25 prayer alerts

Pray for the Persecuted Church

A prayer list for Christians who suffer for following Jesus — and for the answers God is already giving. Every prayer below comes from one of our sourced prayer alerts, newest first. Pray one a day, or pray through them all.

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01IranNov 5, 2026
Answered Prayer in Iran: A House-Church Convert Pardoned — While a Grandmother Faces 13 Years
Iranian convert Hannah Gholami was pardoned in an amnesty — an answered prayer — but grandmother Lida Alexani faces 13 years and her pastor husband 16, and women in Evin Prison are being denied visits and Bibles.
Father, thank You for Hannah's freedom and for Mahshar's leave. Sustain Lida and Pastor Joseph as their family is separated again. Restore visits, medicine and Bibles to the women of Evin. Protect Elnaz and Sohrab in exile, and let the house churches of Iran keep trusting and obeying Jesus. Amen.
“But God's word is not chained.” — 2 Timothy 2:9 (NIV)
Today: Thank God by name for Hannah Gholami's release.
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02Zliten, LibyaNov 5, 2026
Young Coptic Deacon Reportedly Killed by IS in Libya After Refusing to Deny Jesus
Milad Malak, a 20-year-old Coptic deacon from Egypt, was reportedly killed by IS in Libya after days of pressure and torture to renounce his faith — refusing, as the 21 martyrs of Libya did in 2015.
Lord Jesus, Milad would not deny You. Comfort his family in Sebarbay, and let his witness speak to his friends and even to those who killed him. Strengthen Egypt's Coptic Christians, protect workers far from home, and let this seed bear much fruit. Amen.
“Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor's crown.” — Revelation 2:10 (NIV)
Today: Pray for Milad Malak's family and church in Sebarbay, Egypt.
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03Hong KongNov 5, 2026
Christian Activist Joshua Wong Sentenced to 10 More Years in Hong Kong
Christian activist Joshua Wong, due for release in January 2027, has been sentenced to 10 more years under Hong Kong's national security law and now faces prison until late 2036.
Lord, strengthen Joshua Wong for the years ahead. Guard his faith, his mind and his body, and let him know he is not forgotten. Comfort his family. Protect Your church in Hong Kong and across China, and bring freedom and justice. In Jesus' name, amen.
“Remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison.” — Hebrews 13:3 (NIV)
Today: Pray for Joshua Wong by name this week.
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04PakistanNov 4, 2026
Pakistan's Blasphemy Cases Have Dropped Sharply. Christians Say the Danger Hasn't Gone
Registered blasphemy cases in Pakistan fell sharply in 2026 after a crackdown on hardline groups, but the laws are unchanged and Christians say a single accusation can still destroy a family.
Lord, thank You that fewer families in Pakistan have been torn apart by false accusations this year. Let this become lasting change. Protect Christians in poor and rural communities, free those wrongly imprisoned, give courage to those working for reform, and turn hearts from hatred to Your peace. Amen.
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute.” — Proverbs 31:8 (NIV)
Today: Thank God for the drop in blasphemy cases — and pray it lasts.
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05Taybeh, West BankNov 4, 2026
Taybeh, the West Bank's Only Christian Village, Is Losing Its People, Its Priest Warns
Taybeh's parish priest says about 10% of the West Bank Christian village's 1,200 people have left in three years amid settler attacks and movement restrictions — part of a wider Christian exodus from the Middle East.
Lord, protect the people of Taybeh — their homes, their land, their church and their children. Give Father Bashar strength, give the families who remain hope, and bring justice and peace to the land where Your Son walked. Do not let Your church disappear from the Holy Land. Amen.
“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: May those who love you be secure.” — Psalm 122:6 (NIV)
Today: Pray for Taybeh's families by name: safety, access to their land and hope to stay.
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06WorldwideOct 29, 2026
Persecution Worsened in 10 of 18 Countries — and Improved in None, ACN's 2026 Report Finds
ACN's 2026 Persecuted and Forgotten? report found conditions for Christians worsened in 10 of 18 countries — including China, Nigeria and Pakistan — and improved in none, with a "mass exodus" from conflict zones in Africa and Asia.
Lord Jesus, You have overcome the world. We lift up the millions of Christians driven from their homes — in Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Syria and beyond — and those imprisoned in China, Iran and Nicaragua. Shelter the displaced, free the captives, protect the girls of Pakistan, and give Your church courage to remain. Amen.
“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” — John 16:33 (NIV)
Today: Choose one of the 18 countries and pray for it every day this week.
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07Oromia, EthiopiaOct 29, 2026
More Than 60 Christians Killed in Two Attacks in Ethiopia's Oromia Region
At least 60 people were killed in attacks on Christians in Ethiopia's Oromia region — 14 in Merti on 20 October and 46 in Shirka on 24 October — according to the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church. The attackers have not been identified.
Father, we grieve with the families of Merti and Shirka. Comfort the children and parents who lost loved ones, shelter those who have fled, protect the Christian villages of Oromia, and bring those responsible to justice. Strengthen Your ancient church in Ethiopia. In Jesus' name, amen.
“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain.” — Revelation 21:4 (NIV)
Today: Pray for the families of the victims in Merti and Shirka districts.
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08IndiaOct 26, 2026
Three Signs of Hope for India's Christians: Goa Shelves Its Bill, Rajasthan Frees 13, a Court Questions Chhattisgarh's Law
In one week, Goa parked its anti-conversion bill, 13 Christians jailed after a Rajasthan worship convention were freed on bail, and Chhattisgarh's High Court challenged the state's law — answered prayers, but not the end of the story.
Father, thank You for the 13 believers in Rajasthan who are home with their families, for Goa's bill being set aside and for the Chhattisgarh High Court's scrutiny. Strengthen the house churches that have stopped meeting out of fear. Give India's leaders wisdom and justice, and let Your church be salt and light. In Jesus' name, amen.
“So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.” — Acts 12:5 (NIV)
Today: Thank God by name for the 13 believers released in Rajasthan.
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09Karak, JordanOct 23, 2026
Gunmen Kill Nine at a Christian Funeral in Jordan
Gunmen killed nine and wounded nearly 40 at a funeral at a Greek Orthodox church in Karak, Jordan — a rare attack on Christians in a country known for coexistence. Jordan calls it terrorism; the investigation continues.
Lord Jesus, You are the resurrection and the life. Comfort the families of the nine killed in Karak who came to mourn and now mourn again. Heal the wounded. Protect Jordan's Christians, bring the attackers to justice, and preserve the peace of that land. Let Your church answer hatred with faith and love. Amen.
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18 (NIV)
Today: Pray for the families of the victims and the injured in Karak.
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10Cartagena, Bolívar, ColombiaOct 20, 2026
Colombian Pastor Beaten to Death by Gang Members He Preached To
Pastor Jesús Alberto Puerta Pérez preached to the gangs of Cartagena — and was beaten to death by members of one after refusing to let them use his motorcycle for drugs. He leaves three young children. CSW counts at least 10 Protestant leaders killed in Colombia in a year.
Lord, comfort the wife and three children of Pastor Jesús Alberto Puerta Pérez, and provide for them. Strengthen La Antorcha Encendida Church. Bring justice in Cartagena and protection for pastors across Colombia. And reach the young men on those streets with the gospel he gave his life to share. In Jesus' name, amen.
“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful servants.” — Psalm 116:15 (NIV)
Today: Pray for Pastor Puerta's wife and children by name this week.
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11Nadia district, West Bengal, IndiaOct 20, 2026
Mob of 200 Attacks Santhali Bible Convention in India's West Bengal
A mob of about 200 with bricks and bamboo sticks attacked a Bible convention of more than 2,000 Santhali Christians in West Bengal on 9 October, injuring several and ending the gathering early. Church bodies are calling for investigation and protection.
Lord, heal the believers injured in Jalalkhali and comfort the Santhali Christians whose gathering was attacked. Protect churches across West Bengal and India. Bring justice, soften hostile hearts, and give Your people boldness and love. In Jesus' name, amen.
“Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness.” — Acts 4:29 (NIV)
Today: Pray for Santhali Christians in West Bengal.
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12Irapuato, Guanajuato, MexicoOct 17, 2026
Calvary Chapel Pastor and His Wife Shot Dead Outside Their Home in Mexico
Pastor Ángel González and his wife Irán Montes were shot dead outside their Irapuato home after a wake; a suspect is detained, and no motive is confirmed. Their two teenagers and their church need prayer.
Father, we grieve with Matthew and Dorothy, who lost their mother and father in one night. Hold them close, provide for them and surround them with Your people. Comfort the congregation of Calvary Chapel Irapuato. Let justice be done, and protect pastors across Mexico who serve in dangerous places. In Jesus' name, amen.
“A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling.” — Psalm 68:5 (NIV)
Today: Pray for Matthew and Dorothy by name this week.
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13Chin and Kachin States, MyanmarOct 17, 2026
Myanmar's Military Bombs a Church in Chin State and Burns Another in Kachin
Myanmar's military bombed a Presbyterian church in Chin State on 9 October and burned a Kachin Baptist church three days later. Both states are majority Christian — the fruit of a mission that began two centuries ago.
Lord, we pray for the Presbyterian congregation in Mindat and Htingnan Kachin Baptist Church in Banmaw, and for the families whose homes were burned. Shelter them, provide for them and comfort them. Bring an end to the violence in Myanmar and justice for those who suffer. Build Your church in Chin and Kachin States beyond the reach of bombs and fire. In Jesus' name, amen.
“Rise up, O God, and defend your cause.” — Psalm 74:22 (NIV)
Today: Pray for the congregations in Mindat and Banmaw by name.
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14MalaysiaOct 15, 2026
The Double Life of Malay Christians: Faith That Can't Be Written Down
Malaysia's constitution defines Malays as Muslim, so Malay Christians can't be baptised, married or buried as Christians — and risk 'rehabilitation' if exposed. They live a double life, and they ask the church to remember them.
Father, You know those who are Yours, even when no record does. Protect Deborah, Lukas and every Malay believer living in secret. Give them trusted fellowship, courage and wisdom. Comfort the families of Joshua Hilmy and Raymond Koh. Open the way for Malays who follow Jesus to do so freely. In Jesus' name, amen.
“The Lord knows those who are his.” — 2 Timothy 2:19 (NIV)
Today: Pray for Malay believers who cannot be baptised.
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15Morang District, NepalOct 14, 2026
Nepal Arrests 24 South Korean Christians at a Bible College
Twenty-four South Korean Christians were arrested at a Bible college in Nepal over "illegal religious teaching" — though the principal says they were only meeting believers inside the college. The case tests how far Nepal's anti-conversion law reaches.
Lord, we pray for the 24 South Korean believers arrested in Morang District and for their families. Grant them favour, protection and a just outcome. Strengthen the staff and students of Nepal New Covenant College and every Nepali believer living under anti-conversion laws. Your word is not chained. In Jesus' name, amen.
“This is my gospel, for which I am suffering even to the point of being chained like a criminal. But God's word is not chained.” — 2 Timothy 2:8–9 (NIV)
Today: Pray for the 24 visitors and their families in South Korea.
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16Camagüey, CubaOct 13, 2026
Cuban Pastor Jailed After Calling Christians to Pray — While His Daughter Is in Hospital
Ordered to cancel a stadium prayer gathering, Pastor Maikel Pupo complied — and was arrested the next day while telling people it was off. He is in prison on a disobedience charge while his teenage daughter is in hospital for heart treatment.
Lord, we lift up Pastor Maikel Pupo Velázquez in La Cerámica Roja prison. Strengthen him, protect him, and bring him home. Heal his daughter's heart and comfort his wife and family. Bless Sacred Blessing Word of Fire Church and every believer in Cuba who keeps praying for their nation. Soften the hearts of those in authority. In Jesus' name, amen.
“The Lord hears the needy and does not despise his captive people.” — Psalm 69:33 (NIV)
Today: Pray for Pastor Maikel Pupo and his 16-year-old daughter by name this week.
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17Lahore, PakistanOct 13, 2026
Pakistan's Supreme Court Upholds Christian's Death Sentence — and Frees His Brother
After 16 years, Pakistan's Supreme Court freed Amoon Ayub but upheld his brother Qaiser's death sentence under the blasphemy law. His lawyers are asking the court to reconsider.
Father, thank You for Amoon Ayub's release after sixteen years, and for Huma's faithfulness. We cry out for Qaiser Ayub: preserve his life, strengthen his faith, and give wisdom and favour to his lawyers as they ask the court to reconsider. Protect Christians in Pakistan from false accusation and violence. In Jesus' name, amen.
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute.” — Proverbs 31:8 (NIV)
Today: Pray for Qaiser Ayub by name, and for the revision petition.
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18Sichuan Province, ChinaOct 12, 2026
Prayer Alert: Health Fears for Pastor Wang Yi as China Renews Pressure on Early Rain Church
Nearly seven years into a nine-year sentence, Pastor Wang Yi is reported to be seriously ill, with little access to his family — and his church members, many of them elderly, are still being detained for reading the Bible together.
Lord, we lift up Pastor Wang Yi. Heal his body, strengthen his heart, and give him the care he needs. Comfort his wife and son. Protect the members of Early Rain Covenant Church — especially the elderly believers detained for meeting together. Let the gospel advance in China through their faithfulness, and bring Wang Yi home. In Jesus' name, amen.
“So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.” — Acts 12:5 (NIV)
Today: Pray Acts 12:5 for Pastor Wang Yi daily this week.
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19Barkin Ladi and Riyom, Plateau State, NigeriaOct 7, 2026
Shot Walking to Church: Pastor Among Those Killed as Plateau State Imposes Curfew
A pastor shot walking to Sunday service, five labourers ambushed on the road, at least nine dead in one weekend — and a state curfew after more than 20 deaths in 48 hours. Plateau's violence rarely makes headlines because it never stops long enough to become one.
Lord, we grieve with the families in Barkin Ladi and Riyom — for the pastor and his companion shot on their way to worship You, for the labourers killed on the road, for every burned home. Comfort the churches of Plateau State. Bring the attackers to justice and, by Your grace, to repentance. Give wisdom and courage to those charged with protecting these communities. Let Your church stand firm and not be forgotten. In Jesus' name, amen.
“Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.” — Hebrews 13:3 (NIV)
Today: Pray Hebrews 13:3 for the churches of Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Bokkos and Mangu this week.
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20China; Washington, D.C.Oct 2, 2026
Eight Zion Church Leaders Still in Prison as Advocates Say China's Christians Went Unmentioned
Eight Zion Church leaders remain imprisoned and advocates cite 200+ church leaders held in China. Raising cases at the highest level has helped before — which is why advocates were disappointed it didn't happen this time.
Father, we remember the eight leaders of Zion Church, Pastor John Cao in his illness, and every believer imprisoned in China for following You. Sustain them, comfort their families, and give them boldness and peace. Move the hearts of those with power to release them. Amen.
“Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.” — Hebrews 13:3 (NIV)
Today: Pray this week for the eight Zion Church leaders and Pastor John Cao by name.
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21Central NigeriaSep 23, 2026
A Pastor Killed, a Reporter Under Fire: Nigeria's Daily Attrition
Nigeria is not a crisis that will resolve into a single headline — it is attrition, which is exactly the kind of suffering the world stops watching. The church's job is to keep looking.
Lord, we bring You a pastor, a church worker, and a son fighting for his life. We bring You five from the day before, and thirty-one from Plateau State, and a three-month-old child. Comfort the families who buried them. Protect Masara Kim and every reporter documenting this. Restrain violent men. Bring them to repentance or to justice. And keep our eyes open when it would be easier to look away. Amen.
“They called out in a loud voice, 'How long, Sovereign Lord, holy and true, until you judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?'” — Revelation 6:10 (NIV)
Today: Put Nigeria on your church's prayer list weekly — not occasionally, weekly. Attrition needs persistent prayer.
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22Mexico, Myanmar, Venezuela, Cuba, India and NigeriaSep 15, 2026
Worship at Any Cost: Believers Gather Under Pressure Across Six Nations
Persecuted believers do not need to be romanticized; they ask to be remembered through specific prayer, practical partnership and faithful attention.
Lord Jesus, strengthen Your people who worship under pressure. Protect pastors, families and displaced communities. Heal trauma, provide safe places to gather and give believers courage without forcing them to hide their pain. Teach us to remember them faithfully. Amen.
“About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.” — Acts 16:25 (NIV)
Today: Choose one of the six named settings and pray its specific requests for seven days.
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23NepalSep 8, 2026
Nepal Floods: Churches Grieve, Serve and Ask the Global Body of Christ to Pray
In a changing disaster, responsible Christian response holds numbers humbly, follows trusted local sources and joins prayer to practical, long-term presence.
Father, have mercy on Nepal. Comfort families who have lost loved ones and strengthen those searching for the missing. Protect rescue workers, pastors and relief teams. Open safe routes for supplies, guard communities from further flooding and disease, and help Your Church serve every neighbour with courage and compassion. Amen.
“Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” — 1 John 3:18 (NIV)
Today: Read the linked Open Doors field report for the latest figures before sharing statistics.
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24United StatesSep 4, 2026
From 29,000 to Zero: Persecuted Christian Refugee Admissions Collapse
The door that let persecuted believers reach safety has effectively closed this year. The persecuted church's first request is not rescue — it is to be remembered, prayed for, and spoken up for.
Lord, we lift up every believer tonight who has nowhere left to run. You are the refuge that no policy can close. Comfort those who have been waiting years for a door that did not open. Give courage to Ryan Brown, to Pastor Torosian, and to everyone advocating for the forgotten. Move the hearts of those in authority. And make Your church loud on behalf of those who cannot speak. Amen.
“Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.” — Hebrews 13:3 (NIV)
Today: Pray by name for the persecuted church in Nigeria, Iran, Afghanistan and North Korea this week.
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25Mar 7, 2026
24/7 Prayer House Transforms Crime-Ridden City in 18 Months
Prayer is not passive — it is the most powerful force available to believers. When God's people pray with persistence and faith, cities are transformed.
Lord, we cry out for our cities. We stand in the gap for the places where darkness has taken hold. Raise up prayer warriors in every city, every neighborhood, every street. Let Your Kingdom come and Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Heal our land. Amen.
“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” — 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV)
Today: Start or join a prayer group in your city
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