Bangladesh

Leader: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina
Population: 162.2 million (1.4 million Christians)
Main Religion: Islam
Government: Parliamentary Democracy
World Watch Rank: 47

Conversion to Christianity is still the most shameful act for a Muslim in this country. New Christians are often alienated from family, expelled from their communities or pressured to revert to Islam. Often, they and their families are beaten and authorities deny them due process of law. Growing local congregations attract opposition from underground terrorist groups and Muslim neighbours. In August, a convert was falsely arrested because of his Christian activities. The son of another convert was kidnapped in June.

Please Pray:

• For the expanding literacy programme as it reaches rural believers and unbelievers
• For abused women in rural villages, including the wives and daughters of Muslim-background believers
• Copies of the Bible Storybook are being distributed to children and semi-literate adults. Pray that they will grow in their understanding of God.