Prayer for the Persecuted Church (1/31/2012)

1/22/2012 Indonesia (The Jakarta Post) GKI Yasmin Services Disrupted Again- A crowd of Muslim hard-liners disrupted about 100 members of the GKI Yasmin congregation as they held divine services at a member's home in Bogor, West Java on Sunday. "We were conducting our worship at one member's home before people from Forkami and Garis came to our place," GKI Yasmin spokeswoman Dwiati Novita Rini told The Jakarta Post over the telephone on Sunday. The congregation resisted efforts by about 50 Public Order Agency (Satpol PP) officers to stop their service, Dwiati said. "The Satpol PP came around 9 a.m. and were trying to stop our activity because they didn't want any clashes to happen. [House of Representatives member] Lily Wahid was negotiating with one of the Satpol PP officers and the congregation could continue worship," she said. The congregation completed their service peacefully around 10 a.m. and the demonstrators from Forkami and Garis left the congregation member's home around 11 a.m, Dwiati added. The Bogor City administration, citing permit application problems, has barred the congregation from from conducting religious services for more than two years, defying a 2010 Supreme Court ruling guaranteeing the congregation's right to hold services at its church building. Full Story Pray that God will place a hedge of protection around the saints in Indonesia and that the evil plans of the Islamic radicals will be blocked. Pray that the Bogor City administration will have a radical change in heart and policy so that it will uphold a 2010 Supreme Court ruling guaranteeing the congregation's right to hold services at its church building. Pray that the believers will know the presence and peace of Jesus along with the daily guiding wisdom of the Holy Spirit. Pray for the Gospel of Salvation to be proclaimed with the anticipation of Muslims receiving Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior.

1/23/2012 Iran (MNN) Raido is Helping Iranian Believers- Iran ranks #5 on the Open Doors World Watch List 2012 -- a listing of the worst 50 countries known for their persecution of Christians. In spite of the overt hostility against believers, a change has been felt. With the Arab Spring and the recent revolution, it is clear that younger Iranians are actively seeking alternatives to Islam. Muslims in Iran are more open to the Gospel than ever before. New believers face persecution, arrest, and execution because of their faith in the Lord. Christians know any effort to express their faith can heighten the risk that Islamic authorities might learn of their Christian activities. Words of Hope shares a recent story of "R" and his wife "S," regular listeners to their Farsi Gospel broadcasts. When authorities learned of their house church activities, "R" and "S" were arrested. After weeks of interrogation, they were released on bail. In a letter to the Words of Hope Iranian team leader, "R" and "S" testified that their understanding of God's Word had been crucial to their perseverance: "We want to praise God for your prayers. While we were in jail, we often thought about you and felt assured that in every situation God is using us. We believe that if we Iranians hear the true teaching of Jesus Christ, by the grace of God we will be able to stand firm in our faith no matter what trials and tribulations come. Jesus is building His Church in Iran." Encouraged and emboldened by the responses they're getting, the team continues to advance the Gospel in Iran despite the severe restrictions imposed by the Islamic authorities. One listener wrote, "What the Lord is doing in Iran today is nothing short of a spiritual awakening." Pray for the church in Iran. Full Story Praise that the Christians are encouraged and emboldened to continue to advance the Gospel in Iran despite the severe restrictions imposed by the Islamic authorities. Praise that the Muslims in Iran are more open to the Gospel than ever before. Pray that the new believers will stay unwavering in their Christian faith as they face persecution, arrest, and execution because of their faith.

1/24/2012 Saudi Arabia (ICC) Saudi Arabian Officals Assault, Strip Search Christian Prisoners- International Christian Concern (ICC) has learned that Saudi Arabian officials strip searched 29 Christian women and assaulted six Christian men after arresting them for holding a prayer meeting at a private home in Jeddah. The prisoners are currently being held at Briman prison in Jeddah. "We feel humiliated because the security officials stripped searched us. They used the same glove to search several of us at the same time. Some of my friends are suffering from physical pain to their private parts due to the unsanitary condition of the strip search. We haven't committed any crime. We are imprisoned for worshipping the God of heaven and earth," said one of the female prisoners during an interview with ICC. In a message for Christians around the world, the prisoner said, "We want you to help us to get out of prison in every way you can, including prayer. Please tell your governments about our plight, contact human rights organizations and others and inform them about us." Please sign the petition on our asking the Saudi Arabian government to release the Christian prisoners. Call the Saudi Arabian Embassy in your country and ask them to release the prisoners. United States:             (+1) 202 342 3800       Canada:             (+1) 613 237 4100       United Kingdom:             (+44) 207 9173-000       Australia:             (+61) 2 6250 7000       Germany:             (+49) 30 88 92 50       France:             (+33) 1 56 79 4000       Full Story Pray that the Saudi officials will release the prisoners and respect their religious freedoms. Pray that the Christian believers will unwaveringly continue to worship and serve the Lord. Pray that all the officials and Muslims that are involved with the ongoing heinous persecution will learn about Jesus' love and choose to follow Him as their personal Savior. Pray that the international community, including Congress and the State Department, will rally and cry out for the persecution of believers to immediately cease.

1/24/2012 Nigeria (CDN) Seven Christians Killed in Bauchi State, Nigeria-Many Injured, Church Building Destroyed-  Early morning attacks in Tafawa Balewa, Bauchi state on Sunday (Jan. 22) left at least seven Christians dead and a church building destroyed. The attack on the Evangelical Church Winning All Church 2, residents of Tafawa Balewa said, was carried out by area Islamic extremists alongside members of the Boko Haram sect, with the church building and surrounding houses bombed. Yunnana Yusufu, a pastor with the Church of Christ in Nigeria in Tafawa Balewa, told Compass that the assailants arrived in the early morning hours and began shooting at Christians in the town. Yusufu said that many other Christians were injured. Bauchi Police Commissioner Ikechukwu Aduba reportedly confirmed the attack on Tafawa Balewa, saying two soldiers and a policeman, as well as eight civilians were later killed in a gunfight. He added that six suspects had been arrested. Bukata Zhadi, secretary of the Christian Elders Council in Tafawa Balewa, said attacks on Christian communities in the area have been incessant, with Sunday's attack bringing to 10 the number of Christians killed in the past two weeks in Tafawa Balewa. Full Story   Pray that those who have lost loved ones via the brutally inflicted murders by Islamic extremists will receive the nurture and love of Christ and that they will also not become embittered. Pray that the Nigerian Muslims will realize the deception in the Quran and will personally receive salvation from their sins through the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Pray that the Lord will thwart all hostile plans by the Islamic radicals against Christians.

1/25/2012 Sudan (CDN) Two Catholic Priests Kidnapped in Sudan- South Sudanese militia loyal to Sudan's Islamic government have kidnapped two Catholic priests in Rabak, Christian sources said. A large truck smashed through the gates of the St. Josephine Bakhita's Catholic Church compound in Rabak and the Rev. Joseph Makwey and the Rev. Sylvester Mogga were kidnapped at gunpoint by the assailants. Four days later, on Jan. 19, the kidnappers forced the two priests to call their bishop with a ransom. Auxiliary Bishop Daniel Adwok told Compass by phone that there was no direct communication between the bishop and the kidnappers, though the priests managed to convey that they were being mistreated. The kidnappers have attempted no communication with church leaders since then, Adwok said. Eyewitnesses told Compass that they saw the assailants severely beating the priests while abducting them. The kidnappers also looted the priests' living quarters, stealing two vehicles, two laptops and a safe. The incident caused panic and terror among Christians in Rabak, with church leaders saying they fear for their lives as they become targets of the Islamic government and its allied militias. Sudan has seen a steep increase in persecution against Christians, according to an annual ranking by Christian support organization Open Doors. Sudan-where northern Christians experienced greater vulnerability after southern Sudan seceded in a July referendum, and where Christians were targeted amid isolated military conflicts - jumped 19 places last year from its 2010 ranking, from 35th to 16th, according to Open Doors' 2012 World Watch List. Sudanese law prohibits missionaries from evangelizing, and converting from Islam to another religion is punishable by imprisonment or death in Sudan, though previously such laws were not strictly enforced. Full Story Pray that Rev. Joseph Makwey and the Rev. Sylvester Mogga who were kidnapped at gunpoint will draw close to the Lord during this tumultuous time of abuse. Pray for their safe release. Pray that the Sudanese Christians will ardently worship God and proclaim the Gospel through the leading of the Holy Spirit with courage and prudence even in the midst of the tormenting Islamic fanatics. Pray that the international community will courageously expose, condemn, and demand justice for the brutal victimization of the Sudanese Christians.

1/25/2012 Somalia (ICC) Islamists Arrest a Muslim Father After His Sons Convert to Christianity- International Christian Concern (ICC) has learned that on January 14 Somali Islamists arrested a Muslim father after two of his teenage children converted to Christianity in Kismayo, Somalia. The two sons of Mo'alim Mohamud Aw-Omar converted to Christianity late last year, and fled their homes following their conversion. Members of the radical Islamic group, al-Shabaab, accused Aw-Omar of "failing to raise his sons as good Muslims" because "good Muslims cannot convert to Christianity." According to sources on the ground, the Islamists have refused to release Aw-Omar until his two sons return to Kismayo, which is unlikely to happen because the teenagers will be killed if they return. According to the strict interpretation of the Islamic sharia law that Al-Shabaab follows, leaving Islam is a crime punishable by death. Radical Islamists have killed a number of Christian converts in Somalia. This is the first confirmed case of a parent being arrested for the conversion of children. In a statement to ICC, a Somali Christian leader said, "This tactic (of arresting parents for conversion of children) is apparently intended to discourage Muslims from converting to Christianity since their Muslim parents could be held accountable for their conversion. The Somali Islamists have previously tried other failed harsh tactics such as summary executions of converts to minimize the number of Muslims converting to Christianity. Please pray for the Somali Christians, especially those living in Islamist controlled areas in southern Somalia." Full Story Pray that all the Christians, including the two sons of Mo'alim Mohamud Aw-Omar, will courageously stay strong in their faith. Pray that Aw-Omar will come to saving faith in Christ as he realizes the love of Christ compared to radical Islam that is clearly manifested in the death sentence for anyone who leaves Islam. Pray that Al-Shabaab will respect the religious freedom of all Somalis. Pray that the believers will share the Good News of salvation that is only through Jesus Christ. Pray that God will place a hedge of protection around the saints.

1/25/2012 India (AsiaNews) Indian Authorities Arrest a Pastor After Hindu Radical Assaulted Him- Dozens of Hindu activists of the RSS (Rashtriya Sangh Savayansevak) attacked 20 Christians of the Fellowship of New Life in a private house. Accusing those present of proselytism and forced conversions, the ultranationalists begun to beat Kishore Kavalekar, a faithful, and Rev. Kalappa Chandrakanth Chavant, then dragged him in front of the whole village. Finally, attackers tied him to a tree near a Hindu temple and called the Haliyal police. The police arrested Rev. Chandrakanth and Kishore, imprisoning them for 24 hours, leaving the RSS activists to roam free. "The complicity between the government forces and the ultra-nationalist BJP- stated the president of the GCIC - is seriously endangering the survival of Christians in Karnataka. Tomorrow, India celebrates the 62nd Republic Day: It is imperative that the secular credentials of our Constitution are guaranteed to be followed in all the states in the country." "Christians - adds Sajan George - are treated as second class citizens not only by the ultra-nationalist forces, but also the authorities. With the approach of Republic Day, it is time that the State ensures the Christian minority of its constitutional rights. " Full Story Pray that the Christians who have been and are being viciously mistreated with beatings will be comforted and strengthened by the Lord. Pray that the believers will ardently worship God and proclaim the Gospel through the leading of the Holy Spirit with courage and prudence even in the midst of the tormenting Hindu radicals. Pray that the State will ensure that the Christian minority will receive their constitutional rights.

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2020 Pennsylvania Ave. NW #941 Washington, D.C. 20006-1846 Web: persecution.org Phone: USA             1-800-422-5441       Email: icc@persecution.org

Prayers for the Persecuted Church--1/20/2012

1/18/12 Sudan (CDN) Sudan Threatens to Arrest Church Leaders - Sudan's Ministry of Guidance and Religious Endowments has threatened to arrest church leaders if they carry out evangelistic activities and do not comply with an order for churches to provide their names and contact information, Christian sources said. THe warning in a January 3 letter to church leaders of the Sudan Presbyterian Evangelical Church (SPEC) arrived a few days after Sudan President Omar al-Bashir told cheering crowds on January 3 that, following the secession of the largely non-Islamic South Sudan last July, the country's constitution will be more deeply entrenched in Sharia Law. "We will take legal procedures against pastors who are involved in preaching or evangelistic activities," Hamid Yousif Adam, undersecretary of the Ministry of Guidance and Religious Endowment, wrote to the church leaders. "We have all legal rights to take them to court." Sources said the order was aimed at oppressing Christians amid growing hostilities toward Christianity. Full Story Pray for both North and South Sudan who have been plagued by anti-Christian hostility and persecution. Pray that the new government in North Sudan will not oppress and persecute the church now that the South has seceded. Pray for the remaining church in pro-Islamic North Sudan that they will remain strong and faithful to Christ. Pray for the new leaders in North Sudan, that they might be convicted and changed by God and know Christ as their Lord.

1/18/12 Nigeria (ICC) Religious Cleansing Happening in Nigeria - With more than 80 Christians killed by radical Muslims since Christmas, a Nigerian church leader believes that Islamists are carrying out religious cleansing against Christians in Northern Nigeria. In an exclusive interview with ICC, the president of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, called upon Nigerian Christians to defend themselves from the ongoing problem. The Christian leader decried the Nigerian government's failure to protect Christians from the killings and accused some security agents of taking sides. He said, "The security agencies are polarized along religious lines. Even when the security agents have information (concerning security measures to be taken against Boko Haram), some of them pass the information to these criminals. This is because some of the security agents are more loyal to their religion (Islam) than to Nigeria as a nation." In a disturbing development, the violence has also spread to southern Nigeria where Muslims and their places of worship have been attacked in apparent retaliation for the killing of Christians in Northern Nigeria. According to a report by BBC, a mosque and an Islamic school were burned down in the Southern Nigerian city of Benin on January 10. Five people were killed and six were injured in the violence in the city.  Full Story Pray that the violence in Nigeria, towards Christians and Muslims, subsides and peace resumes. Pray that the Christian population does not retaliate to the violence, but rather displays love toward their enemies. Pray for the Muslims who are determined to wipe out the Christian population in Nigeria. Pray for the victims and their families, that they may be faithful witnesses to Christ and that they may be comforted during this persecution.

1/18/12 United Kingdom (TheChristianInstitute) Use of Sharia 'Courts' Increasing in UK - The use of Sharia 'courts' is on the increase in Britain with thousands using Islamic law to settle disputes, according to the BBC. The news comes as a leading barrister claims that Sharia Law is compatible with human rights and beneficial to communities. However, critics say the courts discriminate against women and should not operate as a parallel legal system. A bill has been brought before the House of Lords by Christian humanitarian, Baroness Cox, to curb the growth of Sharia courts. Sheikh Haitham al-Haddad, a representative of the Islamic Sharia Council at Leyton, told BBC Asian Network that his caseload at the east London council had "easily more than tripled" over the past three to five years - dealing with up to 300 disputes a month. Sharia opponents believe the law discriminates against women as well as rulings falsely claiming legal jurisdiction over criminal and family law. In 2009, think-tank Civitas reported than an estimated 85 Sharia councils could be operating in Britain. Full Story Pray for this disturbing trend to cease in the UK, as it has enormous implications for the future of the European country's legal system. Pray that the church and those representatives in the government who oppose the implementation of Sharia law will continue to fight its use as a parallel legal system. Pray for the church in the UK, who, in recent months, has been faced with its own oppression.

1/18/12 Pakistan (CatholicCulture) 2,000 Protest Government's Demolition of Church Buildings - Two thousand Pakistani Christians, including Auxilary Bishop Sebastian Shah of Lahore, priests, and Protestant leaders, protested the Punjabi government's decision to confiscate Church land and demolish the charitable and educational institutions located on it. "We shall continue protesting until the government returns all the land it took and pays for the losses," said Father Morris Jalal. "We do not fear anyone and will fight for our rights."  Full Story Pray for Pakistan, as the oppression of Christians continues in various forms. Pray for the government. Since implementing blasphemy laws, Christians have been a target of frequent legal oppression and even the death penalty for speaking positively about Jesus Christ or negatively about Mohammed. Pray for the success of these protests, so that the land and buildings can be rebuilt and provide a place for education and worship in Pakistan. Please pray that these protests remain peaceful and loving despite their opposition to the governments actions.

1/16/12 Iran (ACLJ) Under Increased Pressure, Pastor Youcef Refuses to Recant Faith - Iran is continuing its relentless attempt to force persecuted Christian Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani to recant his faith in Jesus Christ. New reports state that Iranian officials are still pressuring the pastor, who has been sentenced to death for his Christian faith, "to renounce his faith in Christ and accept the prophet Muhammad as his savior." Pastor Youcef once again refused, remaining steadfast in his faith. Remember, Iran previously demanded on at least three separate occasions that Pastor Youcef recant his faith and convert to Islam at his latest trial, to which he replied, "I cannot". The Iranian court tasked with making a final determination about Pastor Youcef's fate has ignored its own promise to make its determination over a month ago. Iran's move to further delay a determination regarding Pastor Youcef not only violates international law; it violates Iranian law as well. Full Story Pray for Pastor Youcef. Give thanks to God for his steadfast faith in Jesus and pray for his faith to remain strong. Pray for those eyes who are watching Pastor Youcef, that they might see and wonder who this God is that he would lay down his life for before he denies Him. Pray for Iran, as the church there is exploding and many more pastors and believers may face pressures similar to Pastor Youcef's.

1/14/12 North Korea (Crosswalk) Seven Underground Churches Raided in North Korea- The underground church has faced increased persecution in North Korea since the unexpected death of North Korean leader Kim Jong Il on December 17th. "Three weeks ago seven underground churches got exposed," says Thomas Kim, executive director of Cornerstone Ministries. "It's been very difficult for the last month and I think it's going to continue," he says. The North Korean leadership apparently fears the kind of insurrection that swept other communist regimes and is now sweeping through the Middle East. "They are scared there will be an uprising," Kim notes. "They are scared by the expansion of the Christian faith because Christians will die for their faith." "Now the regime is putting out many people to search for the underground church. There is a need to pray for protection," Kim said.  Full Story Pray that this change in leadership may result in eased pressure upon the North Korean church. Pray for the leaders of North Korea, that they may see the love of Christ in these Christians. Pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ who are facing some of the most intense persecution in the world. Pray for their faith to be strengthened and that they would remain faithful to Christ. Giving Made Easier! ICC Offers the Ability to Automate Your Monthly Gift!   You can sign up to be a monthly supporter of the persecuted through a monthly credit card transfer via our website. Your automated recurring gift will help us plan, build, and serve the persecuted with greater confidence. Thank you for your ongoing commitment to serve our persecuted brothers and sisters. You can sign up for recurring gifts or make a secure online donation by clicking here. Thank you for caring and praying for the persecuted.   2020 Pennsylvania Ave. NW #941 Washington, D.C. 20006-1846 Web: persecution.org Phone: USA 1-800-422-5441       Email: icc@persecution.org

Prayers for the Persecuted Church (5/30/2011)

5/26/11 Pakistan (WorthyNews) Suspected Islamic Militants Attack Pastor and Family; Son Injured-
Christians in Pakistan remained concerned on Monday, May 23th, over the situation of Pastor Paul Ashraf and his family after a report that they narrowly survived a drive-by-shooting by suspected Islamic militants in Punjab province, seriously injuring their eldest son. "Pastor Ashraf was in a van with his wife, Rubina Ashraf, and eldest son Sarfraz Ashraf, on April 27th when two unidentified men on a motorbike opened fire" on their car, said the Centre for Legal Aid, Assistance and Settlement (CLAAS), an advocacy group closely following the case. "Miraculously, he survived the shot to the face and was released from MAYO Hospital after just one day," CLAAS told Worthy News.

Pastor Ashraf leads two large congregations in the towns of Kashmore and Sadiq Abad, CLAAS explained. Additionally, he is a noted Christian writer and poet who, with his wife, runs a flourishing free high school for children of Christian families in Lahore city, Christians said.

CLAAS said that Pakistani Christians had urged prayers. "Please pray for us as we support Pastor Ashraf and his family in their legal case, and please pray that God will protect them from further harm," the group said.

There has been growing concerns about Islamic attacks against minority Christians in Pakistan following the March assassination of the cabinet's only Christian minister, Shahbaz Bhatti. In leaflets left at the scene at the time, terror group al-Qaida and the Pakistani Taliban Movement in Punjab province claimed responsibility. They blamed the government for putting Bhatti, an "infidel Christian," in charge of an unspecified committee. Full Story

Pray that Sarfraz, eldest son of Paul and Rubina Ashraf, will recover quickly after the brutal drive-by-shooting by Islamic militants.
Pray that the Pakistani authorities will arrest and prosecute the attackers and that they will protect Christians from Islamic terrorists.
Pray that CLAAS will successfully support the Ashraf’s in their legal case and that God will intervene in their protection from harm.

Pray that the Muslims will repent of their sins and receive Jesus Christ as their personal Savior and Lord.

5/25/11 Algeria (ICC) Seven Churches Forced to Close in Algerian Province-
Algerian authorities ordered the immediate closure of seven Protestant churches in the province of Béjaia in early May and demanded that the Algerian Protestant Church Association (EPA) eventually close all churches under their authority throughout the country.

A written notification dated May 8 and addressed to the President of the EPA demanded the closure of seven churches in Algeria’s Béjaia province, located 200 kilometers east of the capital Algiers. The notification was reportedly ordered by Hamou Ahmed Touhami, the president-appointed wali (or governor) of the Béjaia province, and signed by Police Commissioner Ben Amar Salma. A follow-up statement released by the local police department on May 22 further stated that all Protestant churches in Algeria must be closed. “I, Mr. Ben Amar Salma, the High Commissioner of the police in Bejaia, have informed Mr. Mustapha Krim, the President of the EPA … to close down all worship places around the country once for all; the places which are used now and the places which are under construction … The authorities will make sure that the order will be obeyed, otherwise severe consequences and punishments will be applied,” the statement read.

According to the notification received by the EPA, the churches are to be closed permanently “for exercising religious worship other than Islam without authorization or the compliance of the National Commission for Non-Muslim Religious Services.” Full Story

Pray that the Algerian government will create an environment that creates safety and stability while also upholding the Algerian Constitution which states that freedom of creed is inviolable.
Pray that the believers will ardently worship God and proclaim the Gospel through the leading of the Holy Spirit with courage and prudence even in the midst of the tormenting Algerian authorities.




5/23/11 China (MNN) Prisoner Released in China-

After two years, a Chinese Christian has finally been released from prison. Yang Caizhen, along with her husband and four other Linfen-Fushan church leaders from Shanxi Province, were sentenced to criminal detention from two years up to several years on November 25, 2009.

The church leaders were arrested for organizing a prayer rally on September 14, 2009--the day after 400 military police raided the church's grounds, seriously wounding 30 believers and destroying 17 church buildings. The leaders were accused of "gathering people to disturb the public order" for organizing the prayer. Full Story

Pray that Yang Caizhen has been released from prison.
Pray that Yang would heal physically and emotionally.

Pray that the Lord would continue to speak through all of these Christ followers, in or out of prison.

5/20/11 Nigeria (OneNewsNow) Muslims react with violence to new president-
“More than 300 churches have been burned down in Northern Nigeria,” says Rocha. “Hundreds of people have been killed, including Christians and Muslims. They even attacked and killed and destroyed the property of Muslims who voted for the Christian candidate.”

Thousands of Christians have been forced from their homes and are now in refugee camps as well, he shares.

“The government has deployed the security and they also promised to investigate the latest violence -- and we hope they will take measures to ensure that these things will not occur in this situation because it's one of the bloodiest times for the people in the northern part of Nigeria,” Rocha states.

International Christian Concern (ICC) has recently launched a drive to raise funds to help feed refugees until they can return home and rebuild their lives. Click here to learn how to help. Full Story

Pray that the Nigerian government will arrest and prosecute the beastly murderers and that it will protect its people, including Christians, from harm.
Pray that all the victimized Nigerian Christians will be comforted and strengthened by God and that they will remain devoted Christians.

Pray that the Gospel will spread with saving grace and power and that there will be many lost souls that will come to faith in Christ.

Prayers for the persecuted church (3/15/2010)

3/8/10 Nigeria (ICC) 500 Christians Slain in Muslim Jihad Attack in Nigeria- On March 8, 2010, a group of Nigerian Muslims mercilessly slaughtered 500 Christians in the village of Dogo Nahawa. At 2 a.m. local time, the Islamic radicals stormed into the Christian village and butchered the faithful believers--most of them women and children. Thus far, Nigerian police have arrested 93 people in this brutal act of Christian persecution.. Full Story.

Pray for the families of these 500 murdered Christians as they mourn the deaths of their loved ones.
Pray that the Nigerian police will find, arrest, and convict all of the murderers.
Pray that the Lord will place a hedge of protection around Nigeria's Christian population.

For more general information, please go to ICC's website on Nigeria.

3/8/20 China (ChinaAid) Chinese Land Official Says, "Golden Lampstand Church Will Be Destroyed.”- In September of 2009, China's beautiful Golden Lampstand Church was confiscated by the Chinese government. Since that time, military police have been stationed in and around the building to keep faithful Christians from entering. Now Chinese government officials are demanding that the six-story, beautiful Golden Lampstand Church be completely destroyed! Full Story.

Pray that the Chinese government puts a stop to its plans to destroy the Golden Lampstand Church!
Pray that China's military police will leave the Golden Lampstand Church.
Pray for the mental and physical strength of China's Christian population.

For more general information, please go to ICC's website on China.

3/8/10 Morocco (ICC) 33 Children Forcibly Abandoned by Morocco- The Village of Hope orphanage in Ain Leuh, Morocco, is home to many children who have been abandoned by their parents and society. Unfortunately, Moroccan officials have been given orders to close this loving home. According to sources, the orders are based on the fact that the staff has been proselytizing orphans to Christianity. If the Village of Hope orphanage is indeed torn down, then these poor children will have to live on the streets or in government “mega” orphanages. Full Story.

Pray that the government orders to close the Village of Hope orphanage are reversed.
Pray that the Village of Hope workers help bring many children to Christ.
Pray that the Moroccan government will stop persecuting their Christian citizens.

For more general information, please go to ICC's website on Morocco.

3/9/10 Iran (CDN) Iranian Pastor Tortured, Threatened for ‘Converting Muslims’- According to sources, an Iranian pastor who has been accused of ‘converting Muslims’ is being tortured in prison! On February 2, 2010, Iranian security agents arrested Rev. Wilson Issavi after he finished a house meeting in Isfahan. Issavi’s wife has reported that her husband has obvious signs of torture and is in very poor condition. According to Iranian officials, Issavi may be executed for his alleged activities. Full Story.
Pray that Rev. Wilson Issavi is released from prison.
Pray that all charges are dropped against Issavi.
Pray that the Lord will place a hedge of protection around Rev. Wilson Issavi and his congregation.

For more general information, please go to IICC's website on Iran.

3/5/10 Pakistan (Spero News) Christians Protest Second-Class Status Under Islamic Law- The Pakistani government has been using its blasphemy law to interrogate and persecute innocent Christians. Recently, Gulzar Kanwal, the owner of a cosmetics shop in Wandu, has been erroneously accused of blasphemy by a group of fundamentalist Muslims. These false accusations have caused this faithful Christian to be threatened, insulted, and detained by the Pakistani police. Kanwal is now scared to reopen her shop. Full Story.

Pray for a hedge of protection to be placed around Gulzar Kanwal and her cosmetics shop.
Pray that the Pakistani government stops using and abusing its blasphemy law to persecute Christians.
Pray that the Pakistani government will begin enacting laws to protect its Christian citizens.

For more general information, please go to ICC’s website on Pakistan.



3/10/10 Pakistan (BosNewsLife) Pakistan Christian Dies After Gunmen Storm House- On March 10, 2010, a group of armed Muslims barged into Mukhityar Masih’s home and attacked the faithful Christian. Masih’s only crime was lodging a police complaint about his Muslim landlord. The merciless attack was so terrible that Mukhityar Masih ended up dying of a heart attack. Pakistan authorities have yet to detain any suspects.. Full Story.

Pray for Mukhityar Masih’s family as they mourn the death of their loved one.
Pray that the government of Pakistan will find and arrest Masih’s murderers.
Pray that the Pakistani government will start protecting their Christian citizens.

For more general information, please go to ICC’s website on Pakistan.

Weekly prayers from Voice of the Martyrs (1/23/2010)

01/20/10 Egypt, Nigeria, Malaysia, Turkey, Lebanon (Scripps News) May: Islam’s war against others- There is an alarming trend in a growing number of Muslim-majority countries because they are waging a war against non-Muslim minorities.

Connect these dots: In Nigeria this week, Muslim youths set fire to a church, killing more than two dozen Christian worshippers. In Egypt, Coptic Christians have been suffering increased persecution. For example, there was a drive-by shooting outside a church in which seven people were murdered this month. In Pakistan, Christian churches were bombed over Christmas. In Turkey, authorities have been closing Christian churches, monasteries and schools. Recently, churches in Malaysia have been attacked, too, provoked by this grievance: Christians inside the churches were referring to God as "Allah."

Many Muslims, no doubt, disapprove of the persecution of non-Muslims. But in most Muslim-majority countries, any Muslim openly opposing the Islamists risks being branded an apostate. And under the Islamist interpretation of Sharia, Islamic law, apostates deserve death.

Not so long ago, the Broader Middle East was a diverse region. Lebanon had a Christian majority for centuries but that ended around 1990 -- the result of years of civil war among the country's religious and ethnic communities. The Christian population of Turkey has diminished substantially in recent years. Islamists have driven Christians out of Bethlehem and other parts of the West Bank; almost all Christians have fled Gaza since Hamas' takeover.

When the dots are connected, the picture that emerges is not pretty: An "Islamic world" in which terrorists are regarded often with lenience, sometimes with respect and occasionally with reverence, while minority groups face increasing intolerance, persecution and "cleansing," where even their histories are erased. And we in the West are too polite, too "politically correct," and perhaps too cowardly to say much about it. Full Story.

Pray for a hedge of protection around all the Christian churches and all those who are in ministry in the Muslim-majority countries.
Pray that Christians will remain committed to the Lord in the midst of systemic persecution of the faithful by radical Islam.
Pray that those of the Islamic faith will realize the deception in their beliefs and they will realize the truth of the Bible and likewise accept Jesus Christ as their personal Savior and Lord.
Pray that the West will be courageous enough to expose the hostile beliefs and actions of Muslim-majority countries which enforce Sharia, Islamic law, which proclaims that apostates deserve death-including Christians.

For more general information, please go to ICC's website.

01/19/10 Nigeria (Compass Direct News) Christians in Jos, Nigeria Fear Further Attacks- Gunshots and smoke continued to alarm residents of Jos in central Nigeria today, with the Christian community fearing further violence from Muslim youths who on Sunday (January 17th) attacked a Catholic church and burned down several other church buildings. Also burned were buildings of the Christ Apostolic Church, Assemblies of God Church, three branches of the Church of Christ in Nigeria and two buildings of the Evangelical Church of West Africa, Christian leaders said. The number of casualties continued to grow, reportedly reaching more than 100 as security forces tried to rein in rioters, with both Christian and Muslim groups still counting their losses. Hundreds have reportedly been wounded.

“What we have witnessed only goes to show that the problem in the state is far from over,” Rev. Chuwang Avou, secretary of the state chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria said. “Many families have been displaced. There are a number who are receiving treatment in the hospital. The dusk-to-dawn curfew imposed in the state has not solved any problem, as there is still tension in the land.” Avou said the crisis broke out when Muslim youths pursued a woman into a church during worship on Sunday, wreaking havoc on the service.

State Commissioner of Police Greg Anyating stated that Muslim youths were to blame for setting off the violence. The Nigerian army was reportedly summoned to try to restore order.

The secretary of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Pastor Wale Adefarasin, said attacks on Christians are a manifestation of terrorism in the country. “What we should realize is that the government is not helping situations,” he said. “It is an illusion that Nigeria is safe.” “The Muslim fundamentalists want to take over Jos by all means,” Pastor Adefarasin said. “They claim that Jos is a Muslim state, which is not true.”

Violence against Christians has been going on for many years. For example, in the same area on November 28th & 29th of 2008, there was murderous rioting sparked by Muslim attacks on Christians and their property whereby six pastors died, at least 500 other people were killed, and 40 churches were destroyed, according to church leaders. More than 25,000 persons were displaced in the two days of violence. Full Story.

Pray that the authorities will effectively protect the Nigerian Christians from Muslim fundamentalists and promptly arrest and prosecute the Muslim youths who committed acts of hatred.
Pray that the Lord will comfort the Christian families who lost their loved ones to the barbaric murders by Muslim fanatics.
Pray that the Nigerian Christians will continue in worship and that they proclaim the Good News of salvation with courage and discernment.

For more general information, please go to ICC's website on Nigeria.





01/19/10 Egypt (Christian Newswire) Christians of Egypt are Massacred, and President Mubarak is Still Silent- The Copts, Egypt's Christian minority, number approximately 12 million, about 15% of Egypt's population. Under the rule of President Mubarak, violent attacks against them run rampant. These attacks were once carried out mainly by organized Islamic terrorist groups. The climate of hatred in Egypt has worsened to the point that attacks against Christians are now carried out by their Muslim neighbors.

The latest attack took place in Naga Hamady, Upper Egypt, during the late hours of Wednesday, January 6th of 2010. Drive-by gunmen opened fire with machine guns as worshippers were coming out of church after celebrating Coptic Christmas mass. Seven people were instantly killed and many others were seriously wounded.

The escalation of attacks is encouraged by the Egyptian government's lack of resolve in addressing the problem and adopting a plan of action to stop it at its roots. The climate of hatred is deeply entrenched in Egypt's mosques, the Egyptian media, and the Egyptian educational system. Very seldom are killers of Copts apprehended, and when arrested, they are often released for lack of evidence, or given a very light sentence. President Mubarak, now in power for almost 3 decades, during which 7 American presidents took office, turns a blind eye to what happens to the Coptic citizens of his country. This seems to be an attempt at appeasing the Islamists to strengthen his hold on power and pass it on to his son. Not once, did President Mubarak address his nation assuring the Copts that he cares about their problems.

Egypt, the recipient of 2 billion dollars yearly of American foreign aid since the signing of the Camp David peace treaty in 1978, can not continue abusing the human rights of its Coptic Christian citizens, a basic perquisite for receiving American foreign aid.

We ask President Obama, the US Congress and government officials, and all freedom-loving people and organizations in the US and around the world to support the rights of the Copts, for protection from aggression and equality under the law. Full Story.

Pray that the Christian families who lost their loved ones to murder will be comforted by the Lord, that the wounded will heal from their wounds, and that they all will stay strong in their Christian faith.
Pray that President Mubarak will have the fortitude to protect all Egyptian Christians from savage attacks by radical Muslims.
Pray that President Obama, the US Congress and government officials, and all freedom-loving people and organizations in the US and around the world will support the right of the Copts for protection from aggression and equality under the law.

For more general information, please go to ICC's website on Egypt.

01/19/10 United States (Baptist Press) Arson Suspected in Two More Texas Church Fires- The number of suspicious fires at churches in East Texas has climbed to seven as federal investigators join state and local authorities in seeking clues to two blazes in Tyler, Texas. The latest fires were at the Tyland Baptist Church and the First Church of Christ, Scientist, both in Tyler. Tyland is the third Southern Baptist church to burn in what investigators believe is a string of arsons. Both fires took place on the weekend of January 16th & 17th.

Authorities in the three affected counties are being aided in their investigation by the Texas state fire marshal's office and the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Authorities first suspected burglary as a motive at the Athens churches, said Athens Assistant Police Chief Rodney Williams, but the investigation is ongoing.

Tyland Baptist Church Pastor David E. Mahfood posted a statement on the church's website: "Dear Friends, as most of you know, our beloved church building was consumed by fire on Saturday evening, January 16. We grieve the loss of church home, the place that we loved and shared so many memories with our church family. It was a very special place to all of us, and our emotions at this time are varied and many.

"Yet as deep as our sadness is our conviction is that our God is a mighty God, and that He is able to prevail through any adversity. We are confident that He is by our side as we come to grips with this devastating loss, and we know He will embolden us to move forward. We also take great comfort in His Word, which says:

"'We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body.'" Full Story.

Pray that the police will quickly ascertain the cause of the destruction of seven churches in East Texas and prosecute any criminals if they torched the churches.
Pray that Christ will embolden the Christians at the Tyland Baptist Church to move forward and that they take great comfort in His Word as they proclaim the Gospel.
Praise God that no one was hurt in the fires.

For more general information, please go to ICC’s website.

01/15/10 India (Assist News Service) Indian Pastor and Believers Attacked and Beaten, Church Service Disrupted in Andhra Pradesh State- A group of Hindu radicals barged into a prayer service held in a church in Jalliguda, which is located in Hyderabad City, Andhra Pradesh state, India and mercilessly beat the pastor and the attendees at a meeting in on Sunday, January 10, 2010. According to the Council of Indian Christians (GCIC), an advocacy group, they reported that on January 10, at around 9:00 am, approximately 50 members belonging to the Hindu radical groups, Rashtriya Swayam Sevaks (RSS) and Bharatiya Janatha Party (BJP), barged inside the prayer hall and beat Pastor Benhur who was conducting the prayer service and also some of the attendees. It was known from the source that these Hindu radicals warned them to stop preaching about Jesus in their locality.

The source also said that the Hindu radicals continued to beat the pastor and the members of the congregation in the presence of a police officer and his team who were present during the attack. According to the news source it was known that these Hindu radicals later dragged some of the church members and the pastor and then filed a complaint against the pastor, despite the fact that he was the victim in this attack.

For the past three years, Pastor Benhur has been organizing Sunday Services regularly at Jalliguda. More than 50 believers get together for the prayer meetings. Pastor Benhur ministers with an organization called Heavens Glory Ministries. He is married to Prassanna (30) and blessed with a daughter Jessika (3 years). Full Story.

Pray that the Indian believers will remain committed to the Lord in the midst of ongoing beatings and intimidation by Hindu radicals.
Pray that the police will protect Christians from victimization and that they promptly arrest and prosecute the criminal Hindu extremists.
Pray that those of the Hindu faith will accept the truth of the Bible and likewise believe in Jesus Christ as their personal Savior.
Pray that Pastor Benhur, who was brutally beaten, will be comforted, healed, and strengthened by the Lord.

For more general information, please go to ICC’s website on India.