“A NEW YEAR'S EVE PRAYER” For The Persecuted Church

Source: VOMC 

Dear Father God,

As this new year approaches, we ask You to abundantly bless Your people in every corner of the earth – from remote villages to bustling cities to cold jail cells.... In addition to filling hearts with Your perfect peace, which surpasses all human understanding, may Your profound presence bring unspeakable joy to all who are weary and downcast in spirit.

In conclusion of 2025, we want to thank You for the inspiring testimonies of those who have steadfastly persevered in the midst of persecution because of their great love for You. May the spiritual seeds they have diligently planted through their dedicated lives and ministries continue to bear much incredible fruit for Your Kingdom.

We pray that Your Holy Spirit will minister in special and meaningful ways to the victims of targeted violent attacks, kidnappings, imprisonment, and various other forms of persecution. Through your miraculous intervention in each of their lives, families and communities, may these faithful followers of Christ be reminded of the wonderful hope that we all have in You.

As Your people around the globe unite together as one church during these crucial days leading up to Your imminent return, we pray that You will sovereignly provide needed wisdom, strength, guidance and anointing – ultimately ministering in and through each dedicated life for Your glory. May the faith of our persecuted brothers and sisters challenge us to follow You with greater courage, unwavering obedience and wholehearted devotion. Let Your Kingdom be established on earth as it is in heaven!

In Jesus' precious and holy name we pray, amen.

Year-End Summary Report

Source: VOMC

In a world full of violence and unrest, religious intolerance continues to be a major contributor to the pain suffered by Christians in many areas of the world. This opposition stems from several factors – including political ideologies, religious differences and personal prejudices. Throughout the year of 2025, VOMC's Persecution & Prayer Alert covered more than 140 reports. While a considerable number of them offered praises to God for miraculous answers to prayer, there are many others that are presently in the process of being answered.

Keep in mind that the following reports represent only a small fraction of the numerous persecution cases that have impacted Christ's church around the globe throughout the past year. As reflected in the year-end editions of previous years, this summary primarily outlines the most frequently reported countries. Therefore, it does not necessarily address the severity of persecution in comparison with that of lesser-reported countries, for such information from certain restricted nations remains very difficult to obtain.

Once again, this year's summary offers a glimpse into the current reality of Christian persecution. Additionally, it serves as a heartfelt call for God's people here in Canada to continue fervently praying for the suffering members belonging to our international 'family of faith' who are experiencing concerning situations of hostility, opposition and injustice merely for following in the ways and teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ.

PAKISTAN - Year End Summary Report

Source: VOMC

Photo: VOMC

While Christianity has been a significant part of Pakistan's cultural fabric for centuries, Islam remains the country's dominant religion, thereby controlling much of society. Typically, the suffering of Christians has stemmed from two primary sources: 1) accusations of blasphemy leading to charges and imprisonment, and 2) the kidnapping of young women and girls who are subsequently forced to convert to Islam and marry their captors.

This year brought some minor yet notable changes. For example, known incidents of kidnapping and forcible marriages were reported on four occasions, which indicates a decrease from the total numbers reported in previous years. Newly enacted laws restricting underage marriages may have positively contributed to this improvement. However, young women remain at risk of being coerced to legally convert from their Christian faith and marry against their will.

Although false blasphemy charges remained a major concern, there have been encouraging developments within Pakistan's judicial system. Several Christians who were accused or convicted of blasphemy had thankfully been acquitted in 2025. Additionally, the Islamabad High Court took note of a media investigation revealing a coordinated campaign to entrap innocent Christians, which led to the resignation of a Lahore High Court judge who was allegedly involved in the scheme.

Regrettably, during 2025, there were several instances in which acts of violence had been perpetrated against followers of Jesus. These incidents included a Christian worker who was physically beaten by his supervisor after refusing to convert to Islam, as well as a pastor who was assassinated because of his ministry activities. Other cases involved attacks on Christian groups that were attending church gatherings. One of those assaults targeted a van load of pilgrims who were travelling enroute to a religious site.
To access previously published reports covering these situations, as well as others of concern, go to our country profile.

INDIA - Year End Summary Report

Source: VOMC

Photo: VOMC

Anti-conversion laws in various states still present major challenges for Christians in this South Asian country. While many accusations have little to do with actual religious conversions, these laws are often used to shut down churches or punish individual believers. Additionally, such allegations frequently incite mob violence.

In at least two instances that occurred this year, governing officials publicly called for violence against Christians. One of these cases even recommended the death penalty for anyone involved in conversion activities. Within the states of Maharashtra and Uttarakhand, the implementation of new laws has created further obstacles for followers of Jesus.

Despite these hardships, the year of 2025 has brought about moments of Christian solidarity, where believers had united together to peaceably stand against the oppression they were encountering. There have also been some hopeful signs of progress, especially when India's Supreme Court ordered a review of the various state-level anti-conversion laws. Along with the review, an October 17th Supreme Court ruling addressed multiple cases that took place in Uttar Pradesh, pointing out the deficiencies and declaring the state's law to be "onerous" and "intrusive."

Unfortunately, physical attacks targeting Christian individuals and groups have continued in various parts of the country during 2025. Not only have these assaults frequently involved mob violence, many believers experienced false accusations and legal challenges as a result of them. In tribal areas, Christian families were also expelled from their villages due to the attempts of local leaders to make their communities "Christian free." Believers affected by the expulsions have been forced to find new homes in unfamiliar and distant locations.
Reports addressing the various incidents of persecution in India are available at our country profile.

CHINA - Year End Summary Report

Source: VOMC

Photo: ChinaAid

On the other hand, reports of persecution against Christians in China specifically involve opposition from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and their provincial counterparts. The country's governing officials have mandated that all churches promote the Communist Party's policies. Those refusing to comply inevitably encounter harassment or imprisonment.
For more information regarding Christian persecution in China, and/or to review specific reports, see our China country profile.

In an attempt to legitimize the detention of church leaders, authorities frequently charged Christians with "illegal business practices" or "illegally using information networks." While some believers faced short administrative detentions without any formal charges (as a means of intimidation), others received lengthy sentences.

For believers who were released after serving their prison sentences, there remained severe restrictions. Pastor John Cao, who had been released from detainment in 2024 after enduring seven years of imprisonment, was refused the issuance of a passport (preventing him from travelling out of the country to be with his wife and children), despite the fact that he was granted permanent residency in the United States. Two other church leaders, whose sentences had been suspended in October, were subjected to constant surveillance – including facial-recognition check-ins three times daily. When the leaders failed to meet those requirements, they were returned to prison.

In another recent occurrence, which took place this past October, a large network of congregations under the leadership of the Beijing Zion Church were subjected to coordinated raids. These crackdowns led to the formal arrests of 18 church leaders who, at the time of publishing this report, are presently awaiting trial.

IRAN - Year End Summary Report

Source: VOMC

Joseph Shahbazian Photo: Article18

As an Islamic theocracy, Iran is governed by strict Muslim laws. Even though Christianity is generally recognized and tolerated for those from traditional Armenian and Assyrian churches, any conversion from Islam to Christianity is strictly prohibited. Even believers from historic Christian communities have faced charges, as in the case of Pastor Joseph Shahbazian, an Armenian believer.

In 2025, most reports of persecution involved accusations of Iranians converting to Christianity or attending Christian meetings. These charges were frequently framed as "actions against national security," participation in an "opposition group," or "propaganda activities contrary to Islamic law."

The living conditions of prisons throughout the country remain horrific. The most notable of them all remains to be the country's notorious Evin Prison, which happens to be located in the capital city of Tehran. Although the facility was damaged during an Israeli airstrike that took place in June, there were no reports of Christian prisoners having been killed in the attack. For months, though, Evin's inmates were detained in other overcrowded prison facilities until the repairs were completed.

Sadly, imprisoned believers in Iran have also been subjected to torture and very limited medical care. One Christian prisoner was beaten after requesting medical treatment for a serious heart condition. Another imprisoned follower of Jesus, Aida Najaflou, suffered a spinal fracture after falling from a top bunk in her cell. Initially denied any treatment, she finally received limited help when other inmates protested on her behalf. Despite Aida's injuries and ongoing medical needs, she was recently sentenced to 17 years in prison.
Additional information concerning these prisoners' individual situations, and those relating to the cases of other Christians remaining captive in Iran, can be reviewed at VOMCanada.com/Iran.htm.

NIGERIA - Year-End Summary Report

Source: VOMC

Fulani militants. Photo: Voice of America

Unlike some nations where persecution is government-instigated, believers in Nigeria – particularly those in northern parts of the country – are at greatest risk of life-threatening attacks perpetrated by their fellow Nigerians. In previous years, Islamic militant groups (such as Boko Haram) carried out their violent raids against Christian villages with impunity. In addition to slaying many innocent inhabitants, buildings and properties within these communities were destroyed. While other terrorist groups remain a major active threat to Christians residing in Nigeria, most of the attacks reported during 2025 were carried out by militant Fulani herdsmen.

Governing authorities have frequently cited economic reasons for the cause of these atrocities, reasoning that the nomad herdsmen merely sought the control of grazing areas belonging to local residents. Other common motives for the violent raids targeting Nigeria's Christian communities – including the kidnapping of victims and looting of homes – have also been attributed to financial reasons.

Despite these contributing factors, religious opposition has clearly played a significant role in many of these brutal attacks. Perpetrators driven by militant Islamic ideologies have killed thousands of Christians this year alone by storming villages without warning, shooting indiscriminately at innocent citizens, and then destroying these victimized believers' homes, churches, schools and other properties. One report estimates that more than 7,000 Christians were killed during the first seven months of 2025 alone, noting that a similar number of believers have been abducted.

The devastating violence recently received international attention when the U.S. administration designated Nigeria as a "country of particular concern" in early November. Questioning the extent to which the Nigerian government has actively worked to stop the ongoing carnage, the intervention of America's military forces was threatened if serious action is not taken.

Despite renewed attention to the severity of Nigeria's dire situation, a shocking incident occurred on November 21st when gunmen raided a Catholic boarding school, kidnapping more than 300 students. While 150 of the abducted children have since been recovered at the time of publishing this report, approximately 150 students and 12 staff members remain missing.
For more information on these incidents, and/or to access special video reports that further address the suffering of our Christian family in Nigeria, go to our country profile.

NIGERIA: Recent Church Attack Results in Two Deaths

Source: VOMC
Sources: Morning Star News, Premium Times, Punch

Believers frequently encounter violence for their faith. Photo: VOMC

On Sunday, December 7th, armed assailants entered the St. Andrews Anglican Church in Isiokwe, Anambra State, while the priest and other congregants were preparing for morning worship. The gunmen were said to be searching for the church's priest, who was thankfully able to escape to safety. However, the priest's wife and another church member were tragically shot and killed, while several other worshippers were wounded during the indiscriminate shooting.

The attackers also caused significant property damages, setting fire to parts of the church building, vehicles and other belongings. The priest's house was completely destroyed in the blaze. Although the gunmen remain unidentified, police have launched an investigation and strongly condemned the violence.

The state's Commissioner of Police described the incident as a "heinous and abominable act" that is "a grave affront to our shared values of peace, sanctity of life, and freedom of worship."
To review other reports concerning the persecution of our Christian brothers and sisters in Nigeria, go to our country report.

• Pray that the "God of all comfort" will greatly console and strengthen all those who are mourning the loss of these two believers (2 Corinthians 1:3).
• Ask the Lord to bring lasting change to Nigeria's state of security in the coming year, granting His people freedom to worship in safety and peace.
• Despite the present threats of danger, may believers throughout the country continue to compassionately reach out to the spiritually hungry in their communities with the eternal hope of the Gospel.

CANADA: Bill C-9 Creates Uncertainty

Source: VOMC
Sources: Government of Canada, Evangelical Fellowship of Canada, CBC, Canadian Council of Catholic Bishops

Canada's Parliament Building Photo: RawPixel

VOMC's primary mission is to respond to the needs of Christians in countries where persecution is prevalent. However, we also remain alert to potential threats to our religious freedoms here in Canada – including those that hinder the proclamation of the Gospel. One of the more recent concerns relates to proposed amendments to Bill C-9, which is currently under review by members of the Canadian Parliament.

The proposed bill seeks to amend the Canadian Criminal Code in areas relating to propaganda and hate speech. During its review by the Justice Committee, some members advocated to remove an important exemption that protects individuals who – in good faith – express opinions based on religious texts. For many years, this safeguard has ensured freedom for those holding sincere religious beliefs, including pastors and other church leaders.

On the evening of December 9th, the committee voted to remove the clause. The bill and its amendments will return to Parliament in January 2026 for further consideration. During this season of uncertainty, prayerful and informed engagement is essential. As our CEO, Floyd Brobbel, reminds us: "Don't let negative fear take control.... When fear takes the reins, we might find ourselves panicking, feeling anxious or depressed, and ultimately making hasty and rash decisions."

Floyd's full statement regarding Bill C-9 will be distributed later this month to email subscribers of his monthly blog messages. The statement will provide a helpful overview of the situation and important factors to consider. If you have not previously signed up to receive Floyd's messages of encouragement, please click on "Update Subscription Preferences" at the bottom of this email and add "Blog Messages from CEO" to your selected options.
For additional information on Bill C-9 and ways to respond to the proposed amendments, go to TheEFC.ca/C-9.

• Pray for Godly wisdom and discernment on behalf of Canada's appointed Members of Parliament as they deliberate how to best respond to the proposed legislation.
• Amid concerns about the potential negative effects of the bill's amendments, ask the Lord to sovereignly guide Canadian Christians so they can respond with prudent insight, grace and courage.
• May God's people continue to courageously and compassionately proclaim His truths in a manner that reflects both the character and peace of Christ so that many more hearts will be drawn to Him.

IRAN: Five Christians Receive Lengthy Prison Sentences

Source: VOMC
Sources: Article18, IranWire

L to R: Nasser Navard Gol-Tapeh, Joseph and Lida Shahbazian, and Aida Najaflou. Photo: Article18

Five Iranian Christians were recently sentenced to a combined 55 years in prison. All of them have been imprisoned because of their Christian faith. Although the sentences were issued on October 21st, the believers only learned of them within the past two weeks.

Pastor Joseph Shahbazian had initially been sentenced to 10 years' imprisonment in 2022, but was released one year later. Nasser Navard Gol-Tapeh, who had been previously sentenced to 10 years in 2017, was suddenly pardoned in 2022. For unknown reasons, both of these men were rearrested in February and have since been sentenced to serve new 10-year prison terms.
(For more details on these believers' rearrests, see this page.)

Aida Najaflou was also arrested in February. The 44-year-old Christian convert is presently suffering with various physical ailments after recently falling from an upper bunk in her prison cell, resulting in a spinal fracture. (Learn more.) Aida later had to be rehospitalized after a wound created by her spinal surgery became infected. Despite these health challenges, Aida has been transferred back to prison in order to serve her lengthy prison term. Altogether, she was sentenced to 17 years (based on three separate charges), the longest term among the five Christians.

Pastor Shahbazian's wife, Lida Alexani, who was arrested on April 12th, has since endured periods of solitary confinement. (Read more on her case.) Lida is now sentenced to eight years in prison. One additional Christian woman, whose identity has not been disclosed, was recently convicted and sentenced to a 10-year term.

While addressing the announcement of these lengthy prison sentences, Article18's director, Mansour Borji, commented: "These examples demonstrate clearly how Iranian Christians like Joseph, Nasser, Aida, Lida and the fifth Christian are convicted for no other reason than their ordinary Christian activities – including wanting to share their beliefs with others, and provide them with the opportunity to read the Christian holy book."

Iran's government does not legally permit conversions from Islam and considers Christian evangelism to be "a threat to national security."
Further reports addressing the challenges facing our Iranian family in Christ are available at VOMCanada.com/Iran.htm.

• Pray that these five believers will tangibly sense the Lord's comforting presence and sustaining strength as they await their release from imprisonment, hopefully before the full terms.
• Through the lives and witness of the country's detained Christians, may their guards and fellow prisoners respond to God's love and grace by receiving His gift of salvation.
• Pray for the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in Iran – whether it be through media outreaches, Bible distributions or other forms of evangelism – so that many more people will embrace the forgiveness and eternal hope that's only found in Jesus Christ.

PAKISTAN: Advocating Church Leader Assassinated

Source: VOMC
Sources: British Asian Christians Association, International Christian Concern, Pakistan Christian Post

Mourners gather to honour Pastor Kamran Salamat. Photo: Christian Daily International / Morning Star News

Pastor Kamran Salamat was widely respected for his ministry work and commitment to promoting interfaith peace. He served as pastor of a church in Islamabad, where he ministered faithfully and advocated for the rights of Christians in Pakistan. As a result of his ministry activities, Pastor Kamran was violently attacked in September and shot in the leg, leaving him seriously injured.

Concerned for his safety, the church leader's family encouraged him to move to Lahore. However, when the sense of danger persisted, the pastor relocated to Gujranwala with his wife and three children. Despite the distance, he remained devoted to his congregation, travelling to Islamabad each weekend to continue his ministry. Tragically, the pastor was also met with violence after relocating to his new residence.

On December 5th, while leaving home to drive his daughter Numeer to college, Pastor Kamran was ambushed by an unknown assailant who was riding a motorcycle. Armed with a gun, the attacker opened fire, hitting the church leader in the wrist, ear and lower abdomen. In an act of bravery, Numeer struck the gunman with her father's crutch, forcing him to flee. Although Pastor Kamran had been rushed to the hospital, he did not survive his injuries.

Police have initiated an investigation, looking through available video footage and collecting other evidence. The search for the suspect continues while Christians across Pakistan demand justice. Reflecting on Pastor Kamran's life, his brother-in-law, Pastor Shehzad Suleman, stated, "He was very brave and always said he did not care for his life while serving God – and today he has proved it." The dedicated church leader is survived by his wife Salmina, daughters Numeer (16) and Arina (11), and son Ariel (14).
Further reports concerning the persecution of Christians in Pakistan are available at our country profile.

• Please remember Salmina, Numeer, Ariel and Arina in your prayers as they mourn the loss of this beloved husband, father and church leader. Ask God to surround them with His comforting peace – while also sustaining them with greatly needed strength – during this time of deep sorrow.
• Additionally, lift up Pastor Kamran's parishioners, praying that they would receive hope and encouragement as they reflect on his life of ministry and continue his legacy of faith.
• Pray that God would guide the authorities in their investigation, so that the individual responsible for this attack will be brought to justice – in hopes they will reach a point of repentance and spiritual transformation.

NICARAGUA: Imprisoned Lay Leaders Transferred to House Arrest

Source: VOMC
Sources: Christian Solidarity Worldwide, Independent Catholic News

Carmen and Lesbia. Photo: Christian Solidarity Worldwide

Christians in Nicaragua have been subjected to various forms of oppression and violence by the Sandinista government. In the summer of 2024, many religious leaders were arrested or deported, and numerous faith-based organizations were forcibly shut down.
(To review previously published reports addressing the challenges believers are facing in this Central American nation, visit this page.)

On August 10th, 2024, two laywomen – Carmen María Sáenz Martínez and Lesbia del Socorro Gutiérrez Poveda – were detained for their involvement with the Roman Catholic diocese of Matagalpa. Believed to be held at La Esperanza women's prison, they were denied all contact with their family members and lawyers. For more than 15 months, their concerned loved ones received no news of the ministry workers' conditions, nor did they know if the women were even still alive.

In an unexpected development, Carmen and Lesbia were among a small group of prisoners who were recently released from imprisonment. Even though no charges have been laid against the two women, they were placed under house arrest on November 29th. While this remains an unjust situation, the transfer marks a significant improvement following their prolonged incommunicado detention and solitary confinement. Sadly, several other Christian leaders who are classified as "political prisoners" remain incarcerated across the country.

• Pray that Carmen and Lesbia – along with the other recently released lay leaders who have since been transferred to house arrest – will experience complete recovery from the emotional trauma of their arrests and incarcerations.
• As they now await freedom from the confines of their own homes, may each one of these believers also experience full restoration of their physical health and well-being, relationships with their family and friends, as well as their God-ordained ministry pursuits.
• Continue to pray for those still arbitrarily detained in Nicaragua – as well as believers who have been forced into exile – because of their ministry activities.
• Also, please intercede for the country's president, Daniel Ortega, and other governing leaders, praying that they will personally encounter the Christ of the Gospel and thus surrender their lives to Him.

NIGERIA: The Recovery of 100 Kidnapped Students

Source: VOMC
Sources: Reuters, CTV News, The Christian Post

Photo: Unsplash / Samuel Martins

People around the world were shocked to hear of the recent kidnapping of more than 300 students and teachers from a Catholic boarding school in Nigeria. Thankfully, 50 of the students had escaped shortly after the abduction.
(For further information on the November 21st kidnapping incident, see this report.)

On December 7th, Nigerian authorities announced that 100 children have since been recovered. One of the rescued children reported that, while in captivity, they were detained in the forest, forced to sleep on a tarpaulin, and ordered to remain quiet. Those released were taken to a government house in Minna, the capital of Niger State.

Officials have not disclosed any details regarding the recovery operation, nor whether any arrests were made in the process. In addition, no specific group has claimed responsibility for the school attack. To date, it is believed that 165 students and 12 staff members are still being held hostage by the abductors.

• While we can praise God for the safe release of these 100 students, may we remain mindful to continue interceding for the many others who are now awaiting their hopeful release from captivity. May they likewise be safely recovered and joyfully reunited with their families.
• Pray that Nigeria's governing leaders will receive wisdom and assistance in their endeavours to strengthen security measures throughout the nation, intervene on behalf of victims of persecution, and ultimately protect other innocent lives from future threats of danger and violence.
• While praying for Christians in Nigeria, particularly remember those who are more at risk in the northern part of the country. May the Holy Spirit bless their efforts to convey the message of Christ's love in the midst of ongoing opposition and danger so that the lives of many more in need of eternal salvation – including their persecutors – will be dramatically transformed.

VIETNAM: Christian Leader Extradited Despite Global Appeals

Source: VOMC
Sources: International Christian Concern, Christian Solidarity Worldwide, Amnesty International, ABC News

Y Quynh Bdap and his wife. Photo: VOMC Source

Y Quynh Bdap, a Christian activist and co-founder of Montagnards Stand for Justice, has long advocated for the rights of his people. As a Christian from a minority tribal group, Bdap (his given name) faced significant persecution in Vietnam. He fled the country in 2018, settling in Thailand where he sought protection as a refugee.

In June 2024, Bdap was detained by Thai authorities who claimed that he had overstayed his visa. The Vietnamese government requested his extradition, alleging that he had been convicted on terrorism charges and sentenced in absentia to 10 years' imprisonment. These charges stem from a series of protests in Vietnam during 2023, including one that resulted in the bombing of a government building. However, Bdap was outside of the country during those events and denies any involvement.

For more than a year, human rights organizations have fought to prevent the Christian man's extradition, calling for his release from detention. Vietnam has a well-documented pattern of discrimination against Montagnards – and particularly Christians – through arbitrary arrests, torture and severe restrictions on their religious freedoms.

In the fall of 2024, a Thai court ordered that Bdap be extradited to Vietnam. Although this decision was appealed, the Court of Appeals ruled on November 26th of this year to uphold the verdict. Two days later, the Christian leader was handed over to Vietnamese authorities. He now faces an unknown future in a country where followers of Jesus continue to endure harassment and mistreatment.
For additional reports addressing the persecution of Christians in Vietnam, go to our country profile.

• Please pray for God's protection, strength and intervention on behalf of our extradited Christian brother as he now faces imprisonment in Vietnam.
• Also remember the many other believers in this Southeast Asian country who are suffering various forms of mistreatment for their faith, praying that God will likewise grant them courage, hope and unity in Christ despite the severe restrictions.
• Pray that the international community will continue to place pressure on the Vietnamese government, leading to justice and improved conditions – not only for Bdap, but also on behalf of the numerous other persecuted members of our Christian family who reside in that part of the world.

PAKISTAN: Missing Christian Woman Suspiciously Married

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

On November 17th, 21-year-old Monica Jennifer disappeared from her home in Rawalpindi, Punjab Province. Several days later, relatives of the resurfaced young Christian woman were heartbroken and fearful when she informed them of her sudden conversion to Islam and recent marriage to her Muslim neighbour.

Monica's relatives are convinced that she was coerced into abandoning her family and Christian faith. "She was a spirit-filled Christian girl, devoted to her faith," claims her brother, Raza Arif, who suspects that threats and blackmail were involved. The family of her alleged husband has warned the Christians to stop pursuing the case, threatening to accuse them of blasphemy if they challenged the validity of the marriage.

The kidnappings, forced conversions and coerced marriages of young Christian women and girls remain a significant problem in Pakistan. Although laws have been passed in efforts to curtail the practice, authorities are often hesitant to apply them. To review other reports concerning the persecution of our Pakistani sisters in Christ, go to our country profile.

• Ask the Lord to divinely intervene in this situation, providing Monica and her concerned family greatly needed protection, comfort and help as they seek His wisdom and guidance.
• May truth and justice prevail in this case, as well as those involving other Christian women and girls, resulting in the healing and restoration of many heartbroken families.
• Furthermore, pray that Pakistani authorities will courageously and more strictly enforce laws against coercive conversions – not only providing greater legal recourse and measures of protection for the victims, but ultimately preventing such crimes from occurring in the future.

LIBERIA: Charges Against Pastor Dismissed

Source: VOMC Contact

In late October, Pastor Sylvester was detained by police after Muslim community members claimed that he was unlawfully praying and worshipping. A Christian lawyer was hired to assist with the case, but concerns were raised about the health of the pastor and his family due to a lack of food and other necessities.
(A previously published report providing more information on this pastor's case is available here.)

With thanksgiving, we are pleased to report that Pastor Sylvester was released while awaiting trial. Following the recent hearing of his case in late November, all charges against him have been dropped. The Christian leader is now free to resume his ministry activities, despite ongoing opposition from local community members.

• Praise God for the release of this dedicated pastor!
• Pray that Pastor Sylvester will receive the Lord's wisdom, strength and protection as he endeavours to faithfully minister to the spiritually needy members of his community in the midst of opposition.
• May the light of the Gospel powerfully shine through his life and Christian witness, drawing many more Liberians to faith in Christ.

CHINA: 18 Church Leaders Formally Arrested

Source: VOMC
Sources: ChinaAid, Church in Chains, Reuters

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

In October, Chinese Communist Party (CCP) authorities began a coordinated campaign against the Beijing Zion Church and its various campuses, detaining dozens of Christian leaders.
(For more details, see our previously published report.)

On November 18th, the Beihai Municipal People's Procuratorate approved the formal arrests of 18 pastors and church staff members, charging them with "illegally using information networks." If convicted, the believers could face up to three years in prison. These formal arrests initiate criminal investigations that will eventually lead to the trial of each apprehended church leader – a process that could take more than a year.

Dr. Bob Fu, president of ChinaAid, describes the recent arrests as "a shocking milestone in the CCP's full-scale war against Christianity in China." Zion Church is one of the largest networks of unregistered churches in the country, with approximately 5,000 members spanning across more than 40 cities. In addition, an estimated 10,000 Christians view the services online. Jin Mingri, the church's founder and senior pastor, happens to be among those arrested.

• Please prayerfully uphold the lawyers representing these Christian leaders, asking God to give each one of them wisdom, guidance, courage and clarity throughout the court processes.
• As a result, may all the charges against the accused pastors and other church leaders be dropped, allowing them to freely resume their ministry activities.
• In general, pray for the ongoing ministry of all churches in China – asking that, despite the intense governmental opposition, the message of the Gospel will continue to spread exponentially throughout the country so that multitudes more will experience the life-transforming love of Christ.

Prayer for the Persecuted - Monday December 1, 2025 @ 7 PM

 1. Open in Prayer:

Nigerian Christians Defy Genocide Through Worship Caci Africa

2. Scripture: John 15:18 “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first.
19 If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.
20 Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also.
21 They will treat you this way because of my name, for they do not know the one who sent me.

3. Worship Video:   Video: CeCe Winans - Come Jesus Come 

                                            In the Hidden Places - An Anthem for the Persecuted Church

Prayer for the Persecuted

4. CHINA: Coordinated Arrests Against Church Leaders

5. NIGERIA: Hundreds Kidnapped in School Attacks
                           

6. IRAN: Christian Prisoner Denied Adequate Medical Care

 
7. LIBERIA: Pastor Presently Awaiting Trial

 
Recent news:

• 
  Kidnapped Anglican Priest Dies in Captivity in Nigeria
• Christian Woman in Pakistan Forcibly Converted, Married, Brother Says
• Sudanese Christian Family Threatened with Death in Uganda
• Legality of Rajasthan, India’s ‘Anti-Conversion’ Law Challenged
• Anti-Child Marriage Bill Passed in Province in Pakistan

Vietnam - Thai court caving to pressure from the Vietnamese Communist Party to extradite Christian?

Sources: ICC, 8thirty8

Y Quynh Bdap (32), a Christian leader in Vietnam, fled to Thailand in 2018 due to persecution for his faith. Bdap has since sought asylum in Thailand.

Bdap is part of the Montagnard minority community in Vietnam, a predominantly Christian ethnic group that lives in the Central Highlands of Vietnam and Cambodia. The Montagnards have long faced harassment, persecution, and arrests by Vietnamese officials who crack down on church groups not sanctioned by the government. Vietnam allows some semblance of religion in the form of tightly controlled registered religious groups.

“During one visit, we saw dozens and dozens of Montagnard Christian families living in very basic and harsh conditions while waiting for years in Thailand, hoping for resettlement,” an ICC staffer said. “We met with Montagnard pastors and church leaders who were doing their best to strengthen their people spiritually through Bible studies and small group fellowships. Despite the extreme challenges in Thailand, they are still faithful and hopeful. But help is desperately needed for these Christian refugees.”

A Thai court in Fall 2024 ordered Bdap, 32, to be extradited to Vietnam to face charges and a 10-year sentence for alleged terrorist and anti-Communist government activities tied to protests in June 2023 in Vietnam. The Vietnamese government made the unusual extradition request to Thai officials even though Bdap was not in Vietnam during the protests.

“If extradited to Vietnam, Bdap will likely face torture, violence, and imprisonment. It looks like the Thai court is caving to pressure from the Vietnamese Communist Party to extradite him. This will set a dangerous precedent for the thousands of other Christian refugees in Thailand who could also be extradited to their home country, where they fled persecution,” reported a staff member of International Christian Concern in the region.

CeCe Winans - Come Jesus Come (Live From The GMA Dove Awards)

YESU YA CICE NI || cover by CACI AFRICA

China

"Coming out of prison during this month of [China's] Thanksgiving has

been full of God's grace – I have seen

the Holy Spirit's presence every day."

~ Pastor Zhang Shaojie

NIGERIA: Hundreds Kidnapped in School Attacks

Source: VOMC
Sources: BBC, CBC, Aljazeera, AP, Pique Newsmagazine, Reuters, Peoples Gazette

Photo: Unsplash / Samuel Martins

Shock and grief have spread through Niger State in central Nigeria after gunmen raided a Catholic boarding school in the village of Papiri on November 21st, taking 303 students and 12 staff members captive. According to the Christian Association of Nigeria, 50 of the kidnapped students managed to escape within the first two days and have been reunited with their families, leaving 265 still missing.

In a separate raid, gunmen abducted 25 girls from a high school in Kebbi State during the early morning hours of November 17th. A teacher and a guard were both killed in the assault. One of the kidnapped girls has since been located, while authorities continue to search for the remaining 24 students. At the time of publishing this report, no group has claimed responsibility for either of the recently occurring school attacks, and the abductors' motives remain unclear. The total number of victims resulting from these two incidents now surpass the infamous Chibok school kidnapping of 2014, when 276 students were abducted.

Security agencies and local hunters have been "combing the forests" in search of the remaining captive students. In response to the kidnappings, Pope Leo issued the following statement: "I make a heartfelt appeal for the immediate release of the hostages and urge the competent authorities to take appropriate and timely decisions to ensure their release."

Abductions and other atrocities continue to surge across Nigeria, leaving authorities struggling in their attempts to curtail the violence. The Christian Association of Nigeria is calling on churches throughout the country to come together in prayer on December 7th, interceding for the following five needs:

1) Divine intervention to end Christian killings in Nigeria, 2) the resettlement of displaced churchgoers, 3) a stop to the activities of terrorists, 4) heavenly wisdom for political decision-makers, and 5) restoration of peace in the country.
For more reports addressing the violence facing Nigeria's Christians, see our Nigeria profile.

• Please join in the call to prayerfully uphold our long-suffering Nigerian brothers and sisters in Christ, pleading for an end to the perpetual onslaught of violence in their nation.
• Intercede for the kidnapped students and staff members, asking that they would be divinely shielded from harm, immediately rescued from their plight, and safely reunited with their concerned loved ones.
• In the interim, pray on behalf of the abducted victims' families as well, that they will receive great comfort, peace and strength while awaiting urgent intervention.
• Lift up those who are responsible for these attacks, praying that they would repent, turn from their wicked ways, and receive the truth, forgiveness and eternal salvation that have been made available to them through Christ.

CHINA: Pastors Released from Prison

Source: VOMC
Sources: ChinaAid, Church in Chains, Release International

Pastor Zhang Shaojie (left) and Pastor Xing Wenxiang (far right) Photo: ChinaAid

In November 2013, Pastor Zhang Shaojie was arrested on charges of fraud and "disrupting public order." Despite multiple appeals, the church leader was sentenced to 12 years in prison. His family reported that, while imprisoned, Pastor Zhang suffered mental and physical mistreatment – including a time of "concentrated education." With great thankfulness, he completed his sentence this month and has since been freed from prison.

Upon his release, the pastor stated that he feels "deeply grateful" for the support of the international community. "Otherwise," he remarked, “I might not be here today, and might have...'disappeared.'" However, even though he has been physically released from prison, Pastor Zhang is still not free from the oppression of the Chinese Communist regime. Authorities have installed facial recognition cameras throughout his home and restricted his ability to receive visitors.

In 2016, Pastor Xing Wenxiang was also sentenced to 12 years' imprisonment after being arrested on similar charges. She had been ministering with her husband, Pastor Bao Guohua, in an officially recognized "Three-Self Church." Yet, when the pastoring couple refused to comply with the Zhejiang provincial government's widespread order to remove all crosses from church buildings, both of these believers were arrested. Pastor Bao, who was sentenced to 14 years in prison, presently remains in custody.

After a two-year sentence reduction, Pastor Xing was recently released. According to ChinaAid, "The decade behind bars has left visible trauma on her physical and emotional well-being." Upon regaining her freedom, Pastor Xing's first action was to visit the grave of her mother, who had passed away during the recently released church leader's imprisonment.
More information concerning Christian persecution in China, including video-recorded interviews, are available at our country profile..

• Praise God for His sustaining grace throughout the years of imprisonment endured by each of these dedicated pastors, whose perseverance amid trial and mistreatment is in itself a powerful testimony to numerous people in China and many other parts of the world.
• As Pastor Zhang and Pastor Xing readjust to life outside prison walls, and yet remain under continued government surveillance, may they receive further strength and healing in every area of their lives (physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually and relationally).
• Prayerfully remember all those in China who are presently imprisoned for their faith, including Pastor Bao, asking that their lives would brightly shine the light of Christ's love and hope – even in the darkest places.