VOM Prayer watch

 

SOMALIA: Christian Community Leader Murdered by Extremists

A Christian community leader in Somalia was shot to death earlier this month by members of the Islamic extremist group al-Shabab while closing his pharmacy for the evening.

'Abdikhani Hassan' was shot seven times in the chest by two young men who approached him with handguns. The respected community leader was both a pharmacist and director of a community clinic.

Authorities have arrested several men in connection with the murder and continue to investigate. Abdikhani leaves behind a pregnant wife and five children.

Source: Voice of the Martyrs USA

Prayer Points

• Please uphold Abdikhani's wife and children as they come to terms with the enormity of their loss. Pray the Lord will protect and provide for them.
• Ask the Lord to bring the perpetrators to justice in this life and true repentance for the next.
• Pray for our brothers and sisters in Somalia, who have counted the cost to follow Christ.

NORTH KOREA: Bible Owners among Dead in Mass Public Executions

In the first known large scale executions under the still new regime of Kim Jong-un, as many as 80 "criminals" were publicly killed by authorities across the country. Among those executed were individuals guilty of "possessing a Bible", said the South Korean newspaper which reported on the executions.

According to the newspaper, the executions took place in about eight different cities. In Wonsan, eight individuals were reportedly tied to stakes at a sports stadium and riddled with machine gun bullets as around 10,000 people, including children, were forced to watch.  Relatives or accomplices of the execution victims implicated in their alleged crimes were sent to prison camps.

Sources: International Christian Concern, Fox News

Prayer Points

• Pray for Kim Jong-un and all those in authority in North Korea. Ask the Lord to send His Holy Spirit to the most restricted nation in the world to bring genuine change through the light of His Gospel.
• Pray for those who have lost loved ones and for the many who are in North Korea's notorious labour camps.

TURKEY: Pastor Arrested on Human Trafficking Accusations

A Turkish Protestant pastor arrested by police in the Black Sea province of Samsun last week is accused of involvement in prostitution and the human trafficking of refugees.

Pastor Orhan Picaklar of the Samsun Agape Church was summoned to local police headquarters for questioning on Monday 11 November. The pastor was detained until Wednesday evening in a police investigation led by the Morals Bureau of the Public Order Division. The criminal case was reportedly based on a telephoned complaint from an unidentified person.

'It is obviously a deliberate plot,' a spokesperson from the Alliance of Protestant Churches in Turkey told World Watch Monitor, saying that Picaklar had been harassed for years by local media and city authorities who openly opposed the church's existence.

Picaklar and his congregation have been accused repeatedly of 'illegal missionary activities' by local TV channels and newspapers, claiming the church used bribery and prostitution to deceive young people and convert them to Christianity. The church building itself has been vandalised, stoned and its windows broken a number of times. The pastor continues to receive death threats over the telephone and internet, and was once kidnapped by men posing as plainclothes policemen.

Picaklar told Ihlas News Agency on the night of his release that he would not leave Samsun or stop his ministry in the church over this.

Source: World Watch Monitor

Prayer Points

• Pray the Lord will bring the truth to light in this case; pray against any corruption or deception.
• Pray the Lord will grant wisdom and strength to Pastor Picaklar and the members of his congregation.
• Pray for all believers in Turkey, that they will rejoice in the opportunity to grow in Christlikeness through the ongoing opposition they face (James 1:2-4).

VOM Prayer Watch

IRAN: Update - Acquitted Believer Released From Evin Prison

Mostafa Bordbar, a Christian resident of Rasht (northern Iran), was unexpectedly released from Evin prison on 3 November, following 11 months in prison. All charges were dropped after a hearing by the appeals court on 30 October.

In an appearance before the appeals court, Mostafa was granted an opportunity to defend himself regarding the charges that were made against him. As a result of the hearing, all charges were dropped and he was granted release from prison.

In June of this year, an initial court had sentenced Mostafa to 10 years in prison for being part of a 'dissident group' and 'undermining national security'. However, his lawyer, Ms Shima Ghousheh, a member of the Human Rights Commission in Iran, appealed the decision in hopes that with the statements she prepared the charges would be dropped.

Mostafa was arrested along with 50 other Farsi-speaking Christians on 27 December 2012. These believers had gathered in northern Tehran to celebrate Christmas and worship the Lord in the home of a fellow believer.

Sources: Mohabat News, Fox News, American Center for Law and Justice

Prayer Points

• Thank God for Mostafa's release.
• Pray for God's protection over him and his family.
• Pray that the appeals of other imprisoned believers in Iran will also result in their being released.

LAOS: Believers Blamed for Villagers’ Deaths

A group of new Christians in a Laotian village have been blamed for the unrelated deaths of three men. When the deaths occurred shortly after their conversion, the community concluded they had angered their ancestors.

In March 2013, two evangelists shared the gospel in three remote villages in Laos. As a result, 178 people received Christ and 18 were baptised. Shortly afterward, three men from one of the villages died from unrelated causes. One was given the wrong medicine, one died in his sleep and the third was accidentally electrocuted while trying to run a cable line.

The shaken community consulted with a witch doctor, who concluded that the strange new religion introduced to the community had angered their ancestors. 'Those Christians have to renounce their faith or they have to leave the village!' he warned. 'Otherwise, more people will die.' The community leader became angry with the new Christians and called a meeting for the whole village; army and police officials were also present. At the meeting, authorities ordered the believers to renounce their faith. They also forced the Christians to pay travel expenses for the army and police officials and to pay funeral costs of the three who had died.

Source: VOM Sources

Prayer Points

• Praise God for the evangelists' work in Laos and the group of new believers.
• Pray that the believers will be firm in their faith despite this opposition.
• Pray that God's word will convict and transform those still worshipping their ancestors.

INDIA: Church Attacked, Assailants Arrested by Authorities

Members of Christian Faith Centre have been attacked by a fundamentalist Hindu group and the pastor has been severely beaten. As a result, security guards have been posted outside the church.

Members of Christian Faith Centre, an Assembly of God church, were attacked on 27 October by Bajrang Dal, a fundamentalist Hindu group. According to reports, the attackers disrupted a prayer service and severely beat the pastor leading the prayer. After beating the pastor, the radicals dragged him to a police station and attempted to file a case against the pastor for forcefully converting Hindus to Christianity. Because this church has been attacked in the past, the police recognised this as an incident of persecution and arrested the radicals. In the future, the police will keep several security guards outside the church during Sunday worship to avoid this incident happening again.

Source: International Christian Concern

Prayer Points

• Praise God for the protection the police will provide to this church.
• Ask the Lord to grant the pastor a full recovery from his beating.
• Pray for the members of Bajrang Dal to come to repentance and faith.

Voice of the Martyrs Prayer Watch

6 Nov 2013

IRAN: Update - Pastor Saeed Abedini Transferred to Brutal Prison

Pastor Saeed Abedini, a US citizen imprisoned in Iran because of his Christian faith, has been transferred from Evin Prison to Rajai Shahr Prison in Karaj. It is an even more dangerous prison, where he faces life-threatening conditions and treatment.

According to a release from Jordan Sekulow of the American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ), Abedini's family members in Iran say he has been moved from Evin Prison in Tehran to Rajai Shahr Prison in Karaj. It is an even more dangerous prison, where he faces life-threatening conditions and treatment.

A member of Abedini's family in Iran arriving at Evin Prison for a regular weekly visit was told that Abedini has been moved to this prison outside of Tehran - about an hour-and-a-half drive away.

The family member traveled to Rajai Shahr Prison and was told that Abedini is imprisoned there and not allowed any visitors.

Source: Assist News Service

Prayer Points

• Ask the Lord to protect Saeed in Rajai Shahr Prison and to keep his mind fixed on Christ.
• Pray that the Lord will be with Saeed's family and comfort them as they are not allowed to visit him.
• Pray that the Gospel will continue to spread in Iran and that the Lord will use Saeed's imprisonment to strengthen the church.

6 Nov 2013

ERITREA: Christian Woman Dies in Jail

An Eritrean Christian woman has become the latest known prisoner of conscience to have died in Eritrea. She was denied access to medical treatment because she refused to denounce her Christian beliefs.

Wehazit Berhane Debesai, who was in her thirties, died during the week of 14 October, of pneumonia following a year of imprisonment in harsh conditions, where she was denied access to medical treatment because she refused to denounce her Christian beliefs.

Debesai had been taking part in national service when she was arrested last year for her involvement in Christian activities outside of the government-sanctioned Orthodox, Catholic and Evangelical Lutheran church groups.

Debesai, who was engaged to be married, was then kept incommunicado in Adi Quala, near the Ethiopian border. Her death coincided with the arrest of around 70 Christians at a prayer gathering in Asmara, the capital.

Source: World Watch Monitor

Prayer Points

• Praise God for Debesai's faithfulness; ask the Lord to use her witness to draw people to himself.
• Pray that the Lord will comfort Debesai's family and fiancé in their grief.
• Pray for the 70 Christians recently arrested to remain strong.

6 Nov 2013

PAKISTAN: Punjab Christian Accused of Blasphemy Presently in Hiding

Another blasphemy row has broken out in a Lahore township where Christians fear they may become targets of violence. Adnan Masih, a 25-year-old Christian teacher, has been in hiding since 8 October after being accused of writing blasphemous comments in a book about Islam.

According to an employee of a glass and aluminium business, the book was left in the shop where Adnan's brother also happens to work. Consequently, the shop owner, Mushtaq Masih, was immediately taken into custody in Adnan's place. In addition, the brother and uncle of the accused are being held illegally for the same reason.

Christians residing in this area of Lahore, known as Bahadar Pura Bahar colony, say they fear a repeat of the devastating riot that took place in Joseph Colony during March of this year. Local police have been urged by Release partners to implement security measures in order to protect Christians and avoid any further outbreak of unnecessary violence

Source: Release Partners

Prayer Points

• Pray for God's peace and protection over the Christian families in Lahore.
• Ask Him to intervene on behalf of those who are being unjustly detained.
• Pray that the accusers discover the truth of the Gospel for themselves.

VOM Prayer Points

KENYA: Church Set Ablaze by Rioters Seeking Retaliation

Militant Muslims, angered over the murder of an imam, sought retaliation by burning a neighbouring Salvation Army church on 4 October in the Kenyan coastal city of Mombasa.

While the attack was taking place, the young militants blocked the main road leading to the church and forced police to use tear gas and gunshots to disperse the out-of-control rioting.

According to the Red Cross, four people were killed and at least seven wounded during the clashes between police and rebels, while the church was burning in flames.

A spokesperson from the country's security forces explained that the day before the church attack, the imam, Sheikh Ibrahim Omar, was killed in a drive-by shooting after preaching in a mosque linked to al-Shabaab, the Somali extremist group responsible for the torturous killing of 67 people in the 21 September attack at Nairobi's Westgate Mall.

The Kenyan government has announced that it will launch a war against the extremists due to their involvement in the horrific atrocities that took place during the mall attack. However, its security leader, Robert Kitor, has publically assured that the security forces were not involved in the killing of Sheikh Omar.

Sources: BBC, Reuters, CP World

Prayer Points

• Pray for the citizens of Kenya who are suffering grief, shock and devastation. Ask the Lord of all comfort to minister His love and grace to them.
• Pray for those in authority, attempting to bring an end to the work of this terrorist organisation. Ask the Lord to grant them His favour and protection.
• Pray many in the terrorist group will be granted an opportunity to hear the Gospel and be transformed by the Holy Spirit.

COLOMBIA: Terrorist Bombing Threatens Christians and Neighbouring Families

Greg Musselman of Voice of the Martyrs Canada, who has recently returned from Colombia, reports that a bomb blast took place near the home of one of VOM￿s in-country ministry partners, causing terrible destruction in the neighbouring area.

This former FARC (Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia) commander-turned-evangelist is not sure if the blast was meant as a warning for him to cease his Christian activity.

This particular bombing incident, which took place in the country's Cauca state, has caused injuries to at least nine victims, including children. Police commander Ricardo Augusto Alarcon states that the explosion has also left a six-foot deep hole in the road and damaged at least 10 houses.

The police are blaming Colombia's largest rebel group, FARC, for the attack, specifically the group's 6th Front, which operates in the area and controls much of the marijuana production in Cauca.

Although VOM's dedicated ministry partner is well aware of the dangers he and his family are facing while spreading the message of God's love, such acts of violence and terrorism will not deter him from continuing the work of the ministry.

Sources: Colombia Reports, Voice of the Martyrs Canada

Prayer Points

• Thank the Lord for this faithful worker. Pray the Lord will protect him, his family and his contacts. Pray for those suffering injury as a result of the blast.
• Ask the Lord to intervene in Colombia's troublesome areas where different factions of the FARC terrorist group are threatening the safety, well-being and peace of the country's citizens.
• Pray for the members of the FARC. May the Lord work in their hearts and minds to reveal Himself to many.

NEPAL| Christian Killed While Praying for His Attacker

An elder in the Believers Church in Nepal, which is supported by Gospel for Asia, was killed in the early morning hours of 20 October 2013 during prayer for a sick man.

Debalal, 36, was called to the home of Kumar Sardarat at 3am to pray for his severe pain. Debalal was at first reluctant to go because of the late hour and because Kumar and his family are devout Hindus.

As Debalal prayed, Kumar left the room and returned with a sharp, curved knife called a khukuri and an iron rod. He beat Debalal severely with the iron rod before slitting his throat, killing him. None of the neighbours, who should have been able to hear the attack, intervened.

Kumar is in police custody. Debalal leaves behind a wife and son. According to a VOM worker, Debalal's wife is very depressed.

Sources: Voice of the Martyrs USA, Gospel for Asia

Prayer Points

• Ask the Lord to be close to Debalal's wife and son as they come to terms with the shock and grief. Pray they will realise that the Lord walks with them during this time of great suffering (Psalm 23).
• Pray the perpetrator will be brought to justice in this life and to repentance for the next.
• Pray the Lord will bless Nepali Christians with a spirit of boldness to allow them to continue to serve Him in spite of the dangers.

VOM Prayer watch

NORTH KOREA: China Attempts to Block Radio Broadcast into North Korea

Chinese authorities are targeting a Christian radio broadcast produced by North Korean Christians in partnership with Seoul USA and Voice of the Martyrs. Both the Chinese and North Korean governments have unsuccessfully attempted to block the radio broadcast.

This is exciting news for Christians involved in the shortwave radio program because it demonstrates that North Korean and Chinese officials are threatened by the small broadcasting program. When asked why this particular broadcast is such a threat, an analyst noted that it is a purely Christian program voiced by North Koreans.

Most Christian broadcasts into North Korea are voiced by South Koreans, whose accent is more difficult for North Koreans to understand. Authorities assume that North Koreans can't understand these broadcasts or are turned off by the voices of 'foreigners.'

Source: Voice of the Martyrs USA

Prayer Points

• Praise the Lord, for His word never returns to Him void but accomplishes His desire and achieves the purpose for which it was sent (Isaiah 55:11).
• Pray for the programmers and engineers who create the broadcasts.
• Pray all those who hear, may many be granted His gift of grace.

23 Oct 2013

NIGERIA: Sharia Law to be Enforced in Kano State

Kano is one of nine states in northern Nigeria that has introduced Shariah law. Southern Nigeria is mostly Christian and is ruled by secular law. Islamic police in northern Nigeria's Kano state will begin enforcing Sharia law.

Ten thousand officers will be on the streets making sure all citizens, including Christians, adhere to the strict Islamic legal code. Law enforcement has orders to arrest anyone wearing "indecent dress" such as sleeveless T-shirts and pants that cut off just below the knee.

They'll also be watching the city's small, motorised rickshaw taxis for men and women travelling together.

Kano is one of nine states in northern Nigeria that has introduced Shariah law. Southern Nigeria is mostly Christian and is ruled by secular law.

Sources: Christian Broadcasting Network, International Christian Concern

Prayer Points

• Pray the Lord will give Christians the wisdom and the patience needed at this time.
• Ask Him to protect His people in Kano state.
• Pray the Lord will pour out His Spirit on Northern Nigeria to bring revival.

23 Oct 2013

EGYPT: Three killed in Attack at Christian Wedding

On Sunday night two unidentified gunmen riding motorcycles opened fire on guests exiting the Virgin Church, located in Warrag, Giza. The gunmen fired automatic weapons as the guests exited the church after attending a wedding ceremony.

According to Reverend Justus, the pastor of the church, one man, one women and one 8 year old girl were killed, and 18 were injured.Reverend Justus said the gunmen were masked and were able to flee despite traffic congestion.

The Director of Giza Security formed a task force to find the gunmen. The Corniche Road leading to the area was evacuated. The attack is yet to be classified as "criminal" or "terrorist."

Coptic Christians make up 10 percent of Egypt's 85 million people, and have generally coexisted peacefully with majority Sunni Muslims for centuries, despite bouts of sectarian tension. But the army's overthrow of elected Islamist President Mohamed Mursi on 3 July has been followed by the worst attacks on churches and Christian properties in years.

Sources: Assyrian News Agency, Reuters

Prayer Points

• Ask the Lord to heal the injured and comfort those who have lost loved ones.
• Pray He will help the bride and groom along with all their friends and relatives to overcome their shock and grief.
• Pray the ongoing violence and unrest will be used by God to strengthen His people, bring about church unity and bring more people into His Kingdom.

VOM Prayer Watch

16 Oct 2013

KAZAKHSTAN: Update - Pastor Under House Arrest Pending Trial

Pastor Bakhytzhan Kashkumbayev, who has been imprisoned for nearly five months in Astana, has been placed under house arrest for the remainder of his pre-trial detention, according to a court decision.

The 66-year-old pastor has not seen his wife, Alfiya, or other family members since his 17 May arrest.

While under house arrest, Kashkumbayev is 'banned from associating with anyone apart from close relatives living with him, receiving and sending letters, holding conversations with the use of any communication devices, and only able to leave his home for medical appointments.'

Pastor Kashkumbayev was arrested on charges of 'causing considerable harm to the psychological health' of a church member and was accused of using 'stupefying substances' on church members, a reference to the red tea used as a non-alcoholic Communion wine.

A church member insisted that Pastor Kashkumbayev 'is totally innocent and has not harmed my health at all.'The pre-trial detention is scheduled to last until 17 November.

Source: Forum 18 News

Prayer Points

• Thank the Lord for the opportunity for Pastor Kashkumbayev to return home.
• Pray the Lord will intervene in this case to ensure a favourable outcome.
• Ask the Lord to strengthen the faith of Pastor Kashkumbayev, his family members and his congregation members.

IRAQ: Trusting God Amidst Escalating Violence

The following is an urgent update received recently from Canon Andrew White, known as the Vicar of Baghdad:

"I returned to Baghdad following a trip to the US and Canada. Whilst the trip was very good...when I arrived, I found things the most desperate they have ever been. The violence and murders have ascended to such levels that scores of people are being killed each day.... Things are so awful, the Lord is our only hope.

"Violence is all around us. Today alone, there have been 15 suicide bombs. Yesterday, there were even car bombs in the safety of the Kurdish city of Erbil. In the past day alone, one bomb at a funeral killed [at least 60] people. Most of what really happened has not even been on the news. Yesterday, I preached on the hope of the Second Coming. That is all we have to hold on to, for 'soon and very soon we are going to see the Lord.'

"It is so painful to have person after person come to me and say they have got to leave, including my son who has been with me since he was ten. With him leaving...I confess I thought, 'How on earth will I cope?' Then I remembered that (God) who has called me to this place will never fail me. As He remained with Daniel, so He will remain with me. You cannot leave those you love, and you cannot make those you love stay, when in reality you know how dangerous it is for them.... Thank you for standing with me in the midst of such pain. May God bless you much."

Sources: VOM Canada, BBC

Prayer Points

• Pray Canon White and the remnant of believers in Iraq will be reminded that they are surrounded by God's mighty army of angels and, more importantly, His powerful presence.
• Pray that they will also be given opportunities to minister His hope, provision and healing to the unsaved, needy, bereaved, hurting, fearful and despondent.
• Pray the Lord will bring peace and stability to Iraq; commit to the Lord all those in authority in this nation.

16 Oct 2013

PAKISTAN: Prisoner's Accuser Recants

Zafar Bhatti, accused of blasphemy under Pakistan's 295C blasphemy law, was charged and jailed in July 2012, based on rumours that he insulted Mohammed's mother in text messages.

Zafar worked selling medicines, and he often went door-to-door with his presentation. He also used those opportunities to share Christ in the various homes, reading the Bible and praying with families. He also established a small NGO called 'Jesus World Mission' whose purpose was to assist the poor.

In jail, Zafar has been beaten several times. Someone also tried to poison his food. Several of the Muslim prisoners pressure him, saying if he accepts Islam he will be forgiven.

Good news! Zafar Bhatti's accuser has recanted. However, Zafar is not free yet. He cannot appear before the court and the judge because it's too unsafe for him to travel from the jail to the courthouse. In Pakistan, those accused of blasphemy often face mob justice, even when they are exonerated by the court system. Instead, Zafar must wait until the judge and lawyers involved can arrange to visit him at the prison. This may take some time.

Source: Voice of the Martyrs USA

Prayer Points 

• Thank the Lord the truth has come to light, pray Zafar will not have to wait too long for freedom.
• In the meantime pray the Lord will work through him to be the light of Christ to other prisoners.
• Pray the Lord will protect him from those who may wish to harm him. 

VOM Prayer Watch

SYRIA: The New Road to Damascus

The war in Syria is one of the greatest crises seen in the Middle East in the last 20 years. It has claimed the lives of more than 100,000 people, both Muslim and Christian. More than 2 million Syrians have fled to neighbouring countries.

In the midst of this crisis, our persecuted family is boldly reaching out. And the reactions of Muslims have been astonishing.  "When you hear about one Muslim coming to Christ, it's a great thing, and everybody rejoices," said a VOM Syrian contact. "Today in Syria I'm not talking about one person. We're talking about hundreds and even thousands of Muslims coming to know Christ." 

Teams of believers are working in the refugee camps, providing Christ's love while sharing material aid, such as medical supplies and Bibles, as well as spiritual aid. Christians, widely considered 'infidels' in Syria, are now often and affectionately referred to as 'the Bible People.'

"This war is like a knife in the heart of the church," said VOM's National Contact. "No human can stand that suffering. But there is God's presence. I can see Christ in the midst of darkness."

Source: Voice of the Martyrs USA

Prayer Points

• Thank the Lord for bringing many out of darkness and into His marvellous light. 
• Please pray for Christians who face not only the horrific effects of war but also continued persecution.
• Please also pray for those who are bravely using this opportunity to advance the Kingdom.

IRAN: Christians Jailed for their Faith

Iranian Christians are requesting prayer for their country following a series of arrests just as the government released some prisoners in an effort to appear more liberal.

At least 20 Christians, mainly from Muslim backgrounds, were detained in Tehran, Karaj, Isfahan, and Tabriz. As a sign that he is politically progressive, the government of incoming President Hassan Rouhani pardoned and then released 11 prisoners of conscience from prison on 20 September.

The next day, the family of imprisoned Pastor Behnam Irani went to meet with a judge in Karaj, Iran. Pastor Behnam's family asked the judge to pardon him and allow him to be released like the other prisoners of conscience. The judge denied the request, and stated that Behnam had to serve his six years of prison and that the only way he would be pardoned and released from prison was if he repented and returned to Islam.

Sources: Voice of the Martyrs USA and Mohabat News

Prayer Points

• Thank the Lord for the recent release of 11 prisoners. Pray the Lord will protect and sustain those who remain in jail, especially Behnam Irani who is suffering from poor health.
• Praise God for the growth of the church in Iran. Pray He will use these incidents of persecution to further spread the Gospel and strengthen the faith of His children.
• Pray for President Hassan Rouhani and all those in authority in Iran.

INDONESIA: Update - Two Indonesian Christians Sentenced to Three Years Behind Bars for Evangelism

Two Indonesian Christians were sentenced to three years in prison on 2 August for conducting evangelistic activities among Muslims. The Christians, known as Kashfi Rosyid and Jalaludin, are brothers and were arrested by police on 20 March in Sukabumi, West Java, after an angry mob of approximately 200 Muslims attacked their home.

Last month it was reported that Mr Rosyid, age 58, and Mr Jalaludin, age 65, have both been beaten at least once by fellow inmates since their imprisonment, though the exact motive behind the attacks remains unclear. In addition, the lawyer representing the two Christians has given up on appealing their three-year prison sentence after facing significant pressure from local authorities.   Mr Rosyid's family was "chased out of their village," and that their current whereabouts are unknown. Mr Jalaludin's family was forced to resettle in an undisclosed location in West Java. The families have received some support from outside organisations, but are reportedly still struggling to cope with the imprisonment of Mr Rosyid and Mr Jalaludin.

According to one source, the two men had helped to convert more than 100 Muslims to Christianity in the area around their home before their arrest.

Source: International Christian Concern

Prayer Points

• Pray the Lord will heal Mr Rosyid and Mr Jalaludin and grant them courage during this difficult trial. Pray the Lord will protect and provide for their families.
• Commit the appeal to the Lord; ask Him to provide the legal representation these two men require. Pray for their release.
• Ask the Lord to strengthen the faith of the Muslims He converted through these two men.

VOM prayer watch

Nigeria Pastors Killed in Extremist Raids Two pastors have been killed and three churches destroyed, as militants attack yet more civilian targets in north-east Nigeria. Read more Prayer Points • Ask God to comfort and sustain all those who have been bereaved in militant attacks. • Pray that God will raise up new leaders for the two churches who have lost their leaders to extremist violence. Thank God for the strong overcoming faith of His people in Nigeria. • Pray for wisdom, resolve and courage for the Nigerian authorities as they work to stamp out the extremist threat.

Tanzania Pastor Severely Burned in Acid Attack A pastor in Zanzibar, Tanzania, has suffered severe burns after having acid poured on him by one or more Muslims just outside an Internet café. Read more Prayer Points • Pray the Lord will completely heal Pastor Anselm’s physical and psychological wounds (Psalm 30:2). • Pray the church in Tanzania will not be fearful as a result of this and similar attacks but instead learn ever more to rely on Him who gives us strength. • Pray the Lord will frustrate any plans of this Islamist group to harm His church.

Morocco Update: Christian Tentatively Released from Prison Mohamed El Baladi has been released from the Moroccan prison where he was held after being sentenced to two-and-a-half years in prison for the crimes of evangelism and shaking the faith of a Muslim. Mohamed had been held in prison since his arrest in late August. Read more Prayer Points • Thank the Lord for answered prayer for Mohamed and ask Him to favour Mohamed with a successful appeal. Pray for Mohamed’s legal representatives. • Pray this case will serve to encourage the faith of the church throughout Morocco and this incident will result in increased boldness among believers (Acts 5:29). • Pray for the citizens of Morocco, including Mohamed’s family, ask the Lord to draw many into His kingdom.

VOM Prayer Watch

Pakistan Church Bombing Kills at Least 85 A twin-suicide bomb attack outside the All Saints church in Peshawar killed at least 85 people in one of the worst attacks on Christians in Pakistan. According to reports, the attackers blew themselves up as worshippers were exiting the church after Sunday service.  Read more Prayer Points • Pray for God's healing mercy upon those injured in the attacks. • Pray for the families grieving and angered over the loss of loved ones, that they would experience the peace and comfort of Jesus. • Pray for the country's Christians, that they would not resort to violence but would respond in Christ-likeness. • Pray for the Lord’s protection over the church in Pakistan.

Laos Laotian Christian Families Facing Expulsion and Abuse Eleven Laotian families, about fifty people in all, face expulsion from their village because of their conversion to Christianity. Despite the impending threat, the Laotian believers plan to continue conducting worship services. Read more Prayer Points • Thank the Lord for the growth of His church in Laos. Pray He will bless and honour these faithful believers for their relentless courage and devotion to Him. • Pray that He will always remain at the centre of their fellowship, filling them with His strength, unfailing love, mercy and the ability to forgive others. • Pray that the authorities will know Christ’s love, forgiveness and blessing through the lives of these Christians (Romans 12:14, 21).

Nigeria Twenty-Five Churches Marked for Demolition Government authorities in northern Nigeria's Borno state plan to demolish 25 churches and schools, ostensibly to make room for new housing. Christian leaders believe this is another attempt by local governments in northern Nigeria to persecute the Christian minority. Read more Prayer Points • Ask the Lord to intervene to preserve these places of worship, fellowship and teaching. • Thank the Lord for the faithfulness of the Christians in Nigeria, ask Him to strengthen their faith further to help them to overcome this new kind of opposition. • Pray for Christians in Nigeria reaching out to Muslims with the love of Christ.

VOM prayer watch

"Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering." Hebrews 13:3

Morocco Christian Convert Imprisoned for Evangelising On 28 August, police raided the home of Mohamed el Baldi confiscating his Bible and about 30 additional Christian books. He was arrested and interrogated by police and later sentenced to two-and-a-half years in prison for evangelising Muslims. Read more Prayer Points • Pray that Mohamed will be spiritually strengthened and encouraged while in prison. • May the Holy Spirit also work in the lives of the judges and lawmakers associated with the Moroccan legislative and judicial systems so religious freedom and justice may be granted to the followers of Christ. • Pray for God's protection and blessing upon the fellowship of Christians in Morocco, including those believers who've recently had their identities exposed as a result of this case.

Egypt Christians Murdered for Refusing to Pay Muslim Tax Two Coptic Christians were shot dead last week for refusing to pay Jizya, a tax imposed on Christians by Muslim Brotherhood gangs. A gang leader contacted the men and demanded money to buy weapons, they refused. A couple of days later the gang surprised the two Copts by going to their home and showering them with bullets. Read more Prayer Points • Pray authorities in Egypt will do all things possible to bring peace, order and justice to Coptic communities. • Pray the Lord will protect His children throughout the nation. Pray for those who are grieving, injured and fearful. • Pray the Lord will build His church during this time of unrest.

Uzbekistan Christians Fined for Illegally Using Religious Literature In two separate cases on the same day in August, 20 believers were fined for illegally using religious literature. The fines totalled the equivalent of nearly 68 years official minimum wage. The Uzbek authorities have stated that “religious books are only allowed to be read within registered religious communities’ buildings.”  Read more Prayer Points • Please pray Christians in Uzbekistan will not be discouraged but will continue to treasure the Word of God. • Pray the Lord will grow His church in number and faithfulness in spite of man’s attempt to suppress it. • Pray the Lord will uphold and strengthen the faith of Christians involved in this case.would be cleared of any wrongdoing. •  Pray the Lord will pour out His Spirit on Algeria so many may know Him.

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Prayer Watch

CHINA: House Church Pastor Attacked by Government Agents Li Shuangping, pastor of Linfen house church, was abducted, beaten and threatened by government agents on the night of 13 August. While Li was driving to his home in Shanxi province, a man who appeared to be drunk staggered in front of his vehicle, at which point Li stopped. A black sedan pulled up alongside Li, and three men hurried out. The men forcibly seized Li from his vehicle, with help from the man who pretended to be drunk, and dragged him into the sedan. As one man drove, the other three restrained and harassed him in the backseat. After blindfolding him and tying him with a rope, they beat him for the duration of the journey, inflicting noticeable wounds on his head, neck and torso. The driver strayed from the main roads until reaching a cornfield, where the other men pushed Li out of the sedan. Throughout the journey, one man repeatedly threatened to kill Li for his involvement in the house church. The threats ranged from being tossed in the river to being forced to drink sulphuric acid. The man also threatened to track down and kidnap Li's family. The abducted pastor believes that the assailants work for the local government which has previously targeted him for his involvement with Linfen church. Sources: ChinaAid, Christian Solidarity Worldwide Ask the Lord to provide protection for Pastor Li, his family and his congregation, keeping them at peace and free from the spirit of fear. Also pray that the members of the Linfen house church will continue to gather together in fellowship to the glory of God, reaching multitudes more in China with the Gospel, including Li's abductors.

PHILIPPINES: Displaced Christians Wait to Return Home Voice of the Martyrs is helping hundreds of Christians who were run out of their villages at the end of July by the Muslim Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF). The government has provided only 1 or 2 kilograms of rice to the evacuees, not nearly enough to sustain them. VOM has provided 168 Christian evacuee families with food supplies, mosquito nets, sleeping mats, blankets and medicine. The Christians have been unable to return home, as the BIFF remain in their villages, but some of the men still attempt to sneak back into the villages to get food for their families. Source: Voice of the Martyrs USA Please pray that these believers will be able to return to their homes soon. Pray they will be encouraged together as the body of Christ during this difficult time (1 Peter 1:6–7). Pray the Lord will use these believers as a witness for His Gospel, ask Him to bring conviction and repentance to many members of the BIFF.

AFGHANISTAN:  MP - “Execute Afghan Christian Converts” A member of Afghanistan's Parliament has suggested that all those who have converted from Islam to Christianity should be executed, according to Islamic Sharia Law, in order to stop the rapid growth of Christianity among Afghans within and outside the country. An Afghani news service, Ava, has published a report stating that the number of Christians is increasing in the country. The Afghan news service also quoted Nazir Ahmad Hanafi, Afghani Parliament Member, as saying, "Afghani citizens continue to convert to Christianity in India. Numerous Afghanis have become Christians in India. This is an offence to Islamic Laws and according to the Koran they need to be executed". Islamic leaders of Afghanistan consider the growth of Christianity to be a threat. This phenomenon has reached the point where there have been reports that some Afghani Islamic clerics warned the government against the influence of Christianity in the country. A while ago, the Islamic Council of Afghanistan notified President Karzai about more Christian aid-workers and missionaries coming to Afghanistan and the likelihood of more conversions across the country. Source: Mohabat News Thank the Lord for the work of His Holy Spirit in the hearts and minds of Afghani people inside and outside Afghanistan. Pray He will continue to build His church. Pray the Lord will protect workers engaged in humanitarian work and Gospel witness throughout the country.

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Prayer Watch INDONESIA: Pastor and Assistants Arrested for Baptisms Pastor Onekesyi Zegaand and three of his assistants were arrested recently by a district police officer after being accused of baptising Muslims. The allegations were made on 20 June, when a Muslim family reported that a family member had become a Christian and been baptised by the pastor. Police told the pastor and his assistants that the Muslim family had planned to “catch” them at a nearby drugstore. “Our job is just arrest them,” the police officer stated. Police also seized Christian books in various languages as well as a notebook. Two people who admitted to being baptised by the pastor have since returned to Islam. Source: Voice of the Martyrs Pray the Lord will keep Pastor Zegaand and his assistants faithful during this difficult time.  Pray for their release. Pray this persecution will result in increased boldness among the believers (Acts 4:29-31). Pray for those who have returned to Islam, that they willingly return to the one true God. VIETNAM: Praying Christians Brutally Assaulted by Police On 31 July, a group of Christians in Ho Chi Minh City were assaulted by police while gathered in front of the Notre Dame Cathedral for prayer. They were praying for the resolution of land disputes because the government has been trying to confiscate their properties. Police and security personnel forcibly ended the meeting, dragging the Christians onto buses. Those who resisted were brutally beaten. As a result, several had to undergo medical treatment in hospital. In recent years, prayer vigils and peaceful protests have been held by Christians in response to the unlawful confiscation of land by the government. The Communist Party of Vietnam enforces strict control of all policy and activity. In particular, the confiscation of land is becoming a serious issue. The government is also using the confiscation to restrict unsanctioned religious activities. Unregistered churches in Vietnam face harassment and discrimination. Recently, severe famine in the land moved the government to start providing emergency aid to villages. Christian communities in desperate need were discriminated against by the government and left without the necessary provisions, unlike the response that was given to those of non-believers. Source: Christian Solidarity Worldwide Pray believers in Vietnam will experience ongoing spiritual strength and growth as they face these challenging circumstances because of their faith. Pray that the land disputes threatening their churches and communities will be fairly resolved. May those afflicting and harassing them sense God's powerful touch, resulting in changed hearts and lives. ALGERIA: Christian Convert Facing Prison Time for Defaming Islam  An Algerian Christian convert from Islam is still awaiting a verdict on his appeal to a harsh 5-year jail term handed to him by a court for proselytism and defaming Islam. According to reports, Krimo Siaghi was arrested on 14 April 2011 after he refused a merchant who tried to force him to recite the creed for converting back to Islam. Subsequently, the merchant filed a complaint against Siaghi on charges of proselytism and of defaming Islam and its prophet. Christian leaders in Algeria say that government officials influenced the judge's strict sentence and that the ongoing court delay was a guise to divert international scrutiny on the incident. Krimo Siaghi, however, has been allowed to remain free pending his appeal. Sources: World Evangelical Alliance, Worthy Christian News Pray that Krimo Siaghi would place his trust in the Lord during this difficult time. Pray for God's guidance upon Siaghi and his legal team; pray that Siaghi would be cleared of any wrongdoing. Pray the Lord will pour out His Spirit on Algeria so many may know Him.

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