Praying for the Persecuted Church - Laos

We continue on with our month to month praying for our brothers and sisters in Christ, who are in countries where serving our Lord comes with a heavy price.

This month we will be praying for those in Laos. According to OpenDoorsUSA's World Watch List, Laos ranks #10 on the list of countries in the world, for it's oppression of Christians.



Here is some information on Laos to help guide you as you pray. (All info is from Open Doors)
Leader: President Choummaly Sayasone
Population: 6.4 million (200,000 Christians)
Main Religion: Buddhism
Government: Communist state


Laos is the only other Communist-ruled country in the top 10 of the WWL (with North Korea). Despite many people's expectations, the situation in Laos has not improved much in the past year. The church is relatively small but continues to grow (numbering about 200,000 believers, mostly belonging to ethnic minorities). There has been no improvement in religious liberty and persecution in Laos includes a few restrictions in legislation. The government’s attitude is very negative and restrictive towards Christians, and all believers are under strict surveillance because they are regarded as agents for the USA to bring political change in Laos towards “democracy.” The church cannot operate freely and its activities in society are limited. Christians are restricted in their roles in the family and in the village. Christian converts who renounce evil spirit worship come under great societal pressure. From time to time believers are arrested, and many of them experience extreme physical and emotional pressure (torture) to renounce their (new) faith. In the 2010 at least 25 Christians were killed; at least another 20 were arrested and held without trial. Christians were physically harassed on a regular basis and a number of churches were destroyed or damaged. Thousands of (Christian) Hmong refugees are living in Thailand. Despite the high level of persecution in Laos, there are many unregistered activities and the Church seems to be growing.

PRAY:
For God’s protection and provision for the 11 families expelled from their villages, especially the young children.

That Christians will have the courage to remain in the faith, in spite of the high price they must pay.

That policies designed to promote religious freedom will be implemented in rural areas and benefit believers, who are mostly tribal and rural.

Please continue to hold up Laos in your prayers throughout the month of June!

grace and peace
rachel