INDIA: Supreme Court Decisions Bring Hope of Change

Source: VOMC
Sources: Morning Star News, International Christian Concern, The Hindu, The Siasat Daily, Zenit

The Supreme Court of India. Photo: Wikimedia / Subhashish Panigrahi (CC)

A ruling issued on October 17th by India's Supreme Court has brought relief to several believers in the state of Uttar Pradesh. The court reviewed multiple cases filed against Christians under the state's anti-conversion law and ultimately dismissed all charges, stating that "the criminal law cannot be allowed to be made a tool of harassment of innocent persons."

The 158-page ruling examined critical deficiencies in each of the cases, including the absence of complaints from the so-called "victims" of the alleged conversions. The court referred to aspects of Uttar Pradesh's 2021 anti-conversion legislation as "onerous" and "intrusive," although it clarified that the constitutionality of the law itself was not being ruled upon at this time.

In a separate statement, the Supreme Court announced on November 3rd that it will hear two formal petitions challenging the anti-conversion legislation that recently passed in several of the country's states. Prior to this announcement, the court had issued notices to the respective state governments in September, requesting their official responses regarding the existing anti-conversion law. (For further information about the issued notices, see VOMC's previously published report.)

• Praise God that the mentioned cases in Uttar Pradesh have been overturned, resulting in the dismissal of all charges against these innocent Christians.
• Pray for the many other previously convicted followers of Jesus in India who are still awaiting court decisions. May God's peace guard their hearts and minds, and may His strength continually sustain them as they face uncertainty amid the ongoing legal challenges.
• Ask the Lord to sovereignly guide the Supreme Court justices as they consider the broader implications of the country's anti-conversion law, leading them to seek a path that will both uphold justice and protect religious freedom.

CHINA: Government Offers Rewards for Information on Christian Activities

Source: VOMC
Source: ChinaAid

A church in China. Photo: ChinaAid

Amid ongoing oppression against believers in China, authorities in Shigunhe Town, Henan Province, have intensified their efforts to suppress Christian activities by targeting unregistered churches. Residents have been urged to report "privately established religious venues" and "illegal religious activities," with incentives offered for submitting evidence such as photos, videos and audio recordings. Individuals providing such information have been offered a cash reward of 500 yuan (approximately $100 CAD).

While similar campaigns have occurred in other parts of Henan, they seldom receive media coverage. These measures reflect a broader pattern of religious repression in China, particularly against followers of Jesus who worship outside of the state-sanctioned churches.
To review other reports addressing Christian persecution in China, go to our country report.

• Pray for guidance and wisdom on behalf of Christians in Shigunhe Town, and those residing in other areas of China, as they seek to follow Christ faithfully amid increasing surveillance and pressures.
• Ask the Lord to convict the Communist authorities involved in the intensifying oppression, as well as those who are compliantly supplying them information on Christian activities.
• May God continue to provide strength and encouragement to believers who are patiently awaiting their release from imprisonment, filling them with His peace that "surpasses all understanding" even in the midst of hardship (Philippians 4:7).

INDIA: Oppression Against Christian Missionaries

Source: VOMC
Sources: International Christian Concern, The Indian Express

A bus in India. Photo: Wikimedia / Parambikulam Tiger Conservation Foundation (CC)

Two recent incidents in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir (located within India's larger Kashmir region) demonstrate the growing challenges faced by those sharing the Gospel in northern India.

On October 23rd, several Christian missionaries travelling by bus were suddenly attacked after leaving a home in the village of Juthana. An opposing group, consisting of about 10 individuals, forced the vehicle to stop before assaulting the believers with sticks and other weapons. A video recording of the incident shows that, apart from one officer, police at the scene failed to intervene. News sources indicate that between 10 to 15 Christians were targeted in the attack.

The assailants claimed that the missionaries – who had travelled from southern India – were forcibly converting Hindus to Christianity. However, no evidence of forced conversions was ever presented. Following the incident, eight police officers were suspended for negligence, and charges had been filed against the alleged perpetrators.

Just three days later, authorities announced that a group of Christian missionaries was under investigation for allegedly promoting religious conversions within the area. Officers stated that a few residents of Juthana claimed that poor villagers were offered money and aid as incentives to embrace Christianity. At last report, no arrests have been made in relation to this case, and it remains unclear whether the accused believers are the same missionaries who were attacked on October 23rd.

Allegations of forced conversions continue to be a tactic that's commonly used in several areas of India to oppress religious minorities.
Additional reports addressing this concern are available at VOMCanada.com/India.htm.

• Pray for God's healing and comfort to be manifested in the lives of our Christian brothers and sisters who were physically and emotionally wounded during the recently occurring bus attack.
• Ask the Lord to nurture the seeds of the Gospel that these missionaries had compassionately planted in the hearts of the Juthana villagers, praying that they will take root, grow and bear much lasting good fruit.
• May the Lord protect and strengthen all those who are faithfully sharing the Gospel in India, sustaining these ministry workers with needed courage, wisdom and grace – especially when serving in difficult and dangerous regions of the country.

Prayer for the Persecuted - November 3, 2025 @ 7 PM

Breaking News: Trump Announces CPC Designation for Nigeria

1. Open in Prayer:


2. Scripture: KYRGYZSTAN: Pastor Pavel’s Imprisonment and Injury

🩺 Theme: Suffering for Christ and healing

Corinthians 4:8-10 –

“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”

3. Worship Video:  He Will Be
                               In the Hidden Places - An Anthem for the Persecuted Church

Prayer
4. Niger: American missionary pilot Kevin Rideout was kidnapped

5. KYRGYZSTAN: Imprisoned Pastor Suffers Brain Damage

6. Nigerian Persecution Surges as God Supernaturally Moves Amid Mayhem, Horror

7. PALESTINE: Threats Against Christian Converts

8. Recent news:

Blind Christian in Pakistan Charged with Blasphemy
Police in Sudan Arrest Pastor in Apparent Property Grab
Hundreds of Muslims Protest Church Construction in Indonesia
Muslim Attacks His Family and Demolishes Church Building
Christian in Pakistan Wins Faith Change on National ID Card

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Breaking News: Trump Announces CPC Designation for Nigeria

 Source: ICC

Trump Announces CPC Designation for Nigeria

10/31/2025 Washington, D.C. (International Christian Concern)  — On Friday, President Donald Trump did something Christians around the world have been urging him to do since he took office. In a message on social media, Trump acknowledged the atrocities that Christians in Nigeria face daily, saying that “Radical Islamists are responsible for this mass slaughter. I am hereby making Nigeria a “COUNTRY OF PARTICULAR CONCERN.” A Country of Particular Concern (CPC) designation could significantly improve the lives of many Christians in Nigeria by raising awareness of the ongoing persecution and exerting pressure on the Nigerian government to take action. President Joe Biden lifted Nigeria’s CPC designation in 2021 for unknown reasons. International Christian Concern President Shawn Wright welcomed the news of the CPC designation for Nigeria. “We are deeply grateful for this important recognition,” Wright said. “It represents a significant step toward mobilizing the global community to confront the atrocities that have devastated so many families and communities in Nigeria. Our prayer is that this designation will encourage other world leaders to follow suit and that it will lead to tangible actions that bring relief and lasting change for those suffering at the hands of violent extremists.” Trump added that he’s asking Rep. Riley Moore (R-WV) and Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK), chair of the House Appropriations Committee, to “immediately look into” the ongoing slaughter of Christians in Nigeria. “The United States cannot stand by while such atrocities are happening in Nigeria and numerous other Countries,” Trump wrote. Christians in Nigeria have faced ongoing attacks with minimal support from the international community, prompting members of the U.S. Congress to appeal to the president to take action in recent weeks. Many have characterized the violence against Christians in Nigeria as “Christian genocide,” as violent incidents have occurred within churches and Christian communities in the central and northern regions of the country. Security conditions in Nigeria have deteriorated in recent years, particularly in the north, which is predominantly Muslim. Since Bola Tinubu took office as president in 2023, more than 10,000 people have been killed, hundreds have been abducted, and more than 3 million people have been displaced from their homes. In the first seven months of 2025 alone, more than 7,000 Christians have been killed, an average of 35 deaths per day. The atrocities led Moore to formally request that Secretary of State Marco Rubio designate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) on Oct. 5. “Christians are being persecuted and killed in Nigeria for professing their faith in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ,” Rep. Moore posted on X. “The killings must stop. That’s why I’m urging @SecRubio to designate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern. We must use every diplomatic tool to end this horrific slaughter of our brothers and sisters in Christ.” In a recent interview, Moore described Nigeria as the most dangerous place in the world for Christians, noting that 82% of persecuted Christians killed between October 2022 and September 2023 died in Nigeria. Many Americans and people worldwide remain unaware of the ongoing violence in the country. “The United States cannot stand idly by while believers are slaughtered,” Moore stated. “We must acknowledge the religious nature of this scourge of anti-Christian violence from radical Islamic terrorists. It’s time for the United States to defend our brothers and sisters in Christ, and designating Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern will provide the diplomatic tools necessary to do just that. I urge Secretary Rubio to designate Nigeria as a CPC without delay.” The recent violence also prompted Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) to introduce legislation aimed at holding Nigerian officials accountable for facilitating Islamic jihadist attacks on Christians. Public figures in the media, including Bill Maher, have also called for greater awareness of this persecution and challenged the media to highlight the issue. To read more news stories, visit the ICC Newsroom. For interviews, please email press@persecution.org. Since 1995, ICC has served the global persecuted church through a three-pronged approach of assistance, advocacy, and awareness. ICC exists to bandage the wounds of persecuted Christians and to build the church in the toughest parts of the world.

EGYPT: Christian Researcher Arrested

Source: VOMC
Sources: Coptic Solidarity, Shalom World News

Photo: Pexels / Bernard Ribier

Dr. Augustin Sam'an is a researcher specializing in Christian apologetics and comparative religions. The believer operates a YouTube channel through which he responds to anti-Christian narratives commonly circulating in Egypt. Earlier this month, Dr. Augustin was arrested and charged with "contempt of Islam" in connection with the content he had been sharing online. The Christian apologist was subsequently detained for 15 days pending the authorities' investigation.

Blasphemy charges are not uncommon in Egypt, and Christians are often disproportionately targeted. The country's blasphemy law has been described as "a sword used solely to protect Islam and Muslims."
For more details about Christian persecution in Egypt, and to access previously published reports, visit VOMCanada.com/Egypt.htm.

• Ask the Lord to mightily intervene in Dr. Augustin's case – leading to the dismissal of all charges against this accused believer – so that truth and justice will ultimately prevail.
• Please intercede on behalf of Egypt's legal and governing officials when praying for fairness and integrity to be upheld within the country, in hopes they will rightly respond to the Holy Spirit's prompting to ensure justice is made available to all citizens, regardless of their faith.
• Lift up our Christian brothers and sisters in Egypt who are faithfully sharing the message of the Gospel in the midst of a challenging environment, praying that they will receive God's divine protection, wisdom, discernment and spiritual strength.

PALESTINE: Threats Against Christian Converts

Source: VOMC
Source: Voice of the Martyrs USA

Bethlehem Photo: Wikimedia / Lux Mundi (CC)

Recent news reports have once again drawn global attention to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, and the complex challenges that arise amid attempts to obtain lasting peace in this volatile region. Among the broader tensions, Christians living in the Palestinian territories frequently find themselves caught between opposing forces – encountering hostility not only from the instigators of political unrest but also the members of their own families and communities.

For Christian converts in the West Bank, the risks are especially severe. One such believer and his family (which includes four children) have received death threats. These believers, who were eventually forced to flee Bethlehem for a larger city, are now praying that they will be allowed to stay at their new location. In a separate case, another Christian convert was recently confronted by his Muslim parents – as well as their village imam, who demands that the new believer return to Islam within a month or face imprisonment through the edicts of their local community's Palestinian authorities.

"When a Palestinian Muslim embraces Christ, it leads not only to a change in their religious beliefs, but their community also perceives that he or she has betrayed their own people," a ministry worker explains. "No one wants to be related to a traitor, so the pressure from family members on new Christian converts is often intense and violent."
To review previously published reports, go to our country profile.

• Pray for the protection of these Christian converts and other believers residing in the Palestinian territories, asking our Heavenly Father to provide them and their families safe places in which to live – all the while granting them greatly needed peace and comfort amid these times of political unrest and uncertainty.
• May God bring about a peaceful and lasting resolution to the ongoing tensions in this deeply divided region of the world.
• Pray for the continued work of ministries that are compassionately reaching out to Palestinians with the Gospel message of peace, along with the provision of humanitarian aid, so that many more residents within these communities will come to know Jesus as their personal Saviour and Lord.

KYRGYZSTAN: Imprisoned Pastor Suffers Brain Damage

Source: VOMC
Sources: Forum18, USCIRF, Christian Daily International

Pastor Pavel Shreider Photo: USCIRF

Pavel Shreider, a 65-year-old pastor, is presently serving a three-year prison sentence in Kyrgyzstan for allegedly "inciting racial, ethnic, national, religious or regional enmity." Following his arrest in November 2024, the church leader was convicted on July 10th, 2025.
(For further details on his arrest, see this report.)

During Pastor Pavel's appeal hearing on September 9th, his family members noticed signs of significant physical weakness. When they had requested that he be transferred to a medical unit, a subsequent doctor's examination revealed that the Christian leader had suffered cognitive impairment due to a traumatic brain injury.

Although the exact cause of the detained believer's injury is not definite, reports indicate that Pastor Pavel suffered significant abuse when he was initially arrested. Officers struck him numerous times in the head – even with the use of an iron pipe – in their efforts to coerce a confession. Authorities have denied allegations of torture involving the pastor or any of the other individuals who had been arrested at the same time.

On September 25th, Pastor Pavel was transferred to a high-security prison equipped with appropriate medical care. Prison authorities attempted to return him to his original facility on October 14th but determined that his condition had not yet sufficiently improved. A second transfer attempt is anticipated to take place in the coming days, with expectations that his appeal case will resume soon thereafter.

• Ask the Lord to minister complete physical and cognitive healing to Pastor Pavel, also bestowing upon him and his family greatly needed strength, comfort and peace, as they navigate this difficult and uncertain season.
• Pray that the truth surrounding Pastor Pavel's arrest and mistreatment will come to light, and that court officials will rightfully release this church leader into the loving care of his concerned family.
• Pray that, as Pastor Pavel and those arrested with him await their vindication, the fruit of God's Holy Spirit will be evident in each of their lives – drawing inmates, guards and court officials to eternal salvation through Christ.

Niger: American missionary pilot Kevin Rideout was kidnapped

 American missionary pilot Kevin Rideout was kidnapped

✈️ American missionary pilot Kevin Rideout, 48, was abducted from his home in the secure Château 1 neighborhood of Niamey, Niger’s capital. He works with Serving In Mission (SIM), a Christian organization.

Kevin Rideout, 48

📍 The kidnapping reportedly occurred near the Bravia Hotel, close to the presidential palace. U.S. officials confirmed efforts are underway to secure his release, with the Trump Administration prioritizing his safety.

⚠️ The U.S. Embassy in Niamey issued a security alert warning of a heightened risk of kidnapping across Niger, especially in the capital. Embassy staff now require armored vehicles and face curfews and movement restrictions.

🙏 Christian leaders and friends—including Franklin Graham and U.S. Rep. Mark Harris—have called for global prayer for Rideout’s protection, strength, and safe return. His friend Gomer Williams emphasized the spiritual battle and urged prayers for both Rideout and his captors.

🌍 Kevin and his brother Ian have served as pilots for SIM, supporting humanitarian efforts across West Africa, including clean water, refugee aid, and literacy programs.

Pray that Kevin will be released unharmed.

Pray for the spiritual battle going on in Niger.

Pray for the captors, that they will put their faith in Christ.

CHINA: Coordinated Arrests Against Church Leaders

Source: VOMC
Sources: ChinaAid, Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Christianity Today

Pastor Jin Mingri (second from right). Photo: ChinaAid

Under the leadership of Pastor Jin Mingri, Beijing Zion Church has grown into one of the largest unregistered churches in China. In addition to having several satellite campuses, the church draws more than 1,000 attendees to its Sunday services each weekend.

Pastor Jin, a former participant in the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests, came to faith in Christ shortly after the political demonstrations, and has since encountered persistent opposition from officials of the Chinese Communist Party. Although his wife eventually relocated to the United States for safety and to be with their children (who are American citizens), Pastor Jin chose to remain in China despite the risk of continued persecution.

Starting on October 9th, the Chinese authorities began a coordinated campaign against the church and its leaders. As many as 30 pastors and associates, including Pastor Jin, have been taken into custody. According to Sean Long, one of the church's pastors who had been studying abroad at the time of the arrests, the detained Christians are being charged with "illegal dissemination of religious information via the Internet."

In response, the church has mobilized legal assistance for each of the arrested believers. As of October 16th, 32 attorneys had formally joined the high-profile case. The incident has also drawn international attention, prompting advocacy efforts aimed at pressuring authorities to drop the charges.

Despite the arrests, the church continues to meet in groups of five to 50 people, as has been its custom. Together they watch a sermon via Zoom, followed by in-person discussions. Pastor Sean emphasized the church's resilience, stating, "We are willing to pay the price to bear the cost of discipleship."
For more information on the persecution of Christians in China, go to our country profile.

• Please pray for Pastor Jin and the other detained church leaders, asking God to fill them with His perfect peace, shield them with His divine protection, and uphold them with His mighty strength, as they await justice and vindication.
• May the Lord also strengthen and comfort those who were otherwise affected by the recent crackdown – including the church leaders' concerned families and fellow congregation members.
• In addition, prayerfully remember the detained believers' representatives who are providing legal assistance and advocacy, asking that they be empowered to speak with wisdom, clarity and courage under the guidance of God's Holy Spirit (Luke 12:11-12).

INDIA: Christian Couple Forced from Their Home

Source: VOMC
Source: International Christian Concern

A village in India. Photo: Wikimedia / Nikhil More (CC)

Three years ago, "Sameer" (whose name has been changed for security reasons) came to faith in Jesus after witnessing his wife's miraculous healing from a life-threatening health condition. "That day, we knew the love and power of God," he recounts, "and we gave our lives to Christ." Following their decisions, however, the new believers began to experience opposition from unapproving members of their community.

On September 27th, Sameer's mother came to the couple trembling. She had overheard other villagers plotting to kill the converted believers in an effort to make the village "Christian-free." The concerned mother urged the endangered couple to leave the area immediately. A few minutes later, Sameer's brother warned him to do the same. That evening, the Christian man quietly left the village, while his wife remained at home.

The next morning, Sameer received a call from his brother with devastating news. A mob had gathered at the couple's home, demanding: "Will you deny Jesus or let your house be destroyed?" When Sameer's wife refused, the militants mocked her and ordered that she leave the village. With little choice, the Christian woman fled the area, and their house was subsequently destroyed along with everything they owned.

The couple is now living with fellow Christians in a town located nearly 80 kilometres from their home village. Despite the ordeal, Sameer remains firm in his faith. "I will continue to follow Jesus, no matter what," he proclaims. "It may be difficult to return to my village because the people there have vowed to make the entire village Christian-free, but I know God is with me. I need to start my life from scratch.... God will help me as I trust in Him for love and care."

This incident reflects the experience of many Christian converts in India, particularly those in rural villages.
To read previously published reports addressing similar acts of persecution, visit our country profile.

• Please intercede for Sameer and his wife as they consider their next steps, praying that they will receive peace of mind, divine guidance and the necessary provisions to rebuild their lives in a new village.
• Praise God for sustaining this couple's faith in the midst of persecution and the resulting consequences by providing them strength and courage – in keeping with His promises to all who call upon Him.
• Pray for the couple's family members, along with the opposing villagers who destroyed their home, asking that all those who have yet to surrender their lives to Jesus would be drawn to Him through the testimony of these two faithful believers.

PAKISTAN: Christian Man Beaten to Death in Targeted Attack

Source: VOMC
Sources: CLAAS-UK, Pakistan Christian Post, Bitter Winter

Photo: PickPic

On the evening of September 24th, Asif Raza was returning home from work in the Vehari district of Punjab when he was suddenly ambushed by a group of seven assailants. The men brutally assaulted Asif, deliberately targeting his head while striking him repeatedly with bricks.

Eyewitnesses attest that the police were called 15 times but failed to respond. Emergency services also did not arrive in a timely manner. By the time the 28-year-old Christian was finally rushed to hospital, he tragically succumbed to his injuries.

According to the police report, Asif was specifically targeted because of his faith in Christ. One of the suspects, identified as Wahab, has since been arrested. While it's believed that the arrested assailant was the main instigator of the violent attack, investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend the other six individuals involved – all of whom are reportedly members of a militant Islamic faction.

Human rights groups and Christian organizations have condemned the attack as a "targeted act of hatred rooted in religious intolerance." Advocates are calling for justice on behalf of this slain young man and his grieving family. Although unmarried, Asif was engaged, and thus also leaves behind his grieving fiancée.
Additional reports concerning the suffering of our Christian brothers and sisters in this South Asian nation are available at our country profile.

• Pray that justice will be served, and that all those responsible for this senseless attack would be located and held accountable.
• In the meantime, as Asif's fiancée, family and friends endeavour to recover from their heartbreaking loss, may they receive greatly needed comfort through the Lord's abiding presence and His many reassuring promises.
• Ask God to work mightily in the hearts of the assailants, bringing each one of them to a place of true repentance and transformation through the redeeming power of His Son, Jesus Christ, our Risen Saviour and Lord.

Vikram's Story | Christian Persecution in India

Nigeria — ‘Baby Ruth’ Continues to Inspire Nigerian Christians Years after Fulani Attack

Source: ICC

• Background: Ruth was just two months old when her village in Maiyanga, Plateau State, Nigeria, was attacked by armed Fulani militants in 2021. Her mother, Hannatu, was killed while trying to protect her, and most of her family was gunned down. Ruth and her grandmother were the only survivors.

  

   Years after she lived through unspeakable
  violence, Ruth’s smile emerges free from trauma. 

  
  

• Rescue and Adoption: Ruth was found alive the next morning, cold and covered in mud. She was adopted by her aunt Talatu and uncle Danjuma, who raised her as their own despite facing their own losses and hardships.

• Faith and Resilience: The Danjuma family, deeply rooted in Christian faith, sees Ruth’s survival as a sign of God’s grace. They continue to pray for peace and forgiveness, even for the attackers.

• Current Life: Ruth is now 5 years old, attending ECWA Primary School in Jos. Though she struggles academically due to early trauma, she’s described as gentle and curious. She loves singing hymns in Sunday school.

• Ongoing Challenges: The Middle Belt region remains volatile, with frequent attacks on Christian communities. Ruth’s family lives in fear but remains hopeful. They ask for support with Ruth’s education and urge the world to pray for persecuted Christians in Nigeria.

• Message to the World: Ruth’s story is one of survival, faith, and the enduring hope of a community under siege. Her family’s plea is simple: pray for peace, help educate the next generation, and remember those who suffer in silence.

Nigerian Persecution Surges as God Supernaturally Moves Amid Mayhem, Horror

Start video at 4:00, end at 8:51

IRAN: Christian Tortured During Pre-Trial Detention

Source: VOMC
Sources: Article18, Middle East Concern

Morteza Faghanpour-Saasi Photo: Article18

In June 2024, five Christian converts in Iran were arrested because of their faith. More than a year later, on July 16th, these believers were convicted and sentenced to eight years in prison for allegedly promoting "propaganda." Little information is available about the five detained Christians, and only three of them have been identified thus far. The charges stem from their attendance at Biblical training courses in Türkiye, as well as their involvement with house churches and online Christian events in Iran.

One of the convicted believers, Morteza Faghanpour-Saasi, received an additional 17-month sentence for allegedly insulting Iran's Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. Disturbingly, it has been revealed that Morteza was subjected to torture by prison officials prior to his trial. The physical abuse took place when officers attempted to pressure the believer to sign a statement renouncing his Christian faith in exchange for a reduced sentence.

On September 17th, after reviewing the cases of all five imprisoned followers of Jesus, authorities presiding over the court of appeal ruled to uphold the original sentences.
To access previously published reports concerning Christian persecution in this highly restrictive Persian nation, visit our country profile.

• Pray that these five imprisoned believers – along with the many other Christians who are presently suffering for their faith in Iran – will receive divine protection and the strength to endure, while awaiting vindication from the country's judicial authorities.
• In the meantime, may God's love, peace and grace be powerfully reflected in the lives of these detained believers, so that their prison guards, court officials and fellow inmates would also discover the blessed hope that is available through faith in Jesus Christ.
• Pray for the continual growth and impact of ministries that are reaching into Iran, asking the Lord to equip their facilitators with wisdom, courage and the resources needed to further spread the Gospel message.

PAKISTAN: Fake Facebook Account Sparks Blasphemy Allegations

Source: VOMC
Sources: International Christian Concern, Pakistan Christian Post, Agenzia Fides

Photo: Pixabay / umarseehar

"No Christian in Pakistan, fully aware of the devastating consequences, would intentionally publish or write anything that could be perceived as blasphemous against Islam." This statement by Father Lazar Aslam was made in response to recent allegations against a young Christian man, Asher Bhatti, whose case has sparked widespread concerns among religious freedom advocates.

On September 16th, a Muslim bookstore owner named Muhammad Umair discovered a Facebook account containing statements that were perceived as being derogatory towards the Islamic prophet Muhammad. The Facebook posts also featured inflammatory comments from Asher's uncle who lives in Thailand, further exacerbating the situation.

At around the same time, Asher also discovered the account, which had been falsely created in his name without his knowledge or consent. The young Christian man promptly reported the impersonation to Pakistan's national cyber-crime agency, informing them that the account was created by his uncle, Samuel Paul. According to Asher, Samuel had been threatening and accusing him – alluding that his faith was causing serious trouble for their family. Allegedly affiliated with a militant Islamic group, the opposing uncle has also made attempts to extort money from Asher's parents who are presently living in the United Kingdom.

Despite Asher's efforts to clear his name, Muhammad Umair filed a police complaint against the believer, accusing him of blasphemy. Since police investigations are continuing, Asher has not been arrested. In the meanwhile, public demonstrations have called for his immediate detention. Due to these threats, the young man has been forced to go into hiding.

Sadly, Asher's case is not an isolated incident. According to Nasir Saeed, director of CLAAS-UK, "This is yet another tragic example of how Pakistan's blasphemy laws are being grossly misused." Such accusations have resulted in the imprisonment of hundreds of individuals, many of whom are innocent.
Other reports addressing the persecution of Christians in Pakistan are available at our country profile.

• Pray that truth and justice will prevail in Asher's case, and that those responsible for the threats and false accusations will be held accountable.
• Ask our Heavenly Father to protect Asher and the members of his immediate family from danger, providing each of them peace, courage and comfort in the midst of this difficult situation.
• Pray that Pakistan's blasphemy laws will be repealed, so they can no longer be misused to target innocent individuals – including those who represent religious minorities.

INDONESIA: Blasphemy Legislation to be Updated in January

Source: VOMC
Sources: International Christian Concern, The Christian Post, Global Pluralism Monitor, USCIRF

A church in Indonesia. Photo: Wikipedia / Christian Advs Sltg (CC)

Indonesia's blasphemy law has been enforced since 1965, despite multiple unsuccessful attempts to remove the legislation. Although the country is home to the world's largest Muslim-majority population, the national government has long sought to maintain a religiously diverse society. Even so, incidents of religious intolerance and persecution have often occurred on a local level.

While the most recently made revisions to the nation's criminal code had been passed in 2022, they are scheduled to take effect in January 2026 when the newly elected president assumes office. These newly added regulations were intended to reflect the current digital environment. However, the wording of amendments pertaining to the country's "apostasy" and "blasphemy" laws remains unclear. According to the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom, "the language included is intentionally vague, allowing for broad interpretation and application." Human rights advocates have expressed concerns that this ambiguity could enable local authorities and militant groups to misuse the law against religious minorities.

An Indonesian Christian named Andreas acknowledges the importance of regulating hate speech, but he points out that certain aspects of the law disproportionately favour Islam as the majority religion of the country. Nevertheless, he remains optimistic that the new regulations won't lead to rampant abuse, as witnessed in countries like Pakistan. "The situation [here] is very different," Andreas reasons.
To review further information on the challenges facing Indonesia's Christians, go to our country profile.

• Pray that all levels of the Indonesian government will uphold religious tolerance by resisting pressure from militant groups and promoting policies that honour the rights of all citizens.
• As a result, may the country's local authorities act justly and courageously to ensure religious minorities are protected from discrimination and persecution.
• Please continue to remember Christians throughout Indonesia, praying that they will be filled with the love of Christ and empowered to live out their faith boldly and compassionately.

INDIA: Pastor Acquitted of Anti-Conversion Charges

Source: VOMC
Source: Morning Star News

Believers in India. Photo: VOMC

In October 2021, Pastor Nandan Singh was gathered with 25 other Christians for an all-night prayer meeting when militant Hindus, primarily from nearby villages, stormed into his home. Accused of converting people to Christianity, Pastor Nandan became the first individual to be charged under Uttarakhand's anti-conversion legislation.

After a four-year legal battle, relating to the accusations against him, the church leader was finally acquitted of all charges on September 17th. However, the prolonged court proceedings placed a significant strain on Pastor Nandan and his family. Financial hardships had often made it difficult for him to travel to court for the hearings. Additionally, the pastor's wife, who was pregnant when the charges were initially laid, suffered the tragic loss of their unborn child due to the stress of the case. Despite these trials, Pastor Nandan has remained steadfast in his faith. "[God] was always faithful and sustained my family's needs," he shares. "This is the result of answered prayers."

Anti-conversion laws continue to be used as tools of oppression against religious minorities in several Indian states, including Uttarakhand.
For previously published reports addressing similar cases of persecution, go to our country profile.

• Praise God for Pastor Nandan's acquittal after four long years of legal struggle.
• Thank the Lord for His sustaining grace which upheld this church leader and his family during times of deep emotional, financial and spiritual hardship.
• May these believers continue to experience God's healing and restoration, especially in light of the loss they endured.
• Pray for ongoing ministry opportunities to be made available in Uttarakhand, and that Pastor Nandan’s testimony of courage and persevering faith will continue to inspire the lives of many others throughout the region and beyond.