In mid--April, reports began to circulate that two significant places of worship had been demolished in Stepanakert, the capital located within the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh. Recent satellite imagery has since confirmed that the Holy Mother of God Cathedral and the Church of St. Jacob have been completely destroyed.
Nagorno-Karabakh is a region historically inhabited by ethnic Armenians, though it has long been claimed by Azerbaijan. After many years of armed conflict, Azerbaijan seized control of the territory in September 2023, triggering an exodus of about 120,000 Armenians from the area.
Leaders of the Armenian Apostolic Church have warned that Azerbaijan's predominantly Muslim leadership may attempt to erase the Christian heritage of the Armenian people by demolishing monuments, monasteries, churches and other religious sites. Previously published Persecution & Prayer Alert reports addressing the challenges facing believers in Azerbaijan are available at our country profile.
- Pray for God's protection over those of our Christian family who are still residing in this disputed region, and that others who have opted to flee the area would receive His comfort, provision and a sense of belonging as they endeavour to rebuild their lives.
- Intercede for Azerbaijan's governing leaders, praying that they would be mindful to duly respect the religious faith and heritage of this large group of Armenian citizens by preserving their historical sites.
- Pray that the message of the Gospel would be heard throughout the nation, planting seeds of spiritual truth that will lead many lives to salvation and lasting transformation through the power of Christ.
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