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KazakhstanRestricted
Christian Persecution in Kazakhstan
Overview:
Formerly under Communist rule as a republic of the Soviet Union, Kazakhstan is one of Central Asia’s wealthiest nations because of its vast mineral resources. Islam has experienced a resurgence since the fall of the Soviet Union, and many have returned to what they consider their Muslim heritage, which was restricted for decades by atheistic communism. Today, Kazakhstan emulates its European neighbors, undertaking massive construction projects, enjoying a growing economy and adopting the Latin alphabet used by Western nations.
Major Religion:
52 percent of Kazakhs are Sunni Muslims. The next-largest group includes those who are atheists or non-religious, a legacy of atheistic Communist rule. 15 percent of the population are Christians.
Persecutor:
Christians are persecuted by their families and communities. Churches and Christians outside Russian Orthodoxy are restricted and harassed by the government through excessive fines, loss of land, and restrictions on teaching children about religion.
What It Means To Follow Christ In Kazakhstan
Christian converts are often disowned by their families and publicly shamed. All religious activities must be registered with the government, and believers are commonly fined for distributing unauthorized religious texts, discussing faith or holding worship meetings. The government allows more freedom to Russian Orthodox Christians, who make up nearly 15 percent of the population, but they are suspicious of Christians outside the Orthodox churches who worship in the native Kazakh language. Unregistered churches must meet in private homes, and the process to register a church gets more difficult daily.
Access To Bibles
Bibles are available, but distribution is restricted, and they are difficult to obtain outside large cities. Give Bibles
VOM Work
VOM provides Bibles and supports front-line workers in the most difficult areas. Give to VOM’s Global Ministry
Prayer Requests:
- Pray that officially "de-registered" churches will still be able to worship and fellowship.
- Using Isaiah 41:10 as a guide, pray that Kazakh Christians will be strengthened to serve the Lord without fear.
- Pray for Pastor Zanzhar, who was fined for continuing to minister after his church was "de-registered."
- Pray for Samal's Muslim brother Arman, who attacked her. When she forgave him, he was willing to hear the gospel.
- Pray for Kazakh Christians who have been disowned by their families for rejecting Islam and turning to Christ.