Detained in Afghanistan: Dennis Coyle

Dennis Coyle, 64, an academic researcher of Afghan languages from Colorado, USA, was wrongfully detained by the Taliban over a year ago, and has been held in “near-solitary conditions, requiring permission even to use the bathroom, and without access to adequate medical care.”

After spending two decades in Afghanistan, surveying their many languages and helping communities develop resources in those languages, the Christian was forcibly removed from his apartment on January 27, 2025.

“Throughout his years of service, Dennis maintained a home in Kabul and built deep, meaningful relationships with the Afghan people. Those who know him speak with profound appreciation for both the man and his work. Dennis has always embraced Afghan culture with genuine warmth—sharing cups of traditional green tea, enjoying dried fruit snacks, and engaging in the kind of heartfelt conversations that bridge cultures. His love for the Afghan people isn’t just professional; it’s personal and deeply felt,” said Dennis’ family, at Free Dennis Coyle.

Dennis is not the only Christian detained in recent years. In September of 2023, the Taliban also seized at least 18 staff members of International Assistance Mission (IAM), a Christian-based NGO which has served the 99% Muslim country since 1966. No news has emerged since as to their whereabouts or well-being.

More than 99% unreached with the gospel of Christ, Afghanistan is considered one of the most dangerous countries in the world, with Islamic extremists persecuting and terrorizing not only Christians and women, but other Muslims as well. Earthquakes and floods have only increased the desperation of their many people groups.

Lord, have mercy, please. We ask You for a miracle. Open the way for the quick and safe release of these faithful servants. Remind them of scriptures and songs that will give them hope. Strengthen them with courage, faith and love. Grant them kindness and forgiveness to their persecutors. Give them and the others helping them wisdom and favor with authorities. Be a Shield around them, protecting them from harm. Fill their rooms with Your angels and Your felt presence. Make those angels visible to the guards. Give authorities, wardens and other prisoners dreams and visions from You to convince them of who You are. Make a way where there seems to be no way for every person in Afghanistan to know of Your love. Invade their dreams each night. Visit them in visions throughout the day. Open up the internet for those with phones or other means of access. Have mercy, please, on the thousands who are dying without the chance to know of Your great love. Break those who are terrorizing their country. Flatten them with fear of the Lord. As hungry as people are for food, O God, make the people of Afghanistan all the more hungry for You. Provide a way out for them, so they can escape terror, starvation and death, and meet the One who is Life instead, satisfied forever with Your love, protection and peace. When they seek You, meet them in extraordinary ways. Provide manna from Heaven, both spiritual and edible. May they meet the Bread of Life, receive Your salvation, and spread word of You throughout the land. Turn what the enemy has meant for great evil and death into a pathway for every heart to find eternal life through Christ.

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