These believers also run the risk of arrest for worshipping Jesus in their village. Photo Credit: VOM USA
In September, six Christian couples were arrested and interrogated by police for eight hours. During this prolonged session, the believers were pressured to renounce their faith and stop conducting worship services. Although two newly converted Christian couples had initially renounced their faith out of fear, they renewed their commitment to Christ just days later.
Since their release, however, all six couples are no longer free to worship in their own community. They now must travel to a nearby city in order to attend church services. In addition, they are having to cope with the sobering fact that they are no longer welcome in their own village. The officials had informed these believers during the interrogation sessions that should they choose to remain true to their faith, they will not receive any governmental assistance.
Despite the isolation and numerous other challenges being thrust upon them, these believers are bravely persevering. Pray that as they honour the Lord and His statutes, they will continue to grow strong spiritually and experience a more meaningful relationship with Him. May the demonstration of His unconditional love, mercy and forgiveness -- through their faithful Christian witness -- inspire others in their community to follow Him as well.
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.
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.
Pastor Sithong at a wedding in 2018. Photo: Radio Free Asia
On March 15th, 2020, Pastor Sithong Theppavong was approached by authorities who demanded that he agree to no longer hold worship services at a small church in Savannakhet Province, Laos (see this report). When Pastor Sithong refused, he wa
Earlier in 2020, it was reported that Sithong Theppavong, the pastor of a small church in a farming area of Savannakhet Province, received repeated warnings to cease his ministry. On March 15th, 2020, he was arrested without any indication of charges. For more details on his arrest, visit VOMC's pr
Local authorities in the Laotian province of Salavan chased seven Christians from their homes, forcing them to live within makeshift huts in the woods, all because these believers refused to renounce their faith. The Christians were members of two families from the village of Pasing-Kang. Since thei
To date, Nang Tookta Phetsomphone has spent almost six months in a Laotian prison after her former employer was stabbed and killed during his attempt to rape the young woman. In order to be released from custody, her family must pay a fine of $11,000 USD and renounce their faith in Christ. Since our
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