Despite attacks, persecuted Jesus follower in Sudan plants churches

Noticing Adoum was no longer following Muslim rituals, his immediate family confronted him and learned of his relationship with Jesus. His family was quick to abandon and disown him, wanting nothing to do with the traitor of their faith. His family even went to Muslim leaders in the area and accused their own son and brother of blasphemy. Adoum was named an infidel and many believed he should be killed for leaving Islam.

Having no other place to stay, the persecuted Jesus follower in Sudan went to live in an internally displaced person’s camp in Darfur. But God was taking Adoum, step by step, to the place he had for him—His mission. While in the IDP camp, Adoum met many Christians and shared his faith with him. He then took a bold step of faith and planted three separate churches. The churches met regularly in the camp, but as the number of members grew, so did the disdain from local radicals. On one occasion, Muslim extremists beat Adoum and had him arrested for preaching a foreign religion.

Imprisoned without any legal or judicial processes, Adoum spent four months in jail, and he was only then freed when he paid a certain fee. While imprisoned he was frequently beat and told he must cease preaching, or it would cost him his life.

A couple years after his release, Adoum was again targeted because of his faith. He, his wife and family went to sleep in their house, only to be awakened when extremists opened fire outside. The attackers then forcefully entered the home and shot Adoum in the hand before beating him with sticks. His wife was also attacked. In describing that night, Adoum says, “It was the most terrible moment of my life. I need to keep these feelings only in my heart for now.”

That incident made it unsafe for Adoum and his family to remain living in the area. But the war in the country complicated things. Adoum’s wife and two small children returned to an IDP camp while he moved to South Sudan to try and find work to support his family.

Adoum now lives in an IDP camp on the border in South Sudan. But again, God has given him the courage to share his faith. He planted another church that has grown to over 220 members, most of which are converts from Islam.

We praise God that He is working through Adoum, from one IDP camp to the next, from one country to the next, as he lives out God’s blessing in Acts 2:47, which says, “And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.”

As a persecuted Jesus follower in Sudan, Adoum has passed along some prayer requests. Join us now in praying for this dear brother.

Lord, we think of Adoum and are thankful for his testimony. Where evil tried to bring him to a dead-end, You brought new life. You’ve blessed his ministry and we ask that You continue to bless it. Bring Muslims to you. Let them discover the true love that is You. Be with Adoum’s family living separate from him. Protect them and provide for them. Continue to use Adoum to bring glory to You. Amen..

*Name changed to preserve security. Representational photo of persecuted Jesus follower Adoum