Summary

SummaryI’m Ruslan, and for over 16 years I’ve quietly shepherded a small network of secret house churches in rural Central Asia. πŸŒΎπŸ’’ We slip into villages in an old, inconspicuous carβ€”no flashy headlightsβ€”because any sign of Christian activity invites scrutiny. We worship without clapping our hands, gathering as if we’re just sharing tea, so our fellowship remains under the radar. β˜•πŸ™
Yet being known as followers of Jesus here brings daily pressure: discrimination at work, isolation at home, and even opposition when a brother passes away. I still remember when a Christian in our community died, and the local villagers refused to let us bury him. They filled in the grave, and the head of the government warned me, β€œIf you value your life, don’t bury him here.” We had to move to a third village before finding a Christian cemetery. ⚰️🚫
In our own house, our windows were smashed systematicallyβ€”day after day, tinted-window cars would park outside and film us. I received multiple warnings from authorities to stop my ministry entirely. But thanks to Open Doors standing with me, I’ve not been alone. Their supportβ€”spiritual, practical, and prayerfulβ€”has lifted my spirit. When we send out a prayer request, thousands across Europe join us on their knees. That brings me courage, reminding me that even in the darkest nights, I’m part of a vast Christian family. 🌟✝️
Please pray for my travels as I teach rural house churches. Pray for secret believers whose families don’t know they follow Christβ€”may they have wisdom in sharing their faith. And thank God for Open Doors’ provision: Bibles, discipleship training, and microloans so believers can start small businesses. In every broken window and hostile glance, His grace sustains me. πŸ™πŸ’–

In a rural part of Central Asia, Ruslan* has been involved in pastoral ministry for over 16 years. Most Christians there are secret believers and Ruslan must make sure his visits do not raise suspicions.

Open Doors Prayer News 291 (July-August 2022)

Find out more at www.opendoorsuk.org/prayernews

*Name changed for security reasons

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Time Chapters
Β 
00:40 Facing discrimination
01:36 Burial opposition
02:52 Home persecution
03:28 Receiving support
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Open Doors UK & Ireland
Open Doors is an international ministry serving persecuted Christians and churches worldwide. We supply Bibles, leadership training, literacy programmes, livelihood support and advocacy services. We also seek to mobilise the church in the UK & Ireland to serve Christians living under religious persecution.
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