Church leaders face heightened dangers designed to instil fear into all Christians.
bottom"I have the right to choose and practise my faith. I will not forsake my faith in Jesus Christ."
– Jashim, who was brutally attacked by a mob of 50 to 60 people
Christians from Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, or tribal backgrounds experience the most severe persecution. Such believers can encounter restrictions, discrimination, and even attacks. Gatherings with other Christians are often done in secret.
Protestant churches that engage in outreach among Muslim communities can also face persecution. Church leaders in particular are at risk of arrest. The arrest of church leaders can destabilise Christian communities and make them feel afraid to gather for worship.
Christian women and girls are highly vulnerable to persecution — particularly converts, who are deemed to have ‘betrayed’ their culture and religion. This persecution can include harassment, sexual, physical, and emotional abuse, forced marriage or divorce, house arrest, and abduction.
Bangladesh’s northern region is an especially difficult place for Christians to live. It is home to many ethnic minorities. Here, persecution comes from both the Muslim majority and Buddhist minority, as well as tribal communities.
In recent years, more than 700,000 refugees have arrived from neighbouring Myanmar. Among the refugees are a tiny minority of Rohingya converts, who can face pressure for their faith but have no means of escape.
– That Christians facing intense pressure for their faith will be strengthened by God.
– That persecutors will encounter Jesus for themselves and give their lives to Him.
– For healing for those traumatised by attacks, arrests, and abductions.
