Bhutan: Unshaken faith in hidden places

Manmaya* grew up in a Hindu family where rituals were followed with dedication.

Yet their home was filled with sickness. Some family members suffered from epilepsy, others from heart problems and there were other chronic illnesses that would not leave. The nights were tense and fearful, and whenever symptoms worsened, the family ran to witch doctors. They performed rituals and offered sacrifices, spending large amounts of money.

But the sicknesses continued, arguments increased and fear settled into their home.

In that hard season, a Christian neighbor came to them and said, “Come to church, we will pray; God can heal.” They knew very little about Christianity; there were very few Christians in their area. Out of deep need, they decided to attend a service.

Their first visit felt unfamiliar. The songs and prayers were new, but something else was different: warmth, acceptance, real care. The believers did not judge them. Later, the church members visited their home regularly and prayed for them.

At that time, Manmaya’s mother had a serious heart problem and needed surgery. The church prayed faithfully and over the next two years, they began to see changes. Her mother’s health improved and the constant cycle of illnesses reduced; the atmosphere at home shifted.

The change was not only physical, since quarrels decreased and understanding grew; love began to replace fear. The family realized they were experiencing more than a brief relief. In time, the whole family chose to follow Christ. They left the rituals they had once depended upon and turned into a new life of faith.

The home that had been filled with sickness and confusion became a place of prayer and hope.

Under pressure in Bhutan

Manmaya eventually married another Christian. After he completed his theological studies, they looked for ways to serve others and he began pastoring a small fellowship. Their desire was simple: to share the hope and healing the family had received.

But serving as Christians in Bhutan brings many challenges.

Their church has been forced to move several times because of complaints from neighbors and pressure from landlords. Many Buddhist property owners refused to rent when they learned that the building would be used for church services.

That left the congregation no choice but to move into an underground room owned by a believer. The room is dank and moldy; the electricity fails often.

Even when they don’t gather together, the group must be careful in their daily lives. Carrying a Bible openly can attract unwanted attention and lead to misinformation. Fellowships often happen quietly and in smaller groups there are people who monitor Christian activities. During job applications, some are asked directly if they are Christians—which affects job opportunities.

Manmaya explains, “Usually Christianity is known as a foreign culture. People have a general notion that Christians are influenced by foreign money and wrong motives. These words are painful to hear. Most of the time we remain silent and just pray. I remember that even Jesus faced persecution, rejection and false accusations which gives me strength. They do not know the truth, and do not understand [what they’re doing].”

Perhaps the biggest burden for Manmaya is seeing Christian children grow up under constant pressure.

In schools, children start the day by singing the national anthem and reading Buddhist texts. During school hours, they attend classes taught by a lama (a highly respected Buddhist teacher or spiritual leader)to learn Buddhist teachings. Before going home, they join in final prayers.

For Christian children, parents teach them about Christ at home and in church, while also teaching them to respect others. But it’s not easy or simple.

“We feel very sad when we see our children struggling,” Manmaya says. “They are too young. They don’t understand it fully and it is challenging for them.” The weight rests on parents who want to protect their children’s faith while helping them live peacefully in society. Manmaya’s has a young daughter who will start school soon and she worries about what that will look like.

‘We are not alone’

But because of generous supporters around the world, local Open Doors partners have been able to come alongside Manmaya and her church. That partnership provides biblical training and practical help that allow the fellowship to grow despite the challenges.

The persecution preparedness training they receive focuses on persecution, perseverance, forgiveness and spiritual growth. Group discussions help believers share their experiences and encourage each other.

For Manmaya, this training has been deeply meaningful. “This training is very important for us,” she says. “It helps us stay strong reminding us that we are not alone.” She learned practical ways to respond to hostility without losing faith. She understood that persecution does not mean God has abandoned them, but it can refine and strengthen believers’ faith.

The youth members in their church found encouragement through worship music and fellowship during the training. Leaders have gained confidence to guide members, and mothers have received teachings to educate their children spiritually.

Though their church meets underground and in poor conditions, it has become spiritually stronger. The change was clear not in the size of the building, but in the courage of the believers.

Despite the challenges, Manmaya’s faith remains steady. “Jesus is everything to me,” she says softly. “He is my closest friend, and he understands me even before I speak.” Manmaya says she chooses forgiveness over revenge. Though there are negative words and rejections, she refuses to answer with hatred—saying that love and consistent Christian living speak louder than arguments.

Heartfelt gratitude

With a thankful heart, Manmaya expresses her appreciation for the supporters who continue to partner with churches in Bhutan. She is grateful for the training, youth programs and support that have strengthened their fellowship and love for the Lord.

She prays that these efforts will continue, not only for her church but for many others facing persecution because of their faith in Jesus. She hopes for more training for couples, parents and children, so that families can stand firmly together.

Ministry in Bhutan is not easy. Believers may gather quietly, but faith continues to grow. Manmaya believes that through prayer and perseverance, faith will continue to thrive. Meanwhile, she and her husband will keep serving, raising their children in truth and trusting that every storm has a purpose.

Pray for Bhutan

1. Pray that Christians in Bhutan will answer hostility with grace and witness Christ through their lives at workplaces, in homes and communities.
2. Ask God to provide healthy and consistent places for fellowships. Pray for favor with owners who can rent without restrictions.
3. Pray for Christian children who are caught between their beliefs and teachings at school. Ask God to protect their hearts, deepen their understanding, and help them in their spiritual walk.
4. Pray for trainers, local leaders and participants of persecution preparedness training that teaches them endurance, forgiveness and wise responses to their situations.
5. Pray for financial stability, emotional resilience and spiritual refreshment for those who guide small fellowships under pressure.
6. Pray for the people of Bhutan that their marriages remain strong, families thrive in relationships and children are raised with family values in a good environment.

*Names changed for security reasons.