Believers Forced to Pay Village Leader for Being a Christian

The head of Nam Thuam village has set a rule that people in his village cannot become Christian. According to The Voice of the Martyrs' contacts, anyone who converts to Christianity has to pay 500,000 Kip (about $52 U.S.) or their family will be evicted from the village. Three families have accepted Christ and they do not have money to pay the leader of the village. Pray for protection for these families and for other believers in Laos. Psalm 5:11-12

Nine Laotian Pastors Released, Three Still in Prison

Nine of the 11 pastors imprisoned with Pastor Van Thong more than five months ago have been released. Meanwhile, Pastor Van Thong and two other pastors are still in prison. While we rejoice in the release of the nine, pray for the pastors still in prison. Pray the released pastors will continue to boldly share the gospel and for their testimony to draw non-believers into the knowledge of Jesus Christ. Psalm 41:1-2

Seven Families Expelled From Their Homes

On May 15, government authorities expelled seven of 10 Christian families from their village in Laos, and transported them to another village 12 hours away. According to The Voice of the Martyrs' contacts, the authorities told the families, "If you want to continue believing in Jesus' religion, you need to leave this village and go live in a village where there are Christians." The husbands were forced into vehicles while the wives were working in the rice paddies and this has resulted in chaos. The families are separated and are having difficulties adjusting at the new village because their tools, utensils and belongings are at the old village. Pray God gives the families grace and protection as they deal with these hardships. Psalm 91:14-16

Christian Families Forced To Leave their Homes

Constant threats and pressure from authorities have forced five families to leave Nam Heang village. These families are in addition to four that left in February. According to VOM sources, the families recently accepted Christ and are being forced to leave their homes and belongings because of their faith. Their greatest needs are rice and materials to build housing. Pray God will encourage them and protect them. Ask He provides for their needs. Psalm 111:4-5