Like many across the world we have been following the unfolding of events in Kazakhstan over the past weeks. The city of Almaty in particular has turned into a conflict zone with burned down buildings and burnt out vehicles around the city centre.
Protests began over the sharp rise in liquefied natural gas (LNG) prices which many people use to fuel their cars, but the unrest seems to have broadened to include political grievances.
Media reports confirm that dozens have been killed in Almaty, while hundreds have been injured.
The church in Kazakhstan is praying, endeavouring to help people and offering hope by calling the nation to peace. SGA, with our partners in mission, will continue to serve as it is possible in this new situation. This latest news from the country is of some encouragement.
The country remains in shock at the chaos and tragedy of the past few days. After a period of internet disconnections, news is now filtering through about how Christians are coping and about their efforts to help others. As the infrastructure and basic services in the cities collapsed, Christians helped especially with food, organized aid packages and mobile soup kitchens. With information in hand neither congregations nor believers have suffered damage as a result of the unrest. Thank God for the preservation of His church!
Continue to pray for the churches that they will be salt and light in this traumatic situation, and that as believers seek to offer practical help, many will hear the good news of the Gospel, recognize Jesus Christ in the good works of the believers, and be drawn to trust the Saviour.
We praise God that the staff of Almaty Bible Institute have all been protected. They express their deep appreciation to all who prayed for them during the unrest. The following is an update from our friends.
Just wanted to let you know that we are safe and sound and, we would like to thank you for your fervent prayers for us, during those difficult days, for the whole country. Please continue to pray for the stabilization of the situation in the country. In many cities the State of Emergency has been lifted but in Almaty it is still in place. Also, the pandemic situation is getting worse in the region. BUT! We know that God is in control of everything. And we trust Him. God is alive!