An Uzbek court has ordered an educational aid group, Global Involvement Through Education, to close because the workers were allegedly trying to convert students to "a religion of Protestant character." The website for the USA-based organization makes no reference to Christian activities, stating that "Global I.E.'s goal is to help different cultures to understand each other's uniqueness while learning to peacefully co-exist and appreciate differing values"
(http://www.globaliedu.org/).
In May, another aid organization, Central Asian Free Exchange (CAFE), was also accused of proselytizing. They denied the accusation, insisting that "One of CAFE's strongest values has always been that the rendering of assistance not be based on religion or creed" (http://www.cafengo.org/).
Government control over religion is strong in Uzbekistan. Any religious activity outside officially approved organizations is strictly prohibited. Uzbek authorities have also been cracking down on western-funded aid organizations, accusing them of supporting dissidents.
Pray that both religious and aid organizations will be free to meet the needs of the Uzbek people. Pray that the gospel would be heard throughout Uzbekistan (Mark 13:10, Acts 1:8). Pray that believers will not be discouraged as they seek to maintain a consistent testimony (Galatians 6:9).
For more information on the persecution of Christians in Uzbekistan, click here.
Population
