Friends, As we continue to pray for Christians following Jesus in dangerous places, this week we’re praying for our sisters and brothers in Burkina Faso. Over the last few years, Burkina Faso has seen a significant spike in violence against followers of Jesus. The rise of violent Islamist extremists has forced Christians to flee, and even cities that used to be safe are now at risk of attack. Believers living in areas where militant groups are active risk being kidnapped, displaced or worse. Christians have been targeted and killed and churches destroyed. Because of jihadist activity, hundreds of churches have been closed. Additionally, converts from Islam can face more general pressure. Family and community members reject converts and attempt to force them to renounce their faith. Currently, the government only controls about half the country. Christians living in areas controlled by Islamist militants are most likely to face violence and pressure for their faith in Jesus. Though Christians in Burkina Faso have experienced persecution for some time, the situation continues to deteriorate. There have been increased attacks from Islamist extremists, including Jama’a Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin (JNIM), a group that has pledged allegiance to al-Qaeda. Since their goal is to create an Islamic caliphate, these groups regularly target Christians and Christian communities, forcing churches to close and destroying Christian schools. Additionally, the violence has caused severe displacement and food shortages, creating a significant humanitarian crisis in Burkina Faso that is affecting many followers of Jesus. Christians who have been driven from their homes by Islamist extremists face food insecurity, lack of protection and limited governmental or international support. How can we pray for Burkina Faso? - Violence in Burkina Faso has led to a massive displacement crisis. Pray for believers who are displaced by Islamist militants. Ask God to bring them hope and healing. - Pray for believers who have endured violence. Ask God to bind up their wounds. - Pray for church leaders who have been forced to flee their homes and villages – yet still hope to minister to their flocks. Pray that God will encourage and strengthen these shepherds.

Posted by World Methodist Evangelism at 2025-05-15 13:44:01 UTC