Churches face surveillance, restrictions, and interference in their ministry.
bottom“The kind of Christianity rooted in Scripture, that dares to confront the brokenness of our country with the truth of the gospel—that’s the kind they label an enemy.”
– Pastora*
*Name changed for security purposes
Christians in Nicaragua are increasingly silenced under the dictatorial rule of co-presidents Daniel Ortega and his wife, Rosario Murillo. Believers who raise their voices against the government over issues, including human rights violations, have faced surveillance, intimidation, and imprisonment. Some even face exile and loss of citizenship. Christians worry that speaking out could cost them their legal status, their places of worship, or even their ability to remain in the country.
Meanwhile, churches and other Christian institutions (e.g. schools and charities) are deemed a threat to the regime. They have had assets seized, activities disrupted and banned, and buildings vandalised. Rather than be seen as a valuable part of the country’s fabric, many Christians are viewed as destabilising agents. Believers—especially pastors and church leaders—now face more suffocating surveillance, threats to restrict or shut down church activities, and constant interference in their ministries.
As the largest Christian denomination in Nicaragua, Catholics are a primary target for the regime. Clergy face imprisonment, exile, house arrest, travel bans, and legal threats. But anyone who speaks out against the government is especially vulnerable, and that includes Christians from other denominations (e.g. Pentecostals and Baptists). Some also face pressure to show political loyalty to avoid further repercussions.
– Pastors in Nicaragua can face arbitrary arrest and detention. Pray for these leaders and their families.
– Ask God to protect Open Doors’ partners as they seek to serve and strengthen the Nicaraguan church.
– Pray that churches under surveillance by the authorities would be given courage and wisdom.
Open Doors strengthens the church in Nicaragua amidst persecution through livelihood support, legal assistance, persecution-survival training, and leadership care.
