Photo: Christian Solidarity Worldwide
In November 2021, Keshav Raj Acharya, the pastor of the Abundant Harvest Church in Pokhara, Nepal, was convicted of proselytising and, as a result, sentenced to two years in prison. Even though his sentence was reduced to one year upon appeal, Pastor Keshav subsequently appealed to the Supreme Court of Nepal. For more details, read these reports.
Regrettably, the Supreme Court upheld the lower court's decision, affirming Pastor Keshav's one-year sentence. Responding to the ruling, the pastor's lawyer, Indra Aryal, expressed concern that the decision curtails the principles of religious liberty and freedom of expression, particularly for the country's religious minorities. Pastor Keshav conveyed his deep sadness about the judgment, reiterating that his actions were driven by faith and a desire to spread God's love and blessings.
Remember Pastor Keshav in your prayers as he serves his one-year term in prison. Though incarcerated, pray that he will be empowered to minister to fellow prisoners and prison officials, serving as a vibrant witness of God's love, grace and peace. Also prayerfully uphold Pastor Keshav's concerned family, including his wife Junu, along with the members of his church. May they also tangibly sense the Lord's comforting presence with them during this difficult time of separation. Continue to pray that believers throughout Nepal will find effective ways to share the love of Christ in a society that opposes the Gospel message.
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