Christians cancel Christmas celebrations following threats

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Members of seven churches were prevented from gathering for Christmas worship in Khagrachari district, Bangladesh, following threats from a regional Buddhist political party. On December 19, members of The United People's Democratic Front (UPDF) called a meeting of 50 Buddhists and seven Christians, including a pastor. They threatened the Christians, saying that they would be in "great trouble if they celebrated Christmas in the village and or participate in any other Christian activities." The group members also warned the pastor not to take care of the congregation and ordered him to go back to his previous religion, Buddhism. Members of the UPDF also threatened Buddhist villagers, playing them off against the Christians by telling them that if the Christians celebrated their festival, non-Christian villagers would also be in trouble. Christian converts in the village have faced serious opposition in recent years. While many of them have stood strong in their faith, some have returned to Buddhism under compulsion.

Pray these believers will trust in Christ, relying on the grace of their Saviour amid opposition. Pray the Lord will guard the hearts of believers facing pressure to deny Him. Pray Christians in Bangladesh will be strong witnesses for Jesus and that demonstrations of His love will help to draw others to faith in Him.

You can find out more about Christians suffering for their faith in Bangladesh at the country report at the Bangladesh Country Report.

  • Current Ministry Projects

    The people of Bangladesh are hungry for the Word of God, and in response VOMC is helping to provide Bible training to a group of Christian men who have a strong desire to learn and grow.

    Project Fund: Equipping the Saints

  • Country Information

    Population
    167,184,465 (2023 est.)

    Ethnicity (%)
    Bengali (99), other indigenous ethnic groups (1)

    Religions (%)
    Islam (91), Hinduism (8), other - includes Buddhism and Christianity (1) (2022 est)

    Leader
    President Mohammad Shahabuddin Chuppi (2023)

    Government type
    Parliamentary republic

    Legal system
    Based on English common law and Islamic law.

    Source: CIA World Factboo

  • Pray for Bangladesh

    As the Word of God goes forth in Bangladesh through the Christian radio and television broadcasts, may the "Good News" of the Gospel accomplish mighty things in the lives of all who hear it! Pray that the seeds sown in hearts will take root and bear healthy and lasting fruit, and that the spiritual leaders of this country will be ready and equipped to disciple the resulting influx of new believers.

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Bangladesh News

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    Photo: AsiaNews

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    Photo: VOM USA

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Bangladesh Videos

 
Bangladesh: Christians Face Pressure Within Their Muslim-Majority Communities
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