At the heart of Central Asia lies Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan and the region’s largest city—a crossroads of culture, trade, and history. Once a vibrant Silk Road center, Tashkent has seen the rise and fall of empires. From the Arab conquests of the 8th century to Mongol rule and the long shadow of Soviet control, this land has endured layers of transformation.

Since gaining independence in 1991, Uzbekistan has emerged as one of the region’s most economically improved nations—even being recognized as the world’s most improved economy in 2019. Yet, beneath this progress, a quiet spiritual struggle continues. The church remains tightly restricted, forced to register under government control, with unregistered gatherings facing harassment and fines.

In this environment of pressure and oversight, the Uzbek believers shine with resilient faith. Their worship may be hidden, but their devotion burns bright. Every act of obedience, every whispered prayer, declares that Jesus is worthy—no matter the cost. As the government tries to control the expression of faith, the people of God in Uzbekistan are learning what it means to treasure Christ above all.

Continue to Pray for Field Workers in Tashkent through the Apple App.

• Pray for the persecuted church, that believers would remain steadfast, fearless, and full of joy in their witness for Christ. (Acts 5:40–42)

• Pray for the government of Uzbekistan, that hearts would soften toward the Gospel and that restrictions on worship would be lifted. (Proverbs 21:1)

• Pray for unity among believers, that the underground church would be strengthened by love and collaboration, not divided by fear. (Colossians 3:14)

• Pray for the unreached, especially the Uzbek Muslim majority, that dreams, visions, and divine encounters would lead many to Jesus. (Joel 2:28–29)

• Pray for revival in Tashkent, that this city—once a hub of empires—would become a center for sending disciples across Central Asia. (Isaiah 49:6)