Pressure from authorities is on the rise. To leave Islam for Christianity is illegal.
bottom“They look at us Christians like outsiders. Like Hepatitis C, they say we have the ‘Double C Virus’.”
– Tun*, a believer in southeast Asia
Sharia (Islamic) law continues to be introduced in the country and implemented more widely. Leaving Islam is illegal. Converts can be punished under law, and families and communities will exert great pressure in attempts to force Christians back to their original faith.
Non-traditional Christian communities cannot be registered as churches, but as companies or family centres. As such, they are treated as secular organisations and are required to submit their financial and operational reports to the government every year.
Christians from a Muslim background are the most vulnerable to persecution. Women and girls are usually disowned by the family when their conversion becomes known, or they may be forcibly married to a Muslim man. Mothers who convert to Christianity are likely to have their children taken away.
Men and boys are usually disowned by the family if they convert from Islam, and also face beatings, humiliation, and harsher treatment when persecuted by religious authorities.
– Pray that pastors would be strengthened and equipped to serve and lead their congregations.
– Ask God to encourage younger believers to remain in the country for the long-term health of the church.
– Thank God that He is more powerful than Sharia law and is not weakened by strict laws.
