VIETNAM: ‘IF YOU BELIEVE IN CHRIST, GET OUT OF THIS HOUSE’

Tham* is aN 18 year old Christian and member of the Ca Dong tribe, one of the many ethnic minority groups living in Vietnam’s coastal regions. SADLy, Tham lost both her parents a few years ago and dropped out of school in Grade 9. SINCE THEN, SHE’S BEEN LIVING WITH HER OLDER SISTER MAI and HER BROTHER IN LAW. BUt life hasn’t been particularly good, AND MAI* has been giving THAM A rough time.

Since leaving school a few years ago, Tham has felt isolated and lonely. When a friend invited her to a youth summer camp hosted by a local church, she was keen to go and meet new people. At the camp, Tham made new friends—Christian youth who showed her kindness and love. Through the teachings and activities, she learned about God’s love. Deeply moved by what she heard, Tham chose to become a Christians and started following Jesus. This was back in June 2024.

‘If you won’t abandon Him, I will report you to the police!’

Tham’s newfound faith began to transform her life, and soon her sister noticed the change when Tham always went to church on Sundays. But in a household that practiced ancestor worship, Mai was deeply opposed to Christianity. She warned Tham, saying, “Following Christ brings no benefit. Be careful not to be deceived.”

Early this year Tham’s brother-in-law found out about Tham’s faith and became really angry. He shouted, “If you believe in Christ, get out of this house. If you won’t abandon Him, I will report you to the police!” Then he cursed her and the Christian community, slammed the door, and took her outside. Faced with the painful choice between Jesus and her home, Tham prayed to God and firmly chose to follow Christ.

Tham Stands Strong

Tham now attends a small home church led by a former student with a heart for young people. He helps the youth study the Bible and leads a Sunday school. This small community has become a source of prayer, strength and encouragement for Tham as she walks through this difficult season.

After being kicked out, Tham found temporary shelter in a Christian friend’s home. To provide for her needs, she works in the fields during harvest season. Though she doesn’t have a permanent home, her face shines with joy because she has Jesus.

A local Open Doors partner local partner who has been supporting Tham shares, “Tham hopes to reconcile with her family one day. In the meantime, she asks for prayers, that she would remain strong in her faith and continue growing in Christ despite the hardships she faces.”

*Name changed for security reasons