Laos

Key Facts:

Leader:
President Sayasone
Population:
5.9 million (2% Christian)
Majority Religion:
Buddhism
Type of Government:
Communist state

Christians in this desperately poor communist state are shown two faces by the government. In some places, restrictions on believers are being relaxed. In other areas, local government closely monitors church activity. Christians are considered enemies of the state, churches have been closed, and church leaders placed under surveillance. In July 2007 there was a major crackdown against believers in one village. Houses were raided, dozens were arrested, and 13 Christians were killed.

Prayer

• Pray that the Church would remain focused on the Lord and not change its message to suit the state.
• Pray for the government as it tries to raise awareness of its constitutional pledge of religious freedom among local officials.
• Remember those who are in jail. It is estimated that 21 Christians are being held without trial.