Supplied by Persecution.org
Persecution remains a persistent reality in South Central Ethiopia, where those who convert to Christianity face opposition, social rejection, and significant personal risk.
In this region, the gospel is gradually taking root in a challenging spiritual environment through the dedicated ministry of Konjo Midekso, a mother of four who faces ongoing insecurity and pressure because of her faith in Christ.
Midekso is paying a heavy price for her faith. Since coming to Christ, she has served as a church planter, leading five new believers to baptism. But her faithfulness has drawn increasing hostility.
“Between December 2025 and early January 2026, I faced intensified persecution from local Muslim movements,” she said. “I endured intimidation, relentless verbal abuse, and repeated attempts to disrupt my ministry. Yet, I boldly shared the gospel, discipled new believers, and planted churches under dangerous conditions.”
Midekso said she didn’t arrive at this moment by accident.
“I came to faith from a Muslim background and understood the cost before I paid it,” she said. “In Batu, conversion can mean ostracism, loss of livelihood, and danger. But instead of hiding, I stepped forward. I began planting churches, discipling new believers, and sharing the gospel. I did this not from a platform but from the ordinary ground of daily life.
“I knew the cost before I paid it. Leaving my Muslim background was not just a change of belief. I was losing my place in the community.”
The persecution Midekso faced early this year was not random. It was coordinated and escalating.
“When the local Muslim movements recognized what was happening, the spiritual stronghold in Batu began to crack,” she said. “I became a target. Intimidation came first, then verbal abuse, then organized efforts to disrupt my ministry. The hostility is not only directed at my message, but also at my presence within the community.
“Persecution affects not only me, but also extends to my family. The emotional and psychological toll on children in such circumstances can be significant, as they witness the challenges I face daily.”
Yet, even amid this context, Midekso continues to provide care, guidance, and stability for her family. She also continues to share the gospel, no matter the cost.
“I do not worship freely. Many here do not,” she said. “But faith that is deeply rooted cannot be easily shaken. I am still here. And I will keep planting until they tell me I cannot stand.”
