Prayers for the Persecuted Church (3/22/2012)

03/12/2012 China (ChinaAid) Members Detained and Sent to Labor Camp as Chinese House Church Repeatedly Targeted for Persecution - A house church belonging to the China for Christ denomination has been the target of months of attacks from local authorities in the city of Zhuozhou, Hebei province, with church members being illegally detained, interrogated and sent to labor camps -- simply for attending worship services or other activities.Local authorities have also forcibly confiscated 170,000 yuan ($27,000 USD) of church funds without following any of the required legal procedures. They have also sent people to labor camps and demolished the home where the church was meeting.A religious affairs bureau official announced that the church's November 8, 2011 meeting, which was attended by over fifty villagers, was an illegal service because it had not been registered with or approved by the government departments supervising religious affairs. Full Story Pray for the house churches in China as their number is rapidly increasing but is continually targeted by Chinese authorities for persecution. Praise God for watering the planted seeds of the Gospel in China! Pray for these villagers who have been sent to labor camps for their faith. May their faith remain strong under the intentional oppression by the government. Pray that the Lord will providentially use these events to bring the Gospel to others in these labor camps and in the government bureaus.

03/12/2012 India (BosNewsLife) India Militants Attack Prayer Meeting, Pastors Suspected Hindu militants broke up a Christian prayer meeting and forced two women leading the gathering to stop evangelizing in India's southwestern state of Karnataka, as part of several attacks against devoted believers across the country. As many as twenty Hindu "radicals" and "extremists" raided the March 3 prayer meeting in the Vijayanagar neighborhood of Bangalore, local Christians said. The mob allegedly insulted worshipers and ordered the two women leading the service, Parimala, 36, and Padmavathi, 35, to stop the prayers immediately. The two women are members of the Mahima Prarthana Mandira - an independent church in the Vijayanagar neighborhood. Both believers, who were Hindus before becoming Christians twelve years ago, also lead a sixty-member congregation which often gathers for prayer services at a rented home. Additionally, they have been distributing evangelical publications with the Gospel. These activities angered the militants and filed complaints of "forceful conversion" and pressured the two to write down that they would halt prayer meetings and no long conduct their evangelistic activities. Full Story Pray for these two women who are specifically being targeted for spreading the Gospel. Jesus said He will build His church and the gates of Hell would not prevail against it. Pray for fruit of their evangelistic efforts. Pray for these Hindu militants, that like these two women, will see the beauty of Christ and put their faith in the one true God. Pray for India as they have seen increasing persecution and attacks by Hindu militants.

03/14/2012 Afghanistan (AsiaNews) Christian Fears Grow Worse as Taliban Prepare New Attacks The recent killing of 16 civilians by a US soldier has left Afghanistan's Christian population increasingly fearful as the Taliban has promised new attacks. Coupled with the recent Qur'an burnings at an American military base, violent protests have erupted across the country leaving more than forty people dead. "Resentment against the West and Christians is growing stronger, even though no direct threats have been made against individuals," sources say. International media have shown Afghans protesting by burning crosses and Christian symbols. For most Afghans, the West and Christianity are the same, the sources note. "Sadly, the crazy act of a madman will be paid [for by] Christians." Full Story Pray that U.S. presence in Afghanistan will be a blessing and not a catalyst for hatred and violence towards our brothers and sisters in Christ. Pray for the small population of Christians in Afghanistan who have been continually targeted by Muslim extremists. Pray for their safety and for the faith. Pray that the church continues to grow in Afghanistan. Pray that the eyes of the people will be opened to the joy and satisfaction that is found in Christ alone.

03/14/2012 Eritrea (International Christian Concern) Imprisoned Head of Eritrean Orthodox Church in Urgent Need of Medical Attention Patriarch Antonios, who has been imprisoned for his faith, is a diabetic and his situation is deteriorating due to lack of medical attention. He has been detained at an undisclosed location since 2006. The Eritrean government is known for their oppression of Christians. There are over 3000 Christians in prison in the country simply because of their faith. ICC's Jonathan Racho said, "We are deeply concerned about the health of the Patriarch and urge the international community to pressure Eritrea to release him. Eritrea must end the unlawful detention of Christian prisoners." Patriarch Antonios was detained for asking the Eritrean government to release members of his church detained for their beliefs and urging the Eritrean officials not to interfere in the affairs of the church. Full Story  Pray for Patriarch Antonios as his health declines. Pray for the Lord to sustain him during this time. Pray that those Christians also serving sentences for their faith. Eritrea is notorious for the brutal prison conditions for Christians. Be in prayer for sustained faith, safety, and providential opportunities for the Gospel to be shown and preached. Pray for the hearts of those in Eritrea to be fertile soil for the Gospel.

03/14/2012 United States (FoxNews) NASA Scientist Claims He Was Harassed, Demoted Over Intelligent Design Beliefs David Coppedge, a high-level computer systems administrator at the laboratory maintains he was fired nine months after expressing his beliefs in intelligent design to his co-workers. Lawyer William Becker spoke on behalf of Coppedge to Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Ernest Hiroshige in trial of the religious discrimination lawsuit his client filed in April 2010. JPL attorney James Zapp argued that Coppedge was laid off as part of a staff reduction and that Coppedge had trouble getting along with other employees, becoming defensive when a supervisor instructed him on avoiding confrontations with co-workers. According to his suit, Coppedge was demoted for allegedly "pushing religion" by loaning interested co-workers DVDs supporting intelligent design. Full Story Pray for this trial as it could have significant repercussions for free speech in the workplace. Pray for the judge in this trial, that he or she rules objectively. Pray that this case awakens the U.S. to the plight of the persecuted church.

03/14/2012 Pakistan (CNN) Petition: Free Pakistani Woman Set for Execution  In a weird twist of irony, Asia Bibi is facing the death penalty following a false accusation of blasphemy in Pakistan, which is running for a seat on the United Nation's Human Rights Council. However, activists presented a petition Tuesday to the U.N. calling on Pakistan to free the Christian mother of five from being put to death on the charge. Pakistani courts found Asia Bibi guilty of defiling the name of the Prophet Mohammed during a 2009 argument with Muslim fellow field workers. As a result, Bibi was sentenced to death by hanging. But an investigation by a Pakistani government ministry found the charges stemmed from religious and personal enmity and recommended Bibi's release. The petition was signed by fifty activists including a former Czech foreign minister, the president of the U.N. General Assembly, a survivor of Tienanmen Square, and a women's rights activist. "With Pakistan now running for a seat on the U.N. Human Rights Council, the government should make an important gesture by releasing Asia Bibi, and repealing its blasphemy law, which is inconsistent with basic human rights," said Hillel Neuer, director of U.N. Watch, a Geneva-based human rights group that organized the petition. Full Story Pray for the nation of Pakistan. With increasing pressure on the government to reverse laws that target Christians and with increasing pressure on maintaining religious freedom, Christians may be able to worship freely someday in this country. Pray for Asia Bibi who has been in prison for nearly three years. Pray for her safety and strength of faith. Her faith is something to praise God for, as the Lord has been faithful in encouraging her. Pray for the many needs of her family. One of her five children has special needs and the burden on this family is great, not just because of their size, but coupled with persecution, they have struggled to meet their needs.

3/16/2012 Pakistan (Deccan Herald) Majority of Christian and Hindu Women Face Sexual Harassment in Pakistan A recent study has shown that the majority of minority women, both Christian and Hindu, are subject to discrimination and harassment. Out of 1000 women interviewed, 74 percent of them had been sexually harassed in the workplace in 2010 and 2011. Due to their economic status, these women are "on the margins of social and economic development," says Peter Jacob, executive director for the National Commission for Justice and Peace. This position makes minority women easy targets for discrimination. Full Story Pray for Christian and Hindu women of Pakistan, that God will protect his daughters, encourage them and empower them to be victors in their environment. Pray for the NCJP, that their work will be seen, heard and acted upon. Pray that Pakistan will safeguard women's rights.

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.

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 (3/21/11)

3/17/2011 Ethiopia (ICC) Ethiopian Muslim Group Says More Attacks Against Christians Are Coming-

After a string of coordinated attacks on Ethiopian Christians, Muslims announced through loudspeakers that this attack is only the beginning and should be viewed as only a warning to the Christians.

On March 18, 2011 armed Muslims entered the home of an elderly Christian leader who founded a church near the town of Asendabo. When the militants began to assault the church leader, his grandson rushed to intervene, screaming at the men to leave his grandfather. The Islamists turned their attention to the young man. He sustained three wounds to his head and one on his hand before the men proceeded to rob the home and leave the young man for dead. His family was forced to make a three-hour journey on foot to take to a hospital in a nearby city, where he is still receiving treatment.

Muslims in the area have threatened that more attacks are coming and more Christians will be killed in the future attacks. Full Story

Pray that the Christians in this area remain steadfast and strong in their faith in Christ.

Pray the Muslim community sees the love of Christ displayed among the Christians and that their hearts will be changed towards worshiping Christ through their display.

Pray for the comfort of those who have been attacked and persecuted as a result of their faith.

3/17/2011 China (ChinaAid) Letter from Underground Chinese Church After Raid-

"The officials wouldn't listen to us and continued to hit the people with their batons. Everything was turned upside down and it was a scene of chaos! The officials handcuffed many people by force, and beat anybody who talked. Right on the spot, they destroyed any evidence of their illegal law enforcement (video and audio recording). Many camcorders, cameras, and cell phones were confiscated by force and destroyed. Are we supposed to believe that these law enforcement officers of our Party and our state are called people's police? How can people's police beat the people like this?"

These are the words of the Chinese underground church who issued a letter following an attack on a group studying the laws on religious affairs in China. Nearly 100 riot police officers and 80 plainclothes people burst into the home and burst into a violent attack on the believers in the house. Full Story

Pray for China as the persecution against the Christian population still continues.

Pray for the hearts of the Chinese people, as the numbers of those coming to know Christ increase daily. Pray that the Gospel continues to spread throughout the country despite fierce opposition.

Pray for the comfort and healing of those injured in these raids.

3/17/2011 Egypt (ChristianToday) - Coptic Christians Attacked by Egyptian Military After Suspending Demonstrations-

Dozens of Christian demonstrators have been attacked by Egyptian Armed Forces despite agreeing to suspend a sit-in protest outside the state-run television building that lasted 9 days.

The Coptic protestors came under fire on Monday, as the youth cleaned up the site and families from other provinces packed up their belongings, according to the Assyrian International News Agency.

Dr. Gameel Ebeid of the Coptic hospital in Cairo treated 15 victims of the assault, 14 of which suffered from broken feet and head wounds caused by electrified batons. Full Story

Pray for Egypt as the instability of the country over the past year has taken its toll on the Christian community there.

Pray for the future Egyptian government as there is deep concern over the future tolerance of the Christian church in Egypt.

Pray for the acting government as they appear to have taken a hard stance against the Christian population.

3/17/11 Pakistan (UCA) Asia Bibi Fears She's Next, After Pakistani Minister's Slaying-

Speaking from her prison cell, Asia Bibi has voiced her "pain and concern" following the assasination of Minister Shahbaz Bhatti in Pakistan. Bibi compared Bhatti to slain Punjab governor Salman Taseer, who defended her publicly "and paid with his life," her lawyer told Fides news agency.

Posters have appeared inside the jail showing images of Taseer and Bhatti with a large question mark and the threatening phrase: "Who will be next?" Full Report.

Pray that Asia remains reassured of God's sovereignty and grace in this situation, as some hope was lost with the assasinations of those who have supported her.

Pray that Asia may be released from prison and that she will be protected from militants who are passionate about seeing her punished for allegedly blaspheming Allah.

Pray for Asia's family as they have had to endure this grueling and heartwrenching situation.

3/16/2011 North Korea (ChristianToday) Campaign to End Persecution of Christians in North Korea-

Release International has launched a new campaign calling upon North Korea to protect the human rights of Christians.

The One Day campaign is asking people to sign a petition calling for religious freedom in the reclusive communist country, where all forms of Christian meeting, literature and Bibles are forbidden.

As one of the worst persecutors of Christians in the world, believers there are frequently detained, tortured and sent to labour camps because of their faith.

Entire families have been known to have been imprisoned beacuse one member of the family was found to be a Christian or in possession of a Bible. Full Story

Pray for the desperate situation in North Korea, as both intense persecution and hunger have become the norm in the country.

Pray for the North Korean government and that God would soften their hearts towards Christians.

Pray for the church in North Korea and that it will continue to grow despite what appear to be overwhelming odds.

3/18/2011 Iran (ChristianToday) Iranian News Website Suspended After Reporting Burning of New Testaments-

Mohabat News, the only active news agency inside Iran that reported on the recent mass arrests of Christians in the country, was suddenly suspended today. It is unclear why the website has been disabled, however in the past authorities have been known to shut down websites run by human rights groups and critics of the regime under the guise of defending the nation against "cyber warfare"

In recent months, a staff member of Mohabat News was allegedly threatened via an email from the Revolutionary Guard, which stated that he and his family would be targeted, and "bad things" would happen to them as a result of Mohabat's output.

The suspension came the day after the agency reported the seizure and burning of 600 New Testaments by authorities in western Iran on February 7, 2011. Full Story

Pray that Gospel continues to spread as much as it has in Iran. Nearly 300 Christians have been arrested in 34 cities in Iran since June 2010, yet the Gospel continues to spread and the church is growing.

Pray that although the New Testaments may have been burned, that the Word of God will continue to be distributed throughout the country and that God's Word will "not return void to Him."

Pray for the Mohabat News Agency as they have been the sole voice of the persecuted church within in Iran.

Prayers for the persecuted church (10/8/10)

10/7/2010 Islam (WND) Report Finds That Islamic Numbers, Influence Surging-

“The situation is really bad for Christians in some areas where Muslims are now in the majority in Europe,” said Jonathan Racho, a Regional Manager for International Christian Concern. Many European Muslims, especially those who live in areas where they outnumber Christians, are beginning to flex their muscles. In fact, there are some parts of the UK that are considered “no go” areas. These are areas of a town where non-Muslims are not allowed (or advised) to “go” or enter. Furthermore, UK Christians are being attacked in their Muslim-dominated neighborhoods and evangelists are being stopped by Muslim police officers. Some say that the United States is not far behind. Full Story

Pray for the safety of Christians living in Muslim-dominated neighborhoods.
Pray that the UK will start protecting its Christians citizens.



10/5/2010 Algeria (CDN) Algerian Christians Acquitted of Eating During Ramadan-

On August 12, 2010, Salem Fellak and Hocine Hocini, were arrested while eating lunch. Why? These two Algerian men were detained for consuming food during the Muslim month of Ramadan. According to reports, officers at a nearby police station walked up to the two Christian men and confronted them for not fasting. When Salem and Hocine explained that they were Christian, the angry officers accused them of insulting Islam. Yet, this explanation was not good enough. Salem and Hocine were arrested, interrogated for two hours, and then dragged to court. “I have the right not to fast. I am a Christian,” said Salem Fellak while standing trial at an Algerian court. Fortunately, the case against Salem and Hocine was dismissed! Full Story.

Praise the Lord that the case against Salem Fellak and Hocine Hocini was dismissed!
Pray that the Algerian government will not force Christians to follow Islamic rules.
Pray that the court’s dismissal of the case will not cause Salem and Hocine to be persecuted by Algerian Muslims.





9/30/2010 China (ChinaAid) House Churches Raided, Two Foreign Pastors Missing-

In the past few weeks, two house churches have been baselessly raided in China—one in Sichuan and one in Henan. Yet, the word “raided” does not adequately describe the way Chinese police officers took it upon themselves to smash objects, confiscate books, and arrest church members. In fact, two foreign pastors, one from America and one from Russia, were also detained and arrested. The whereabouts of the pastors are still unknown. Many of the arrested believers have been threatened with labor camps where they will be re-educated. Full Story.

Pray that the two foreign pastors are found and released.
Pray that the arrested church members will be set free and all talk of labor camps will be forgotten.
Pray that the Chinese government will stop raiding house churches and allow them to worship the Lord.




10/5/2010 Pakistan (MNN) Christians Endure More Attacks in Punjab-

On September 23, 2010, a mob of Muslims attacked dozens of Christians in the Punjab Province of Pakistan. According to sources, a mob of 40 militants fired shots at homes and into the streets—wounding and killing many innocent believers. It has been rumored that three powerful politicians instigated the attacks, but this rumor has yet to be confirmed or substantiated. Full Story.

Pray for the families whose loved ones were killed in this vicious attack.
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Pray for the swift physical and mental healing of those Christians who survived the attack.
Pray that the rumors are false—that politicians were not involved in this deplorable act of Christian persecution.

10/4/2010 Pakistan (Coshocton Tribune) Pakistani Bishop: "It Requires Great Sacrifice" to Be Christian-

President Obama has called the northernmost province of Pakistan "the most dangerous place in the world." This area, which measures 29,000 square miles, is home to 20 million Pakistani citizens. The northernmost province is infamous for smuggling, arms dealing, and kidnapping. Yet the people who are in the most danger in the northernmost province are the Christians. Many Pakistani believers are killed, tortured, and arrested for their faith in Christ. To make matters worse, citizen rights are based on religion in Pakistan. Thus, Christians are at the very bottom—they are seen as the “slum of the earth.” Yet, even though these brothers and sisters in Christ are looked down upon, they still feel blessed to be part of the family of Jesus Christ. Full Story

Pray for the peace and fortitude of the Pakistani Christians.
Pray that the Pakistani Christians know that they are not the “slum of the earth” but beautiful children of God.
Pray that the Lord will place a huge hedge of protection around the Pakistani Christians.

9/30/2010 Pakistan (AllVoices) Attacks on Christians Persist in Pakistan-

Since September 8, 2010, Christians in Mohalla Kalupura, Pakistan have been attacked more than 10 times by fundamentalist Muslims. Just last week, these faithful believers were attacked again. According to sources, 40 Islamic extremists barreled through the streets of Mohalla Kalupura firing their guns and swinging their axes. It is still unknown just how many Pakistani Christians died or were critically injured in this merciless onslaught. To make matters worse, local police have yet to find and apprehend the culprits. Full Story.

Pray for the swift mental and physical healing of the Christians who were attacked in Mohalla Kalupura, Pakistan.
Pray that the Pakistani government will protect Mohalla Kalupura from any future attacks.
Pray that the Lord will pierce the hearts of Pakistan’s Muslims.




9/28/2010 Egypt (DailyNewsEgypt) Mother of Christian Twins Seeks Azhar Fatwa-

Last March, Kamelia Lotfy Gaballah tried desperately to change her twins’ religion on their birth certificates from Muslim to Christian. Unfortunately, the Egyptian courts refused her request. Sixteen-year-old twins, Andrew and Mario, were raised as Christians, but are documented as Muslims because their father is Muslim. Knowing that her sons will be “forced” to convert to Islam if something isn’t done, Kamelia has begged the Grand Sheikh of Al-Azhar to issue a fatwa allowing 15-year-old children to “choose” their religion. If the Grand Sheikh refuses Kamelia’s request, Andrew and Mario will forever have the word “Muslim” stamped on their national I.D. cards. Full Story.

Pray that the Grand Sheikh will grant Kamelia Lotfy Gaballah’s request.
Pray that Andrew and Mario will not be persecuted for their decision to be seen as Christians in an Islamic country.
Pray that Andrew and Mario will be shining lights for their Muslim father.

Prayers for the persecuted church (7/2/2010)

06/23/2010 Pakistan (ICC) Use of Blasphemy Laws In Order To Make Christian Leave Land— Rehmat Masih currently resides in prison and faces the death penalty because he has been falsely accused of blaspheming Mohammad, a crime punishable by death. Masih’s family has stated that the accusation was made because the Muslims were having a land dispute with Masih. Full Story.

Pray that Masih will be released from prison and that the charges will be dropped.
Pray that Masih’s family will remain safe and be able to keep their land.
Pray that other Christians will not be wrongly accused of Blasphemy Laws to solve vendettas.

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

06/22/2010 Pakistan (CDN) Christian Child Kidnapped and Forced into Cruel Labor— An 11-year-old should never work 11 hours a day, however Danish Masih is forced to toil over farmland in chains. Fed only half a loaf of bread per day, Danish is now weak and ill from working in these conditions for the last one-and-a-half years. The landowner has invited the boy to convert to Islam and promised in return that he "will be freed from the iron chains, and his work will be eased and he will be served better meals." He also suggested that his family's debt might be forgiven if he converted. Full Story

Pray that Danish Masih will be reunited with his family.
Pray that strength would be given to Masih.
Pray that the Muslim landowner will find Christ through Masih.

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

06/22/2010 Kyrgyzstan (Christian today) No End to the Violence in Krygystan— Imagine whole streets in your neighborhood burnt to the ground. This is the reality in Osh, Kyrgyzstan where fierce fighting is still occuring between Kyrgyz and Uzbeks. There are riots, killings, and pillaging. Humanitarian help has been limited and food supplies are diminishing. Full Story .

Pray that the Kyrgyzstan violence will cease.
Pray that Christians will be safe especially when aiding people.
Pray that more food and water will be given out by humanitarian organizations.

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

06/21/2010 Vietnam (Open Doors) Vietnamese Pastor and Believer Cruelly Targeted — Pastor Du was not taken to prison in a car, but rather was dragged by his own motorcycle. He is a prisoner who refuses to denounce his faith. Another family (Po) has had their food supply and motor bike stolen by their neighbors because they refused to pay homage to ancestors. The family is now forced to live in a forest with their three children. Full Story

Pray that Pastor Du will be released from prison.
Pray that the Po family will find adequate shelter and food.
Pray that the Po family's Vietnamese neighbors will be intrigued by Christians rather then exploiting them.

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

06/21/2010 Morocco (Christian Today) Two Christians Deported Without Children— Eddie and Lyn Padilla were punished for taking in unwanted children. The Padillas were forced to leave the country, charged with proselytizing children living at the Village of Hope, a place for orphaned children. Within two hours, the Padillas had to pack and to say goodbye to their children. The family has appeared on Capitol Hill for help. Full Story

Pray that the Moroccan government will let the Padillas take back their children.
Pray that other Christian organizations will remain safe in Morocco.
Pray that there will be greater religious freedom in Morocco.

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

06/19/2010 United States (ANS) Son of Hamas In Danger of Being Assassinated if Deported to West Bank— Mosab Hassan Yousef will be appearing in front of Congress on June 30 to see if he will be sent back to the West Bank. Mosab, the son of one of Hamas' founders, converted to Christianity after spending time spying for Israel. His work for Israel and his book that exposed Islam and Hamas would put him in serious danger if he is forced to return to the West Bank. Full Story

Praise God that Mosab has decided to follow Jesus Christ.
Pray that other Muslims will be inspired to convert.
Pray that Congress will intervene in Mosab's situation.

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

06/23/2010 United States (ANS) Four Christians arrested for Proselytizing at Arab Festival— On Friday, police arrested four Christians for sharing their faith with Muslims during the Arab International Festival in Dearborn, Michigan. A visiting resident of Toronto, who observed the incident, said the Christians were engaged in intense, but respectful dialogue when they were arrested. He also reported that when one of the men, Dr. Nabeel Qureshi, was arrested, people were clapping and shouting "Allahu Akbar." Full Story.

Pray that Christians will have good relationships with Muslim communities.
Pray that the court hears both cases without bias.
Pray that churches will find unique ways to share gospel.

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

Prayers for the persecuted church (5/21/2010)

5/19/10 United States (BP) References to God Banned from Classroom- "I wondered what had changed in our culture and in the school district's opinion of the banners that they'd all the sudden tell me to take them down," said a San Diego math teacher who was forced to remove posters with phrases like "In God We Trust" from his classroom walls. Although a federal judge ruled that the school district was wrong to order the removal of the posters, the school district is now appealing that decision to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. Full Story

Pray that the judge's first decision would be upheld and that the teacher would be allowed to leave the posters in his classroom.
Pray that the Father would raise up righteousness in our nation.
Pray that the Holy Spirit would convict hearts and draw many to Himself.


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




5/18/10 Morocco (ICC) New Wave of Christian Expulsions from Morocco- International Christian Concern has learned that 23 foreigners have been notified of expulsion from Morocco since May 10, marking a second wave of Christian deportations from the country. The recent notifications of expulsion are officially attributed to proselytizing, which is illegal under Moroccan law. Earlier this year, the enforcement of anti-proselytizing laws resulted in the deportations of approximately 40 US citizens and many other foreign expatriates from Morocco. However, Moroccan authorities have refused to explain the charges. Full Story.

Pray that the Father would continue to raise up faithful witnesses in Morocco.
Pray for the families of those believers being expelled from Morocco.
Pray that all of the Moroccan authorities' efforts to restrain the word of truth from being released in their country would be completely futile.

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



5/17/10 Pakistan (ICC) Pakistani Official Fires 15 Christians- International Christian Concern has learned that on May 12, an official of the Pakistani government fired 15 Christian employees in an apparent discriminatory measure in Lahore, Pakistan. Though the administrator of the Solid Waste Management Department allegedly accused the Christians of neglecting their duty, the Christians disputed the charge and contended that they were fired because of their faith. Their Muslim colleagues were not fired from their job. The Christians have asked the Federal Minister for Minorities Affairs to intervene in this situation and reinstate them to their position. Full Story

Pray for the light of truth to shine on this situation and expose all the works of darkness.
Pray that the fired employees would trust in the Father for their provision.
Pray that the Father would use these believers as salt and light among their colleagues.

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

5/17/10 Pakistan (Christian Today) Brutal Attacks Prompt Call for Protection of Pakistan's Christian Minority- Following a report from Release International documenting the reports of Christians "who told of relatives who were burnt alive by militants in their homes in Gojra...and others who had been falsely accused of blasphemy," the former Bishop of Rochester is calling on the Pakistani government to protect its Christian minority. One believer told Release International, "These people can attack again whenever they want. We can do nothing - only believe in Jesus. We have a strong trust in him." Full Story

Pray that true justice would be established in Pakistan and uphold the lives of the oppressed.
Pray that the Father would continue to increase the capacity of His church in Pakistan to trust in Him in all circumstances.

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




5/15/10 Laos (CDN) Lao Christians Expelled from Village Suffer Critical Illnesses- A group of 48 Christian villagers in Laos were forced from their village at gunpoint in January for refusing to renounce their faith. They have built temporary shelters at the edge of the jungle and have been forced to survive "on food found in the jungle and water from a hand-dug well that is unfit for cooking or drinking." Despite being assured of their religious rights by officials in March, Human Rights Watch for Lao Religious Freedom reported that the villagers have suffered from "diarrhea, dehydration, eye and skin infections, fainting and general weakness for the Christians expelled from Katin village, and one person has died." Full Story

Pray that the Father would bring swift and miraculous healing and restoration to the villagers who are suffering in order that His name might be glorified in Laos and cause many to come to salvation in Messiah.
Pray that the villagers would continue to remain steadfast in their faith and trust in the Father.

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




5/18/10 India (ANS) Believers Plead for Pastor's Release- Close to 50 anti-Christian extremists attacked a church in India on a Sunday morning and kidnapped Pastor Abhay Jhadav. While looting the church, the extremists dragged the pastor outside and began to beat him. The pastor was held behind bars for about seven hours under allegations of forced conversion before the members of the church were fortunately able to convince the police that the allegations were false and provoked by envy. The church is requesting prayer for Pastor Jhadav - "that he will be protected from future attacks, and also that those who oppose Jesus will come to know Him intimately." Full Story

Pray for the strengthening of Pastor Jhadav's faith in the face of persecution.
Pray together with the church in India that "those who oppose Jesus will come to know Him intimately."

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

5/21/10 India (CDN) Hindu Nationalists in India Plan 'Religious Cleansing' in Madhya Pradesh District- Hindu nationalist organizations are beginning to prepare for a large "reconversion" event next year. The organizations have declared their intentions to "rid Mandla district of all Christian influence." The ground-breaking ceremony for the rally to be held in February incited some nationalists to attack a house church on May 2nd. One of the "objectives" that has been disclosed so far includes "(driving) away Christian pastors, evangelists and foreign aid workers from the district." Full Story

Pray that the Father would bring the pride of those who hate His children low in order for them to recognize their own need for salvation.
Pray that the efforts to drive believers out of the district would be futile, and that the Father would strengthen His church and so frustrate the plans of the nationalists organizations that the "reconversion" event is entirely prevented from taking place.

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