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SomaliaRestricted
Christian Persecution in Somalia
Overview:
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, with especially radicalized Islamist 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 extremely dangerous to own. 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
Prayer Requests:
- Pray that children of Somali Christians will grow strong and wise in faith.
- Pray for believers who are isolated and unable to fellowship with other Christians.
- Pray for media ministries reaching Somali people around the world.
- Pray that the Lord will soften the hearts of government leaders toward Christians.
- Pray that Somali believers will be able to remain in the country and share the gospel.
- Pray for unity among Somali believers and those working with them.
- Pray for the families of Somali believers who have been killed for their faith.
- Pray for Christians recently arrested in Somaliland, and pray also for their families.
- Pray that Somali youth who have become disillusioned with Islam will seek and find the Truth.
- Pray for the establishment of open, visible Somali churches in Africa.