This year has been incredibly difficult for the Christian and Muslim communities in India – the violence against them has been relentless. Hindu nationalist groups continue to harass, intimidate and attack Christians and other minorities. Find out more about India at csw.org.uk/india

Sunday 29 November

In May, three Christian families were attacked in their homes by Hindu nationalists while they slept. At least four people were taken to hospital with serious injuries, and the families have taken refuge in another village. Pray for emotional, spiritual and physical healing for them.

Monday 30 November

The families you prayed for yesterday come from Kokkar Pal Panchayat in Chhattisgarh state, which we are informed has a strong anti-Christian movement. If the families were to return to their village, there is a high likelihood they would be seriously injured or even killed. Pray that the anti-Christian movement would be dismantled.

Tuesday 1 December

In July a 75-year-old woman and her two granddaughters (ages 22 and 25) were victims of a violent attack. They were among eight Christian families attacked by a mob, after their homes were damaged and their church set on fire in March. Pray for them as they recover from the ordeal.

Wednesday 2 December

Mr Thomas Zechariah, of the Synod of Pentecostal Churches, told us, ‘In…Tamil Nadu nearly 85% of churches are not given permission to construct churches because of pressures from state political parties, which are closely linked with the central government. Churches face resistance when they wish to build or renovate places of worship, even when it is on their own land.’ Pray for these churches.

Thursday 3 December

Pray for the family of Kande Mudu, a 27-year-old Christian man who was murdered in June because of his faith. On hearing his attackers at the front door he told his wife that he might be killed, but asked her to remain strong and to never abandon her faith even if they killed him. Pray for the family as they mourn the loss of husband and father, and attempt to rebuild their lives.

Friday 4 December

Each tragic case we work on can weigh heavily on the hearts of our advocacy team and local partners. Pray for wisdom, insight and strength for our Asia Team, and give thanks for our local partners who speak out against injustice despite the risks.

Saturday 5 December

Lord Almighty, we trust in the knowledge that you are sovereign over all earthly rulers and principalities. We stand on the truth that you are sovereign over your Church in India, and we pray that you would thwart the plans of all those who seek to cause harm to your children in that nation. May you flood the nation with peace, justice and love. Amen.

Download a printable copy of this week’s Prayer Diary.