In one of the world’s most hostile environments for Christians, International Christian Concern (ICC) is quietly and carefully meeting with Christians in the shadows.

In a nation where being known as a Christian can lead to forced displacement, imprisonment, and death, ICC works to equip underground believers, shelter persecuted families, and enable secret evangelism. This work helps advance the gospel, encourages isolated believers, and saves lives.

Living Faith in Secrecy

Christians in Somalia live in constant fear for their lives. During our visit to Somalia in 2024, we met with believers in the capital city of Mogadishu who must practice their faith in absolute secrecy.

ICC field directors met with members of Somalia’s underground church, who confirmed the existence of more than 1,500 hidden believers, many of whom are converts from Islam. Conversion is viewed as an act of betrayal by both militant groups and local communities, forcing believers to abandon their homes, families, and identities.

Safe Houses for the Persecuted

To meet the growing need for secure refuge, ICC has established a network of safe houses within Somalia. These homes are operated by trusted underground church leaders who have themselves survived threats and attacks. Monthly rent support enables these safe houses to continue functioning without financial strain, allowing persecuted converts a place to heal, hide, and grow in their faith.

One such safe house has so far sheltered more than 20 believers. These are people who have been forced to flee their villages or families due to their newfound faith in Christ. Through ICC’s funding, trusted Somali leaders now provide food, shelter, and spiritual care to these converts — all while keeping their operations hidden from hostile forces.

Missionary Work in Hostile Territory

In the northern region of Somalia, a female missionary supported by ICC is quietly leading a one-woman outreach through her work as a nurse.

While serving in local hospitals, she uses her medical skills as a bridge to reach women and children with the hope of the gospel. Her presence has led to secret conversions and the formation of underground believer networks in previously unreached areas.

Despite language barriers, a lack of funding, and constant threats, she has continued her mission for more than two years. ICC provides basic monthly support to cover food, rent, and transportation. Her story remains unpublished to protect her identity and the identities of those she helps.

Emergency Relief for Survivors

In 2023, a Somali believer and underground church leader was targeted by militants. His farm was burned down by al-Shabab operatives in a targeted attack due to his faith.

Forced to flee with his family, they survived a harrowing week-long escape to Mogadishu. With no food or shelter, ICC intervened to provide $4,000 in emergency aid, which covered rent, food, clothing, and relocation to a secure place. Today, that believer continues to serve the underground church discreetly from the safety of his new home.

Supporting Christian Families in Exile

Even beyond Somalia’s borders, ICC actively supports Somali Christian families. In Mombasa, Kenya, ICC recently covered school fees for children of Somali believers facing discrimination and economic hardship due to their faith. These families, who had lost hope of continuing their education, were able to return to school and stabilize their futures.

“We rarely get someone who understands our plight as underground Christians, but you have shown that you care and love the body of Christ in all circumstances,” one parent shared.

A Quiet, Lasting Influence

Every project ICC undertakes in Somalia is marked “Confidential — Do Not Publish,” and for good reason. Publishing names or locations could lead to imprisonment or even execution for beneficiaries. That’s why stories are told anonymously, and project reports omit any identifying information.

But even in silence, the effects are undeniable. Through safe houses, missionary support, emergency relief, and educational assistance, ICC is empowering Somali Christians to live out their faith — no matter the cost.

In a land where churches cannot be built and believers cannot speak freely, ICC ensures that the light of Christ is not extinguished. Please pray for hidden believers in Somalia — that God would protect their lives, strengthen their faith, and continue building his church in the shadows.

Source and photo: International Christian Concern