How can we ensure there is a church within walking distance of everyone in the world?

We must be patient. We must be steadfast. Most importantly, we must pray.

Thousands of indigenous people groups exist around the world, each with their own unique history and culture. While some have heard the Gospel, there is still much work needing to be done. Many of these people face persecution, especially those who have converted to Christianity. A strong church provides hope, safety and support for these new Christians, and spreads the Gospel to others.

As the Global Church Developer, our mission is to equip our indigenous partners with resources they need to plant churches, disciple believers and provide refuge. Without you, we could not accomplish that mission. Each month, we highlight some of those groups that may be blessed by ICM and our partners.

Please take time each month to pray for them as our work continues, and reflect on your own spiritual journey with the Lord. We pray each month’s post is a blessing to you. We thank you for your endless support.

All Scripture references come from the New Living Translation (NLT). Joshua Project used for Profile resource and stats.

People Within Reach: ROHINGYA

Located in Myanmar and Bangladesh

The Rohingya are a Muslim people group who claim their ancestral home in Myanmar’s Rahkine State. Culturally similar to other ethnic groups in the region, Rohingya men wear long-sleeved tops and collarless jackets, while the women wear hijab, or headscarves. Because they refuse to adhere to Buddhist customs, however, Myanmar’s government has denied their citizenship and subjected them to ethnic cleansing. Since 2017, an estimated 700,000 Rohingya have fled for their lives to refugee camps in neighboring Bangladesh.

ICM ministry partners in these two countries are working to share the Gospel with the Rohingya. However, the Rohingya’s current living conditions and their status as illegal immigrants make the work exceptionally difficult.

Rohingya At a Glance

Population: 1.4 million
Language: Rohingya
Main Religion: Islam
Christian: 0.5%*

Reflection Questions

Consider a time when you may have volunteered your time and your talents.

• Was it at an animal shelter? A homeless shelter?
• Did you prepare a meal for a family who was hungry?
• How did this act of generosity make you feel?

Remember that service is not for your own glory, but it is for the glory of God. Reflect on how you can serve others this month.

Prayer Requests

• Pray that the Rohingya can find healing in Christ.
• Pray for the ICM ministry partners who are working to reach the Rohingya.
• Pray that God will make a way for the Rohingya to return home and live in peace.
• Pray for those living in refugee camps, that God will provide food, income, and clothes.
• Pray for the minds and hearts of the Rohingya to receive the Good News of Jesus.

“O Lord, if you heal me, I will be truly healed; if you save me, I will be truly saved.”—Jeremiah 17:14a