Christian persecution remains high in Sudan

Christian persecution remains high in Sudan

KHARTOUM, Sudan — A depleting pool of clergy has not stopped Christian work in Sudan. A local pastor identified only as James told Mission Network News that the Church in Sudan is still strong despite escalating persecution in the Islamic-majority country, including the killing and jailing of church leaders and the destruction of church buildings.

James added that “some foreigners were deported from Khartoum” and “the pastors who shared the Bible and teach the Bible, they are few.” James said that while Christians and Muslims live peacefully together, the government’s agenda is to make Sudan a one-religion nation under Islam. He believes big challenges await pastors such as himself who refuse to back down from preaching the gospel.

In June several evangelical leaders — including Russell Moore, president of the Southern Baptist Convention’s Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission, and Franklin Graham of Samaritan’s Purse relief organization — signed a letter to U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson speaking out against the treatment of believers in Sudan.

James urged Christians around the world not to forget and to pray for the believers in Sudan, asking God to strengthen and encourage them. He also called for prayers for unbelievers in the country to turn to Jesus.

Sudan ranks 5th on Open Doors’ World Watch List of countries where Christians experience the worst persecution. (TAB)