See. Change.: Tara's story

The persecution of Christian women and girls around the world is hidden, complex and violent. They are vulnerable for both their gender and their faith.

Leading up to International Women’s Day on 8 March, we’ll be sharing some stories of those who’ve been persecuted simply because they are Christian women. The aim of Open Doors’ See. Change. campaign is that every woman who is persecuted for both her faith and gender is seen, heard and empowered to reach her God-given potential.

Name: Tara
Where: India
Age: 16
Tara’s story: Boycotted in her own home

Tara (name changed for security reasons) is 16, and became a Christian while she was ill and a friend prayed with her. When Tara’s sickness was healed, she knew that she had found her Saviour in Jesus: “I found a peace that I had never known; everything in my life started making sense.”

But her parents were furious. They told Tara she’d brought shame on them. “I still live in my home with my parents and the rest of my siblings, but I am totally boycotted. There are 15 rooms, but I am confined to a small room in the house. I have been warned not to talk to the rest of the people in the house.”

Tara had to do daily wage labour to survive, even though her family is quite well-off – they wouldn’t share resources, or even let her use the kitchen. Her schooling started to suffer, until Open Doors partners were able to help pay for her schooling and accommodation in a hostel. Tara still hopes that her family will turn to Jesus.

The persecution of Christian women is often hidden. How many other Taras are there, hidden away and their story not heard, still in their homes but ostracised from those who should care for them the most?

Please pray

Father God, please protect Tara and the thousands of persecuted Christian women and girls like her. Their persecution is currently hidden from the world, but thank You that it has never been hidden from You. Please speak words of comfort to these women and girls, show them their true identity in You, and rescue them from terrible situations. Amen.