Prayer points

A local Protestant minister, Shokir Rahmatullayev, was threatened and abused by state police during a raid on his home in Jarkurgan. The Chief of Police was the one responsible for the misconduct against Rahmatullayev. He also threatened to take Rahmatullayev’s mother as a concubine. Pray against the continued and increasing religious intolerance and persecution taking place. Pray for the Christians living in this country, for an anointing of the Holy Spirit in their lives to produce an unhindered boldness to stand in the face of persecution in order to claim Truth to both fellow brothers and sisters in Christ, as well as to those who persecute. (AsiaLink - March 2012)

Churches in Uzbekistan are often shut down and church leaders can be jailed for conducting worship services. Nevertheless, stories have emerged of pastors continuing with their ministry following their release from prison and of churches growing despite harassment by police. Give thanks for the courage of these church leaders and pray that the church in Uzbekistan would grow in number and in faith. (Release International - May 2011)

The Karakalpak region of Uzbekistan is one of the most challenging places in the world to live. The summer heat is overwhelming and vast areas are turning into deserts. Furthermore, the drying-up of the Aral Sea has created an environmental disaster, with wind-borne salt causing serious health problems for local people. Economically, prices are higher than anywhere else in Uzbekistan and there are huge numbers of people without jobs. The Karakalpak people are regarded as a minority within Uzbekistan and Christians often find themselves in a ‘double minority’ - shunned by their families and viewed with suspicion by the wider community. Nevertheless, a glimmer of hope has been offered with the Old Testament books of Genesis, Ruth, Esther and Jonah, now available in the Karakalpak language for the first time. Because of the government sanctions on Christian literature, the books will be distributed on DVD. Pray that through the Bible message the Karakalpak people will find faith in the God who loves them and values them. (Bible Society - September 2010)

Uzbek Christians face many obstacles - singing and preaching in the Uzbek language are prohibited and Uzbek Christian fellowships cannot obtain registration, without which their meetings are illegal. The persecution of Christians in Uzbekistan increased in 2009. In a change of strategy, the authorities broadcast a programme called In the Clutches of Ignorance several times on national television. The programme described Christians as Satanists and even accused them of deceiving children and using drugs and money in order to convert people to Christianity. The impact has been to intimidate Christians as well as promoting anti-Christian attitudes and behaviour. In spite of the persecution, the church in Uzbekistan continues to grow and many Christians are actively looking for ways to reach others with the gospel. (Open Doors - March 2010)