Where Christians are on Extremist “Wanted” Lists

Following Jesus in Yemen continues to be extremely dangerous. Most believers are Yemeni and come from Muslim backgrounds. As conversion from Islam is forbidden by Islamic and state law, Christians risk severe repercussions from their families, the authorities or radical Islamic groups. Yemeni Christians face targeted persecution from government, family and community, and as the influence of more extreme and violent Islamic groups grows, following Jesus becomes even more difficult.

In Yemen, Christians must keep their faith secret. “You cannot reveal that you’re a Christian here,” says one of our contacts inside the region. “You cannot have an identity as a Christian. You cannot have a church. You cannot get your birth certificate, which makes every Yemeni a Muslim. You cannot get married [if you’re a Christian]. It’s impossible to live as a Christian.”

It’s also very difficult for Christians to come together. They only gather with Christians they have already known for a long time to avoid being betrayed. And the humanitarian crisis caused by Yemen’s 10-year civil war has also exacerbated the pressure on believers. While some relief aid is available, this is mostly distributed through local Muslim groups and mosques, which some claim discriminate against anyone not considered a devout Muslim.

Pray for strength and protection for believers living in areas where they are at risk from Islamic militant groups. Pray for courage to share their faith, and that the underground church will grow.