29. Democratic Republic of the Congo
Region
Africa
Christian population
104 159 000 (95.5%)
Main relegion
Christianity
Main threats
• Islamic oppression
• Organised corruption and crime
In the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Christians face severe persecution amid violent conflict. The Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) – religious extremists with ties to the Islamic State group – have deliberately targeted Christian communities through massacres, abductions and the destruction of churches. Survivors report atrocities that are intended to eradicate the Christian presence.
Christian converts endure social rejection, pressure to recant their faith, and exclusion from inheritance and community life. Refusal to perform traditional rites often results in intimidation.
Meanwhile, Catholic and Protestant church leaders who speak against state corruption or advocate for constitutional rights risk threats, surveillance and harassment. Church activities are disrupted, and clergy are publicly vilified. This contributes to a climate of fear in which calls for justice are systematically silenced.
Total score
72%
Pressure
66.5%
Violence
96.7%
Please pray
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Pray for peace, and that stability would come to the country as they faced another year of horrific violence.
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Ask God to give believers courage and hope, even when life seems impossible.
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Pray that the hearts of Islamic militants would be turned to Jesus and that the peace and joy of the Lord would replace their crusade of hatred.