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GlobalPrayerGuide

Qatar
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Overview:

Qatar had built a reputation for economic development and participation in the world economy, but most Arab countries severed diplomatic relations with the country in 2017, accusing it of supporting terrorist groups. The few Qatari believers living inside the country must use extreme caution when gathering for worship, while Christians who are not citizens must worship in a government-controlled compound that is closed to Qatari citizens. About 65 percent of the country’s population is composed of foreign workers — mostly Filipinos, Indians and Lebanese — including many who are Christians. Foreign Christians in Qatar have been deported for evangelistic activities among native Qataris.

Major Religion:

Nearly all Qatari nationals are Muslim, and most are Sunni Muslim. Foreign Christians working inside Qatar make up 6 percent of the country’s population.

Persecutor:

The government and the community persecute those who evangelize and those who leave Islam.

What It Means To Follow Christ In Qatar

Converting to Christianity means losing everything, and the small number of Qatari believers must gather covertly for teaching or worship. Although sharing the gospel with Muslims is strictly forbidden, some Christians still take great risks to evangelize Qatari citizens.

Access To Bibles:

Qataris can easily access the Bible through the internet, and some travel to Bahrain to purchase Bibles. It is not illegal to own a Bible, but Qataris take significant risks to own or distribute one. Give Bibles

VOM Work:

VOM provides support to Christian converts from Islam. Give to VOM’s Global Ministry

Prayer Requests:

  • Praise God for Qatari Christians who faithfully share the gospel with Muslim neighbors.
  • Qataris who own and distribute Bibles are at great risk. Pray for their protection.
  • Pray that Christians in the large expatriate community will faithfully share the gospel with their Qatari neighbors.
  • Becoming a Christian in Qatar is costly. Pray that new believers who suffer loss will find joy in the Lord.
  • Pray that Qatari Christians will find fellowship and opportunities to worship regularly.