Church Demolition and Arrests

Arrested Christians
Pray that the case against the
Christians would be dropped.

In the early morning of March 9th, authorities ordered the destruction of a place of worship in the town of Chelur in Karnataka State. The action was taken after governing officials received pressure from Hindu militants in the area. Local Christians were able to capture the destruction on video. To view the footage, see this page.

Additionally, the pastor and a number of other church members were arrested for alleged document discrepancies. The pastor refutes these accusations, insisting that all building permits were in place. At last report, eleven Christians were placed in detention, and ongoing efforts are being made to secure bail for them.

Please prayerfully remember these Christian men, their families, as well as those attempting to provide them assistance. Pray that this matter will be resolved quickly and in a diplomatic manner so these earnest followers of Christ will be able to peacefully gather together for worship. May the 'One True God' minister His life-transforming love and truth to the militants opposing them, so they may too become recipients of His mercy, grace and eternal salvation.  

India Information

  • Current Ministry Projects

    VOMC assists persecuted Christians with legal support and rehabilitation assistance, and cares for children of martyrs by providing them with a safe place to be nurtured physical and spiritually. VOMC also partners to equip Christians in India with Biblical training and works to strengthen and support marginalized and persecuted Christian women. Additionally, VOMC helps to provide medical assistance to believers who have faced injuries after being attacked.”

    Project Funds: Families of Martyrs, Equipping the Saints, Legal Defense, Relief and Development, Women’s Ministry, Medical Fund

  • Country Information

    Population
    1,399,179,585 (2023 est.)

    Ethnicity (%)
    Indo-Aryan (72), Dravidian (25), other (3)

    Religion (%)
    Hinduism (79.8), Muslim (14.2), Christianity (2.3), Sikh (1.7), other (2)

    Leader
    President Droupadi Murmu (2022)

    Government type
    Federal parliamentary republic

    Legal system
    Based on English common law; separate personal law codes apply to Christians, Hindus and Muslims.

    Source: CIA World Factbook

  • Pray for India

    Despite the intimidation and violence that have taken place in many of India's states, may Christians wisely yet unashamedly preach the Gospel. Pray that indigenous Christians and foreign missionaries will minister in ways that do not hint at fraudulent conversions, unmasking the intentions behind the anti-conversion legislation. Intercede for India's leaders, that they may reign with justice and righteousness.

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