Togo - Pastors Targeted by Islamists

Source: iCommitToPray
Apr. 03, 2025

Pastor Kokouvi is one of
many who serve in
dangerous parts of Togo.

Several pastors in the north of Togo have been persecuted by Islamists, who sometimes cross over from neighboring countries to attack Christians. In April 2024, Islamists attacked a village where Pastor Gbendja Félidja was serving, killing five people. He fled at that time, but he returned during the summer. On Feb. 7, 2025, armed militants came to his house and shot and stabbed him to death. He left behind seven married adult children. In the same region of Togo, Pastor Patrice Kokouvi continues to minister despite ongoing threats for sharing the gospel with Muslims. For the past three years, villagers have continuously destroyed his crops, limiting his income and source of food. When asked if he had reported the destruction to the police, he said, “If I go to the court system, perhaps they [the villagers] will never want to know Jesus.” For their safety, Patrice has moved his family to the outskirts of the village.

Overview:

Influenced by neighboring Benin, the birthplace of voodoo, persecution against Christians occurs primarily in the north of Togo, where voodooists and animists oppose the church because they see it as a threat to their power and influence. Members of the Muslim Fulani tribe who choose to follow Christ also experience opposition from their families and communities.

Matthew 5:10: "Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."

Please pray for Pastor Gbendja's family as they morn the loss of his life and pray for the safety of Pastor Patrice as he continues to minister in this dangerous region, and also for his family.  Pray that many will come to know Jesus through Pastor Patrice's ministry.

Pray for Abraham, who was beaten by people who practice sorcery because he placed his faith in Christ.

Many Togolese follow traditional religions. Pray that they will be set free from spiritual bondage.

Pray for the safety of Christians threatened by militant Fulani Muslims.

About 42% of Togolese are Christians. Pray that they will live boldly for Christ.

Pray for Togolese missionaries who are working to reach people in remote areas with the gospel.