In multiple incidents that took place during late March, Christians from registered churches in Kyrgyzstan were issued fines for conducting "illegal missionary activities." News of the raids had not been released until recently due to fear of reprisals.
On March 26th, the State Commission for Religious Affairs (SCRA), along with several police officers, raided the St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Talas. People leaving the evening mass were forced back into the building by armed officers. The congregants were ordered to remain in the building until two nuns signed a confession stating that they were "spreading their ideology" and thus guilty of practising "illegal missionary activities." The two women each received a fine equivalent to an average of two weeks' wages.
Around the same date that the Catholic church was being raided, state officials also invaded a Protestant church, despite the fact that the place of worship is officially registered with the government. During the raid, two foreign believers were issued fines. For security reasons, no further details about this incident are available.
The Catholic church has since appealed the sentence, but without effect. The SCRA has warned the Catholic administration overseeing congregations in the country that any further "violations" could result in the liquidation of the organization's national administration. Government agencies have refused to give any explanation for their actions and threats. For more details on the difficulties facing Christians in Kyrgyzstan, go to our country report.
Pray that the government's opposition against both churches will cease, allowing followers of Jesus to continue worshipping without fear of further repercussions from the authorities. May God especially grant peace, comfort and encouragement to each of the four believers who are presently facing charges, also providing the funds they need to pay the fines levied against them. Additionally, pray that the Lord will work mightily within the hearts and minds of those who are opposing the various churches throughout Kyrgyzstan, leading each one to repentance and salvation in Christ.
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