ContextPastor Jean Marc lives in the Central African Republic, a country plagued by decades of poverty, political instability, and violence. Since December 2012, when the Muslim rebel group Séléka began attacking the government, Christians—who are the majority—have faced systematic religious persecution. Jean Marc, whose identity must be protected for security reasons, is one of the targeted religious leaders.
The TrialOn December 5, 2012, armed Séléka men invaded the region where Jean Marc lived, killed two pastors, and planned to kill him. Warned by the neighborhood chief, he fled with his wife and seven children, leaving behind his home and all belongings. During the escape, he witnessed burned churches, looted goods, and violence against women and children.
Faith and OutcomeDespite the trauma, Jean Marc drew strength from faith and prayer, believing God would protect him. Today, he continues to pastor discreetly, while the country faces a new threat of collapse. The persecution has not ceased, but he maintains hope that the Christian majority of the nation will prevail.
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