VIETNAM: Increased Persecution of Christians

According to a report by Human Rights Watch (HRW), the Vietnamese government has intensified its repression of the Montagnards (mountain people), the indigenous minority Christian community in the Central Highland provinces. According to the report, the crackdown came in response to the Montagnards' calls for religious freedom and land rights.

The Vietnamese government does not regard the Montagnards as a legitimate religious group but rather as a cover for an independence movement.

Montagnards who have fled Vietnam told HRW of arrests, imprisonments, torture and severe beatings.

HRW's deputy Asia director, Phil Robertson, said, "Montagnards face harsh persecution in Vietnam, particularly those who worship in independent house churches, because the authorities don't tolerate religious activity outside their sight or control."

[Source: Christian Today]

Please pray for God's protection of the Montagnard Christians. Pray that the harassment and repression inflicted on them by the government will increase their boldness rather than cause them to become fearful. Pray that the government leaders will come to trust in Christ as their personal Lord and Savior.

"The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs - heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together." Romans 8:16-17

VOM provides assistance to Vietnamese believers by providing Bibles, shortwave radios, Christian literature and support for families of prisoners.

A Voice of the Martyrs Volunteer