Tibet

Praise Points

Preservation of cultural identity and spiritual devotion: Despite external pressures, Tibet has maintained its distinct traditions and moral teachings. (Psalm 78:4 – “We will not hide them from their children; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord…”)

Survival of small Christian communities despite persecution: Faithful believers practice secretly, showing resilience. (Acts 16:5 – “So the churches were strengthened in the faith and grew daily in numbers.”)

International awareness and support for Tibetan rights: Global advocacy has kept Tibetan issues visible, providing moral and spiritual encouragement. (Isaiah 1:17 – “Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed.”)

Prayer Points

Religious suppression and political control limiting Christian growth: (Daniel 3:17-18 – “If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us… but even if He does not, we will not serve your gods.”)

Cultural pressure leading youth to abandon Christian beliefs: (1 Timothy 4:1 – “The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith…”)

A Call to Salvation

Mentorship and discipleship of youth: Guiding teenagers in spiritual growth and biblical understanding. (Deuteronomy 6:6-7 – “These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children…”)

Fostering unity and reconciliation within the church: Building bridges between divided communities to strengthen collective faith. (Ephesians 4:3 – “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”)

Active prayer and evangelism despite challenges: Supporting the faith of believers and sharing Christ courageously. (Acts 1:8 – “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses…”)

Tibet, often called the “Roof of the World,” has a rich history of over a thousand years, shaped by its unique high-altitude geography and deeply spiritual culture rooted in Tibetan Buddhism. Its monasteries, intricate art, and traditional festivals form the backbone of Tibetan cultural identity.

Christianity arrived in Tibet relatively late compared to its Buddhist traditions, with early Catholic and Protestant missionaries like Antonio de Andrade in the 17th century attempting to establish missions. Over time, limited access and political restrictions curtailed large-scale Christian growth. Today, Tibetan Christian teenagers face numerous struggles: societal pressure to conform to Buddhist traditions, restricted religious expression, and limited access to Bibles and Christian fellowship.

Internal divisions and differing doctrinal beliefs have also led to a lack of unity among Tibetan Christians, weakening communal support. To prevent the extinction of Christianity in Tibet, Tibetan Christians must embrace biblical principles of love, humility, and unity, actively mentoring younger Believers, and fostering a spirit of reconciliation and collective purpose within their communities.