A secret baptism in Central Asia

Muhat in Central Asia was disowned and evicted for his new faith in Jesus. But his baptism is a declaration that he is proud to belong to the underground church.

Muhat’s* baptism is the most exciting day of his life. It’s also the most dangerous. He has to get baptised in total secrecy – knowing that, if he were discovered, he could face even worse persecution than he’s already received.

Muhat lives in Central Asia. That’s not his real name and it would be too dangerous to share which Central Asian country he’s in. Like almost everyone in his country, Muhat grew up as a Muslim in a Muslim home. He had no thoughts of leaving his faith until his close friend, Zinnat*, invited him along to an underground church meeting.

A new discovery

Zinnat had recently left Islam to follow Jesus. He hadn’t told Muhat at first, because it had to kept a secret, but Muhat had seen some significant changes in Zinnat’s life. He was now much more respectful to women, and always ready to admit when he was wrong. He spoke about forgiveness and having a close relationship with God. Muhat was intrigued and wanted to know more.

At the underground church meeting, Muhat realised he had lots of questions that no Muslim had ever been able to answer. The Christians seemed to have a real connection with God, and with each other. Muhat kept returning to the group, again and again. And one day, he knew: it’s time to choose. It’s time to give my life to Jesus and become His follower.

Disowned and rejected

It was the start of a new life, but also the start of persecution. At the underground church meetings, persecution had been a regular topic of conversation. Muhat heard how hostile people in their country were to Christians, particularly converts from Islam. But he also saw that it didn’t deter people. One of the group even said: “It is an honour to be persecuted, just like Jesus. Surely it is normal to experience persecution as followers of Jesus!”

When Muhat’s family discovered his secret, they were furious. Muhat’s father was particularly angry. “You are no longer my son,” he told Muhat. “You are no longer worthy to be a son.” Eventually, Muhat was disowned by his family and thrown out of home.

Open Doors local partners have paid for a new home and helped Muhat get a new job. He is heartbroken by his family’s reaction – but he knows he has made the right decision. This baptism is a bold, beautiful act. He is declaring himself forever part of a new family and son of a loving Father. He is the newest member of the underground church – who worship in secret, pray in whispers and courageously follow Jesus no matter the cost.

*Name changed for security reasons