The criminal case launched against retired Presbyterian pastor Bakhytzhan Kashkumbayev in July 2011 finally reached a court in Kazakhstan’s capital Astana on 22 January.
The 67-year-old pastor has become deaf in one ear and suffered heart problems during eight months in prison and at a psychiatric hospital. He rejects the charges of inciting hatred, harming health, propagating extremism and leading an organisation that harms others. The most serious charge carries a maximum ten-year prison term. The trial will resume after 31 January.
Source: Forum 18 News Service
Prayer Points
- Pray the Lord’s favour will be upon Pastor Kashkumbayev and his legal team, may the truth of the case be brought to light and may he be released.
- Pray the Lord will completely heal and fully restore Pastor Kashkumbayev, ask God to strengthen his faith.
- Ask God, to use this case for the benefit of the church in Kazakhstan.
