Vietnam's cultural reality is deeply rooted in Confucian values, emphasizing loyalty, harmony, and communal responsibility over individualism. While the government officially allows for freedom of religion, it maintains tight control over religious expression, particularly targeting evangelical groups. Christians, who represent about 9% of the population, often gather in secret or within house churches, facing potential surveillance, discrimination, and arrest.
Despite these significant obstacles, the underground Church continues to grow, driven by believers committed to the Gospel. The Hmong and Montagnard minority groups in the highlands have seen remarkable movements of faith — yet these same communities face some of the most intense persecution.
Vietnam's extensive coastline, warm climate, and urban youth culture offer significant potential for action sports ministry. In a spiritually challenging environment, these communities are proving to be creative pathways for reaching younger generations.
Skateboarding, surfing, and BMX are emerging as creative pathways for reaching younger generations in Vietnam. These communities are particularly active in major urban centers like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, creating relational bridges where traditional outreach methods might fail. Vietnam's extensive coastline offers significant potential for surf culture, while the skateboarding scene is gaining traction through DIY parks and street skating, despite having only about 10 formal skateparks nationwide.
"Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."
— Matthew 5:16
Pray for courage, protection, and perseverance for minority groups like the Hmong and Montagnards who face persecution. Ask for unity and growth among house churches.
Pray that the growing communities of skateboarders, surfers, and BMX riders would become platforms for authentic relationships and discipleship.
Pray for a breakthrough against cultural and religious barriers — asking for a spiritual awakening across both urban and rural regions.
Pray for greater religious freedom in Vietnam — and for wisdom for church leaders navigating surveillance and restrictions.
Pray for the urban skate and surf communities in Vietnam's major cities to become discipleship hubs for the next generation.
Pray for unity and growth among house churches — and for the light of the Gospel to shine in every province of Vietnam.