predominantly Muslim community. Within the span of one year, he led 80 people to Christ in the Oromia region of Ethiopia. Since then, the passionate evangelist has devoted himself to discipling these new believers. As a result of his Christian witness, Ibrahim began receiving death threats from local Islamic militants.

Despite the growing danger, he faithfully continued sharing the message of Christ. In early May, the dedicated believer donated a portion of his farmland to construct a church building. However, when Ibrahim's opponents discovered his plans, they became determined to stop the construction of the worship facility. On May 15th, Ibrahim was approached by an armed individual who was dressed in traditional Islamic clothing. The assailant declared that it would be Ibrahim's final day of evangelizing before suddenly shooting the Christian believer. (According to latest reports, a suspect has since been identified, but he recently fled the area.)

Though rushed to the hospital, Ibrahim tragically succumbed to his injuries three days later. This faithful believer leaves behind his wife and two young children, along with the church community he was instrumental in building.
For previously published reports concerning Christian persecution in Ethiopia, go to our country profile.

• Pray for greatly needed comfort, healing and peace on behalf of all who are mourning the loss of this dearly beloved servant of Christ.
• Give thanks for Ibrahim's faithful witness, courage and unwavering commitment to sharing the Gospel even when facing opposition.
• Pray for the continued growth of the ministry Ibrahim helped to build, asking that the seeds he planted would bear much fruit, and that many more people throughout Ethiopia would come to know Christ as a result of his lasting spiritual legacy.

INDONESIA: Young Boy Dies Following Tragic Bullying Incident

Source: VOMC
Sources: International Christian Concern, GAMKI, Grid.ID

An eight-year-old boy, referred to as "KB" in Indonesia's local news reports, tragically died following a severe beating he received from a group of older male students at a school in Pangkalan Kasai, a village located within the province of Riau. According to various sources, the incident occurred because the boy was a Christian and belonged to a different ethnic group.

The five older students – ranging from 11 to 13 years of age – had previously bullied the Christian boy by harassing him. Their verbal insults escalated into a violent physical attack on Monday, May 19th. After being severely beaten, the assaulted Christian boy returned home early and told his mother, Siska, that he was feeling sick. As the child's condition quickly worsened, his parents suspected that something serious had occurred.

On Wednesday, May 21st, the young boy's father, Gimson Beni Butarbutar, spoke with one of his son's classmates, who informed him about the attack. Gimson then expressed his concern to the students' homeroom teacher before meeting with the principal on Friday. It was eventually disclosed that one of the students had violently struck the Christian boy in the stomach with his knee. However, all those involved in the beating denied any responsibility for the fatal outcome.

The injured youth was taken to the hospital where he began vomiting blood, in addition to experiencing convulsions and shortness of breath. By the early morning of May 26th, the eight-year-old child passed away from his injuries. The five youths who were accused of the fatal attack have been identified, and police investigations are currently underway. In the wake of this tragic incident, the distraught Christian parents are now calling for justice on behalf of their son.

The young boy is remembered as a bright student who actively participated in his local Sunday school lessons.
To review other reports addressing incidences of persecution in Indonesia, visit our country profile.

• Prayerfully uphold the young boy's grieving parents, Gimson and Siska, along with the couple's surviving younger child, as they now process the deep grief and trauma of losing their precious loved one.
• May the Lord's presence greatly console this heartbroken family, providing them with supernatural strength and "the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding" during this time of unimaginable sorrow (Philippians 4:7).
• Pray that not only will justice be served, but also that the youths responsible for this incident would realize the gravity of their actions, and thus experience the transformative forgiveness and saving grace of Jesus Christ.
• In addition, please intercede for the members of this Indonesian community – especially those who have been shaken by the devastating tragedy – asking God to bring healing, unity and the hope of the Gospel to these villagers as well.

IRAN: Laleh Saati Receives Conditional Release

Source: VOMC
Sources: Article18, Human Rights in Iran, Church in Chains

Laleh Saati Photo: Article18

Laleh Saati is a Christian convert and former asylum-seeker who was incarcerated in February 2024 and sentenced to two years in prison. (For more information on the imprisonment of this 46-year-old Iranian follower of Jesus, visit this page.) Throughout Laleh's time in custody, concerns have been raised about her physical health and psychological well-being. Most recently, it was reported that the Christian woman was denied needed medical treatment for a hand injury that had occurred as a result of a fall.

Thankfully, Laleh was released from prison on May 31st. However, her release will only be granted on the condition that she refrains from speaking with any media reporters or other contacts outside of Iran. The Christian woman is also forbidden from leaving the county for two years. While grateful for her release, Laleh continues to be subjected to psychological pressure from members of the Iranian government. Her mother has also been interrogated by intelligence officers regarding news reports documenting Laleh's imprisonment, which the authorities claim were published on "hostile sites." Further charges have been threatened against Laleh and her mother because of the publicity surrounding this case.

While the church in Iran is growing rapidly, believers are forced to practise their faith in secret due to governmental oppression. 
VOMC's Minister-at-Large, Greg Musselman, recently spoke with Joseph Hovsepian about the challenges encountered by Iranian Christians. View this candid and yet very inspiring interview.

• While we can praise God for Laleh's recent release from prison, pray that this sister in Christ will now receive the urgent medical treatment she needs – along with full physical and emotional restoration.
• Ask the Lord to provide divine wisdom, peace and protection to Laleh and her family as they deal with the restrictions and threats being imposed on them by governing officials.
• Continue to remember the many Christians who are presently imprisoned in Iran, praying that each one of these detained believers will experience the comforting presence, protection and incomprehensible joy of the Lord – even while in the darkest of places – as they await their hopeful soon release.

INDONESIA: Christian Graves Vandalized

Source: VOMC
Sources: UCA News, Morning Star News, Kompas, Tempo

Photo: PxHere

In what appears to be a targeted act against the Christian community, at least ten graves were recently vandalized in cemeteries throughout the Yogyakarta region of Java, Indonesia. Each of the graves bore a cross, symbolizing the Christian faith of the individuals interred there. The damages occurred in three different cemeteries between May 16th and 19th.

An arrest was made on May 21st. The perpetrator, a 16-year-old student, has allegedly confessed to committing the crimes. Although the police claim there was no religious motivation behind the attacks, all of the desecrated graves clearly identified the burial sites of Christians. It appears that sites bearing the symbol of the cross were specifically targeted in the destruction.

This is not the only such incident in which Christian burial sites have been attacked. Additional graves were reportedly vandalized in two other cemeteries within the region earlier this year. Moreover, in April 2019, several wooden crosses at the Bethesda Mrican Cemetery were pulled down before being partially burned; and, in June 2021, a group of students were caught vandalizing other Christian graves.

While the specific reasons for such violence may not always be apparent, these incidents reflect deeper societal tensions surrounding religious diversity within the country. According to a study by Kompas Research and Development, fears of "cultural dilution" have fuelled concerns for many Indonesians over the perceived loss of their cultural identity. Even though the country's constitution legally guarantees religious freedom, its predominant religion of Islam is regarded as an integral part of society. Consequently, the growth of Christianity is often viewed as a threat to traditional cultural values and national identity.
For more reports addressing the challenges facing Indonesian Christians, go to our country profile.

• Pray on behalf of the grieving families who have been affected by these disturbing acts of destruction, asking the Lord to minister His peace, comfort and healing in each of their lives – to the point that they would be willing to extend forgiveness towards the students responsible for the various attacks.
• May Christians throughout Indonesia serve as testimonies of God's unconditional love, grace and truth, leading many of their fellow citizens to salvation in Christ.
• Prayerfully remember the governing leaders of Indonesia, in hopes that they will realize the importance of seeking God's wisdom and justice, upholding the rights of all citizens, and fostering a society rooted in tolerance and respect.

PAKISTAN: Court Rulings for Forcibly Married Christian Youth

Source: VOMC
Sources: Morning Star News, Christian Post, VOM Australia

The parents of the unnamed 15-year-old with their attorney. Photo: Christian Daily International/ Morning Star News

The kidnapping of young teens in Pakistan continues to be a serious concern for Christians and other religious minorities. After being kidnapped, many of these girls are forcibly "converted" to Islam and then compelled to marry their captors or other men associated with the crimes. While some state governments have introduced legislation to stop this abusive practice – including a law that recently passed in the Islamabad area – the courts frequently favour the kidnappers because of the pressures they encounter from militant Islamic groups. Two recent cases highlight the many challenges facing Christian girls in this South Asian country.

In the first incident, a 15-year-old girl was kidnapped from her home in Punjab province on January 25th. For safety reasons, the victim's name has not been publicly disclosed. According to the family's attorney, the teen girl was taken captive by Muhammad Anees and his four accomplices. Police informed the girl's parents 12 days later that their daughter had purportedly converted to Islam and married the attacker of her own free will. However, the family quickly recognized that the documents presented to support this claim were fabricated. While the certificates stated that their daughter had married Muhammad on January 17th, and converted to Islam the next day, the teen's parents confirm that she was at home with her family at that time.

After police failed to recover their daughter, the family filed a petition with the Lahore High Court, ordering the authorities to locate those responsible. Thankfully, Muhammad and two others were brought before the court on May 6th and subsequently detained in prison. Due to the level of trauma experienced by the girl, the judge ruled that she would be placed in a government-operated rehabilitation shelter. While at the shelter, it was determined that the teen was four months pregnant. Two weeks later, the girl gave a statement expressing her desire to return to the custody of her parents, which was granted on May 21st.

In a similar incident, 16-year-old Jessica Iqbal was kidnapped from her home in Lahore, Punjab, during the early hours of April 30th. It was then discovered that the Christian girl had allegedly converted to Islam and married a Muslim neighbour named Azeem Ullah.

Accused of abduction, Azeem was brought before a judge on May 16th. During the trial, Jessica made a statement claiming that she had converted to Islam and married the man of her own free will. However, her family stated that she was clearly under duress. Throughout her testimony, the young girl repeatedly expressed concerns for the safety of her family. Additionally, when asked, Jessica was unable to recite the Kalima (the Muslim proclamation of faith) nor respond to any questions about Islam, raising further doubts about the legitimacy of her alleged conversion.

Despite evidence indicating that the teen girl had been coerced, the judge ruled in Azeem's favour and granted him custody of Jessica. Her family, with the support of several advocacy groups, intends to appeal the judge's ruling.

• Praise God for the safe return of the 15-year-old girl who is now reunited with her family. In addition to praying for her ongoing emotional and physical healing, please ask the Lord to grant her family and legal advocates wisdom and guidance as they navigate the challenges ahead – including the teen's unexpected pregnancy.
• Pray for Jessica and the many other girls throughout Pakistan who presently remain under the control of their kidnappers, asking God to divinely protect them and make a way for their freedom.
• May God give the judges in Pakistan courage to resist the external pressures placed upon them so that they would rule with integrity and fairness – and thus uphold justice for all victims of kidnapping and other forms of persecution.

IRAN: Letter From Imprisoned Christian Reveals Abusive Treatment

Source: VOMC
Sources: Christian Solidarity Worldwide, International Christian Concern, Article18

Hakop Gochumyan Photo: Article18

Hakop Gochumyan and his wife Elisa are citizens of Armenia who were visiting Iran in August 2023. While this Christian couple were having dinner with friends, government agents raided the gathering, resulting in their arrest. Eventually, Elisa was released on bail and permitted to return to Armenia with their children. However, Hakop was convicted and sentenced to ten years in prison for allegedly "engaging in deviant proselytizing activity."
For more details, see our previously posted report.

On May 9th, a letter was made public in which Hakop described his experience behind bars. In the letter, he denied all the charges against him. The Christian man also stated that the investigation by the Iranian authorities was done without the assistance of a translator or lawyer. Additionally, threats were made against his life and the lives of his family members, some of whom are presently residing in Iran.

Additionally, in a disturbing twist, Hakop revealed that his interrogators confessed to the murder of Haik Hovsepian, a well-known Christian leader who was assassinated in 1994. The Iranian authorities described Haik's death in detail and then threatened to kill Hakop in the same way.
View the believer's full letter.

Following Hakop's sentencing in February 2024, both the appeal court and the Supreme Court have rejected his appeal. As a result, the detained Christian continues to serve his sentence in Tehran's notorious Evin Prison, along with many other followers of Jesus who have been arrested for their faith.
More details concerning the persecution of Christians in Iran are available at our country report.

An informative documentary featuring the story of Haik Hovsepian has been produced by Hovsepian Ministries, a Christian organization that was founded by his family.
To learn more about the dedicated life and ministry of this martyred bishop, you may view the short film at VOMCanada.com/video/hovsepian1.

• Please remember Hakop in your prayers as he continues to serve time in prison, praying that this detained believer would tangibly sense our Heavenly Father's sustaining presence, strength and peace as he awaits his hopeful release.
• Also prayerfully uphold Hakop's wife Elisa, along with their children, during this difficult time of separation, asking God to comfort, strengthen and sustain them as well.
• In light of the threats made against Hakop and his loved ones, ask that God's divine protection and peace would remain over each of their lives.
• Continue to pray for the endurance, encouragement and release of the many other Christians in Iran who are presently being imprisoned simply because of their faith in Jesus Christ.
• May the far-reaching ministry of Haik's surviving family be mightily used during these crucial days – not only to strengthen the faith of believers around the world but also to reach those in search of spiritual truth through the creative use of multimedia.