28. Laos
Region
Asia
Christian population
219 000 (2.8%)
Main relegion
Buddhism
Main threats
•Communist and post - Communist oppression
• Clan oppression
• Dictatorial paranoia
Total score
72%
Pressure
77%
Violence
44.4%
Christians in Laos face intense persecution against the backdrop of authoritarian Communist rule and strongly held ethnic traditions.
The Lao government recognises three churches: one Evangelical group, the Catholic Church, and the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Other Christian groups must operate unofficially. Even among approved groups, an estimated 75% of congregations lack permanent buildings, and baptisms can’t be held publicly, especially in rural areas. Consequently, many Christians are forced to meet underground in “illegal” house churches.
The authorities regard Christianity as a Western religion opposed to Communist ideals. Laos’ growing dependence on China has reinforced its commitment to Communism, adding to the vulnerability of Christians.
In rural areas, traditional practices – which tend to be a mixture of Buddhism and folk religions often supersede national laws. Christians face surveillance, discrimination and violence from communities, village leaders and families. In many cases, believers are deemed to have “upset” spirits, and persecutors respond by destroying their crops and expelling them from the village. Obstruction to burying loved ones in local cemeteries is a common problem for Christians, adding to their grief.
Please pray
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Pray that God will protect house churches in Laos, which are largely unregistered and must often meet secretly.
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Pray that God will help Christian converts in rural Laos to find shelter as they’re expelled from their homes and villages when their faith is discovered.
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Ask God to soften the hearts of the Communist leaders in Laos, so that they would allow people to follow Jesus freely.