We have shared many stories of persecution and June was no exception for Christians in India. Sadly, the same stories continue.
Once again, Chhattisgarh is in the news, this time from Narayanpur district. A mob reportedly surrounded Christian families and demanded that they leave their homes because of their faith. The police stepped in to prevent further violence, but according to local reports, they assured the mob that these Christians would not gather for prayer or read the Bible. Only then did the mob leave.
It makes you wonder—how long can believers be expected to hide just to pray or read the Bible? Only God knows what the future holds.
As I’m writing this, Grace Church in Raipur is also being demolished. Officials say the lease has expired and that the structure does not have the necessary permissions. Local Christians, however, say these kinds of legal issues are often used to target churches. Members of the church and other believers gathered outside, lit candles, and prayed peacefully.
The president of the Chhattisgarh Christian Forum raised a question many Christians are asking. He pointed out that in another case involving a Hindu temple, the court reportedly ruled against demolition because it would hurt the religious sentiments of Hindus. His question was simple: shouldn’t the religious sentiments of Christians matter as well?
These incidents are part of a much bigger story. Many of these tribal communities first came to know Christ through missionaries who spent decades serving in remote villages. They opened schools, cared for the sick, helped people overcome addiction, and shared the Gospel. They didn’t just preach—they lived among the people and served them.
Many of the believers facing persecution today are people whose lives have been transformed through that work. For them, following Christ is not just a religion. It is the reason they have hope, purpose, and a new life. That is why many refuse to deny Him, even when it comes at a great cost.
Please continue praying for these believers, for the pastors and missionaries serving in these difficult places, and for wisdom, courage, and protection in the days ahead.
