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Burkina FasoHostile
Christian Persecution in Burkina Faso
Overview:
Burkina Faso has seen a sharp rise in Islamist activity since 2016. Militants linked to the self-proclaimed Islamic State (ISIS) and al-Qaida, who had been largely contained in neighboring Mali and Niger, have crossed porous borders in the north to broaden their influence in the Sahel region. Christians have been a primary target of the Islamists’ campaign since April 2019, when approximately 70 Christians were killed and five churches were attacked. More than 200 churches have reportedly closed in northern and eastern Burkina Faso because of security issues and threat of attack. Islamist activity also has increased in the southwestern part of the country, with more attacks on churches and the murder of several pastors. As many as 10,000 Christians have fled their homes as a result of violence and threats against Christians throughout the country. More than 1.7 million people in total have been displaced by the conflict, adding to an already strained economy amid political uncertainty.
Major Religion:
Just over half of Burkinabe are Muslims.
Persecutor:
The main persecutors are Islamists linked to the al-Qaida and ISIS terrorist groups.
What It Means To Follow Christ In Burkina Faso:
Large churches operate openly in the capital, and until recently even Christians living among Muslims in some villages had freedom to practice their faith. However, attacks against Christians have increased dramatically in recent years, and today, few Christians remain in the northern and southwestern parts of the country.
Access To Bibles:
Bibles in French and the Moore language are readily available in the capital, but few Bibles are available in minority languages. Distribution is difficult because of security issues in the countryside. The literacy rate is less than 35 percent nationwide, and most people would prefer a Bible in a local language such as Fulani. Give Bibles
VOM Work:
VOM is supporting the families of pastors martyred by terrorist groups linked to al-Qaida and ISIS. VOM is also providing aid to numerous displaced Christians who have fled recurring attacks in the northern part of the country. Give to VOM’s Global Ministry
Prayer Requests:
- Pray that God will change the hearts of Islamists, converting them like the Apostle Paul.
- Pray for stability in the region so pastors can continue to reach out and serve their churches.
- Pray that new believers will be able to get their own copy of God's Word.
- Pray that widows will be able to overcome the trauma of seeing their husbands killed.
- Pray that those forced to flee their homes will remain faithful to Christ