Where Christians are caught in the crossfire

Much has changed this year in Sudan—and it’s not positive. “Christians in Sudan are especially vulnerable and on the receiving end in war times,” says an Open Doors research expert for East Africa. The crisis stems from a power struggle between the National Army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Latest figures show that more than 9,000 people have been killed and nearly 6 million displaced. More than 165 churches have closed and others have been destroyed. Churches have also reported human rights violations such as rape, kidnapping and looting.

All of this comes alongside the oppression experienced by those who have chosen to leave Islam for Christianity. There are concerns that the conflict will give Islamic extremists a renewed foothold in the country, undoing the reforms made by the transitional civilian government which gave more freedom to Christians, including abolishing the apostasy law and removing Islam as the state religion.

More immediately, those who convert to Christianity from Muslim backgrounds continue to face huge dangers. Some will even refrain from telling their children about Jesus, for fear they may inadvertently disclose their parents’ faith to the local community.

Pray for an end to the violence in Sudan and for provision for Christians who have been displaced.