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KyrgyzstanRestricted
Christian Persecution in Kyrgyzstan
Overview:
Kyrgyzstan is a remote mountainous nation with a nomadic tribal culture. It is also one of the poorest former Soviet states in Central Asia. A significant portion of the population has left to work elsewhere, and life in Kyrgyzstan is hard. After decades of Communist rule, most Kyrgyz have returned to their nation’s pre-Communist Islamic cultural identity.
Major Religion:
93 percent of Kyrgyz are Sunni Muslims. 4 percent of the population are Christians.
Persecutor:
Christians are persecuted mostly by family members and their communities, including Muslim religious leaders. Secret police are also known to harass and interrogate believers suspected of evangelism.
What It Means To Follow Christ In Kyrgyzstan
Some churches worship openly, even in small towns, but being a Christian is difficult because of the Islamic culture. Christian converts are commonly beaten, and the small Christian minority is generally oppressed by society. For example, buses will not stop for those known as Christians in small communities, and believers have difficulty getting jobs and even purchasing goods. In some communities, Muslim leaders have denied the burial of deceased Christians.
Access To Bibles:
Bibles are more accessible in Kyrgyzstan than in other Central Asian nations. They can be purchased at registered churches in larger cities, but they are expensive. Give Bibles
VOM Work:
VOM provides medical care to Christians injured in attacks and helps believers become self-supporting. Give to VOM’s Global Ministry
Prayer Requests:
- More than 90% of Kyrgyz are Sunni Muslims. Pray that more Kyrgyz will place their faith in Christ.
- Christian converts from Islam often lose their jobs. Ask God to provide for their needs according to Philippians 4:19.
- Many Kyrgyz work in other countries. Pray that they will hear and respond to the gospel.
- Pray that Christians who are beaten and injured will have access to adequate medical care.
- Bibles are available but expensive in Kyrgyzstan. Pray that everyone who wants a Bible will receive one.