Four Christians in the southern Uzbek city of Karshi have been punished after meeting for worship without official permission. One member of the church, Nabijon Bolikulov, was jailed for five days, and three others faced fines. In his ruling, the judge did not specify what part of the law the believers had broken.
During the trial, the judge told Nabijon, "Do your prayers at home. It is against the law of our state to meet for worship without state registration." The Christians were further warned that if they continue to meet without registering, they could face criminal charges.
These punishments follow a series of raids against Christians in Karshi. Members of the church say that the authorities first enter the meeting to film and record names. Later they return to punish those they had documented.
Please pray that these Christians in Uzbekistan will be given God's wisdom when dealing with the authorities and direction for ways in which they can continue meeting together without the fear of reprisal, despite the ongoing pressure. May there also be financial provision for those facing fines. Additionally, intercede for the governmental and judicial authorities who are opposing the church, that they would witness the love of Christ through the lives and responses of the believers.
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