On September 14th – in a landmark vote – Nepal’s lawmakers decided that the country would remain a secular state, thus protecting minority religions from persecution. Had the Hindu lobby prevailed, and Nepal reverted to become a Hindu state (as it was until 2007), there was serious risk that Christianity would have been made illegal.

Nevertheless, following the vote, bombs exploded at two different churches in Jhapa district in eastern Nepal, according to the Kathmandu Post. There were no casualties but the churches suffered damage. Police said investigations into the blasts were under way. Despite the vote for secularism, the draft constitution still includes the statement that the state will safeguard Sanatan Dharma – often used as an alternative term to describe Hinduism.

Christian leaders have also expressed concern about the provisions targeting religious conversions and proselytising. Nevertheless, this week’s vote represents a step forward, considering politicians had
recently raised the possibility of removing secularism altogether.

Source: Prayer Alert; Revival Media; UCA News

Bible Study: Psalm 22:27-29

PRAISE God that Christians have not been outlawed. Pray that anti-conversion laws may not hamper the Church’s work in leading fellow Nepalis to Christ.