The government of this officially secular state has a negative attitude towards any form of religion. However, the population is mainly Muslim and the influence of traditional Islam is growing in some regions. All religious groups were required to renew their registration by 1 January 2010; since then no new churches have been able to register. Congregations without registration are often raided, with church leaders arrested or fined. Azeri believers are considered traitors as Christianity is associated with the country’s rival, Armenia. Many Christians are unable to find or keep jobs and are monitored by the secret police.
Pray:
- Praise God that the number of indigenous believers continues to grow
- For churches and church leaders under surveillance by the authorities
- For those believers who continue to be active in outreach despite the risks.
