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Somalia
Most Somalis believe that to be Somali is to be Muslim, so those who come to faith in Christ are accused of rejecting not only their religion but also their nationality. After years of drought and civil war, more Somalis live outside Somalia than within its borders, and Somalis often take their Islamist cultural norms with them wherever they go. Therefore, those who faithfully serve Christ or convert from Islam in Somali communities throughout the world face severe persecution regardless of national laws. Even so, the dispersion of Somali people has also created unique opportunities to reach them with the gospel. Somalis are more reachable and open than ever before, and many have chosen to follow Christ, including some who are willing to reach out to other Somalis at any cost.
Major Religion
Nearly all Somalis are Sunni Muslims, and most hold especially radicalized views.
Persecutor
The al-Shabab terrorist organization and other Islamist groups persecute Christians, as do the government, communities and families.
WHAT IT MEANS TO FOLLOW CHRIST IN SOMALIA
There are no church buildings in Somalia, and Christians must exercise extreme care when meeting in groups. It is strictly illegal to convert or evangelize. Christians are actively pursued, and when discovered they are immediately killed. Christians are more likely to be killed by al-Shabab or family members than to be imprisoned by the government. The autonomous region of Somaliland has seen a recent increase in the number of underground Christians being arrested.
Access to Bibles
Bibles are illegal, and it is extremely dangerous to own one. Most believers access digital versions on their phones or other digital devices. Give Bibles
VOM Work
VOM equips believers and supports those who share their faith inside Somalia. VOM also supports media efforts that reach inside the country. Give to VOM’s Global Ministry
Pray for Somalia
- Pray that underground Christians will be discipled and strengthened to follow Christ at any cost.
- Somalis believe that to be Somali is to be Muslim. Pray that they will find their true identity in Christ.
- Pray for Christians who boldly share their faith as nearly all Somalis are Sunni Muslims with radicalized views.
- Pray that Christians will have access to God's Word despite the danger of owning a Bible.
- Pray for Christians who are hunted by Muslim family members or the terrorist organization al-Shabab.
