This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.

1 John 5:14

Bangladesh is currently experiencing widespread protests due to the political situation, causing turmoil and challenges. Since last month the death toll due to protests is over 500, with many more deaths unaccounted for due to religious persecution. As part of the global body of Christ, we urgently request your prayers for Bangladesh to overcome this crisis and for the safety of OM teams in Bangladesh. Please join us in prayer.

Background Information:

In July 2024, Bangladesh was plunged into a severe political crisis marked by widespread protests. They were fueled by deep-seated grievances against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government, which was accused of quota discrimination in government jobs, corruption, human rights abuses and unfair electoral practices. Tensions escalated dramatically when security forces were deployed, leading to killings, arbitrary mass arrests and enforced disappearances of protesters.

On August 5th, amid growing unrest and violent clashes that resulted in hundreds of deaths, Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country. This led to the establishment of an interim government, headed by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. The interim government faces the immense challenge of restoring stability and preparing for new elections while addressing the human rights violations.

OM Workers in Bangladesh:

While all OM team members and partners in Bangladesh are safe, they are deeply shaken by the violence, exhausted and increasingly worried about the country’s future. The country’s minorities have faced significant persecution, with their homes vandalized and many people killed.

Two Muslim-background believers working with OM had their homes vandalized and are now displaced. Additionally, as the protesters were on their way back, they entered one of the team member’s home, broke into the garage, and destroyed his car.

Please join us in praying that lawlessness will subside, chaos will diminish and true peace will take root in this nation, in Jesus’ name. Pray that religious freedom will be maintained and that fundamentalist Islamic groups can be kept at bay in Bangladesh.

HERE ARE A FEW PRAYER POINTS FOR BANGLADESH:

• Pray for the interim leaders of Bangladesh.
• Pray for the situation to be a seedbed for the Good News of God´s grace.
• Pray for Jesus followers to use their influence and regard the situation of the poor.
• Pray for justice and good judges to deal with the violence and injustice during the past 3 weeks of protests.
• Pray for Prof. Yunus and his health – he is 84 years old.
• Pray for religious freedom.
• Pray for Jesus to be exalted in Bangladesh.
• Pray for hope for the youth and real chances for their future (about 40% of them are without jobs and/or education).
• Pray for the nation to humbly ask for and receive forgiveness.

Thank you for standing with us during this turbulent and dangerous time!