North Korea
Still the most difficult place in the world to be Christian, ranked #1 on the World Watch List for 10 years running. All religious activity is seen as a revolt against North Korea’s socialist principles and the cult of Kim Jong-il and his father. As a result of strict searches, considerable numbers of secret Christians have been discovered, arrested, tortured, and sometimes killed. Despite this, and the lack of freedom to worship, many take the risk of sharing their faith and the church is growing; there are an estimated 400,000 believers.
Examples of Persecution:
- A Christian house church was discovered by authorities, with 23 Christians. Three of them were immediately sentenced to death because of the meeting. The other 20 were sent to labour camp.
- It is estimated that between 50,000 and 70,000 Christians suffer in prison camps because of their faith. People rarely get out alive.
Open Doors is: distributing Bibles and other materials and providing emergency aid.
Please Pray:
- For boldness and protection for those seeking to share the good news
- Ask God to strengthen the 50–70,000 Christians detained in labor camps
- Many are desperately short of food. Pray that help will reach those who need it most