Photo: VOMC
More than a dozen Christian families from the village of Mai in northwestern Laos were driven from their homes by other members of the majority-Buddhist community. This recent incident is the latest in a string of similar attacks against Laotian followers of Jesus, despite the fact that laws have been instituted in this country to protect the free exercise of religion.
Currently, the 15 families, including the village pastor, have no place to live. State authorities are reportedly trying to negotiate with village leaders to encourage them to live in harmony with the Christian families, but to no avail. The families have declined to comment on the situation due to fears of reprisal. Governing authorities are refusing to speak to the press, calling it a "sensitive issue" and stating that they are "still working on the case."
Most Laotians consider themselves Buddhist, though many practise a syncretistic mix of Buddhism and tribal animism. While Christianity is allowed, it is viewed by many as a North American religion intent on undermining the Communist regime and Laotian culture. For further information on the persecution of Christians in Laos, go to our country report.
As the authorities work to find a resolution to the conflict, ask God to provide these displaced Christian families a safe haven of refuge and the practical resources they require for their daily survival. May our persecuted brothers and sisters in Laos also receive the spiritual resources they need through the ministry of the Holy Spirit – peace, guidance and strength...as well as the grace to respond to their persecutors with God's love and mercy. Pray that His ministry will powerfully impact the lives of the opposing villagers, opening their hearts to the Gospel message so that peace can be established among the divergent groups of this community.
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