"We reach them one at a time... we speak love into their heart using Jesus' name."
– Secret Maldivian believer
Government officials proudly emphasise that the country is 100% Muslim. Locals are on the watch for anything that deviates from Maldivian belief—particularly conversion from Islam to another faith. Conversion will be reported to Muslim leaders or authorities; non-Muslims can lose their citizenship.
For these reasons, being known as a Christian is so dangerous that there is no ability to meet as a fellowship community. All believers who follow Jesus must do so secretly.
At all times, any believer who has converted from Islam is in imminent danger of exposure and punishment from both the state and their community. If a woman’s faith is discovered, methods to try and bring her back to Islam could include forced marriage, threats, and violence. Men are likely to be threatened, harassed, assaulted, or even imprisoned.
Although the Islamic culture is ultra-conservative, even more Muslim extremist groups have returned to the country, placing Christian converts at further risk.
– Pray that God will fill the hearts of secret believers with a sense of his presence and care.
– Pray that President Solih and the government would soften their stance towards Christians.
– Pray that those who have a secret and isolated faith will feel the prayers of the global Church.
