This year proved a turning point for native Christians living in Attapeu Province of southern Laos. After years of struggle, believers rejoiced as the government now recognizes Christianity as a legitimate religion.

Only five years ago the persecution was severe. Local authorities ordered believers in Attapeu to renounce their faith or be exiled from their villages. Christians were prohibited from using common wells, rice mills and other public facilities. At the beginning of the year 2002, 73 people professed faith in Christ. But by the end of the year, after heavy persecution, only 30 believers remained steadfast.

The following year was no easier. Villagers in Attapeu Province continued to withhold basic resources from Christians. Believers were forced to walk two hours to the nearest city to buy food and supplies. Local officials marked the homes of Christians throughout the province by attaching posters to their front doors.

Persecutors poisoned the believers’ animals and threw rocks at their homes.

The village authorities finally ordered 12 Christian families to leave their village, threatening to burn down their homes if they refused to comply.

In 2004 several missionaries were arrested and imprisoned for one year. Their livestock was confiscated by the village chief. Each missionary was also forced to pay a hefty fine. If they did not pay, the authorities threatened to burn their homes and take over their land.

"Our rice fields and our orchard fields have been taken from us,” reported one native believer. “We are constantly being chased out of our village. We are about to be without homes or a way to earn a living. The authorities threatened to kill our son. They accused him of being a spy."

This year, however, the prayers of many were answered when local authorities officially recognized Christianity in Attapeu. For the first time, Christians are able to legally worship together in churches.

An indigenous ministry assisted by Christian Aid plans to construct one church in each of five villages.

With the freedom to assemble and openly share the gospel, believers are optimistic that the number of Christians in Attapeu will sharply increase. Today, 336 believers gather for worship in the province.

Lao believers ask that fellow believers join them in praying for means to build these five church buildings ($5,000 each).