Kanya* and Phonesay*, a Christian couple from rural Laos, discovered hope and healing in Jesus but also faced severe persecution that tore their family apart and forced them from their home. Despite losing nearly everything, they remained steadfast in faith, worshiping in secret alongside other displaced believers. Their story is a powerful example of resilience, showing how the underground Church continues to grow and thrive even under constant pressure.
Driven From Their Home
It was supposed to be a joyous day. God had been at work in Kanya’s family; she and her husband Phonesay had been reconciled after many years apart. They had gathered in their home to worship the Lord and make a public declaration of their faith.
But in Laos, a country ranked #28 on Open Doors’ World Watch List for its high levels of persecution, any deviation from traditional animist beliefs is risky. In rural areas especially, converting to Christianity is seen as a betrayal.
The community turned against Kanya and Phonesay, tearing down their home and expelling them from the village. Along with seven other families of believers, this couple and their four children were sent to live in the forest, on government land. The area was undeveloped, with no electricity, no toilets, and little food. But they are surviving.
“I just thanked the Lord and prayed. I even sang a song,” Kanya says of that terrible day. “I firmly answered that even if I die, I will never renounce Jesus.”
Christians like Kanya and Phonesay need your messages of encouragement and prayer. Share what the Lord is putting on your heart—a Bible verse or a prayer.
Greeting cards, postcards, and children’s artwork are best.
Encourage Kanya, Phonesay, and their Family
Persecuted believers (both adults and children) are excited to receive letters from Christians around the world. They are happy to know that other believers are praying for them and have taken the time to pen down something special. Importantly, they are encouraged to persevere and don’t feel so alone.
*Names changed for security purposes.
Writing Guidelines
- Write in simple English and keep your sentences short; three to four sentences should be enough.
- Be encouraging and include one Bible verse.
- Please be sensitive: do not dwell on the recipient’s plight, or share about the blessings of life in your country.
For Security
- Do not mention Open Doors in the drawings.
- Put postcards in an envelope. Do not write the Open Doors address on any postcard.
- Do not mention other religions.
- Do not include photos of yourself.
- Do not criticise their country’s religions, religious extremists, governments, judicial systems, or political leaders.
- Do not send money or make proposals to help.
- Do not include sensitive or inappropriate content.
Send Your Message
Include your cards, postcards, letters, or drawings in a single parcel and mail them to:
Open Doors
PO Box 551
Baulkham Hills NSW 2153
This opportunity is available through Saturday, 15 August 2026
Alternatively, you can send a digital copy of your drawing using the form below or send via email to: info@od.org.au
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