The Hidden Church of Somalia - Faith in the Shadows:

Source: ICC

In the heart of Somalia, where the mere whisper of Christianity can mean exile—or worse—there exists a quiet, resilient community of believers. They are the hidden church, scattered across cities and villages, practicing their faith in secrecy, often at great personal cost.

In Mogadishu, the capital, believers gather in silence. Many are converts from Islam, viewed by their communities as traitors. Their decision to follow Christ has forced them to abandon homes, families, and identities. Yet, they continue—clinging to the gospel in the face of danger.

To support these courageous souls, International Christian Concern (ICC) has built a network of safe houses. These sanctuaries, run by underground church leaders who have themselves survived persecution, offer shelter, food, and spiritual care. One such home has already protected more than 20 believers—each with a story of escape, loss, and unwavering faith.

In northern Somalia, a lone missionary nurse quietly serves in local hospitals. Her medical work opens doors to share the gospel with women and children. Despite threats, language barriers, and limited resources, she presses on. Her efforts have sparked secret conversions and the birth of underground networks in places once untouched by the message of Christ.

The danger is real. In 2023, militants burned down the farm of a Somali church leader. He and his family fled through the wilderness for a week before reaching safety in Mogadishu. ICC stepped in with emergency aid, helping them rebuild their lives and continue serving the underground church.

Even beyond Somalia’s borders, the struggle continues. In Mombasa, Kenya, Somali Christian families face discrimination and poverty. ICC recently paid school fees for their children, restoring hope and stability to families who feared their futures had been lost.

Every effort, every story, remains confidential. Publishing names or locations could mean imprisonment—or execution. But even in silence, the impact is profound. The hidden church of Somalia is growing, sustained by courage, compassion, and the quiet work of those who refuse to let the light of Christ be extinguished.

🙏 Prayer Requests for Somalia

• Pray for protection over underground believers and safe house leaders.

• Ask God to strengthen the faith of converts who have lost everything to follow Christ.

• Intercede for the missionary nurse serving in hostile territory—that her work would bear fruit and remain hidden from harm.

• Pray for families displaced by violence, that they may find healing and restoration.

• Lift up Somali children in exile, that they may receive education and hope for the future.

• Pray for ICC and other ministries working in secrecy, that their efforts would continue to reach and rescue those in need.

• Ask for divine courage and unity among the hidden church, that they may stand firm in their calling.

India - State of Maharashtra - Christians Fear Additional Attacks, Scrutiny

Source: ICC

A Rising Storm in the State of Maharashtra

In the quiet corners of Maharashtra, India, a storm is brewing—not of weather, but of fear.

Fourteen Christian families in a remote village were recently attacked, their homes invaded, their bodies beaten, and their spirits shaken. The violence was swift and brutal. Women and children were dragged into the streets and assaulted. Their livestock was stolen, their farmland destroyed. And when the survivors returned with police assistance, their pastor was banned from visiting them. No arrests were made. No justice was served.

This wasn’t an isolated incident. Just days later, another mob surrounded the home of a village’s only Christian family during a prayer gathering. Armed with rods and sharpened stones, they threatened violence. The family locked their doors in terror as the mob destroyed their motorbike and left a message of intimidation.

Behind these attacks lies a chilling political backdrop. A legislator from the ruling Hindu-nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) publicly offered a cash reward for anyone who kills a Christian attempting to convert Hindus. On the same day, the state’s chief minister threatened legal action against members of scheduled castes who convert to Christianity and announced plans for an anti-conversion law.

Local pastors speak of growing anxiety. Rumors swirl that Christians will be summoned on August 15 to be interrogated about their faith and religious status. Congregations are shrinking as families abandon their churches out of fear. The Christian community in Maharashtra is on high alert, bracing for what may come next.

A local Christian leader, speaking anonymously, described the situation as part of a “well-designed plan” to justify the anti-conversion law. The attacks, he said, are not random—they are calculated.

🙏 Prayer Requests for Maharashtra, India

• Pray for protection over Christian families facing threats and violence.

• Ask God to strengthen pastors and leaders who are shepherding fearful congregations.

• Intercede for justice—that authorities would act swiftly and fairly against the perpetrators.

• Pray for peace in villages torn apart by hatred and division.

• Lift up those who are reconsidering their faith out of fear, that they may find courage and comfort.

• Pray for wisdom and boldness for Indian believers navigating persecution.

• Ask for international awareness and advocacy to support religious freedom in India.

Nigeria - Christians Endure Sustained Attacks as Fears of Terrorist Takeover Grow

Source: ICC 

In the heart of Nigeria’s Plateau State lies the county of Bokkos—a once-thriving region of Christian farming communities now gripped by fear and devastation. Over the past few months, this peaceful land has become a battleground. Armed militants, emerging from forested camps along the Plateau–Nasarawa border, have launched a relentless campaign of terror. Their goal appears chillingly clear: to drive out the local population and claim the fertile land for themselves.

It began with whispers—rumors of raids in nearby villages. Then came the bloodshed. In April, the village of Hurti in Manguna district witnessed one of the deadliest massacres in recent memory: over 50 lives lost in a single day. Since then, the violence has only escalated. More than 100 Christians have been killed in four months. Homes and churches lie in ruins. Crops, just days from harvest, have been torched or stolen. Entire villages—Dimar, Hokk, Margif, Kopmur, Nina, Ikgngwaghap, and Fokholdep—now stand abandoned.

The attackers strike swiftly and vanish before security forces arrive. Civilian defense groups, made up of local volunteers, are stretched beyond their limits. Despite the presence of military personnel, protection remains elusive. The people of Bokkos are not just fighting for survival—they’re fighting for their homeland, their faith, and their future.

The Bokkos Cultural Development Forum has sounded the alarm. They warn that if Bokkos falls, militants will gain a strategic corridor between Nigeria’s northwest and northeast, bypassing military operations and spreading deeper into Plateau State. The Forum has called on Governor Caleb Mutfwang and federal authorities to dismantle militant camps, support displaced families, and establish a joint civilian task force to bolster security.

Meanwhile, the humanitarian crisis deepens. Families are sheltering in schools and churches. Children are out of school. Food and medical supplies are scarce. The trauma of displacement and loss weighs heavily on every soul.

And yet, amid the ashes, hope flickers. The people of Bokkos remain determined to defend their homes. Their resilience is a quiet defiance against the darkness.

🙏 Prayer Requests for Bokkos, Nigeria

• Pray for protection over the remaining villagers and civilian defense groups.

• Ask God to comfort grieving families and heal the wounded—physically and emotionally.

• Intercede for displaced families, that they may find shelter, food, and restoration.

• Pray for wisdom and courage for Nigerian leaders to take decisive action.

• Lift up the children who have lost homes and schools, that they may find safety and peace.

• Pray for the dismantling of militant camps and the restoration of stolen lands.

• Ask for international awareness and support to bring lasting peace to Plateau State.

INDIA: Severe Restrictions Accompany Anti-Conversion Legislation

Source: VOMC
Sources: India Today, The Times of India, Mission Network News, International Christian Concern, Christian Solidarity Worldwide, Agenzia Fides

A church in India. Photo: World Watch Monitor

In early July, the Maharashtra state government announced plans to introduce stringent anti-conversion legislation. The new laws, which are expected to be the most severe of their kind in the country, are particularly aimed at preventing religious conversions within tribal communities. While the stated intent is to prevent incidents of coercion, legislators have used language demonstrating a broader aim to restrict religious conversions of any sort. During the announcement, the state's revenue minister, Chandrashekhar Bawankule, declared that the law would be so strict "no one will dare to undertake religious conversion."

In addition to the new anti-conversion measures, the government also revealed plans to demolish church buildings that are deemed "unauthorized." Although state officials did not specify how many worship facilities would be affected, sources estimate that the number could reach into the hundreds.

In a separate announcement, the state's chief minister, Devendra Fadnavis, stated on July 17th that "scheduled caste" certificates would be issued only to Hindus, Buddhists and Sikhs – specifically excluding Christians and Muslims. For those belonging to castes that are generally marginalized within Indian society, these certificates provide access to government benefits such as subsidized education, scholarships and certain public sector jobs. By restricting eligibility based on one's religious affiliation, many deserving individuals will be denied these essential support systems.

Such restrictions have already been applied in various other states throughout India. In April 2025, the Andhra Pradesh Supreme Court ruled that caste-based benefits should not be given to Christians from marginalized groups because "the caste system is alien to the Christian faith." The National Council of Dalit Christians has since filed appeals in several states, advocating for "religion-neutral" policies based on the constitutional principle of equality.
For other reports on the various challenges facing India's Christians, go to our country profile.

• Pray that the proposed legislation in Maharashtra state will be rejected, and that Christians would be free to practise their faith without fear and the threat of repercussion.
• May God intervene in judicial and legislative decisions throughout India, convicting the country's leaders of the injustice caused by such restrictions and empowering them to protect vulnerable religious minorities.
• Prayerfully remember our impoverished Christian brothers and sisters in India, especially those within tribal regions, asking the Lord to provide for their daily needs and strengthen their trust in Him (Matthew 6:11).

AZERBAIJAN: Fines for Unapproved Religious Meetings

Source: VOMC
Source: Forum 18

Pray that Christians in Azerbaijan will continue to meet. Photo: VOMC Source

A court in the Azerbaijani exclave of Nakhichevan recently fined two local Christians and three visitors from the capital city of Baku for participating in a worship gathering without state permission. The ruling was announced on June 19th, two months after authorities raided the home of a Korean family where the believers had assembled for worship. The court also fined and deported members of the Korean family for hosting Christian meetings in their residence.

The visitors from Baku chose to pay the fine, which amounted to approximately the average wage for a citizen's three-month term of employment. However, the two local believers have not yet complied with the substantial penalty and are now being pursued by court bailiffs.

While state authorization is compulsory for worship gatherings throughout Azerbaijan, non-Muslim religious communities are routinely denied registration, rendering their activities illegal and subject to punishment. This policy continues to severely restrict freedom of worship for Christians and other religious minorities.
To review further reports on the persecution of believers in Azerbaijan, go to this country profile.

• Pray for wisdom, strength and encouragement on behalf of our Azerbaijani brothers and sisters in Christ who are presently facing fines and other penalties for practising their faith.
• Ask God to guide and equip all followers of Jesus residing within Azerbaijan as they seek ways to faithfully continue serving Him in the midst of opposition.
• May Christian families who open their homes for the purpose of ministry be divinely protected and hidden from the eyes of authorities, so they can continue to gather for meaningful times of worship, prayer and fellowship.

CHINA: Christian Lawyer Remains Missing After Eight Years

Source: VOMC
Source: ChinaAid

Gao Zhisheng Photo: ChinaAid

For many years, Gao Zhisheng was a bold advocate for persecuted religious communities in China. While serving as a lawyer representing various faith groups, he himself was frequently harassed and arrested. In 2005, Gao's law practice was shut down by the government after he publicly condemned the human rights violations that were being committed against practitioners of a religious movement known as Falun Gong.

About a year after his legal practice was forcibly barred, the advocating lawyer was arrested for the first time – leading to a long cycle of repeated disappearances, detentions and house arrests. During his imprisonments, Gao endured beatings, electrical shocks and other forms of torture. In the midst of his suffering, however, he came to understand the truth of God's Word and eventually placed his faith in Christ.

Gao was last seen on August 13th, 2017. For the past eight years, there has been no information about the Christian man's whereabouts. His wife, Geng He, along with their two children, initially fled to Thailand and were later (in 2009) brought by ChinaAid to the United States, where they continue to reside today. Geng He has repeatedly appealed to the Chinese government for news about her husband, but her pleas remain unanswered. "I just want to know if he is alive," she cried.
For previously published information concerning the disappearance of this Christian lawyer, go to our country profile.

• Continue to lift up this courageous human rights lawyer before God's throne of grace, praying that news of his condition and whereabouts would soon come to light.
• With hopes that Gao has been kept safe throughout the years, pray that he would receive ongoing protection, strength and peace as he endures captivity.
• Also pray that Geng He and her children will be wonderfully comforted and sustained as they continue to await the hopeful return of their loved one.

CHINA: John Cao Unable to Return to the United States

Source: VOMC
Source: ChinaAid

Pastor John Cao Photo: John Cao via ChinaAid

In March 2017, Pastor John Cao was arrested by Chinese authorities for allegedly "organizing illegal border crossings" while conducting ministry work along the border between China and Myanmar. Sentenced to seven years in prison, he was finally released in March 2024.
(For more information on the church leader's arrest, see this list.)

Following his release from prison, Pastor John hoped to return to his wife in the United States, where he holds permanent residency. However, Chinese authorities have consistently refused to grant the Christian leader a passport, preventing him from leaving the country. Now, more than one year after his release, the pastor remains unable to reunite with his wife and family, including his newborn grandson.

Reflecting on his situation, Pastor John remarked that it feels as though he left a "small prison" only to enter a "large prison." He is not alone in this experience, for many other former prisoners in China have been "exit-banned" for decades as an additional form of punishment. Despite the personal hardships he continues to endure, Pastor John expressed that he has no regrets over his ministry involvement in China. "Being able to return to China to serve the Lord is God's greatest blessing for me," he states. "Everyone, please share in my joy and continue to pray for me."

• Pray that Pastor John will be able to return to the United States and finally reunite with his long-suffering wife and family.
• In the meantime, ask the Lord to bless this church leader's continued ministry work in China, granting him and his separated family renewed patience, joy and strength each new day.
• Continue to pray for peace, endurance and courage on behalf of the many believers throughout this Communist nation who are likewise encountering difficulties and harassment because of their faith.

DR CONGO: Dozens Killed in Church Attack

Source: VOMC
Sources: Open Doors, CNN, BBC, AP

A church in the DR Congo Photo: Pixnio / Brian W.J. Mahy

During the early hours of Sunday, July 27th, more than 40 Christians were killed when Islamic militants attacked a church in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The worshippers had gathered for a late-night prayer meeting at their church in Komanda, a town located in the province of Ituri, when members of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) suddenly entered the building and began to shoot those who were present. In addition to attacking the church, the militants set fire to several houses and shops in the community. Reports also indicate that at least 20 children were taken hostage during the raid.

Associated with the Islamic State terrorist group, the ADF rebels specifically operate along the border between Uganda and the DR Congo. They are known for their frequent raids of villages, as well as the horrific destruction and loss of life usually left in their wake. Although the militaries of Uganda and the DRC have been working together to dismantle this violent militant group, further threats of attack persist as the rebels seek to establish an Islamic caliphate in the region.
For more reports concerning this situation, go to our country profile.

• In the aftermath of these senseless acts of violence, prayerfully uphold all those in need of God's comfort as they grieve the loss of their loved ones.
• Please also remember the recently abducted children, praying that they will receive urgently needed angelic protection and care while awaiting their hopeful soon release.
• Continue to pray that those in authority will receive Godly wisdom and discernment as they endeavour to rescue these young hostages, bring the rebel forces under control, and encourage unity and peace among the different faith groups in the area.
• Pray that our Christian brothers and sisters throughout this region will be equipped with compassion, courage and greatly needed resources as they minister to those affected by the rebel group's attacks, offering hope and comfort in the name of Jesus.

EGYPT: Christian Convert Charged with Terrorism

Source: VOMC
Sources: Christian Solidarity Worldwide, Christian Post, Christians in Crisis

Saeid Mansour Abdulraziq Photo: CSW

On July 22nd, Egyptian authorities formally charged Saeid Mansour Abdulraziq (a convert from Islam to Christianity) with joining a terrorist organization, stirring unrest and spreading false information. Since converting to the Christian faith in 2016 and joining the Russian Orthodox Church, Saeid experienced persistent rejection from his family and community, as well as intimidation from local police. Despite these challenges, he regularly shared his newfound faith with those around him.

In 2018, due to increasing hostility, Saeid travelled to Russia where he applied for asylum. However, when the former Muslim's outspoken stance against Islam sparked tensions within some of Russia's Muslim communities, he was arrested and imprisoned by Russian officials. Eventually, Saeid was deported to Egypt in 2024. Upon his return, Egyptian authorities interrogated the accused Christian man and warned him against proselytizing.

In recent weeks, Saeid sought legal assistance to obtain updated identification documents so that his government-registered religion would reflect his conversion to Christianity. However, on July 15th, the believer was suddenly arrested and, one week later, charges were officially filed against him.

According to Saeid Fayaz, a Christian lawyer based in Cairo, this incident reflects the experiences of many other Christian converts in Egypt: "Thousands of Christian converts in Egypt have no rights and they receive little support. They live in isolation and constant fear. [Saeid Mansour Abdulraziq] believed in the Egyptian constitution, which provides for religious freedom, not realizing that it is a one-way freedom."
To view other published reports concerning the challenges facing believers in Egypt, go to our country profile.

• Pray that God will mightily sustain Saeid as he endures imprisonment, asking that this detained believer would experience divine peace, strength and encouragement in powerful ways.
• May God grant greatly needed wisdom, courage and direction as Saeid and his legal counsel endeavour to have these charges dropped.
• Pray that the Gospel message will continue to spread throughout Egypt, leading many more people to encounter the love, truth and hope of Jesus Christ.

KYRGYZSTAN: Pastor Sentenced to Serve at a Labour Camp

Source: VOMC
Sources: Forum18, Release International

Pastor Pavel Shreider Photo: USCIRF

In November 2024, national security police in Kyrgyzstan arrested Pastor Pavel Shreider and placed him in detention. At the time of the church leader's arrest, authorities also raided his home, along with the residences of several other Christians. In the process, thousands of books and Bibles were confiscated, along with cash and cell phones.

The indictment against Pastor Pavel alleges that he, along with other unidentified accomplices, had "conceived of inciting religious hatred in order to undermine the integrity and security of the state." It went on to claim that he had "illegally organized a religious cell, based on the principles of Protestant Christianity, in which he exerted a manipulative influence on church members, as well as through religious literature that is negatively aggressive in nature towards other religions."

After a three-month trial, the 65-year-old pastor was sentenced to serve for three years in a labour camp. Upon the completion of his sentence, the Christian leader is scheduled to be deported to Russia. Although Pastor Pavel was born in Kyrgyzstan during the time it was part of the Soviet Union, he had lived in Russia for many years before returning to his homeland with his family in 2013. Denying all the charges against him, he and his lawyer are presently preparing to appeal the verdict.

Kyrgyzstan enforces strict laws governing all forms of religious activity within the country. In March 2025, Pastor Pavel's church was banned after being labelled as "extremist." This action followed the introduction of newly revised legislation in February 2025, which significantly tightened the requirements for religious organizations.
More information about Christian persecution in this Central Asian nation is available at our country profile.

• Pray on behalf of Pastor Pavel and his family, asking the Lord to provide them peace, strength and protection, as well as the ability to maintain an unwavering trust in Him.
• Pray that the court decision will ultimately be overturned, and that all the charges against the accused pastor would subsequently be dropped.
• Remember to pray for the many other faithful believers in Kyrgyzstan who, like Pastor Pavel, are resiliently sharing the "Good News" of the Gospel amid a politically hostile environment.

SUDAN: Church Building Destroyed While Authorities Watch

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

A demolished Pentecostal church building in Khartoum. Photo: CSW

On July 8th, approximately 30 individuals equipped with heavy machinery demolished a Pentecostal church in the El Haj Yousif area of Khartoum as police officers and military personnel looked on without intervening. By the time the demolition was finished, the worship hall – which had been constructed in the early 1990s – was reduced to rubble, along with the church's administrative offices, guest house, and other adjoining buildings.

While police and military forces did not directly take part in the demolition, they allowed the destruction to proceed, prevented church members from interfering, and prohibited the recording of the event. In addition, the congregation was unable to save any items from within the buildings. Officials later informed church leaders that the demolition was part of an effort to remove "unregulated" buildings from the city.

Rafat Samir, a local church leader who serves as chairman of the Evangelical Community Council for Sudan, has warned that the future of Christianity is uncertain under the current rule of the country's armed forces. He believes that churches located outside the main cities are at risk of continued direct attacks, while those within the city centres may be further targeted through the military's allegedly "lawful" measures.

Since the onset of civil unrest, Christians within the country have experienced opposition from multiple fronts, and over 100 church buildings have reportedly been damaged or destroyed. The Sudanese authorities have made it clear that reconstruction won't be permitted without official authorization, and that such permits will not be issued to churches.
For additional reports addressing the challenges facing Christians in Sudan, visit our country profile.

• Following the recent loss of their place of worship, pray that the members of this demolished church in Khartoum will be granted wisdom, guidance and unity as they determine their next steps.
• Pray for God's divine ministry to take place within the hearts and minds of the Sudanese authorities, so that they would realize the importance of upholding justice so the country's Christians can peacefully worship Him – the Creator of our vast universe and beyond....
• Lift up all believers throughout Sudan, praying for the Lord's protection over their lives and church sanctuaries amid the political unrest and increased hostility from Islamic militants on all sides of the armed conflict.

SYRIA: Pastor and Family Killed in Targeted Attack

Source: VOMC
Sources: Premier Christian News, Christian Post, Barnabas Aid, Christian Daily International, Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, Israel 365 News

Photo: Unsplash / Sara Calado

A pastor and several members of his family were killed in Syria on July 16th during what church officials have described as a "targeted massacre." While initial reports confirmed at least 12 fatalities, other sources indicate that more than 20 people were possibly killed, including Pastor Khaled Mazher, his parents, as well as his sisters and their children.

The incident occurred just one day after governmental forces raided the city of Sweida, an area plagued by sectarian violence between government-backed Bedouin groups and Druze militias. As a matter of fact, Pastor Khaled himself had converted from the syncretic Druze religion several years prior. Some reports speculate that the attackers may have assumed that he was still a member of the Druze sect.

The broader context, however, indicates a deliberate targeting of Christians in these recent incidents. Just days before the attack, leaflets calling for violence against "cross worshippers" were found at the doors of various churches in the area. Additionally, less than a month earlier, a church in Damascus was targeted by a suicide bomber, resulting in the deaths of at least 20 people (see this report).

Pastor Khaled led the Good Shepherd Evangelical Church, one of the few Christian congregations within the country's predominantly Druze region. Despite the increased danger and violence, the pastor remained committed to his ministry work, courageously sharing the Gospel message in this region.
To learn more about how the violence in Syria is affecting the lives of our Christian brothers and sisters residing there, see our country profile.

• Pray for the grieving members of the Good Shepherd Evangelical Church and all those who are mourning the tragic loss of Pastor Khaled, his family, and the many other innocent victims of this devastating attack.
• Intercede on behalf of the country's church leaders as they determine how to move forward with their ministries amid the heightened hostility and uncertainty.
• Pray for an end to the violence in the city of Sweida and other areas of Syria, asking that those who are inciting such acts of terror would experience the Holy Spirit's conviction and transformation.

AFGHANISTAN: Christian Refugees in Tajikistan Face Deportation

Source: VOMC
Sources: VOM USA, Open Doors UK, SAT-7

Afghan refugee children. Photo: Flickr / Hashoo Foundation USA (cc)

Since the Taliban gained control of Afghanistan in 2021, thousands of Afghans who refused to follow the regime's strict form of Islam have been forced to flee the country. Among them are an estimated 13,000 refugees who sought asylum in neighbouring Tajikistan. However, in a deeply troubling development, Tajik authorities have begun forcibly deporting refugees back to Afghanistan, where they could face severe persecution and possibly death.

In mid-July, more than 150 individuals were rounded up from public areas and deported. The group included men, women, children, as well as the elderly. In many cases, families have been torn apart. Among those deported were Christians; other believers managed to flee to safer regions within Tajikistan. The reason for the sudden change in policy remains unknown, though some suggest that the decision may be linked to Tajikistan's alignment with Russia, which recently had formally recognized the Taliban administration in Afghanistan.

Under Taliban rule, Afghans must adhere to strict Islamic beliefs and practices. Those who deviate are subjected to arrest, torture, and even possible execution. No information is currently available about the fate of the Christians who have already been deported; and, for those remaining in Tajikistan, the future is very uncertain.

VOMC's ministry partner, SAT-7, recently received a message from one of the affected Christians, who described the situation as "uncertain and filled with fear and hope mingled together." The believer went on to explain: "Many conflicting reports surround us – some bring fleeting comfort, while others strike terror in our hearts. Some of us face the threat of forced return – not to safety but, for many, to the very mouth of death." Christian refugees in Tajikistan are calling for urgent prayer.
To access previously published reports regarding the dire situation in Afghanistan, go to our country profile.

• Please lift up these imperiled Afghan believers in your prayers, asking the Lord to mightily intervene by softening the hearts of the Tajik authorities so further deportations will not take place.
• In the meanwhile, may our Heavenly Father divinely protect those who have already been forced to return to Afghanistan, shielding them from any risk of danger amid the volatile situation.
• May Tajikistan's political leaders value justice and compassion, honouring their commitment to protect vulnerable refugees in need of safety and humanitarian aid.
• Continue to pray for peace and stability to take place in Afghanistan, asking that the oppressive grip of the Taliban will be broken and that religious freedom would be restored.

PAKISTAN: Delayed Investigation After Attack on Christian Woman

Source: VOMC
Sources: British Asian Christian Association, Morning Star News

A horrific attack on a young Christian mother has once again exposed the severe forms of persecution experienced by religious minorities in Pakistan. On June 11th, Sheeza Bibi was brutally raped by three men while her three-year-old daughter, Dua, watched in terror. The incident was clearly premeditated.

The assailants – Muhammad Mohsin, Zahid Gujjar and Muhammad Arslan – deceived Sheeza's husband, Intekhab Alam, by sending him to collect a courier parcel from a town located over an hour away from his home in Sangla Hill. While he was away, the three men entered the Christians' residence and took turns sexually assaulting Sheeza in front of her daughter.

Upon discovering that there was no parcel, Intekhab returned home to find his wife and daughter in tears. When the Christian man learned what had happened, he and Sheeza immediately went to the local police station to report the crime. However, instead of receiving protection and justice, the believers were met with humiliation and violence. After refusing to take the Christians' statement, the station's police officers physically assaulted the married couple and forced them to leave.

The next day, the believers returned to the police station and reattempted to file a report. This time, Sheeza was sent to the hospital for a medical examination, but no doctor was available. Police then instructed the Christians to return home and wait to be contacted. However, after more than a week passed with no response from the authorities, they returned to the station on June 21st. Despite enduring verbal abuse from the sub-inspector, Sheeza and Intekhab were finally able to submit their report, and the three perpetrators were arrested the following day.

Despite the arrests, the distraught Christians have continually received pressure to drop the case. One police constable offered the young couple money to withdraw their complaint, which they refused. For their safety, these believers have since gone into hiding. The couple's young daughter, Dua, remains traumatized by the event, crying whenever Intekhab leaves the room. Human rights advocates are presently working to provide the family with a safe location, daily necessities, trauma counselling and legal assistance.

Christian women in Pakistan face oppression on multiple fronts. Many are targeted not only for their faith but also for their gender, and they often receive little to no protection or support from the authorities nor the judicial system.
For previous reports addressing the suffering of our Pakistani sisters in Christ, and their families, visit our country profile.

• Please remember Sheeza, Intekhab and Dua in your prayers as they now recover from the emotional and physical wounds caused by the traumatic attacks, asking the Lord to minister His healing, comfort and peace in each of their lives.
• As this suffering family remains in hiding, pray that they will be surrounded by our Heavenly Father's loving presence and divinely protected from further harm.
• May justice prevail in this case – along with the many other situations in which violations have been committed against Pakistan's Christians – and may the perpetrators of such crimes be held accountable.

INDONESIA: Hundreds of Protestors Oppose Church Construction

Source: VOMC
Sources: International Christian Concern, Terkininews.com, Tempo, Morning Star News

Bulukumba Regency Photo: Wikimedia / Midori (cc)

As the church in Indonesia continues to grow, opposition to the construction of various worship facilities remains a major challenge. One Catholic church in the Bulukumba Regency of South Sulawesi has been waiting for 45 years to receive a building permit. Although the congregation was initially granted permission in 1980, their permit was revoked following public protests. Since then, members of the church have attempted to secure approval for multiple locations, but each application has been met with rejection.

In contrast, the Batak Karo Protestant Church in Kalibaru, a village located in West Java's Depok City, was able to receive its permit on March 4th of this year. The congregation gathered to lay the first stone of the church building on July 5th, commemorating the start of construction. However, the celebration was disrupted when hundreds of local residents suddenly arrived at the building site and began demonstrating against the construction.

Opponents of the worship facility claim that there was a lack of communication, even though the church had obtained the required approval from 60 percent of the local community's members. Some opposing residents also argue that the area already has two churches and, therefore, does not require another. Despite this opposition, the Christians intend to continue the construction process in accordance with the legal approval they have already received.
For previously published reports on the challenges facing Indonesian followers of Jesus, go to our country profile.

• Pray that there will be peace – along with a willingness to accept the new Christian facility – among the residents of this village, allowing the Batak Karo Protestant Church to complete the construction project without any further opposition.
• Throughout the mediation process, may the Lord grant Christian leaders and their congregation members wisdom and grace as they engage with those who had opposed the presence of churches in their communities.
• Continue to intercede on behalf of the numerous other churches throughout Indonesia that are still working through the complex permit process, praying that each of these congregations will soon have a place in which they can peacefully gather and freely worship as well.

IRAN: Convicted Christian Deported and Arrested

Source: VOMC
Sources: Article18, Middle East Concern, Church in Chains

Mehran Shamloui Photo: Article 18

On March 8th, Mehran Shamloui was one of three Christians convicted in Iran for "propaganda" and membership in an alleged "opposition group." He was sentenced to more than ten years in prison. (For more details, see this report.)

Following their conviction, all three believers fled the country while they were on bail. Once arriving in Türkiye, Mehran knew that the process for obtaining refugee status in this country is often very long and usually unsuccessful. Hoping for a better chance at safety, the Christian man attempted to travel westward into Europe. However, he was apprehended by Turkish authorities before reaching the border.

On July 3rd, Mehran had been forcibly returned to Iran, where he was taken into custody by the Iranian authorities. Although his exact location remains unknown, it is believed that the detained believer has since been transferred to a prison to begin serving his sentence. The notorious Evin Prison, where many Christian prisoners were previously held, was damaged in a June 23rd Israeli airstrike. As a result, all inmates have been transferred to other facilities throughout the country – many of which are already overcrowded.

Since the attacks on Iran by American and Israeli forces in June, the Iranian authorities have intensified their crackdown on anyone who is perceived to be collaborating with "hostile nations," such as the United States and Israel. This includes the country's Christians, who are commonly labelled as "Zionists." At least 21 believers were arrested within the first two weeks of the June 25th ceasefire agreement. However, few details about these cases have been made public.

• Pray for greatly needed strength, encouragement and protection on behalf of Mehran, as well as the many other Christians who are being held captive in prisons across Iran merely because of their faith in Christ.
• Ask the Lord to make a way for all charges against these believers to be dropped so they can be rightfully released.
• Pray that the church in Iran will continue to experience exponential growth, even at a time of intense persecution.
• Continue to prayerfully uphold our Christian brothers and sisters who are being forced to secretly worship in this Middle Eastern nation, asking God to supernaturally sustain them through His reassuring presence and peace.

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.