Laos: Christian Persecution on the Rise

The persecution of Christians is reportedly intensifying in the Southeast Asian nation of Laos. During this episode, Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman speaks with Patrick Klein of Vision Beyond Borders, a trusted ministry partner of VOM Canada. Patrick shares about his recent trip to the Communist country and addresses several cases of harassment and opposition against Laotian followers of Jesus – including one incident in which believers were driven from their village in the province of Luang Prabang for refusing to renounce their faith.

During the interview, Patrick also reports of a fatal attack that took place last November, involving a pastor who was murdered for his ministry work. He adds that persecution is even being perpetrated by members of the government-controlled church. Yet, in spite of the many challenges facing our Christian brothers and sisters in Laos, the church continues to grow.

Date: February 17, 2023
Length: 35:30

Episode Notes
Vision Beyond Borders: www.visionbeyondborders.org
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com

Laos Information

Current Ministry Project
VOMC is working with an international partner to provide New Testaments to persecuted Christians, new believers, and those who are earnestly seeking Christ. We believe that the Word of God is a vital tool in combating persecution by helping believers grow in maturity to the fullness of Christ.

Project Fund: Bibles
Country Information
Population
7,852,377 (2023 est.)

Ethnicity (%)
Lao (53.2), Khmou (11), Hmong (9.2), Phouthay (3.4), Tai (3.1), Makong (2.5), Katong (2.2), Lue (2), Akha (1.8), other (11.6)

Religion (%)
Buddhism (64.7), Christianity (1.7), none (31.4), unspecified (2.1)

Leader
President Thongloun Sisoulith (2021)

Government type
Communist state

Legal system
Civil law system similar in form to the French system

Source: CIA World Factbook
Pray for Laos
Pray for strength and courage for Christians as they continue to face pressure and imprisonment for their faith.

Pray for the government of Laos -- that those in power will continue to improve policies and activities, recognizing the need for freedom for all their citizens.