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KazakhstanRestricted
Christian Persecution in Kazakhstan
Overview:
Formerly under Communist rule as a republic of the Soviet Union, Kazakhstan is one of Central Asia’s wealthiest nations because of its vast mineral resources. Islam has experienced a resurgence since the fall of the Soviet Union, and many have returned to what they consider their Muslim heritage, which was restricted for decades by atheistic communism. Today, Kazakhstan emulates its European neighbors, undertaking massive construction projects, enjoying a growing economy and adopting the Latin alphabet used by Western nations.
Major Religion:
52 percent of Kazakhs are Sunni Muslims. The next-largest group includes those who are atheists or non-religious, a legacy of atheistic Communist rule. 15 percent of the population are Christians.
Persecutor:
Christians are persecuted by their families and communities. Churches and Christians outside the Russian Orthodox faith are restricted and harassed by the government through excessive fines, loss of land, and restrictions on teaching children about religion.
What It Means To Follow Christ In Kazakhstan
Christian converts are often disowned by their families and publicly shamed. All religious activities must be registered with the government, and believers are commonly fined for distributing unauthorized religious texts, discussing faith or holding worship meetings. The government allows more freedom to Russian Orthodox Christians, who make up nearly 15 percent of the population, but they are suspicious of Christians outside the Orthodox churches who worship in the native Kazakh language. Unregistered churches must meet in private homes. These gatherings are frequently raided and believers fined.
Access To Bibles:
Bibles are available, but distribution is restricted and they are difficult to obtain outside large cities. Give Bibles
VOM Work:
VOM provides Bibles and supports front-line workers in the most difficult areas. Give to VOM’s Global Ministry
Prayer Requests:
- Pray that Christians like Ali and Ismail, who lost their jobs because of their faith, will experience God's provision.
- Pray that believers in unregistered house churches will continue to meet despite police scrutiny.
- Praise God for front-line workers who find creative ways to reach the next generation with the gospel.
- Pray that Bible distributions will reach beyond the large cities to the most remote areas of the country.
- Pray that Kazakh Christians will step boldly into leadership roles. Use Acts 13:47 as a guide to prayer.