Pray For…Uzbekistan

Stats
•Population – 27,595,000
•Percentage of Evangelicals – 0.3%
•Total Number of People Groups – 67
•Number of Unreached People Groups – 37
•Language Spoken – Uzbek
•Major Religion – Islam
•Human Development Index – 102

In the 19th century, Russia conquered the territory of present-day Uzbekistan. After resistance and the Boshevik Revolution, a socialist republic was established in 1924. Uzbekistan gained its independence in 1991. Though free, the people and land have many struggles that prevent the country from emerging. According to the CIA world factbook, “current concerns include terrorism by Islamic militants, economic stagnation and the curtailment of human rights and democratization”. Uzbekistan is a secular state that promotes a moderate form of Islam. Pressure against religious minorities, including Protestants, has increased recently. This past year, officials cracked down on Christians throughout Uzbekistan. However since 1990 it is estimated that at least 25,000 ethnic Uzbeks are believed to have converted to Christianity. The Church is growing, but our brothers and sisters are meeting in secret and many are being arrested and persecuted.

•The Uzbekistan government relentlessly persecutes the Church. Pray for Christians who are under pressure to betray fellow believers to officials. Pray for God’s strength for those who are persecuted and imprisoned.
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•Uzbek believers steadily grow despite opposition. Pray for quick integration of new Christians into a house church or fellowship so discipleship can take place. Pray for boldness and courage under intense pressure and fear.
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•Pray for the Uzbek government. Pray for genuine change, reform and leadership that demonstrates uprightness and governs for the sake of the people.
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•Pray for the unreached in Uzbekistan, the Karakalpaks and the Tajiks. Less than 0.1% are Christian in these groups. Pray for the availability of the Gospel among these peoples and for many to know Christ.