Hostile
Philippines (Mindanao)
On the island of Mindanao, where Muslim-majority communities dominate the western and southern regions of the island, Islamist groups and the government have engaged in a long-standing conflict over the Islamists’ desire to form an independent Muslim state. Groups such as Abu Sayyaf and Maute have pledged allegiance to the self-proclaimed Islamic State (ISIS) to gain financial help and recruit foreign fighters. Islamic extremists have threatened Christians and driven many out of Muslim-majority areas. Pastors and other believers have been killed in the past. However, a significant number of Christians remain in these areas as they boldly bear witness to Christ.
Major Religion
Most people in the greater Philippines are Christians, but the Mindanao region includes areas with a significant Muslim majority and where Islamic extremism has a strong influence.
Persecutor
In the Mindanao region, Christians are attacked by both Sunni Muslims and communist rebels.
WHAT IT MEANS TO FOLLOW CHRIST IN THE PHILIPPINES
In the western and southern Mindanao region, attacks on Christians are sporadic and unpredictable, creating an environment of constant tension for Christians. Government forces usually respond when conflicts occur, but Christians’ rights are not protected in areas where the government has ceded control to Islamists. Churches are legal, and graduates of Bible schools in the Mindanao region boldly share the gospel in Muslim communities.
Access to Bibles
Bibles are available in cities but are much harder to obtain in remote rural areas. Give Bibles
VOM Work
VOM responds to attacks on Christians in hostile areas of Mindanao. Give to VOM’s Global Ministry
Pray for Philippines (Mindanao)
- Pray that front-line workers will be equipped and encouraged as they respond to attacks on Christians in hostile areas.
- Pray that Christians who remain in Mindanao will be bold and winsome as they live out their faith in Christ.
- Pray that every believer in Mindanao will receive a copy of God's Word.
- Pray for Christians threatened in or driven out of Muslim-dominated areas of Mindanao.
- Pray for wisdom and encouragement for Bible school students who desire to share the gospel in Muslim communities.
