IRAN: New Restrictions on Christian Media Channels

Source: VOMC
Sources: Article18, Heart4Iran, Open Doors

Believers at a house church. Photo: Iran Alive Ministries

As Iran continues its repressive actions against the country's Christians, the church as a whole has nevertheless experienced remarkable growth, with numerous people coming to faith in Christ. Because opportunities for Farsi-speaking believers to gather for worship have been severely restricted over the years, many Christians relied on satellite television broadcasts for Biblical teaching and encouragement. However, a new directive from the country's Ministry of Intelligence has now made accessing these resources much more dangerous.

The Iranian government has classified dozens of officially unapproved broadcasts, websites and individuals as "hostile," including many Christian media ministries. As a result, anyone found viewing these banned programs – or cooperating with the organizations behind them – could face prosecution under Iran's espionage laws. At the time of compiling this report, at least five Christians have already been charged.

The list of banned media outlets includes popular Christian broadcasters such as SAT-7, Mohabat TV, Nejat and Seven. Edwin Abnous, Executive Director for Heart4Iran, says that these organizations have played a significant role in the expanse of Christianity throughout the country. Referring specifically to Heart4Iran's broadcast channel, Mohabat TV, Edwin expects communication from viewers inside the country to decrease as they become more cautious. "Our audience will be much more careful, and they would know that they need to take the security measures much more seriously," he further explains.

Despite these added restrictions, observers remain confident that the church will continue to grow. "Mahsa," an Iranian believer living abroad (whose name has been changed for security purposes), remarked: "The government's latest measures reveal not the weakness of the church, but its enduring influence. If these broadcasts carried no significance, they would not be treated as a threat." While Christians will need to exercise wisdom and caution, Edwin believes their commitment to Christ will remain steadfast. "Iranian Christians understand the price of the faith; and, no matter what, they will follow Christ to the end," he affirms.
To review previously published Persecution & Prayer Alert reports concerning the oppression of Christianity in this war-torn Persian country, visit our country profile.

• Pray for God's divine protection, wisdom and continued blessings upon ministries that are faithfully proclaiming the "Good News of the Gospel" across Iran through satellite television broadcasts and other forms of media outreach.

• Ask the Lord to strengthen our Iranian brothers and sisters in Christ through His sustaining presence – granting them discernment, courage and unwavering faith as they navigate the increased risks and challenges now set before them.

• Pray that a powerful outpouring of the Holy Spirit will take place throughout Iran, leading many more who are searching for spiritual truth to salvation in Christ; and then filling the hearts of these new believers with His everlasting love, supernatural peace, and unquenchable joy.

INDIA: Audit of Christian Properties in Maharashtra

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

A village in India. Photo: Flickr / Rakshit Pandey (CC)

The state government of Maharashtra has ordered an audit of all land and properties owned by Christian churches and charities following allegations that some have been misused for private or commercial purposes. The decision was made following a case of alleged fraud involving a Christian organization in the state's Nashik region, where parcels of church-owned land were reportedly leased or sold using forged ownership records.

Various churches and Christian organizations in India have legally held property for many years, with some ownership records dating back to the British colonial era. Even so, committees have been tasked with compiling full ownership records and reporting their findings to officials of the state government by early October.

The mandated review has raised concerns among Christian communities, particularly because it applies exclusively to affiliated churches and organizations, while properties belonging to other religious groups are not being subjected to the same scrutiny. Furthermore, the audit comes amid a broader climate of pressure and intimidation following the approval of Maharashtra's "Freedom of Religion Bill" in March.

State authorities have also recently ordered the demolition of several unauthorized church buildings, leading some believers to fear that similar actions could continue under the guise of the property investigations. Christians in other parts of the country are now concerned that comparable measures may eventually be introduced within their states.

While India is officially a secular nation with constitutional protections for religious freedom, minority religious communities have frequently been targeted, often in connection with anti-conversion regulations.
For more information on the various challenges being encountered by followers of Jesus in India, visit our country profile.

• Prayerfully ask God to grant all involved in this recently mandated audit (including Maharashtra's state officials and commissioned committees, as well as the leaders/representatives of the targeted churches) wisdom and guidance throughout this investigation, ensuring that all information is handled with efficiency, fairness and honesty.

• Pray that churches and ministries throughout the state will be protected from any unjust treatment, and that believers will experience God's peace and reassurance during this time of heightened interrogation and uncertainty.

• May Christian organizations across India faithfully serve with all diligence, transparency and indisputable Christlike integrity, shining as powerful testimonies of His righteousness and grace within their communities.

BELARUS: Exiled Religious Advocates Face Charges

Source: VOMC
Source: Forum18

Natallia Vasilevich Photo: Ivars Kupcis / WCC

Criminal charges have been brought against at least two religious freedom advocates currently living outside the country of Belarus. Both individuals have been added to Russia's federal list of wanted persons, meaning they could risk deportation to Belarus if found residing within countries that maintain close ties with the Russian Federation (such as Kazakhstan, Tajikistan or Uzbekistan). When inquiries were made regarding the specific charges against the two believers, Belarusian authorities provided no details.

One of the charged advocates at risk of prosecution is Sergiy Melyanets, a Protestant preacher who fled Belarus in 2024. Prior to leaving the country, Sergiy had regularly supported Christians facing arrests. In fact, he himself had served a short prison sentence due to his ministerial work. Beginning in January, authorities questioned the preacher's parents about his whereabouts and activities, eventually leading to a formal investigation. Despite the pressure, Sergiy remains resolute, stating: "They want me and my family to be in fear. But I continue to do what my Christian conscience leads me to do."

The second believer reportedly under investigation is Natallia Vasilevich. Natallia happens to be an Orthodox theologian and moderator of Christian Vision for Belarus, a Lithuanian-based organization that was officially banned by Belarusian authorities in April 2025. (See more details.) Natallia only became aware that she had been placed on Russia's wanted list after being informed by concerned friends. When asked about the investigation against her, she commented, "It was expected, and it doesn't even really stir up any emotions." While reports indicate that Natallia is being sought by authorities, it remains unclear whether any formal charges have been officially laid against her.

Belarus has consistently maintained restrictive policies towards religious groups operating outside of the Belarusian Orthodox Church. However, even within this state-approved church, individuals perceived by the government as "extreme" could still experience opposition. As a close ally of Russia, Belarus has also taken action against those expressing views contrary to its governmental policies, including oppositional stances that are against the war in Ukraine. Other published reports addressing Christian persecution in this restricted country are available at our country profile.

• Pray that Sergiy and Natallia – along with other believers living outside Belarus who are facing accusations or threats because of their faith – will be divinely protected and encouraged to remain steadfast in their commitment to Christ.

• Please remember Belarusian Christians remaining within their homeland who are similarly at great risk of persecution due to their beliefs, asking the Lord to grant them guidance, courage and peace as they endeavour to honour Him in a country regulated by oppressive political policies.

• Despite the present challenges, may God continue to minister mightily in and through the churches of this restricted region as they faithfully proclaim the life-transforming message of our Lord's sacrificial love and eternal salvation, so that many more spiritually needy souls will discover the blessed hope and fulfillment that's only found in Him.

Prayer for the Persecuted - Monday September 7, 2026 @ 7 PM

1. Open in Prayer

One of the most famous statements in The Insanity of God. It comes from Stoyan, a believer from the former Soviet Union who suffered deeply for his faith. He says it directly to Nik Ripken as a challenge to Western Christians:

“Don’t ever give up in freedom what we would never have given up in persecution! That is our witness to the power of the resurrection of Jesus Christ!”

2. Scripture: "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." Ephesians 6:12

We as believers are not to treat people as the ultimate enemy; we are called to love, forgive, pray, and bear witness to those who oppose us. 

3. Worship Video: Praise the Lord

(Video: In the Hidden Places - An Anthem for the Persecuted Church)

Prayer:

4. NEPAL: Efforts to Reinstate Hindu Nation Spark Concerns

Nepal.docx

5. RUSSIA: Prosecutions for Cooperating with "Undesirable Organizations"

6. Nigeria - Victoria escaped captivity

7. From Wanda:

Last October we prayed for the Zion Church in Beijing and their imprisoned pastor and leaders. After Trump's visit to Beijing, Pastor Jin was released in August. PBS reported on this story and interviewed Pastor Jin and his daughter. 

When I saw it, I jumped for joy and praised the Lord. Thank you my friends for standing together in faith to pray for Pastor Jin's release. The Zion Church is now scattered. Many other churches in the Capital are under the watchful eyes of the Party. However, believers are still meeting faithfully in small groups in their homes. 

China - Pastor Jin Released from Prison

Recent News

• Father in Uganda Beaten by Muslim Sons for Accepting Christ
• Pakistan Court Rules Marriage to Underage Girls Is Child Abuse
• Two Christians Arrested under Blasphemy Laws in Pakistan
• Muslim’s Custody of Christian Girl in Pakistan Condemned
• U.S. Lawmakers Urge Protection for Christian Girl in Pakistan
• China - Pastor Jin Released from Prison
  

  
  
  

Praise the Lord

 

John 16:33 ESV

 "I have said these things to you, that
in Me you may have peace. In the
world you will have tribulation. But take
heart; I have overcome the world."

NIGERIA: Charges Laid Against Christians by Islamic Police

Source: VOMC
Sources: ADF International, International Christian Concern

A woman in Nigeria. Photo: VOMC

In 2025, a 22-year-old woman was arrested in Kano State, Nigeria. "Sarah" (whose name has been changed for security reasons) fled from home after her siblings attempted to force her into an arranged marriage. She eventually found refuge with a Christian family who shared the Gospel message with her. Through the witness and support of the Abaras family, Sarah made a decision to follow Christ.

As the majority of people living in Kano State are Muslim, the state has instituted the "Hisbah Corps," a police unit responsible for enforcing Sharia law among Muslim citizens. With the assistance of the Hisbah Corps, the new believer's family arranged for her arrest, accusing Sarah of converting to Christianity. She was detained for four days, during which time she endured beatings and intense pressure to return to her family. Following her release, the Abaras family helped Sarah relocate to a less stringent region.

On May 26th, the courts ruled that the woman's arrest had been unlawful and declared the actions of the Hisbah Corps a "flagrant violation" of her fundamental human rights. Sarah was then awarded financial compensation for the mistreatment she experienced. The court also determined that, because Sarah was no longer a Muslim, the Hisbah Corps had no legal authority to lay charges against her.

Although the charges were dismissed, the woman's relatives have accused the Abaras family of kidnapping her. While members of this accused Christian family have been released on bail, the case against them has not yet been resolved.

In several northern states, including Kano, religious police units operate to enforce Sharia law; however, they have increasingly been used to target Christian converts and those supporting them.
To read more about the persecution of believers in Nigeria, and/or view informative video reports, go to our country profile.

• Pray that God's loving protection, peace and guidance will surround Sarah as she adjusts to life in a new location, with hopes that she will be further strengthened and encouraged there through supportive Christian fellowship.

• Also lift the Abaras family before the Lord, asking Him to sustain them with courage, provide for their needs, and bring a just resolution to the legal case they are now facing.

• Regardless of their own religious affiliations, may governing authorities in Kano, as well as those representing Nigeria's other states, work fairly to protect the rights and beliefs of all citizens.

NEPAL: Efforts to Reinstate Hindu Nation Spark Concerns

Source: VOMC
Sources: Nepal News, The Kathmandu Post, International Christian Concern

A Hindu temple in Nepal. Photo: Wikimedia / Harry Paudyal (CC)

In 2008, the country of Nepal underwent a historic transition to become a secular republic. The monarchy had been abolished, and a constitutional republic was established instead. As part of the process, the constitution guaranteed religious freedom for all citizens, and Hinduism lost its status as the official religion of the nation.

While many citizens welcomed these changes, some opposing groups have continued to advocate for the restoration of Nepal's former status as a Hindu nation. These tensions came into sharper focus after an incident took place on July 26th of this year, when members of the Muslim community in Dewanganj, Sunsari, raised objections to loud music and religious flags associated with a Hindu pilgrimage. The confrontation led to violence, resulting in three deaths and several injuries.

In the aftermath of the violence, several Hindu religious leaders formed a group known as the "Hindu Samrat Sena." The group met with a government-assigned negotiation team and announced a 13-point agreement in late August. According to its leaders, the agreement outlined efforts to restore social peace, religious tolerance and regional stability. The group further claims that governing officials have committed to holding an all-party discussion within three months regarding the proposal to declare Nepal a Hindu nation. Government representatives involved in the talks emphasized at the time of compiling this report that no formal agreement has yet been made. According to one official, Prem Prasad Luitel, "The state has simply accepted their memorandum; there has been no agreement."

Rumours of a potential agreement have raised concerns among religious minorities, including leaders of the country's growing Christian community. The July 26th riots appear to have emboldened some Hindu militants, leading to increased pressure on Christians in several areas. Churches have reported receiving threats and disruptions to their ministry activities, including attempts to prevent the preaching of the Gospel. One pastor stated that a church in the Sunsari district was forced to shut down due to threats.
For additional reports addressing the challenges encountered by followers of Jesus in Nepal, see our country profile.

• Please intercede on behalf of Nepal's governing leaders as they seek to address the tensions between the country's various religious communities, asking the Lord to grant them wisdom, integrity and a commitment to respect the rights and freedoms of all citizens.

• Pray that believers encountering hostility from militant groups will experience God's peace, safety and encouragement.

• Ask the Lord to continue ministering within the hearts of people across Nepal so they will be receptive to the message of the Gospel, ultimately leading many more to faith in Him.

• In the wake of the devastating flash floods that took place this August, pray for the needed healing, provision and restoration of all those who are recovering from tragic loss, displacement and/or trauma.

• As recovery efforts continue, may Christians serve as effective witnesses of Christ's compassion through their practical care and assistance.

RUSSIA: Prosecutions for Cooperating with "Undesirable Organizations"

Source: VOMC
Sources: Forum18, Voice of the Martyrs Korea

Ms. Park Tae-yeon Photo: VOM Korea

Russian authorities have classified a growing number of organizations with foreign associations as "undesirable." Whenever this designation is determined, any individuals and institutions allegedly having connections to these listed organizations are at risk of prosecution.

Olga Sibiryova is a researcher for one of Russia's leading 'freedom of religion and belief' monitors. Recently, Olga was charged with "participation in the activities" of the International Freedom of Religion or Belief Alliance, even though she denies having had any interactions with the organization. The only evidence presented against the accused woman is that her research was referenced in reports published by this so-called "undesirable organization." If convicted, Olga could face up to four years in prison.

In May, Mission Eurasia was also declared to be "undesirable." Headquartered in the United States and Canada, this particular ministry provides training and assistance to Christian leaders in various countries. Since the designation, a Baptist church and two higher education Christian institutions have been accused of cooperating with Mission Eurasia for distributing Bibles and other materials published by the ministry.

As a result, authorities fined the pastor of the Baptist church, Aleksey Kruchinin, and ordered the destruction of various Scripture materials found on the premises. Additionally, the St. Petersburg Christian University and the rector of the Moscow Theological Seminary were fined for possessing Mission Eurasia publications in their libraries.

In a previously published Persecution & Prayer Alert, VOMC reported on the case of Ms. Park Tae-yeon, a South Korean missionary who faces up to 17 years in prison for alleged immigration violations. (Review other reports concerning her situation.) Ms. Park served for many years in eastern Russia with Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF) before retiring from the ministry. While the charges are not officially connected to her work with CEF, Russian authorities are investigating the children's camps that she had assisted.

This July, Child Evangelism Fellowship was added to Russia's list of "undesirable" organizations, raising further concerns about Ms. Park's case. Since the retired missionary's detainment, her trial has experienced several delays. Although a verdict was originally expected on August 10th, a decision is now anticipated to take place no earlier than September 24th.

• Prayerfully uphold these recently accused followers of Jesus who are presently facing criminal prosecution in Russia because of their ministry activities, asking Him to provide for their every need as they deal with fines and the possibility of imprisonment.

• Also, please continue to remember Ms. Park amid her ongoing trial, praying for a favourable outcome that would allow this faithful servant to be released soon and joyfully reunited with her loved ones in South Korea.

• In general, pray that God will continue to build His church throughout Russia, encouraging believers, raising up faithful church leaders, and opening doors for the Gospel to reach those who have not yet received His saving grace through Christ.

China - Pastor Jin Released from Prison

Nigeria - Victoria escaped captivity

 Source: Open Doors USA

After 120 days in captivity, Victoria and her children are finally free.

For four months since the attack on their village on Easter Sunday, they endured hunger, illness and unimaginable hardship after being kidnapped by militant Fulanis in Nigeria’s Kaduna State. Food was so scarce that Victoria became severely emaciated in captivity.

When Victoria saw an opportunity to escape, she took it. Carrying her critically ill 4-year-old daughter, Christy, she and her children walked barefoot through the bush for two days without food or water.

Tragically, Christy died before they reached safety. Victoria had already endured the loss of her newborn baby during captivity.

Today, she and her surviving children are receiving medical care.

PRAISE God for their freedom. Pray now for their healing—for physical recovery, comfort in their grief and strength for the difficult journey ahead.

And please continue to PRAY for the Christians from their community who remain in captivity—that God would sustain them and bring them safely home.

SRI LANKA: Ministry Worker Forbidden from Visiting Homes

Source: VOMC
Source: NCEASL

A village in Sri Lanka. Photo: Pexels / Jacob Riesel

In July, a Christian worker from the Ududumbara area of Sri Lanka was invited to the home of a congregant to pray for the woman's sick child. Accompanied by her husband and own child, the ministry worker travelled to the neighbouring village of Kaluwala for the visit. As they were praying together, three police officers arrived at the home, along with a leader from the local Buddhist temple. The officers claimed to have received a complaint from a Buddhist monk who accused the Christians of engaging in religious propagation.

The police informed the Christian worker that her family was only free to practise Christianity in their own home, further explaining that they were not permitted to visit other residences for ministry purposes. The worker was then ordered to appear at the police station the following morning. Even though she was not taken into custody at the time, officers warned that if the Christian woman continued visiting others as part of her ministry, she could be arrested for causing religious conflict. Additionally, the congregant who had initially requested prayer for her unwell child was instructed not to visit the Christian worker's home.

Although the ministry worker had been regularly conducting worship services in her home over the years, attendance has ceased since this recent incident. The woman has also noticed a decline in business interactions at the local shop she operates. This is not the first time she encountered opposition because of her faith. Two years earlier, a mob of approximately 80 people surrounded the ministry worker's family home and threatened her. Following that previous incident, she was excluded from participating in any form of community involvement.
For more information on Christian persecution in this South Asian nation, go to our country profile.

• Please lift up this compassionate Christian worker and her family in your prayers, asking God to surround them with His protection and reassure them of His faithful presence each day.

• Ask the Lord to also grant this ministry worker wisdom, discernment and courage as she navigates the restrictions on her ministry, praying that He will open new doors of opportunity for greater fellowship, discipleship and Gospel outreach.

• Even when encountering opposition and hostility, may our Christian brothers and sisters throughout Sri Lanka be further encouraged to deepen their faith in Christ and strengthen their bonds of unity, so that they can remain effective witnesses of His unconditional love and undeniable reality.

CHINA: Seven Christians Arrested in Cross-Provincial Operation

Source: VOMC
Sources: ChinaAid, Christian Solidarity Worldwide

Pastor David Tang Photo: ChinaAid

Pastor David Tang is the leader of the Purpose Driven Church (also known as Biaogan Church) in the city of Wenzhou. This vibrant church, which has been known to interest local young professionals and intellectuals, was forced to officially close down after refusing to join the state-sanctioned Three-Self Patriotic Movement. Since then, its congregants have continued to meet in a semi-underground manner.

Local police, joined by officers from the municipality of Shanghai, arrested Pastor David on August 5th. Also detained were the church's financial administrator and five ministry workers from Shanghai. Consequently, all seven believers were taken into custody and, at the time of compiling this report, no contact had since been established with any of them.

Due to its large Christian population, the city of Wenzhou is referred to as the "Jerusalem of China." Unfortunately, this prominence has not escaped the notice of Communist authorities, who continue to pressure churches to conform to the state's regulations and ideologies.
To review previously published reports regarding the various challenges facing our Christian family in China, visit our country profile.

• Pray for the safety and well-being of these seven detained believers, asking God to provide a way for their prompt release from custody.

• Continue to prayerfully uphold the many other Christians throughout China who are facing pressures to comply with governmental demands that would compromise their faith and values, asking the Lord to strengthen and encourage them as steadfast witnesses of the Gospel.

• In addition to interceding for the eternal salvation of citizens in Wenzhou, please also ask God to move by His Spirit in the hearts of people all across China, so that multitudes more will come to faith in Jesus Christ – resulting in the ongoing powerful growth of His Kingdom amid opposition.

IRAN: Historic Church Seized by Authorities

Source: VOMC
Sources: Article18, Christianity Today

St. Peter Evangelical Church Photo: Wikipedia / Herbert Karim Masihi (CC)

In recent weeks, guards have been stationed outside St. Peter Evangelical Church, the oldest Protestant church in Iran, as governing authorities carry out a planned seizure of the building and surrounding property. First built in 1876, the church occupied a 10-acre plot of land in Tehran. Although an order was issued several years ago, authorities officially seized control of the site last month.

On July 12th, 20 families had been forcibly evicted from their homes which were all located within the church compound. Government agents then took possession of the church building, as well as its schools and administrative offices. The property has since been transferred to the Execution of Imam Khomeini's Order (EIKO), a network of government-controlled companies that generates investments for the Iranian regime. (See more details regarding the church's confiscation.)

Guards stationed outside the church building have reportedly instructed the believers to find another place of worship. Sargez Benyamin, the executive secretary for the Synod of the Evangelical Church (an organization representing Presbyterian churches in Iran), stated that there were six functioning Presbyterian churches throughout the country in 2023. Yet, as a result of several church closures over these past few years, St. Peter church had been the only one of this denomination remaining open in Iran until this year.

While practising Christianity remains illegal for members of the Farsi-speaking population, historic Christian minorities (such as the Armenians and Assyrians) have traditionally been granted limited freedoms to exercise their faith. However, actions such as this recent church closure highlight the significant restrictions placed on those freedoms. While Iran once had approximately 50 Protestant churches, today about a dozen of them are permitted to operate – and only under strict conditions. These congregations must conduct services exclusively in their specific Assyrian or Armenian languages.

Mansour Khajehpour, a former elder at St. Peter church who is now living in exile, acknowledges the numerous challenges being encountered by believers in Iran. Even so, he remains confident in the church's future. "This is the dynamic reality of the church," he comments. "The church will not die. The church will grow, and we are a part of that church."
To access other reports addressing the persecution of believers in Iran, including informative video interviews, go to our country profile.

• As these displaced Presbyterian believers in Tehran look toward the future, may the Lord sovereignly guide, protect and strengthen them; all the while, granting them wisdom, peace, and the ongoing assurance that He will faithfully meet all of their spiritual and practical needs.

• Despite the Iranian government's ongoing efforts to restrict the ministry of the church and its powerful witness, may there be a continued exponential growth of Christianity in both numbers of conversions and levels of spiritual maturity.

• Please also prayerfully remember the Iranian followers of Christ who are presently imprisoned for their faith (see PrisonerAlert.com), along with all those experiencing other forms of persecution, asking the Lord to likewise encourage, strengthen and sustain each one of them through tangible reminders of His abiding presence and unfailing promises.

VIETNAM: Montagnard Church Leader Sentenced to Imprisonment

Source: VOMC
Sources: Christian Solidarity Worldwide, International Christian Concern, Dak Lak Newspaper, Church in Chains

Pastor Y Nuen Ayun Photo: CSW

On August 5th, a court in Vietnam's Dak Lak province sentenced Pastor Y Nuen Ayun to seven years and six months in prison for "undermining the policy of national unity." Communist officials claim that he has been organizing and leading unregistered religious activities since 2003. Pastor Ayun, whose ethnicity originates with the Montagnards, ministered to others belonging to this indigenous group through his pastoral leadership at the Central Highlands Evangelical Church of Christ.

According to reports made by Vietnam's state media, Pastor Ayun had associated with A Ga, a Vietnamese pastor presently residing in the United States, who helped establish the Central Highlands church. Communist officials allege that Pastor Ga advocates for separatist movements within this particular geocultural subregion of Vietnam and have classified him as a terrorist.

Following Pastor Ayun's arrest in October 2025, prosecutors stated during his trial that he was "aiming to abet hostile forces against the people's government." The subsequently issued indictment specified that the Montagnard pastor "established and operated a church, propagated and developed followers; participated in and organized [their] fellowship on the Internet and in person at church group meetings." The defence argued that none of these actions equated to opposition against the government.

Most of Vietnam's Christians are ethnic minorities residing in the country's highlands. Communist officials frequently fabricate charges to oppress believers within this subregion, particularly those belonging to the minority groups.
For more information concerning the persecution of believers in this Southeast Asian nation, visit our country profile.

• In addition to praying for Pastor Ayun's protection and strength during detainment, please intercede for God's divine intervention in this legal case – leading to the accused pastor's vindication and soon release from prison.

• Also prayerfully uphold the many other Christians in Vietnam who are being subjected to ongoing oppression by Communist officials, asking the Lord to meet the spiritual and practical needs of His persecuted people.

• Ultimately, may the ministry of God's Holy Spirit greatly impact the country as a whole and its people – including the officials who serve in various areas of governance – so that many new names will be added to the Lamb's "Book of Life" (Revelation 21:27).

SYRIA: Visiting Lebanese Pastor Released from Detainment

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

Pastor Nihad Hassan Photo: CSW

Nihad Hassan is a Kurdish pastor living in Beirut, Lebanon. On various occasions, he has expressed concerns over the difficulties encountered by the Kurdish people in Syria, particularly those who have converted from Islam. Syrian authorities claim that the Lebanese pastor's social media comments were offensive. Consequently, he was arrested on July 20th while visiting family in Afrin, a city located in northern Syria that primarily consists of Kurdish people.

Thankfully, Pastor Nihad was released from custody on August 3rd. At the time of his release, the authorities advised him to return to Lebanon, which he compliantly did. Presently, he is prioritizing the well-being of his children, who were traumatized by the recent arrest. Since the incident, every time he now leaves home, his fearful young daughter cries out, "Daddy, don't go to the police!"

Observers have noted an apparent increase in hostility towards Christians – not only from Syria's governing officials but also others in the country who oppose Christianity. Since the fall of Bashar al-Assad's government, the previously provided protections of believers have been at risk. Further exacerbating this concern is the notable increase of militant Islamic influences throughout the country.
To access additional reports addressing the various challenges facing followers of Jesus in Syria, go to our country profile.

• Please pray that Pastor Nihad's children will receive needed ministry in the aftermath of this incident, so they can experience complete healing from the lingering effects of the emotional trauma.

• May Christians throughout Syria find safety and solace in the everlasting arms of God.

• Ask the Lord to also work mightily within the hearts and minds of Syria's political and judicial officials, sovereignly guiding them to establish an equitable government that would rightfully protect and serve all citizens.

INDONESIA: Sentencing of Christian Accused in Blasphemy Case

Source: VOMC
Source: Morning Star News

Dedi Saputra Photo: USCIRF

Earlier this year, Dedi Saputra allegedly posted a video on TikTok that criticized the prophet Muhammad. Before the video was removed from the social media platform, it had been viewed almost two million times – sparking a backlash that culminated in his arrest on February 18th.
For more information regarding this case, see VOMC's previously posted Persecution & Prayer Alert report.

On July 10th, a court in Aceh Province declared the convert from Islam guilty of blasphemy and hate speech. As a result, Dedi received a sentence of two years' imprisonment, which includes the time he has already served in detainment since his arrest. As prosecutors were originally demanding a longer prison term, there is the possibility that they may attempt to appeal the current sentence.

• As Dedi patiently awaits his hopeful early release from detention, may he experience God's promised help, encouragement, protection and strength – along with opportunities to display the Lord's compassion to all those around him.

• In the interim, ask the Lord to also mediate judicially on his behalf, so that the prosecutors' attempts to extend Dedi's prison term will not prevail; instead, may this believer's sentence be substantially reduced.

• Pray that Christians throughout the island nation of Indonesia will continue boldly declaring the "Good News of the Gospel" in ways that bring both conviction and repentance, so many more lives can be transformed by God's sacrificial love and the eternal spiritual truths contained within His infallible Word.