Persecuted church news
Here are some recent news stories about persecuted churches around the world:
North Korea
- According to a report by Open Doors, a Christian persecution watchdog group, North Korea is the most dangerous country in the world for Christians. The government has been cracking down on Christianity, and many Christians have been arrested, imprisoned, and even executed.
- In October 2022, a North Korean Christian was sentenced to life in prison for distributing Bibles and evangelizing.
China
- The Chinese government has been increasing its persecution of Christians, particularly in the provinces of Henan and Shandong. Many churches have been shut down, and Christians have been arrested and detained.
- In September 2022, a Chinese Christian pastor was sentenced to 12 years in prison for "inciting subversion of state power" and "organizing and leading a cult."
India
- India has seen a significant increase in Christian persecution in recent years, particularly in the states of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. Many Christians have been attacked and killed by Hindu extremists.
- In October 2022, a Christian pastor and his family were attacked by a mob of Hindu extremists in the state of Uttar Pradesh. The pastor was seriously injured, and his family was forced to flee their home.
Pakistan
- Pakistan is one of the most dangerous countries in the world for Christians, with many facing persecution and violence at the hands of Islamic extremists.
- In September 2022, a Christian couple was arrested and charged with blasphemy for allegedly sending a text message that was deemed offensive to Islam.
Iran
- Iran is a predominantly Shia Muslim country, and Christians face significant persecution and discrimination. Many have been arrested and imprisoned for their faith.
- In October 2022, a Christian convert was arrested and charged with apostasy for leaving Islam and converting to Christianity.
Other countries
- In Nigeria, Christian communities have been targeted by Islamic extremist groups, leading to widespread violence and persecution.
- In Syria, Christians have been caught in the crossfire of the civil war, with many facing persecution and displacement.
- In Egypt, Christians have faced increasing persecution and violence, particularly in the wake of the Arab Spring uprisings.
These are just a few examples of the many countries where Christians face persecution and discrimination. It's important to remember that persecution is a global issue, and that Christians around the world are facing significant challenges and dangers for their faith.