16Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso has experienced a broad collapse in state authority. This insecurity has led to Islamic extremists being able to dominate areas of the country and freely commit violence. These groups are able to rule as a form of quasi-government with little opposition. Extremist religious leaders encourage communities to be hostile towards Christians.

Due to this, churches have been forced to close and have been burned, and Christian homes and businesses have been destroyed and looted. Christian communities can face threats, violent attacks and displacement from their homes. Anyone who leaves Islam to follow Jesus is especially vulnerable to threats and violence.

Meet Pastor John

“I couldn’t pray, because when I prayed, I wept. But when I wept, I prayed with tears.”

Pastor John, who received trauma care through Open Doors’ local partners. Islamic extremists attacked his village and killed 113 people, including his son, but he continues to minister.

What does Open Doors do to help?

Open Doors serves the Church in Burkina Faso through persecution-awareness training, relief efforts, spiritual care and trauma care. Behind these is the vision of the church responding biblically to persecution by spiritually empowering her members and caring for those most affected.