On October 2nd, Yklas Kabduakasov, a Christian convert from Islam, was released from prison after spending more than two years in detention for allegedly "inciting religious hatred." Following his arrest on August 14th, 2015, Yklas spent time in pre-trial detention, under house arrest and, finally, forceful service at a labour camp.
During his trying two-year ordeal, Yklas was greatly blessed by the numerous letters he received from those who expressed concern and prayer support for him. (For further information on how VOM's letter-writing ministry is encouraging imprisoned believers like Yklas, please review this previous report.)
Since Yklas has returned home to his wife and children, Kazakhstan's parliament is considering further restrictions on religious worship and resource materials. The proposed legislation would double fines and punishments for religious offenses. Already this year, two church congregations in Kazakhstan have been banned from worshipping.
We are grateful for Yklas' release, and our prayer is that he will quickly adjust to life with his family outside of prison walls. May he use his testimony to continue boldly sharing the Gospel so those who hear it will be receptive to God's saving grace.
Current Ministry Project
VOMC has come alongside project partners to offer an English camp as an opportunity for evangelism and outreach among youth and young adults. Camp participants are invited to embrace the Good News of the Gospel through the platform of the English Camps.
Ethnicity (%) Kazakh (Qazaq) (68), Russian (19.3), Uzbek (3.2), Ukrainian (1.5), Uighur (1.5), Tatar (1.1), German (1), Other (4.4)
Religion (%) Muslim (70.2), Christian (26.2), Buddhist (0.1), Other (0.2), Atheist (2.8), Unspecified (0.5)
Leader President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev (2019)
Government type Presidential republic
Legal system the theory and practice of the Russian Federation Civil law system influenced by Roman-Germanic law and b
Source: CIA World Factbook
Pray for Kazakhstan
Pray that authorities will cease their harassment of unregistered church communities. Until then, pray believers will effectively minister the gospel despite opposition.
Pray for endurance for those believers facing these challenges.
Pray for the adage “To be a Kazakh is to be a Muslim” to be broken; pray for freedom from historic spiritual bondages and prejudices.
Kazakhstan Senate Photo: Wikipedia / SenateKZ (cc)
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New Life Church property in Almaty Photo: Ivan Kryukov (cc)
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Church member prays outside Grace Church. Photo: Grace Church via Forum 18
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