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OmanRestricted
Christian Persecution in Oman
Overview:
The Sultanate of Oman is less restrictive than its neighbors on the Arabian Peninsula. There are a limited number of church buildings, and the few Omani Christians in the country usually meet covertly and carefully discuss their faith because of the risk of persecution from family, community and government.
Major Religion:
Nearly all Omanis are Muslims, including about 70 percent Ibadi Muslims, with the remainder a mix of Sunni and Shiite Muslims.
Persecutor:
Family members and communities pressure those who convert from Islam to Christianity, and the government intervenes if Christian converts become well known or are viewed as a source of shame in their community.
What It Means To Follow Christ In Oman
Leaving Islam is not a criminal act in Oman, but Christian converts can be harassed through legal challenges. There are few Omani believers and the risk of persecution is so high that Christian converts must meet in small groups and use caution in sharing their faith. Foreign Christians are permitted to meet, but they are not allowed to meet in homes or to evangelize Omanis.
Access To Bibles:
The government allows the Bible society to sell Bibles and Christian literature to foreigners inside the country, but not to Omanis. There is only one Christian bookstore, in Oman’s capital, but Omanis can easily access digital and audio Bibles online. Give Bibles
VOM Work:
VOM helps with the training of local believers in evangelism and discipleship. Give to VOM’s Global Ministry
Prayer Requests:
- Pray for a vibrant Christian witness in the country, as nearly all Omanis are Muslims.
- Pray that Christians will find ways to share the gospel secretly and disciple others in this restricted nation.
- Pray that entire households will come to faith in Christ through a family member's faithful witness.
- Pray for Christian converts from Islam who are harassed through legal challenges.
- Pray that digital access to God's Word will thrive among Omanis, who are not allowed to purchase Bibles.