The Nepali Christian Churches UK (NCCUK) has told Premier Christian News that Christians are among those reported missing and feared dead following devastating floods in Nepal.
The non-denominational body, which brings together Nepali fellowships, churches and Christians across the UK to fulfil the Great Commission, says churches and Christian communities in Rasuwa and Nuwakot have suffered significant losses.
NCCUK says three believers are missing from Syabrubesi Church in Rasuwa, while the pastor of Punarutthan Church in Nuwakot is reported missing after the church was damaged.
Around 50 believers are reported missing from Mailung Church in Rasuwa, where Pastor Dil Bahadur Tamang serves. Four are missing from Tukche Anugrah Church in Nuwakot, while 17 people are reported missing from Dakhbari Church in Rasuwa.
There have also been reports of deaths. About 30 believers are reported to have died in Santi Bazar, Nuwakot. At Timure Church in Rasuwa, many believers are reported to have died, with the pastor said to be the only person known to have survived.
Several church buildings have also been damaged, including Naw Jyoti Baptist Church in Nuwakot.
The reports have not been independently verified, and the figures could change as rescue teams reach affected areas.
Nepal has a growing Christian population. The country's 2021 census recorded more than 512,000 Christians compared to the 375,699 Christians recorded in 2011.
However, believers face pressure over their faith. Open Doors has placed Nepal at 46th in its 2026 World Watch List of countries where Christians face the highest levels of persecution.
It says converts from Hinduism are particularly vulnerable, facing pressure from families, communities, local authorities and Hindu extremist groups. The persecution watchdog also says anti-conversion laws have made sharing the Christian faith more difficult.
Christian worship does take place openly in Nepal, but some believers, particularly converts, face pressure to keep a low profile. Open Doors says persecution is generally more severe in rural areas.
NCCUK is urging Christians to pray for those still missing, grieving families, church leaders and rescue workers, as well as for people in need of food, clean water, shelter and medical assistance.
It is also calling for prayer for protection and strength for communities affected by the floods.