Pastor in Laos shot and killed

Pastor Thongkham Philavanh of Laos, 42, was shot and killed by two masked men in the evening of July 23rd. A Khmu ethnic pastor and evangelical church leader in the northwestern part of Laos, Philavanh courageously shared and lived out the gospel. He leaves behind his wife Sengdala and their two teenage children. 

Pastor Thongkham succeeded his father-in-law, who was imprisoned for 13 years because of his faith, in leading their church in the province. Thongkam and his wife have also helped plant house churches in their area, which have grown exponentially in just a matter of few years. The couple is known for their love for the young people, many of whom call them dad and mom. They would usually gather young people at church or in their house for discipleship or Bible studies.

Because of their gospel work among the locals, Thongkham and Sengdala had been warned by authorities in several instances to stop their Christian activities. On one occasion, they were summoned by the police and asked to sign a document renouncing their faith. But the village chief intervened and defended the couple, calling them role models in the community.

In the evening of July 23, two men wearing masks parked a motorbike in front of Thongkham and Sengdala’s home. They asked for the pastor’s whereabouts from some children who were by the entryway of the house, which Thongkham overheard. He went out front and greeted the visitors. They proceeded to shoot him six times. 

Sengdala was able to drive her husband to the hospital, but he was declared dead on arrival. 

Although the case is still under investigation, Sengdala and her family believe that the murder is religiously motivated. She shared that for the past year, Thongkham had been telling his wife to be prepared as he knew his life was in danger. “He kept most of the burdens to himself because he wanted to protect us. He sacrificed himself to protect his family.”

Open Doors partners were able to attend the funeral, along with hundreds of people who were impacted by Thongkham’s life. 

Pray

Please be in prayer for Sengdala and her two children. Ask the Lord to give them comfort, protection, and courage in their faith.