JesusIsTops
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Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. John 14:6
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Post by JesusIsTops on Aug 17, 2018 21:41:07 GMT -5
8 - 17 - 18 1 - Central Asia - On Aug. 6, authorities entered a house where 10 members of a church group were staying and confiscated passports, phones, Christian literature and DVDs. They pressured and threatened the five men and five women before detaining them. In 2009, the country’s government made all unauthorized religious activity and expression illegal, and amendments enacted earlier this year have made life even harder for Christians. Pray that the Christians will be released soon and be able to continue their ministry without interference from the authorities. Pray that they will remain bold in faith and that their work will produce much fruit.
2 - Tanzania - In May, authorities in Zanzibar interrupted a church service before arresting the pastor and closing the church. Pastor Daniel Kwileba Kwiyeya was in mid-sermon when police officers entered the church and took him by the arm. After the pastor’s daughter protested his arrest, she also was arrested and taken to the police station with her father. The 160-member congregation then went back inside the church and began praying. Muslim leaders in the area had complained that the church services were too loud, even though the church does not use loudspeakers as do the mosques. On April 26, the regional district commissioner ordered the church to close, but the church refused to comply. Instead, they filed an objection. Church members say the closure was a calculated move to weaken and ultimately eradicate Christianity in Zanzibar, a semi-autonomous island with heavy Islamist influence. Pray for Pastor Daniel & his congregation & that the church will be allowed to stay open.
3 - China - Shi Xinping, leader of a house church in Zongdian, Henan Province, was fined 50,000 yuan, or about $7,500, by the regional religious affairs committee for organizing illegal activities without reporting them to the department of religious affairs. His church, the Hanzhuang Village house church, received three government notices in one week. The first warned of possible penalties, the second warned of a ban on the church and the third threatened more penalties. Members of the 200-member church, which has been in existence for more than 10 years, had refused to join the state-sanctioned Three-Self Church. A church member said the large fine will be a hardship for the church. Pray that they will deal wisely with authorities.
4 - China (Mission Network News) - According to Mission Cry, many stores and online distributors in Beijing are pulling Bibles from their shelves, which has created the perfect opportunity to pass out Bibles for free. Pray for protection and discernment during this outreach and that the Bible distributors’ efforts will be successful. Pray for opportunities to pray with and share the love of Christ with others. Pray that every piece of Christian literature will have a deep impact thanks to the power of the Holy Spirit.
5 - Indonesia (Channel News Asia) - Recent reports warn that the first group of individuals with links to Syria is about to be released after they complete their prison sentences. Many are concerned that the prisoners may have further defined themselves in terms of extreme ideology. Some also fear the development of a future Islamic State alumni network among ex-prisoners. Pray for God's presence to be known by extremists in every prison. Pray for strategies for authorities to recognize any dangerous communication among ex-prisoners. Pray for God's protection and justice wherever individuals believe that they have the right to harm others.
6 - Saudi Arabia (La Croix) - Pray for protection and discernment for Christians in Saudi Arabia. Pray for Christians to find favor in their relationships and opportunities to share the love and truth of Christ.
7 - Iraq (Crux) - A year has passed since Mosul's liberation, while piles of rubble and bullet-ridden vehicles tell the silent and difficult stories of the displaced. There are still some families who refuse to return because of the danger that neighbors, many of whom are ISIS sympathizers, present. Pray for God's healing among Christians who have experienced loss and trauma. Pray for relationships between Christians and those guarding Christian property in the region. Pray for protection for Christians called back to the area and provision for these families and businesses.
8 - Kenya - (International Christian Concern) – International Christian Concern (ICC) has learned that last Wednesday, August 8, 2018, police in Tiaty, Kenya arrested Pastor David Kimeu over alleged involvement in human trafficking. David Kimeu is not only a pastor, but a full-time missionary with the Africa Inland Church Mission Department (AICMD). He has dedicated his time to rescuing girls from female genital mutilation and forced marriage. However, the local elders from his community falsely accused him because they strongly advocate for these outlawed practices.
In prison: Asia Bibi (Pakistan), Andrew Brunson (now under house arrest in Turkey), Gao Zhisheng (China), Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani (Iran)
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JesusIsTops
Champion Member
Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. John 14:6
Posts: 4,061
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Post by JesusIsTops on Aug 25, 2018 20:54:44 GMT -5
8 - 25 - 18 1 – Nigeria - Some teens affected by Boko Haram attacks had the opportunity recently to work through their grief and anger at VOM-sponsored camps, where they also were able to make friendships with other teens who have suffered similar experiences. Many of these teens have seen family members murdered and watched their childhood homes burned to the ground. Organizers hope the camps will help them forgive their attackers and reduce their desire for revenge. Praise God for the camps and all they have done for young people affected by brutal Boko Haram attacks. Pray that the friendships formed and lessons learned at the camps will continue to deepen as they return home and face the possibility of further attacks. Pray that they will continue to find peace in Christ and share their eternal hope with others in their community.
2 - Sri Lanka - A pastor, his wife and two other Christians were assaulted recently after leaving a birthday party at the home of another Christian. Five villagers confronted the Christians, threatening and verbally abusing the pastor. When the Christians continued walking away, the attackers began throwing stones at them, injuring the pastor’s wife and another female. The pastor later filed a complaint at the local police station. Although Christians in Sri Lanka can worship openly, local Buddhists often stir up anti-Christian sentiment, leading to attacks like this one. Pray for healing of the two injured women, and pray that Christians will have the courage to keep meeting despite these threats.
3 – Uzbekistan - Police in the city of Karshi raided the homes of two Christians recently, taking them and five other believers in for questioning. On May 23, police raided the homes of Khamid Rakhmonov and Ziyatullo Rakhmonov (no relation) before taking both to the police station for questioning. That same day, they summoned five other Christians, questioning all of them about why they attend unapproved Christian worship meetings and who invites them to the meetings. They were held for seven and a half hours before being released and told to return the next day. When they arrived the next day, police immediately escorted them to the Karshi Administrative Court, where the judge again asked why they attend unapproved worship meetings and where they get their Bibles. One of the men, Nabizhon Bolikulov, told the judge that he got his Bible from the officially registered Bible Society and that he would continue to attend worship services. The judge jailed Bolikulov for five days and fined the others, warning them to practice their prayers at home. Pray that believers in Karshi will remain committed to gathering for prayer and worship.
4 - China (CCD) - “China Christian's Action Love Volunteer Association” was created by believers in response to the May 2008 earthquake that killed at least 300,000 people. Many volunteers entered the disaster area, actively providing relief services in the afflicted areas. This and other Christian ministries have allowed Chinese Christians to minister to their communities outside of the church. Pray for continued favor among churches and organizations that show the love of Christ through charity. Pray for continued opportunities for Christian groups to respond and share relief, prayer, and resources. Pray for wisdom and discernment as believers use these opportunities to share the Gospel with others.
5 - Kenya (ICC) - Distraught family members still struggle with memories of the brutal murders that took place in Maleli village one year ago. The area is believed to be a place of operation for terrorist groups linked to Al-Qaeda. The affected residents are mostly farmers and many are still struggling financially because they have not had the income to provide for their families. Pray for peace, comfort, and emotional healing for those who lost loved ones during the attacks. Pray for protection and wisdom for officials to secure the area from terrorists. Pray for the restoration of income and property for all of those who experienced loss.
6 - Pakistan (The Express) - The newly elected prime minister, Imran Khan, represents the centrist party Pakistan Tehreeke-Insaaf (PTI). He addressed the nation, saying that his preferred form of government is "the Islamic State as established by the Prophet Mohammad in Medina," which sparked concerns among the country's Christians, fearing that extremism will increase throughout Pakistan. Pray for protection from violence and extremism under the new government. Pray for Christians to have favor in relationships with authorities and that the authorities will ensure the protection of vulnerable minorities. Pray that constitutional issues involving religion will be changed and justice will result.
7 - Turkey (Christianity Today) - The Protestant community faces scrutiny as Pastor Brunson's imprisonment and exchanges over his release have drawn international attention. Ongoing issues of religious freedom have surfaced, including facts about the loss of jobs and imprisonment of thousands. Although Christianity has a strong history in Turkey, the Christian population has severely dropped. Pray for protection and provision for Christians and outreach workers in Turkey. Pray for God's Kingdom to reign in all government decisions regarding persecution in Turkey. Pray for salvation for government officials and peace to reign over citizens who are affected by these decisions.
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Deleted
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Post by Deleted on Aug 26, 2018 22:52:14 GMT -5
Thank you for this topic...
Also, pray for Christians in South Africa. Read up on South Africa....it is a horror story.
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JesusIsTops
Champion Member
Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. John 14:6
Posts: 4,061
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Post by JesusIsTops on Aug 27, 2018 21:38:22 GMT -5
Np. Yes. I saw something a FB tonight about South Africa. Will be praying.
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JesusIsTops
Champion Member
Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. John 14:6
Posts: 4,061
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Post by JesusIsTops on Aug 31, 2018 19:25:29 GMT -5
8 - 31 - 18 1 - Uganda - A former Muslim leader who placed his faith in Christ on April 14 after a debate with a Christian evangelist is now being threatened by men from his former mosque. Darweshi, who is currently receiving discipleship training as a new Christian, has received death threats and fears for his family members’ lives. He hasn’t returned home since becoming a Christian because men from his former mosque are looking for him. He and his wife, who has not become a Christian, are living in a small apartment where Darweshi is receiving discipleship training. Pray that Darweshi will stand strong in the Lord, that his wife will come to know Christ, that his family members will remain safe and that God will provide for his family.
2 - Pakistan - A Christian convert from Islam who received a rickshaw to help him start a small business recently gave 50 percent of his first day’s earnings to the church in gratitude for God’s care for him and his family. Ma’ruf was raised in a Muslim home but became a Christian as an adult. His family tried repeatedly to persuade him to return to Islam, and Muslim relatives even held Ma’ruf, his wife and their two children captive for eight days, threatening to kill them. Ma’ruf also has been fired from two jobs because of his Christian faith, causing great financial difficulties for the family. VOM, therefore, provided the family with a rickshaw to use for a taxi business. On his first day of business, Ma’ruf took half his earnings to his local church as an offering of thanksgiving.
3 - Former Soviet Union - This summer, several orphans in the former Soviet Union received copies of The Action Bible in their own language during a summer camp. The children, who received their first Bible during camp last summer, have shared how The Action Bible has helped them better understand parts of the Bible that they didn’t understand as well before. One 12-year-old girl who received The Action Bible leads a Bible study in her orphanage, and she is excited about sharing her new illustrated Bible with the girls in her group when she returns to the orphanage. Pray that the orphans who received a copy of The Action Bible will continue to read, be inspired by and share the book. Pray that they will develop a bold faith that will help them withstand the persecution they will likely face in their country.
4 - Iraq (al-Araby) - A severely damaged church has resumed services as donations poured in from Christians and civil organizations. The church was known for its peaceful church bells, which were silenced during the reign of ISIS. Nearly a million people fled their homes, and the Christians of Mosul see this as a hopeful start of the rebuilding process. Pray for the families that have suffered trauma and loss to find peace through Jesus Christ. Pray for the restored church to bring courage, strength, and hope for the future of God's people. Pray for opportunities to show the love and truth of Christ as they serve others and begin rebuilding.
5 - India (UCAN) - An estimated 400 people have been killed by floods and 1.3 million people are seeking refuge in relief camps. While some religious groups are determined to help, a Hindu leader has appealed to the federal government to prevent relief to flood victims who have violated the restrictions of Hinduism by eating beef. Pray for God's comfort for those who have suffered the loss of loved ones and property. Pray for protection and provision of aid for Christians in relief camps. Pray for God to stop toxic and divisive restrictions being placed on donations by extremists.
6 - China (CP) - Earlier this year, the Chinese government introduced tougher religious regulations. All religious venues are to replace crosses atop their church buildings with the Chinese flag. In an effort to force an active exploration of religious thought that conforms to China's culture and policies, churches are also to display pictures of Chinese President Xi Jinping. Pray for creative methods for churches to share the Gospel and provide for those in need. Pray for opportunities for Christians to serve and show the love of Christ to authorities. Pray for the salvation of President Xi Jinping and that he will know the love and truth shared in churches throughout China.
7 - Nigeria (Daily Nation) - Reports indicate that a number of pregnant women have died after failing to obtain medical aid due to the lack of available health centers and health workers. The insecurity caused by al-Shabaab attacks is the cause of the closures, which has resulted in referrals to facilities hundreds of kilometers away. Pray for discernment for those confronting Al-Shabaab. Pray that pregnant mothers will find safety and refuge through Jesus Christ. Pray for Christian medical workers and facilities to be established that will provide the necessary care for citizens in the region.
In prison: Asia Bibi (Pakistan), Andrew Brunson (now under house arrest in Turkey), Pastor John Cao (China), Gao Zhisheng (China), Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani (Iran)
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JesusIsTops
Champion Member
Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. John 14:6
Posts: 4,061
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Post by JesusIsTops on Sept 8, 2018 21:56:29 GMT -5
1 - Uganda - “John” and his wife have been living in a barn on church property since being kicked out of the family house by his parents, who disapprove of John’s conversion to Christianity. After becoming seriously ill, John, formerly a Muslim, eventually decided to attend a church service and seek healing through prayer. He placed his faith in Christ, prayed and was healed of his illness, vowing never to return to the mosque. When John’s parents and siblings learned of his conversion, they expelled him, his wife and their three children from the house. Their children have been staying with his wife’s relatives while they take shelter in the barn. John is looking for work and a permanent home for his family. Pray that they will find a home soon, as they are now expecting their fourth child, and that John will be able to share Christ with his family. Pray also for his wife’s pregnancy.
2 - Syria - Amena had been a religion teacher for 23 years when her brother introduced her to Christ. After seeing how her brother and other Christians could talk directly to God, her heart was changed and she came to faith in Jesus. Her adult children rejected her, and, though she’d been divorced for several years, her husband took their 11-year-old daughter away from Amena and furniture from her home. Amena filed a custody suit, but because of her Christian faith she lost the case. She is able to see her daughter only occasionally, and she struggles to find work. Nevertheless, she remains faithful. “My greatest desire is to be involved in the field of the Lord,” she said. Pray for restoration of Amena’s family relationships and that God will use her to reach her children. Also pray that God will supply all her needs.
3 - India - Two pastors have been detained since July 22, when they were arrested on accusations of running a 13-year “conversion racket.” The men were teaching a discipleship lesson to 18 believers when members of the Hindutva youth movement interrupted their class and accused them of converting people by allurement. Police held the entire group overnight, releasing everyone but the pastors and two other believers the following morning. A local newspaper published the story as “conversion racket exposed,” reporting that the two pastors had been converting Hindus from the area for the past 13 years and that police had sealed their office. The children of the imprisoned Christians have been left without means of support or even daily food. Please pray for the pastors and for the provision of their families.
4 - India (Christian Post) - Christian families in India’s Madhya Pradesh state have refused to deny their faith despite the fact that they have been forced to stop attending church by Hindu radicals. Often, the Christians who stand firm in their faith in the face of threats are subjected to physical assaults and social boycotts by the village’s Hindu community. Pray for the families that are suffering from violence and discrimination to remain strong in their faith and for these families to have opportunities to demonstrate the love of Christ in their communities. Pray for the Hindu radicals to come to Christ.
5 - China (NHK) - Over 100 underground church leaders in China have gone public with the abuses that they have experienced as a result of government crackdowns on religious institutions. The statement referenced government campaigns such as cross removals and forcing churches to fly the national flag on their buildings. Pray for increased religious freedom throughout China. Pray for the Chinese authorities to truly listen to the struggles that these churches are facing due to government intrusion. Pray for the safety and freedom of underground pastors and churches in China.
6 - Egypt (World Watch Monitor) - According to reports, mobs of Muslim radicals have attacked multiple Christian homes in Upper Egypt because of house church activities. The violence is also affecting the process of churches being recognized under the 2016 revised law. Authorities often cite ‘security concerns’ to oppose the recognition of legitimate churches. Pray for authorities to take action to grant Egyptian churches the official recognition necessary to operate legally. Pray for protection and provision for house churches throughout Egypt. Pray for these churches to effectively share the Gospel throughout Upper Egypt.
7 - Pakistan (Christians in Pakistan) - Pakistani Christians took to social media last week to express their anger over a job ad in a newspaper in Peshawar. In the ad, two posts for sweepers required candidates to be Christian. This irked many citizens, as Christians are wrongfully viewed by many in Pakistan as dirty and only suitable for sanitation work and other menial jobs. Pray for employers in Pakistan to enforce non-discriminatory hiring practices. Pray for greater job opportunities for Christians who have been unable to find safe and sustainable work. Pray for the Gospel to spread throughout Pakistan and change the hearts of the Muslim majority.
In prison: Asia Bibi (Pakistan), Andrew Brunson (now under house arrest in Turkey), Pastor John Cao (China), Gao Zhisheng (China), Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani (Iran)
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JesusIsTops
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Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. John 14:6
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Post by JesusIsTops on Sept 15, 2018 18:50:35 GMT -5
09 / 15 / 18
1 - Bangladesh - A Christian convert from Islam who had been imprisoned for more than two years was released on bail recently. Sisir Islam became a Christian in 2012 and immediately began sharing Jesus with others in his community, leading 17 friends to Christ. On Sept. 23, 2014, after returning home from a VOM-supported training center, Sisir was charged with the murder of a local business man. He later learned that Muslim leaders in his village had accused him of the murder as retribution for his conversion to Christianity. The prison guards and prisoners treated Sisir poorly while he was imprisoned, and he was frequently ill. Finally, in July 2018, he was released on bail and returned home to recover. Thank God for Sisir’s faithful witness, and pray for his full recovery.
2 - Nigeria - Fulani herdsmen continue their attacks against Christians in northern Nigeria, specifically targeting pastors. Pastor Silas was talking with a church security guard after choir practice when Fulani Muslims attacked, killing the pastor and wounding the guard. “Silas was the target because he was a pastor,” a VOM worker said. In a separate incident, Fulani raiders killed pastor Vincent Damina as he fled an attack on his church. And in still another attack, Pastor Jacob Magit’s wife and six of his church members were killed in an attack on his church. He is now the sole caretaker for his children as well as the children of the other church members who were killed. As a result of ceaseless attacks throughout the year, about 7,500 people are now living in area camps for internally displaced people. Pray for those who have lost family members or been injured in these attacks. Pray also for the workers who are providing aid.
3 - Sri Lanka - On July 8, about 50 villagers carrying sticks interrupted the Sunday morning worship service at the Harvest Mission Church in Kiran. The mob, which included some local government officials, threatened to attack if the Christians did not stop their religious activities within 15 minutes. Fearing for his church members’ safety, the pastor stopped the service and the mob dispersed. Pray that these believers will continue to meet for corporate worship.
4 - Syria (ICC) - On September 7-8, several missiles were reportedly fired by al-Qaeda-linked rebels toward the primarily Christian town of Mhardeh, Syria. Reports indicate that the missiles carried cluster bombs, killing at least 10 civilians and seriously wounding at least 20 others as part of the build-up to the offensive against Idlib Province. Pray for those who are grieving the loss of their loved ones following this attack. Pray for the encouragement and healing of those who suffered injuries from the bombing. Pray for peace to reign and the Gospel to spread throughout Syria.
5 - India (ICC) - On September 8, members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) severely injured three pastors in an attack in Uttar Pradesh. The attack took place under the close watch of local policemen, as Christians were holding a two-day spiritual retreat. The pastors suffered injuries to their backs, heads, and hands. Pray for the physical healing of the three injured pastors. Pray for the authorities in India to take stronger action to protect religious minorities who are vulnerable to attacks by Hindu radicals. Pray for the attackers from the VHP to come to know Christ.
6 - South Sudan (Christian Post) - Youth evangelist Joseph Kiri was recently killed by a group of unknown gunmen while on his way to work. Kiri’s death is one of many over the last few years in South Sudan. The Church in South Sudan is now calling on the international community to rally in prayer and in support of persecuted South Sudanese Christians. Pray for the family and friends of Joseph Kiri as they mourn his death. Pray for authorities to take the necessary action to apprehend and arrest the group of gunmen. Pray for the gunmen to turn away from their violence and come to know Christ.
7 - Iran (Mohabat) - A 24-year-old Armenian Iranian Christian has suffered a heart attack while imprisoned for his faith. Prior to this incident, it was reported that he suffered severe physical and mental torture at the hands of the regime. He is expected to remain in prison until his trial date and suffers from a preexisting heart condition. Pray for the full physical restoration of this young imprisoned Christian. Pray for this man’s encouragement and protection as he awaits his trial date. Pray for him to shine the light of Christ before everyone he encounters behind the prison walls.
8 - Pakistan – (from email) This need has been answered in a positive way. From my email I received: "This young brother came back at home after few days missed,God bless you all
Praise the Lord, we are very glad to share with you all."
...one Christian family is suffering, they lost a son yesterday, someone kidnapped him for a money demand, this family can't pay because this woman is poor. She has 4 young children, she is a single mother, we request you please pray for this family.
In prison: Asia Bibi (Pakistan), Andrew Brunson (now under house arrest in Turkey), Pastor John Cao (China), Gao Zhisheng (China), Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani (Iran)
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JesusIsTops
Champion Member
Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. John 14:6
Posts: 4,061
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Post by JesusIsTops on Sept 15, 2018 22:34:15 GMT -5
Another urgent prayer request (in addition to my previous post):
From the Family Research Council:
I have a short, but urgent prayer request: pray for Pastor Andrew Brunson, who remains in Turkey as he awaits trial on false charges of espionage.
A note was passed to me from a member of Pastor Brunson's family.
As you may recall, Pastor Brunson was recently released from prison but placed under house arrest in Turkey. There are reports that the media are publishing numerous stories about Pastor Brunson which could have the effect of stirring up radical Islamists who would engage in the religious vigilantism that has become prevalent in Turkey as the country moves more toward an Islamic state. Therefore, concerns are growing for the safety of him and his wife.
The U.S. has placed sanctions on Turkey which have significantly impacted their economy. President Trump himself is working to secure Andrew's release. However, Turkish President Erdogan has hardened his heart and has dug in, refusing to release Pastor Brunson.
Please pray for the safety of Pastor Brunson and his wife, Norine. Also, pray that God would move on the heart of President Erdogan to release Pastor Brunson.
Standing (Eph. 6:13),
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JesusIsTops
Champion Member
Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. John 14:6
Posts: 4,061
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Post by JesusIsTops on Sept 21, 2018 18:16:19 GMT -5
9 - 21 - 18 1 - Eritrea - Security agents are hunting for Christians who attended an informal sermon by the well-known Ethiopian evangelist Surafiel Demssie, who visited Eritrea on the first Ethiopian Airlines flight into the country in more than 20 years. The pastor left Eritrea shortly after his sermon, and police began arresting those associated with him soon afterward. So far, five Christians have been arrested and many others have gone into hiding. A VOM contact asked that we pray for discernment.
2 - India - Hindu activists burned the homes of seven Christian families in May 2018 after they ignored the group’s demands to stop meeting for prayer and worship. About 10 families have been meeting faithfully every week, since converting to Christianity several years ago. Local Hindu groups had warned them repeatedly to stop meeting, but the families ignored the warning. When the families planned a three-day prayer meeting in May, the Hindus again warned them not to meet. Although a few families stayed home, seven families attended the prayer meeting. On May 2 at 6 p.m., each of their homes was set on fire, and the families lost everything. Police chose not to file a case because of political pressure. Now, some of the families are living under tarps, while a few are staying with relatives. As day laborers, the loss is very challenging for them, but they remain strong in faith. Please pray that these families will continue to grow in faith and remain strong in the Lord.
3 - Mexico - Authorities in Chiapas have forced nearly 30 Christians out of their homes and off their farmland simply because they are Christians. The men and women, who are also losing most of their personal belongings, are being humiliated, beaten and detained for days at a time by local government authorities. A VOM partner is prepared to help with short-term housing and food, but long-term solutions are needed. Please pray that these brothers and sisters will continue to place their trust in Christ as their earthly possessions are taken away. Pray that they will find new housing and sources of income, and that their faith will be a light to those watching their mistreatment.
4 - Pakistan (ICC) - On September 15, 2018, Faraz Badar, a 26-year-old Christian resident of Gujranwala, died in a hospital in Lahore, Pakistan. He succumbed to burn injuries that he received when unidentified attackers sprayed acid on him during the early hours of September 5, 2018. This was not the first time that Faraz had been attacked, as he was beaten a few months prior. Pray for the family and friends of Faraz as they mourn his death. Pray for justice in this case and for authorities to apprehend Faraz’s attackers. Pray for the attackers to turn from their violent ways and embrace the love and truth of Christ.
5 - Myanmar (ICC) - Myanmar’s largest and best-armed, non-state army is reportedly detaining Christian clergy members to investigate their activities while also destroying churches in the remote northeastern hills. The United Wa State Army has conducted these activities in order to “find out what the [Christian] missionaries are doing and what are their intentions.” Pray for the freedom of Christians and churches throughout Myanmar. Pray for the United Wa State Army to cease any unnecessary investigations and detentions. Pray for encouragement and peace among missionaries in Myanmar.
6 - Nigeria (ICC) - On September 14, 2018, Fulani militants attacked and killed two young Christian boys who were caring for a herd of cows. The boys, Ntyang Pam Danjuma and Mesheck Dalyop Kang’ageda, were aged 9 and 10 and came from the Berom people of Plateau State in Nigeria. A third child who was with them at the time, was able to escape and raise the alarm about the attack. Pray for the emotional healing of the third child who was present during the attack. Pray for God to bring peace and comfort to the families of the two boys who were killed. Pray for the Gospel to spread among violent extremist groups in Nigeria.
7 - Turkey (ICC) - According to Turkish state media, the Diyanet Foundation (a non-profit linked to the state-run Presidency of Religious Affairs) has spent over $1.61 million to restore mosques and Islamic religious schools damaged in northern Syria. In Turkey, it is nearly impossible for evangelical Christians to have a legally recognized church. Pray for the restoration of churches and other Christian facilities in Syria. Pray for the establishment and growth of new Christian churches throughout the Middle East. Pray for authorities to ease the restrictions on church registration in Turkey.
In prison: Asia Bibi (Pakistan), Andrew Brunson (now under house arrest in Turkey), Pastor John Cao (China), Gao Zhisheng (China), Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani (Iran)
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JesusIsTops
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Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. John 14:6
Posts: 4,061
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Post by JesusIsTops on Sept 29, 2018 19:18:02 GMT -5
9 - 2 9- 18 1 - Myanmar - Many pastors, evangelists and church members in the ethnic Wa region of Myanmar’s Shan state were arrested recently, while others are missing, according to VOM sources. The United Wa State Army, the military arm of the de facto ruling party in the region, is systematically closing churches and removing crosses from the buildings, and Christians have been warned not to meet. In one encouraging incident, the Christian daughter of a high ranking official volunteered to take the place of 14 evangelists who had been arrested by the Wa Army. The evangelists were released after having their heads shaved so people could identify them. “We’re praying and trying to fight against fear,” a VOM contact said. “But it’s very difficult to do.” Pray for believers and Christian leaders in the Wa region.
2 - China - Government authorities shut down Beijing’s largest house church on Sept. 9 as the result of a conflict that began in April, when authorities ordered the Zion Church to install security cameras facing the congregation. The church refused, and authorities subsequently closed the church. In Henan province, thousands of churches have been forced to close and several key leaders have been jailed for one to two weeks. Government officials also removed crosses from churches and replaced them with the communist flag. The increase in persecution is attributed to new religion rules that went into effect on Feb. 1. Many Christians remain resolute, however. When officials burst into a house church in Guangdong province, Pastor Huang Xiaoning asked them to show respect and wait until the end of his sermon. The 11 members of law enforcement listened to his sermon for 30 minutes. Pray for the grace, patience and steadfast faith of house church Christians in China. Pray also that they will not succumb to fear.
3 - Nigeria - Boko Haram fighters have again attacked the village of Pastor Matthias Yuguda, a VOM-supported front-line worker in Adamawa State, Nigeria. The Islamists shot and wounded an 80-year-old man during the attack, and stole food and personal items from villagers. In a previous raid, the attackers burned Pastor Matthias’s home as well as a village church. Christians in the village live in constant danger, not knowing when the next attack will come. Pray that the villagers will experience the true peace that only Christ can provide. Pray for their protection and that their faith will be emboldened by this ongoing persecution.
4 - India (Christian Post) - Ten or more Christian pastors were arrested along with their families last Sunday during church in northern India. In addition to the 10, another three were reportedly arrested the following day and police allegedly threatened another pastor. Christian pastors and congregations are often targeted by Hindu radicals with false accusations. Pray for the release of the 10 families that were arrested. Pray for authorities in India to treat religious minorities equally under the law. Pray for these families to use the testimony of their arrests to further spread the Gospel in India.
5 - Iran (ICC) - Earlier this year, Iran’s judiciary decided to force defendants held on political charges to pick their lawyer from a pre-approved list. Meanwhile, human rights attorneys continue to be arrested. This has recently prompted a group of nearly 100 Iranian attorneys to write a letter to the Judiciary Chief asking why the judiciary is preventing lawyers from representing clients. Pray for Christian prisoners in Iran to have fair access to legal representation. Pray for the release of Christian inmates who have been wrongfully imprisoned. Pray for greater religious freedom in Iran.
6 - Niger (ICC) - On September 17, 2018, Islamic extremists entered the home of Rev. Maccalli kidnapped him, and stole several of his valuables. He has not been seen since. Pray for the safe return and emotional healing of Rev. Maccalli. Pray for authorities to apprehend those responsible for the kidnapping. Pray for the kidnappers to turn from their sinful ways and come to know Christ.
7 - Pakistan (Faithwire) - Earlier this month, a woman fell from the roof for refusing to marry her Muslim boyfriend. Furious that she would not convert to Islam, she was attacked and pushed from the roof. Sadly, this is just one of many violent crimes against Christians in Pakistan. According to reports, there have been 15-30 violent acts against Karachi’s Christian community this year alone. Pray for protection for vulnerable Christian minorities in Pakistan. Pray for Muslim persecutors to recognize their need for the Gospel. Pray for the physical and emotional healing of the woman who was attacked.
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weaslespit
All Star Member
Social Liberal, Fiscal Conservative - Usually
Posts: 11,468
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Post by weaslespit on Oct 4, 2018 11:50:07 GMT -5
Why just "persecuted Christians"? Shouldn't prayers be offered for all of those in need of them, regardless of their personal faith?
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timothyu
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Posts: 1,949
Member is Online
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Post by timothyu on Oct 4, 2018 20:23:10 GMT -5
Sounds reasonable but politics has long used religions to create division.
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JesusIsTops
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Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. John 14:6
Posts: 4,061
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Post by JesusIsTops on Oct 4, 2018 21:20:42 GMT -5
Why just "persecuted Christians"? Shouldn't prayers be offered for all of those in need of them, regardless of their personal faith? Feel free to start your own thread.
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weaslespit
All Star Member
Social Liberal, Fiscal Conservative - Usually
Posts: 11,468
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Post by weaslespit on Oct 5, 2018 9:45:07 GMT -5
Why just "persecuted Christians"? Shouldn't prayers be offered for all of those in need of them, regardless of their personal faith? Feel free to start your own thread. As a Pastor and a Christian, shouldn't you be praying for all who are persecuted? Why are we limiting it to just Christians?
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weaslespit
All Star Member
Social Liberal, Fiscal Conservative - Usually
Posts: 11,468
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Post by weaslespit on Oct 5, 2018 9:46:23 GMT -5
Sounds reasonable but politics has long used religions to create division.Yeah, seems pretty basic to me...
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