Re: Prayer Focus with Keith

Admin Fri 07 Oct 2011, 12:24 pm

please stand in prayer with this persecuted brethren

In this week's edition: reports from Pakistan, Egypt, Indonesia and Iran.
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1. Christian woman raped in Pakistan
(Source: Compass Direct)

A Christian mother of five who was raped by two Muslims rejoiced after police in Pakistan's Kasur district arrested a suspect and suspended an officer who had dismissed her complaints.

The 32-year-old woman, whose name has been withheld, was returning home to Mustafabad on September 15 when two Muslims along with an unidentified accomplice abducted her at gunpoint, took her to an abandoned house in the area and raped her. The woman and her husband, Mushtaq Masih, said that they had lost hope of getting justice as they were facing threats from area Muslims to withdraw the case. They also said that police were deliberately slow to investigate and arrest the accused. "I used to weep in my heart all the time, ever since the incident took place," the woman shared. "I didn't have any hope, but my Lord has not forsaken me."

However, the woman's solace was short-lived when her father died after learning of her ordeal on September 30. "As soon as my wife shared her ordeal with her family, her father collapsed and died on the spot," Mushtaq said. "He could not take the pain."

Pray for this Christian sister and her family, may the Lord comfort them during this very distressing time. Ask Him to help them overcome this recent tragedy, may they continue to fix their eyes on Him. Thank the Lord for the progress made in this case. Pray for swift and complete justice for her and her family.

To learn more about persecution in Pakistan, please visit www.persecution.net/pakistan.htm.
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2. Muslim extremists in Egypt destroy church building, homes
(Source: Compass Direct)

A group of hard-line Muslims attacked a church building in Upper Egypt on September 30, torching the structure and then looting and burning nearby Christian-owned homes and businesses. The 3,000-strong mob of Muslims gutted the Mar Gerges Church in the village of Elmarenab in Aswan province, then demolished much of its remains, multiple witnesses at the scene said. The mob also razed four homes near the church and two businesses, all Christian-owned. Looting was also reported.

The Mar Gerges burning is the third church in Egypt in seven months to be burned down by a mob. No casualties have yet been reported in the attack. The tension in Elmarenab started the last week of August, when Muslim extremists voiced anger over renovations taking place at the church. They also opposed any Christian symbols that could be seen from the outside. To force the Christians to acquiesce to their demands, the Muslim extremists blockaded the entrance to the church and threatened believers on the streets, in effect making them hostages in their own homes.

Please pray the government will do all they can to protect Christians from this kind of violence. Pray the Christians will not lose heart but continue to take every opportunity to meet together to worship the Lord and provide encouragement to one another. May the Lord use the conduct of Egyptian Christians to act as a witness for the gospel.

For more information on persecution in Egypt, go to www.persecution.net/egypt.htm.
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3. Church bombed in Central Java, Indonesia
(Sources: Compass Direct, Australian Evangelical Alliance Religious Liberty Commission)

On Sunday, September 25, a suicide bomber detonated eight pipe bombs by the main door of the Bethel Full Gospel Church in Solo, Central Java as worshippers were leaving the morning service. Over 20 believers were injured, one of whom later died in hospital. The bomber was reportedly a member of an Islamist militant cell in Cirebon, West Java. Security has been heightened and police will now screen all church visitors. The following day, police found a similar bomb outside the Maranatha Church in Ambon city, on the island of Ambon.

With a lack of will on the part of the government, extremism has constantly grown in Indonesia since the fall of the authoritarian President Suharto in 1999, who kept radical groups under control.

Please pray for healing for those injured. Pray for God's comfort for those grieving. Pray the Lord will give wisdom to the church leaders to know how to comfort their church members. Pray against further unrest in this nation.

To post a prayer for these suffering Christians, please visit our Persecuted Church Prayer Wall at www.persecution.net/prayerwall. To learn more about the persecuted Church in Indonesia, go to www.persecution.net/indonesia.htm.
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4. Update: Further allegations heaped upon imprisoned Iranian pastor
(Source: World Evangelical Alliance Religious Liberty Commission, Present Truth Ministries)

Youcef Nadarkhani, an Iranian pastor sentenced to death for apostasy in 2010, has been informed that his verdict is to be delivered on October 10. To cover up the untenable death sentence for apostasy, an Iranian official has claimed that Pastor Youcef's sentencing is for "rape," "extortion" and "security related" charges. However, contrary to the official's claim, an Iranian Supreme Court brief from 2010 mentions apostasy as the only charge made against him.

On October 5, a group of officials from Tehran interviewed Pastor Youcef about the charges filed against him and the behaviour of the judges. While it seems to be a positive development, there is concern that the officials could manipulate his words in an attempt to prove their false charges.

"The fabrication of charges against Pastor Nadarkhani is to justify his sentence and is therefore acknowledgement that death for apostasy is not justifiable," said Geoff Tunnicliffe, CEO and Secretary General of the World Evangelical Alliance. "The authorities' attempt to maintain the pastor's capital punishment by adding false charges shows that Iran is going against its own conscience."Please pray that in spite of the latest reports from authorities in Iran, the truth of Youcef's testimony will not be tarnished in any way. Pray that international pressure will have great effect for Youcef and others like Him who are willing to remain faithful regardless of the consequences. May Youcef and his family take great comfort in knowing that people all around the world are praying for them and speaking up on his behalf.

For more on the trials believers face in Iran, please visit www.persecution.net/iran.htm.

To

raise a voice on Pastor Youcef's behalf, please consider writing the Minister of Foreign Affairs, your local MP, and the Iranian Embassy. For addresses and a sample letter you can use, go to www.tinyurl.com/nadarkhani.

Admin Fri 30 Sep 2011, 6:34 pm

In this week's edition: reports from Iran, Nigeria, West Bank and Laos
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1. Update: Iranian pastor Youcef Nadarkhani refuses to recant, faces execution
(Source: Compass Direct, Present Truth Ministries, Christian Solidarity Worldwide)

Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani, an Iranian pastor sentenced to death for apostasy in September 2010, refused to recant his faith during four court hearings held on September 25-28. He now faces an imminent verdict of the death sentence, which is expected to be issued within seven days. "They probably won't kill him today, but they can do it whenever they want," a source said. "Sometimes in Iran they call the family and deliver the body with the verdict."

In July, the Supreme Court instructed the Revolutionary Tribunal of Gilan Province to review Youcef's case to verify whether he was previously a practicing Muslim (for more information, go to www.persecution.net/ir-2011-09-22.htm). At the recent hearings, the court in Rasht ruled that Pastor Youcef was not a practicing Muslim before becoming a Christian but that he remains guilty of apostasy because of his Muslim ancestry.

Please pray for continued strength and grace for Pastor Youcef. Pray that all charges against him will be dropped. Pray that Pastor Youcef will rely on the Lord to give him the words to say when he stands before accusing authorities (Matthew 10:19). Pray that Iranian authorities will act justly in this case.

A source in Iran has shared that it is critical for foreign governments to negotiate and engage in diplomacy with Iranian authorities about Nadarkhani's case, adding that Youcef's predicament could be more hopeful if they intervened. Please raise a voice on Pastor Youcef's behalf by writing Canada's Minister of Foreign Affairs, your local MP, and the Iranian embassy. For addresses and a sample letter you can use, go to www.tinyurl.com/nadarkhani.

To

learn more about the suffering Church in Iran, go to www.persecution.net/iran.htm.
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2. Scores of Christians killed in Plateau state, Nigeria
(Source: Compass Direct)

Dozens of Christians have been killed by Muslim extremists in Nigeria's Plateau state in recent weeks. On September 4, eight members of a Christian family were shot and butchered with machetes in Tatu village. The next day, seven Christians were killed in the village of Zakalio. Another four Christians were murdered on September 5 after Muslims attacked the Christian communities of Dabwak Kuru and Farin Lamba. On September 8, extremists attacked Tsohon Foron village and killed 10 Christians. The following evening, Muslim attackers killed 14 believers, including a pregnant woman, in the village of Vwang Kogot. The Muslims, aided by men in Nigerian army military uniforms, then raided the village. A pastor in the area said, "No help or relief from the government has been received by our people.... We've just been living with the horror of not knowing what will happen next."

Pray that those who lost friends and family members will be filled with the joy that comes from knowing that they will see them again at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Thessalonians 4:15-18). Pray that the perpetrators of these attacks will repent and come to faith in Christ. Pray for peace in Nigeria.

To post a prayer for suffering Christians in Nigeria, please visit our Persecuted Church Prayer Wall at www.persecution.net/prayerwall. For more on persecution in Nigeria, please visit www.persecution.net/nigeria.htm.
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3. Lives touched through VBS program in the West Bank
(Source: VOM-USA)

Pastor Stephen Khoury, a VOM partner, successfully completed a summer VBS program in the Bethlehem suburb of Shepherd's Field, despite opposition from neighbours and local authorities. On the first day of the VBS, Stephen was accosted by a neighbourhood woman and her two sons, but the Holy Spirit enabled Stephen to respond wisely and to calm the woman. Over the course of the five-day event, the leaders' car tires were slashed and the building and grounds of the youth centre were vandalized. But Stephen and the other Christian workers were encouraged. "We had more than 78 kids come, and more than 25 kids from different religions received Christ," Stephen said. "Lives were changed forever." As a result of their VBS success, a new outreach meeting will be held each Friday at the centre.

Pray for those conducting outreach through the Shepherd's Field centre. Pray that they will not falter in sharing the message of Christ. Pray that the kids who accepted the gospel will grow in their faith each day. Pray that many more in the West Bank will hear the Good News and turn to Jesus.

Go to www.persecution.net/palestine.htm for more on the suffering Church in the West Bank.
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4. Orphans under pressure in Laos
(Source: VOM-USA)

Eleven orphans in northern Laos are currently facing pressure from the principal of their orphanage to stop attending church. If they do not obey, the children may have to leave the orphanage.

After attending a local church and becoming a Christian, one of the orphans shared the gospel with his peers. Soon, 10 other orphans turned to Christ and began regularly attending church. When the principal heard of the conversions, he told the children multiple times to stop attending church. After pressuring the children with no results, the principal called the group to his office on August 19. He told them they must stop attending church or face the consequences. Seven of the orphans promised they would stop attending church, but none of them have renounced their faith. The remaining four orphans continue to attend church and refuse to bend under the pressure.

Please pray that God will protect these orphans, who depend entirely on government support. Pray that their example of steadfast faith will soften the hearts of those around them. Pray that these orphans will be upheld in prayer by the Christian community in Laos and around the world.

To learn more about the trials Christians face in Laos, please visit www.persecution.net/laos.htm.

Admin Sat 24 Sep 2011, 7:01 pm

In this week's edition: reports from Iran, Somalia, Vietnam and China.
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1. Update: First hearing scheduled for Iranian pastor Youcef Nardarkhani
(Source: Middle East Concern)

The first hearing for Youcef Nardarkhani, an Iranian pastor who received a death sentence for apostasy, has been scheduled for September 25. In July, the Supreme Court instructed the Revolutionary Tribunal of Gilan Province to review Youcef's case to verify whether he was previously a practicing Muslim (for more information, go to www.persecution.net/ir-2011-07-21.htm). Youcef claims that, although raised in a Muslim home, he was never a Muslim by choice, conviction, belief or consistent practice, and that he should therefore not be regarded as an apostate. If the Tribunal concludes that Youcef was previously a Muslim and so is now an apostate, the Supreme Court's ruling makes clear that he should then be executed unless he recants his faith in Jesus as Saviour and Lord.

Pray that Youcef will not be declared an apostate. Pray that he will remain firm in his faith and know the presence and peace of Jesus each day. Pray that his wife, Fatemeh, and their two sons will know the comfort and hope of Jesus, and that the family will be reunited soon. Pray that all officials involved will act justly in this case.

For more information on persecution in Iran, please visit www.persecution.net/iran.htm.
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2. Christian convert beheaded in Somalia
(Source: Compass Direct)

A kidnapped Christian convert from Islam was found decapitated on September 2 on the outskirts of Hudur in Bakool region, in south-western Somalia. Juma Nuradin Kamil, who embraced Christianity about three years ago, was kidnapped on August 21 by three suspected Islamic extremists from the al Shabaab terrorist group. Muslim extremists from al Shabaab, a militant group with ties to al Qaeda, have vowed to rid Somalia of Christianity.

Sources believe the kidnapping and subsequent manner of murder suggest that al Shabaab militants had been monitoring him. "It is usual for the al Shabaab to decapitate those they suspect to have embraced the Christian faith, or sympathisers of western ideals," a Christian leader said. "Our brother ... was determined in his faith in God. We greatly miss him."

Pray for Juma's family and the grieving Christian community. May they rest in the knowledge that the Good Shepherd walks with them through this difficult time. Ask the Lord to protect believers in Somalia and deliver them from harm. Pray that the perpetrators will repent and turn to Jesus Christ.

You can post a prayer for those mourning Juma on our Persecuted Church Prayer Wall at www.persecution.net/prayerwall. For more on our suffering brothers and sisters in Somalia, go to www.persecution.net/somalia.htm.
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3. Update: Church leader re-arrested, suffering ill health in Vietnam
(Sources: AsiaNews, Human Rights Watch)

Father Nguyen Van Ly, a church leader who has spent over 15 years in prison for his work in advocating religious freedom, democracy and human rights in Vietnam, was re-arrested by authorities on July 25.

Father Ly, 65, was sentenced to eight years in prison in 2007 for distributing material "harmful to the state." He was released temporarily in March 2010 to undergo a year's medical treatment for serious health concerns after he suffered two strokes that left him partially paralyzed (for more information, go to www.persecution.net/vn-2011-02-24.htm). Despite his ill health, Father Ly continues to be detained.

Pray that Father Ly will know the Lord's care and provision in his life. Pray that the charges against Father Ly will be dropped. Pray that he will experience the Lord's healing. Pray that religious freedom and human rights will be respected in Vietnam.

Go to www.persecution.net/vietnam.htm for more information on the suffering Church in Vietnam.
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4. Update: Pastor released early from prison in China
(Source: ChinaAid)

Zhang Rongliang, a prominent house church leader sentenced to 7 1/2 years in prison in 2004, has been released nine months early. Zhang was charged with "attaining a passport through cheating" and "illegal border crossing" after attending several international mission conferences. Before his 2004 arrest, he had spent 12 years in prison on five different occasions during which he suffered severe torture, including electric shocks.

While Zhang was in prison there were serious concerns about his health. In 2007, it was reported that he was near death due to diabetes and high blood pressure (for more, go to www.persecution.net/cn-2007-09-26.htm). However, his family reports that Zhang is now in good health. Zhang and his family members thank all those around the world who advocated on his behalf.

Thank the Lord for the early release of Zhang! Pray for his continued health and strength. Pray that, like Paul, his imprisonment will result in the advancement of God's kingdom (Philippians 1:12-14). Pray for the release of other imprisoned Christians in China.

Please visit www.persecution.net/china.htm to learn more about the trials Christians face in China.
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The Persecution & Prayer Alert is a ministry of The Voice of the Martyrs, Canada. (Mailing address: P.O. Box 608, Streetsville, Ontario, L5M 2C1)
Tel. (905) 670.9721. Website: www.persecution.net

Admin Fri 09 Sep 2011, 5:34 pm

In this week's edition: reports from Pakistan, Nigeria, Iran, Philippines and Kazakhstan
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1. Two Christians seriously injured for refusing Islam in Pakistan
Source: International Christian Concern
Liaqat Munawar, a Pakistani Christian, reported that his brother Ishfaq Munawar and his friend Naeem Masih were attacked by Pashtun youth in Karachi, Pakistan. Ishfaq and Naeem were travelling home from a church service when they were flagged down by a group of Pashtun youth. The youth questioned their identities and why they were travelling through the town. When they discovered Ishfaq and Naeem were Christians, they told them to recite the Kalma (the Islamic conversion creed) and that this was the only way they would leave the town alive. When they refused to read the Kalma, the Pashtun youth rammed their car into Ishfaq and Naeem, and then proceeded to beat them with iron rods until they were unconscious. The youths suffered a broken jaw, five broken teeth and several other injuries between them.
Pray the Lord will minister to Ishfaq and Naeem to help them overcome this ordeal and make a full and complete recovery. Pray for the Pashtun people that they will come to know Christ. Pray for all believers in Pakistan who follow Christ often at great cost, asking the Lord to give them the strength they need to follow Him and stand firm for the gospel.
Read more about Pakistan at www.persecution.net/pakistan.htm.
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2. Armed Muslim from Niger help kill Christians in Nigeria
Source: Compass Direct
Armed Muslims from Niger entered Nigeria's Kaduna state this month to help Islamists there invade Christian communities, where they killed two Christians, including a 10-year-old boy, area sources said. In the early morning hours of August 21, the armed Muslim group entered Fadiya Bakut village in Bajju district of the Zango-Kataf Local Government Area, and attacked the home of Andrew Allahmagani, the district head in Fadiya, Allahmagani told Compass contacts by telephone. "They moved to the quarters of my brother, where they shot and killed my nephew, Fidelis Ishaku, who was 10 years old, and shot and injured my mother, who is 70." A Christian security guard at the house, 52-year-old Zaman Kaki, was killed in the attack by about 10 assailants armed with guns and other dangerous weapons, Allahmagani said. The slain boy's grandmother, Laraba Ishaku, was wounded but received treatment.
Jonathan Asake, a former member of Nigeria's National Assembly, confirmed the attack, as did Kaduna State Police Spokesman Aminu Lawal, who said one of the assailants has been arrested. "It is true that a security guard was killed, and a small boy was also killed," he said. "The target was not only the Christian community leader but also the Fadiya Bakut community."
Please pray the Lord will bring rest and peace to these two nations. Pray He will frustrate the plans of the enemy. Ask Him to comfort the grieving, praying their comfort in Christ will be more than enough for them (2 Corinthians 1:5).
Learn about Nigeria at www.persecution.net/nigeria.htm.
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3. Believers in Iran must report to prison to serve one-year sentence
Source: Present Truth Ministries
Five Iranian Christians and ministers who were convicted of crimes against the Islamic Order on March 8, 2011 in Shiraz, Iran, have been told to report to prison immediately to serve a one-year prison sentence. According to Jason DeMars of Present Truth Ministries their names are: Behrouz Sadegh-Khandjani, Mehdi "Petros" Furutan, Mohammed "William" Belyad, Nazly Belyad, and Parviz Khalaj.
According to DeMars, Nazly is approximately seven months pregnant. "This absolutely breaks our heart. Please pray for these brothers, our sister, and the little baby that is growing inside of her. We ask that you pray for miracles to take place so that she does not have to be in prison," he said.
Please pray the authorities will have mercy on this group of Christians, especially Nazly. Pray they will not despair but instead they will keep their eyes on Jesus, persevere in their faith, and not grow weary or lose heart (Hebrews 10:32-39; 12:1-3).
For more on Iran, visit www.persecution.net/iran.htm.
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4. Christian killed in the Philippines
Source: VOM-USA
A Christian man, Clarito dela Cruz, was recently murdered by Muslims in the region of Mindanao in the Philippines. On July 26, a Muslim couple pretending to be husband and wife hired Clarito to drive them to a remote village near the town of Linamon. It is then believed that the couple, likely assisted by a companion, tortured and strangled Clarito with an electrical wire. They also shot him twice and stole his motorbike, which belonged to his father-in-law and was the family's means of earning a living. He leaves behind a wife named Leodel, who is pregnant, and their 3-year-old son. Clarito's parents oversee their church's evangelism program, and his pastor told a VOM worker that Muslims in the area had tried to convert church members to Islam. Muslims attacked Christians in Linamon several years ago, burning homes and stealing livestock.
Pray that Clarito's loved ones will find strength, courage and peace in Christ as they grieve his loss. Pray for special provision for his wife and children as they face life without him. Pray that God will continue to embolden Christians in the Philippines to be imitators of Christ and his steadfast faithfulness at great cost (1 Corinthians 11:1).
For more on those living as cross-bearing disciples in the Philippines, go to www.persecution.net/philippines.htm.
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5. Man expelled for preaching in own church in Kazakhstan
Source: Forum 18 News Service
After legal residence in Kazakhstan for 15 years, marriage to a Kazakh citizen and having a two-year-old daughter, Russian citizen Leonid Pan was, in mid-August, denied his application to renew his residence permit because he volunteers to preach in his local Protestant church. The local Internal Policy Department had already refused permission for him to become leader of the church. "How can the Migration Police, without having a Court order, demand that Leonid leave the country?" church members complained to Forum 18. The KNB secret police denied to Forum 18 that it was involved in the expulsion.
Meanwhile, in August, another Baptist was fined nearly five months' official minimum wage for holding an unregistered worship service. State restrictions on religious communities are likely to increase with the new Religion Law amendments, due in Parliament this autumn.
Pray Leonid and his family will be able to remain together. Pray the Lord will grow His church in Kazakhstan in number and in faithfulness, in spite of the current restrictions and the threat of further law amendments. Pray for all those in authority in Kazakhstan.
To understand this former Soviet republic, go to www.persecution.net/kazakhstan.htm.
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The Persecution & Prayer Alert is a ministry of The Voice of the Martyrs, Canada. (Mailing address: P.O. Box 608, Streetsville, Ontario, L5M 2C1)
Tel. (905) 670.9721. Website: www.persecution.net

Admin Fri 02 Sep 2011, 4:57 pm

In this week's edition: reports from Iran, Turkey, Nigeria and Pakistan.
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1. Update: Vahik Abrahamian released from prison in Iran
(Source: Farsi Christian News Network)
Pastor Vahik Abrahamian, a 45-year-old Armenian Christian, was released from prison on the morning of August 29. Pastor Vahik and his wife, Sonia Keshish Avanesian, were arrested in Hamedan along with another Christian couple in September 2010. Sonia and the other couple were released from prison in April 2011. Officials told Sonia they would release her husband 10 days later, but Vahik continued to be detained at Iran's notorious Evin prison in Tehran. The couples had been accused of various offences, including propagating Christianity, opposing the Islamic Republic of Iran, and having contact with exiled opposition figures (for more information, go to www.persecution.net/ir-2011-05-05.htm).
During his one year imprisonment, Pastor Vahik suffered from poor health and the prison's deplorable conditions. A member of Pastor Vahik's family has shared that the whole family is "rejoicing" and "expressed their gratitude first to God for His gracious protection and intervention and secondly to the Christian family worldwide who have not ceased praying and advocating on their behalf."
Thank the Lord for this wonderful answer to prayer! Ask the Lord to give Vahik and Sonia the grace and strength they need to overcome this trial. Pray also for their protection. Pray this news will serve as an encouragement to all Christian believers in Iran. You can post a prayer of rejoicing for Pastor Vahik on our Persecuted Church Prayer Wall at www.persecution.net/prayerwall.
For more information on the persecuted Church in Iran, go to www.persecution.net/iran.htm.
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2. Government overturns religious property seizures in Turkey
(Source: Compass Direct)
The Turkish government made an historic U-turn in state policy recently, issuing an official decree inviting Turkey's Christian and Jewish communities to reclaim their long-confiscated religious properties. The decree comes 75 years after the Turkish government seized hundreds of lands and buildings owned by its Greek, Armenian, Syriac and Jewish communities. Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced the surprise decision on August 28 in Istanbul, addressing a large gathering of Istanbul's non-Muslim religious leaders who represent 161 minority foundations.
The landmark decree is a significant step toward eliminating decades of unfair practices imposed by the Turkish state against its non-Muslim citizens. Their former holdings include schools, churches, cemeteries, stores, hospitals, orphanages, houses, apartment buildings and factories that were seized by the Turkish state and re-registered as public or foundation properties. A number were later sold to third parties. The new decree states that owners of properties sold by the state to third parties will be reimbursed at market value. The return of these extensive properties to their rightful owners has been a key demand of the European Union, to which Turkey is applying for full membership.
Thank the Lord for this development. Pray the transition will go smoothly and there will be no resistance or negative reaction in response. Pray this will provide great encouragement to Christians in Turkey. Pray that believers in Turkey will be a light for Christ in all their thoughts, words and deeds.
To learn more about the struggles Christians face in Turkey, please visit www.persecution.net/turkey.htm.
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3. Christians slaughtered in Nigeria; army accused of aiding militants
(Source: Compass Direct)
Muslim extremists, with the alleged help of Nigerian army personnel, killed 24 Christians last month in central Nigeria's Plateau state. The attacks started on August 11 in Ratsa Foron village and continued there on August 15, leaving six Christians dead. Also on August 15 in Heipang village, Muslim extremists killed nine members of one Christian family along with another believer. "I can swear to God Almighty that the attack was carried out with the support of the soldiers; I saw them," said a tearful Nnaji John, who lost her family in the attack. On August 14, in the community of Chwelnyap in Jos, Muslim extremists killed two Christians and injured one woman. A few days later, on August 21, assaults in Kwi, Loton and Jwol villages resulted in the deaths of six more Christians. Sources added that Nigerian army soldiers participated in the assaults or at least accompanied the assailants.
Plateau Governor Jonah Jang called for immediate withdrawal of the Nigerian army because he believed Muslims in the army had taken sides with Islamist assailants. "I am convinced that the armed forces are being polluted with the religious crisis in the country," Jang said. "Before now, the military personnel used to stay in the barracks, but today the armed forces have started taking sides in this religious crisis, and if they are not called to order it will be dangerous for the country."
Please pray the Lord will have mercy on this nation, pour out His Spirit and loosen the hold the enemy has over many of its people; for our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms (Ephesians 6:12). Pray the Lord will give wisdom and strength to those in authority. Ask Him to comfort those who have suffered as a result of ongoing violent attacks.
Go to www.persecution.net/nigeria.htm for more information about persecution in Nigeria.
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4. Iranian Christian website targeted by government
(Sources: Beliefnet, Mohabat News)
The Iranian government has been targeting Farsi-language websites for being "anti-Islamic," including a news site dedicated to exposing the systematic persecution of Iranian Christians.
The number of Internet users in Iran has risen sharply in recent years, threatening the government's grip on information and causing officials to form a special committee to monitor web access. More than 5 million so-called "immoral" and "anti-Islamic" sites have reportedly been blocked. The government has also stated their plan to intensify the filtering of various sites.
Mohabat News, which serves Persian Christians in Iran and surrounding countries, has been shut down repeatedly in the past year. In February, cyber-attacks shut down the site for two days. On August 19, attackers overloaded the server and forced the site down for three days. Managers of Mohabat News were eventually able to transfer the website onto a more secure server operating outside the country. Other such sites, however, are not able to operate from an outside server, raising fears that they will continue to be vulnerable to attacks.
Pray that the attacks on Mohabat News and other such sites will cease. Pray for courage and wisdom for those involved in raising a voice online for suffering Iranian Christians. Pray that a spirit of unity and faithfulness will govern the Church in Iran as believers face opposition. Pray that the Word of the Lord will continue to touch many hearts in Iran.
To learn more about the trials facing Iranian Christians, go to www.persecution.net/iran.htm.
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5. Christian woman escapes kidnapper in Pakistan
(Source: Pakistan Christian Post)
In 2009, Arifa Alfred was kidnapped in Quetta, Pakistan after drinking tea that had been drugged. When she awoke, she found herself in the home of Mohammad Amjad, a Muslim man who told her that she was now his wife and that she had converted to Islam. Arifa's parents reported her kidnapping to the police, but the police did nothing to help.
During her captivity, Arifa was drugged and physically and mentally tortured. She attempted to flee the house many times, but without success until August 1, when she found the house unlocked for the first time in two years. Despite her many internal injuries due to the torture she had endured, Arifa escaped and fled to the hospital. She then found her brother Adnan, who reported the situation to police.
At last report, the police had done nothing to bring justice; one police inspector even stated he was happy that she had converted to Islam. However, Arifa has shared, "I am a Christian and have stood always steadfast in my Christian faith." Arifa and her family have since gone into hiding due to threats on their lives.
Pray that God will bring about justice for Arifa (Psalm 140). Pray the Lord will protect Arifa, her family and the Christian community. Pray He will minister to her and heal her completely. Pray that her kidnapper will repent and come to know the Lord. Pray for other Christian women in Pakistan who are facing similar struggles.
To learn more about the difficulties Pakistani Christians face for their faith, visit www.persecution.net/pakistan.htm.
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The Persecution & Prayer Alert is a ministry of The Voice of the Martyrs, Canada. (Mailing address: P.O. Box 608, Streetsville, Ontario, L5M 2C1)
Tel. (905) 670.9721. Website: www.persecution.net

Admin Fri 19 Aug 2011, 2:35 pm

In this week's edition: reports from Egypt, Uganda, China, Cuba and Iran.
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1. Christian killed, others injured in mob attack in Egypt
(Source: Compass Direct)
A Christian was killed and several others were injured by a mob of Muslims who recently attacked the predominantly Christian village of Nazlet Faragallah in Al-Minya, Upper Egypt. The attack was reportedly sparked by an August 6 argument between a Muslim man and a Coptic Christian woman. The nature of the argument could not be confirmed, but several Christian men allegedly came to the aid of the woman, ending the dispute. Several hours later, a group of Muslims arrived at the village church and started pelting congregants with rocks as they left the building. The Christians responded in kind. Several people suffered cuts and bruises, and some of the windows of the church building were broken.
The next day, Muslims armed with long swords and guns then rampaged through the community, looting and burning several homes and businesses belonging to Christians. At least eight homes were torched to the ground. A Christian farmer, Maher Nassif (46), was killed when he tried to defend his home. The men then looted the home and stole Maher's livestock as his teenage son, who witnessed the attack, escaped into the night. The violence raged on until the next morning.
According to villagers, tension between Muslims and Christians has intensified in the country since the revolution earlier this year. One local Christian blamed worsened relations on the increased radicalization of certain Muslims in Egypt who want to "complete their faith by killing Christians."
Pray that the Christians in this region will not be ruled by fear but trust in Christ (1 Peter 3:14-15). Pray that those who mourn for Maher will find comfort in the fact that Christ has triumphed over death and that those who die in the Lord will be raised with Him (1 Corinthians 15:50-58). Ask God to equip Egyptian Christians to demonstrate His peace and grace, even to those who target them for their faith.
For more on the trials facing Christians in Egypt, visit www.persecution.net/egypt.htm.
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2. Ugandan Christian brutally imprisoned by Muslim father
(Source: Compass Direct)
A 14-year-old girl in western Uganda remains in frail health 10 months after her father tortured her for leaving Islam for Christianity. In March 2010, Susan Ithungu came to faith in Christ after an evangelist came to speak at her school in Isango village, Kasese district. A month later, news reached Susan's father that she had converted to Christianity. He warned her and her brother, Mbusa Baluku, against attending church or listening to the gospel message, threatening to kill them in broad daylight if they embraced Christianity. Susan was then locked in a room with no sunlight. Her brother was warned against telling anyone of her imprisonment, but would secretly bring her food and water.
In October 2010, Mbusa finally told the neighbours about his sister's situation. They then reported the case to the authorities and police freed her. Susan was extremely weak and unable to walk or talk. "Her hair had turned yellow, she had long fingernails and sunken eyes, and she looked very slim, less than 20 kilograms," said one pastor. Her father was arrested shortly afterward but quickly released. At last report, Susan was still struggling with her health -- unable to walk, but able to talk and eat soft foods. "The great news is that Susan is still strong in the Lord Jesus Christ," the pastor said. "She needs prayers and support, so that she can resume her education soon."
Thank God for Susan's rescue and pray for her continued healing. Pray many Christians will be emboldened by her story of persevering faith and confidence in Christ (Hebrews 10:32-39). Pray for safety for her brother. Ask God to bring her father to repentance and that he, too, will come to know Christ as Lord.
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3. House church members targeted in China
(Source: ChinaAid Association)
Chinese authorities have recently targeted several Christians involved in house church activities.
On August 11, approximately 100 officials surrounded the residence of Pastor Lu Jingxiang in Mingguang city, Anhui province, where his house church was hosting a summer camp for children. Pastor Lu and three visiting Christian leaders were taken to the police station for holding an "unregistered, illegal meeting." The principal of the local elementary and high school recorded the names of all the children in attendance. Pastor Lu and the three other leaders were later released. The evening before the raid, local officials had spread rumours that Pastor Lu had hidden drugs and cult members in his home.
On August 13, three leaders of a house church in the city of Suqian, Jiangsu province were given five-day administrative detention sentences. Last month, the church's pastor, Pastor Shi Enhao, was sentenced to two years "re-education through labour" (for more information, visit www.persecution.net/cn-2011-08-04.htm). Furthermore, Pastor Shi's son, Shi Yongyang, his daughter, Shi Yumei, and his son-in-law, Zhang Quansheng, are reportedly also at risk of being detained.
Pray Chinese believers facing persecution will have an intimate experience of God's comfort and protection. Pray that increased persecution will result in increased boldness among the believers (Acts 4:29-31). Pray that God will bring to repentance those who afflict His people in China (Psalm 83).
You can learn more about the persecuted Church in China at www.persecution.net/china.htm.
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4. Update: Formerly imprisoned Cuban pastor settles in United States
(Source: Compass Direct, VOM-USA)
A formerly imprisoned Cuban pastor recently arrived in the United States as a political refugee along with his wife and daughters. In February 2006, Cuban authorities raided the home of Pastor Carlos Lamelas and arrested him on charges of aiding emigrants who sought to leave the country illegally. Pastor Carlos was later accused of being involved in human trafficking. Those acquainted with Pastor Carlos denied that he was ever involved in such activities and believed he was being targeted for opposing the Cuban regime on religious rights issues. Carlos suffered in prison without charges until he was suddenly given a conditional release in June 2006. He was later fined, however, on charges of "falsifying documents" (see www.persecution.net/cu-2007-01-03.htm for more).
Unable to find employment and fearing another arrest, Carlos applied unsuccessfully for political asylum in 2010. In 2011, however, his case was reviewed and he and his family were granted status as political refugees. "For our part, we have been open to the will of God, and we know he will take us where we can best serve him," Pastor Carlos shared.
During Pastor Carlos's imprisonment, hundreds of Christians wrote him letters of encouragement, many through The Voice of the Martyrs' letter writing site, www.PrisonerAlert.com. "We know that many brothers and sisters have collaborated for our benefit; we're sorry not to know specifically who they are. Nevertheless, we want them to know that our love and gratitude is sealed in our hearts for the rest of our lives," said Pastor Carlos. To get involved in writing letters to prisoners of faith, visit www.PrisonerAlert.com. You can also download a free guide with pointers and prisoner addresses at www.persecution.net/write.htm.
Thank the Lord for the enduring faith of Pastor Carlos. Pray for provision for him and his family as they serve the Lord. Pray that Christians in Cuba will continue to confidently entrust themselves to Christ so that they can preach the gospel without hesitation (2 Timothy 1:7-12).
To learn more about persecution in Cuba, please visit www.persecution.net/cuba.htm.
***********************************
5. Imported Bibles seized by Iranian government
(Source: Mohabat News)
The Iranian government is expressing great concern over the large volume of Bibles entering the country. Authorities reportedly seized 6,500 Bibles in transit between the cities of Zanjan and Abhar in northwest Iran. An Iranian official recently stated that "missionaries with reliance on huge money and propaganda are trying to deviate our youth." He also expressed his concern that "religions are strengthening their power to confront Islam." Prior to this, in November of 2010, police officers and revolutionary guards seized 300 Bibles and burned them.
Pray that the Word of the Lord will continue to go forth in Iran and that many will come to embrace Christ as their Saviour. Pray that Iranian believers will never be ashamed of the gospel because, through its power, God brings salvation (Romans 1:16). Pray for strength and insight for all those involved in ministry in Iran.
To learn more about Iranian believers serving Christ at great risk, go to www.persecution.net/iran.htm.
***********************************
The Persecution & Prayer Alert is a ministry of The Voice of the Martyrs, Canada. (Mailing address: P.O. Box 608, Streetsville, Ontario, L5M 2C1)
Tel. (905) 670.9721. Website: www.persecution.net

Admin Wed 17 Aug 2011, 8:27 am

I will be moving house shortly and therefore I will not be sending out the devotions whilst in the midst of this, but they will return to sending them out as soon as I am moved and settled.

When I am settled, I will be sending out pictures of my new place and also the address and telephone number, so you can either write/phone or send a card to say welcome to your new home.

For those of you, who live in the UK or are ever likely to visit the UK. I invite you to call on me, my door is always open and would be happy to share fellowship.

If you are short of ministry during this time, please listen to the preaching from my home church and that of my pastor Mark Johnstone (he is top preacher!!!!!!) and others (such as Sandra, Nigel and Alan) , by clicking on the following link. I have heard all these sermons first hand and they are wonderful

http://www.heyshamfreemethodist.org.uk/all-sermons.html

My two websites will still be up and running and have 12 pages on each to help and encourage you in your walk with God.

http://www.ourchurch.com/member/k/keith/

http://www.ourchurch.com/member/f/faithhopelove/

I will be back soon, so please pray for me during this time. Please pray that the move goes well. I am also applying for the role as church worker at my home church, so please pray that God will open the door for me, if that is HIS will.

Thanks for all your love, support and prayers

Your friend and co -worker

Keith

I promise that you will be in prayers during this time, please go onto the site as it will bless you and tell others.. please.. thanks

Thanks to all of you.. Love and God's richest blessing on you all
-----------------------
Welcome to China Cry

We continue our journey through the provinces of China.. amen

Please join with me as we pray for this province.

I and your brothers and sisters, would be grateful, if you would please print these prayer needs out and place them in your bible and place them on your church missions board.

Don't forget to forward them to all your friends and groups and also take time to click on the links at the bottom of this message

Thanks and God bless

Keith

Guangdong Province

Location: Southeast Coast

Population 97 million

Evangelical Population 4.5%

Prayer Needs

Robert Morrison, was the first man to share the gospel in China in 1807 and Christianity has a long history in this province. Today it is increasingly seen as western orientated. The seizure by the British of Both Macau and Hong Kong, did nothing to further the gospel. Pray that all barriers and prejudices, would be broken down and that people would be touched by the Spirit of God.

The province is booming in economic terms, but this has lead to a steep decline in moral standards. Corruption is rampart. Please pray that the church, would be at the forefront of changing society, through the preaching and teaching of God's Holy Word.

The Biao Mien Yao and Zaomin Yao peoples of the mountain areas are less than 1% christian. Also in great need of being evangelised are the Shaozhou Han. Christians are few and far between in this people group.

Overseas chinese such as the Cantonese, Hakka and Teochew are receptive to the gospel. They are wealthy traders. Please pray that the Holy Spirit, would move and that there would be a great movement of God amongst these people.

Please pray for revival in the church and that every village and people group, would hear the gospel.

Father, we thank you that you love these people and do not wish that any might perish. We ask that you would stir your church, so that it would be able to reach out and share Jesus with these dear souls.

In His Wonderful Name- THE NAME ABOVE ALL NAMES

JESUS

God bless you and thanks for praying

Your friend and co - worker

Keith

My website

On this page there are some wonderful studies to bless and encourage you

http://www.ourchurch.com/member/k/keith/index.php?p=1_4_Bible-Studies

Featured Website

Please join with these brothers and sisters in Christ

http://www.generals.org/about/about-us/

Special Song

I hope you will listen to these beautiful words

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CltrLsjsQl0&NR=1&feature=fvwp

Admin Fri 12 Aug 2011, 12:20 pm

Welcome to China Cry

What a joy it is to share with you as we continue to focus on this vast and needy land.

Let us be faithful in our prayers.. Amen. Let us continue to believe that we are making a difference in this country.. Amen!!

Please share these needs with all your prayer partners and groups. Also please click on the featured page links at the bottom of this message.

Thanks and God bless

Keith

Gansu Province

Location North west China on edge of Gobi Desert

Population 27 Million

Evangelicals 4.5%

Prayer Needs

Please pray that the church would grow and mature. There has been steady growth in recent years. Please pray that this continues.

Pray that godly leaders would be raised up, who know the Word of God and can teach the church, the truth of God's word.

Pray against the rise of sects that are seeking to lead away people.

For the radio broadcasts into this state, please pray that many would be won to Christ.

The Dongxiang, Bonan and Enger Yugur are among the least reached of the people in China. They have less than a handful of believers in each. Please pray that these groups would be reached and won for Christ.

The Muslim Hui are also numerous, but they are largely unreached. There are a few small churches among them and a translation of the Bible available. Please pray that a viable Hui church would become a reality.

Tibetan people number over 600,000 and are largely Buddhist. There is one church amongst these people. Pray especially for outreach to the Jone, Saragh Yugur, Boyu and Zhugqu people groups.

Father we ask that you would touch this province. It is situated on the backside of the desert so to speak, but you love the people so deeply. Lord equip and touch your church, so that it becomes a living flame of grace and power and enable it to reach out in love and boldness. Amen.

Thank you

God bless you

Keith

Featured Links

The ministry below is an excellent resource. Please make use of it.

http://sermonlinks.com/

My Website

Please read the page called Young at Heart. You will be truly blessed.

http://www.ourchurch.com/member/k/keith/index.php?p=1_12_Young-at-Heart

Special Song

I hope you will enjoy this wonderful song

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e_4g8_e16dc

Admin Tue 09 Aug 2011, 10:44 pm

Dear Friends

I am editing my address book, please indicate if you do not wish to receive the devotions any more.. by sending a reply saying unsubscribe.

Thanks

Keith

Welcome to China Cry

As we continue to pray province by province for this great country. I would encourage you to get hold of the wonderful book OPERATION WORLD from your local christian bookstore.

Please pass on these prayer needs and also take time to click on the featured page links at the bottom.

Thanks

God bless you

Keith

Location: On the Coast Facing Taiwan

Population 34 Million

Christians 11%

Fujian Province

Prayer needs

Pray that the church, would grow strong and mature and that it would experience a touch of God's Holy Spirit in Revival Power.

Pray that the present freedom to preach the gospel will remain.

Pray that the church would make a dynamic impact upon Fujian and that this would spread to the rest of China.

The link between this state and Taiwan is strong and recently , many Buddhist and Daoist temples, have been rebuilt. Pray that the church would witness in a sensitive way, showing that there is ONLY ONE TRUE GOD.

Pray that the unreached communities would be reached with the gospel, these include:

The 400,000 She People. Many in recent years have come to know Jesus. Please pray that this small church would flower and grow.

The 4,000 Ami, Bunun and Paiwan peoples are totally unreached. Please pray that the church would reach out to them.

Many migrants flock to this state as it is prosperous. Please pray that the church would reach out in boldness and power to these displaced people.

Father in the Name of Jesus, we thank you that you have moved in power in this state. But we ask that you would stir your people to reach out and share the gospel in power and grace and that your Precious Son Jesus would be uplifted and glorified

In Jesus Name

Amen

God bless you and thanks for praying

Keith

Featured Page Link

This website has up to date prayer information about China. please view it often.

http://www.prayforchina.com/

My Website

Please view the wonderful page relating to God's chosen people.

http://www.ourchurch.com/member/k/keith/index.php?p=1_3_God-s-People

Special Song

Please enjoy and be blessed by this wonderful song.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R3yCod-IfjY

Admin Fri 05 Aug 2011, 5:22 pm

Please Pray for revival in the UK
pass this on to family friends and your church.

http://www.ourchurch.com/member/f/faithhopelove/index.php?p=1_15_Britain-Ablaze
Join me Wednesday night.
Keith

Admin Fri 24 Jun 2011, 3:14 pm

1. Mission training school attacked in Indonesia
(Source: VOM-USA)
A mission training school was recently attacked by a mob of Muslims following a prayer meeting in Jonggol, West Java, Indonesia. Approximately 85 Muslims rushed into the school and raided each class and dorm room, removing pictures of Jesus. They told the staff that the school must be closed. No students were on the premises, as school was not in session that day. Several police officers and soldiers accompanied the mob from a nearby military base and neighbours did not recognize them as locals. The school, which was established in 1999 with the purpose of training evangelists in Indonesia, has reportedly always maintained a good relationship with its neighbours. At last report, mission leaders said that they were attempting to follow up on the incident in the hopes of helping to prevent further violence. The leaders also urged Indonesian Christians not to retaliate, but to remain calm and to pray.
Pray that God will touch the hearts of the attackers, leading them to repent and recognize Christ as Lord. Pray that a spirit of trust and peace will govern the hearts of Indonesian Christians and guard them against fear. Pray that Christians in Indonesia will be a bold testimony of Christ's love to those around them.
To learn more about the trials facing Indonesia's Christians, go to www.persecution.net/indonesia.htm.
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2. Iranian Christian held in solitary confinement
(Sources: Release International, Mohabat News)
Friends and family of a detained Iranian Christian are calling for clarification of his case more than five months after he was sent to Tehran's notoriously brutal Evin prison. Farshid Fathi (32) was one of several believers detained by government security officials in December 2010 during a series of raids on Christians' homes in Tehran (see www.persecution.net/ir-2011-02-17.htm for more). He has endured months of solitary confinement even though no court orders or instructions have been issued in his case. Interrogators have reportedly used psychological torture in attempts to force Farshid to reveal details of Christian contacts. Farshid's wife and two young children -- Rosana and Barbod -- have been allowed to speak to him only once a week. Farshid's family was forced to sell his father-in-law's home in order to survive financially and have not been able to pay the bail to secure his release.
Pray that God will strengthen and console Farshid as he suffers for his faith. Pray that his family will trust in the Lord for provision and comfort. Pray that the steadfast faith of Iranian believers will encourage other Christians in the country who are suffering persecution. Pray that the Word of the Lord will continue to go forth in Iran and that many will come to embrace Him as Lord.
To learn more about the suffering of Iranian Christians, go to www.persecution.net/iran.htm.
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3. Missionary charged with human trafficking in Laos
(Source: VOM-USA)
A missionary to youth in Laos was recently charged with human trafficking, an offense that carries a hefty fine and a prison sentence of five to 50 years. Brother K was arrested and charged with human trafficking in May after he went to a police station to seek the release of 24 young people. The youths had been detained while travelling to a Christian training conference, where Brother K was serving as a leader. Brother K denied involvement in human trafficking and invited the officers to visit the conference centre to see what the students were being taught. Taken aback by his boldness and concerned that the offense would become known as a persecution case, police released the 24 students but detained Brother K. After bail was set, Brother K bargained to reduce the amount and police agreed on a sum equal to three months' wages. The youth later held their training session at a hastily convened new location.
Thank God for His protection of the students and for the boldness of their leader. Pray that Brother K will continue to persevere in the faith. Pray that Christian youth in Laos will continue to passionately share the gospel with their neighbours. Pray that freedom of religion will truly become a reality in Laos. You can post a prayer of encouragement for Brother K and the Christian youth in Laos on our Persecuted Church Prayer Wall at www.persecution.net/prayerwall.
You can learn more about the mistreatment of Christians in Laos at www.persecution.net/laos.htm.
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4. Update on imprisoned Pakistani Christian
(Source: VOM-USA)
The Voice of the Martyrs was recently able to visit with the family of Imran Masih, a Pakistani Christian man who has been imprisoned since early 2010 on charges of blasphemy (see www.persecution.net/pk-2010-01-21.htm for more). Imran Masih's family said that he is in good health and that they are able to visit with him once a week. The visits are limited to 25 minutes, however, and they are only able to sit behind a window and speak with him by intercom. Imran is only allowed to leave his cell twice a day for a head count. His windowless, cement cell is 26 x 20 feet with two small vents and can reach brutally hot temperatures in the summer.
Pray that Imran will be acquitted and released. Pray that he will know the presence and encouraging comfort of Jesus in prison. Pray that his family will continue to rely on the care of the Lord. Pray that the blasphemy laws will be abolished in Pakistan.
To find out more about the persecution Christians face in Pakistan, go to www.persecution.net/pakistan.htm. The August edition of the Voice of the Martyrs newsletter features testimonies of Pakistani Christians serving the Lord with faithful perseverance. You can subscribe to this timely and powerful resource today at www.persecution.net/nlorder.htm.
***********************************
The Persecution & Prayer Alert is a ministry of The Voice of the Martyrs, Canada. (Mailing address: P.O. Box 608, Streetsville, Ontario, L5M 2C1)
Tel. (905) 670.9721. Website: www.persecution.net

Admin Tue 21 Jun 2011, 6:09 pm

Please share with all your groups and contacts
If anyone wants to receive the devotions/prayer requests I send out, please e-mail me at faithhopeandlovefellowship@gmail.com

It would be an absolute pleasure to share them with you

God bless you

Keith

Admin Fri 17 Jun 2011, 3:03 pm

Please share this with your groups.
we should watch this video and weep
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C5ig1ayurEg&feature=related

1. Sudan approaching independence for the South
(Source: Middle East Concern)
Sudanese Christians request continued prayer as the North and South prepare to separate on July 9, in accordance with a referendum held in January (see www.persecution.net/sd-2011-01-27.htm for more). Alarming developments include the North's intention to implement Shariah, or Islamic law, more strictly, potentially reducing the limited freedoms given to Christians and other non-Muslims. There is also fear that, with many Christians fleeing the South, the remaining believers will be especially vulnerable to pressure and attacks.
Additionally, the parameters of the North-South border remain hotly disputed at several points. In the province of Abyei, a referendum has been delayed and attempts to assert military control have erupted in violence in recent months. There have also been violent clashes in other provinces and increased violence in the western region of Darfur. Thousands of people have been displaced and forced to flee to the South in the wake of the violence.
Pray the rights of all Christians in Sudan will be respected. Pray for special guidance for Church leaders as they adapt to the changes posed by operating under two legal systems. Pray the two governments will rule justly for the benefit of all citizens. Pray the peace of the Lord will reign throughout Sudan and that violence will cease. You can post a prayer of solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Sudan on our Persecuted Church Prayer Wall at www.persecution.net/prayerwall.
For more on the trials facing Christians in Sudan, go to www.persecution.net/sudan.htm.
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2. Christians attacked and threatened in Jharkhand state, India
(Source: Compass Direct)
Several Christians came under attack in Jharkhand state, India, in recent weeks. On May 28, Hindu militants beat the members of five Christian families in Palamu district. A week prior, a group of Hindu militants threatened to beat Pastor Sanjay Choudary of the Gospel Echoing Missionary Society if he did not stop leading worship meetings. He and his congregation then filed a complaint, leading the police to visit with them on May 28. Immediately after the police left, the enraged militants appeared and started beating people. One woman suffered internal injuries, and another believer was still missing at last report. The Christians have reportedly fled their homes. In a similar incident, Hindu militants in Karivadhi village are threatening to severely beat three families of new Christian converts if they do not return to Hinduism. These Christians have also fled the area and are now in hiding.
Pray these Christians will look to the God of truth as their righteous refuge and tower of strength (Psalm 31:1-5). Pray they will be living witnesses to the love and hope of Christ, even to their persecutors. Ask God to work in the hearts of those who attack Christians in India, leading them to the path of repentance and peace.
For more on the trials facing Christians in India, go to www.persecution.net/india.htm.
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3. New measures to control religious freedom in Azerbaijan
(Source: Forum 18 News)
Christians in Azerbaijan fear that new amendments to the restrictive Religion Law will increase state restrictions on freedom of religion or belief in the country. The amendments, adopted June 10, could make it difficult to determine which individuals are able to serve as religious leaders. A news article states that a "religious person engaged in religious activity is a person with higher or secondary specialized religious education." While this definition does not specify that only "professional" religious workers can conduct activities such as religious education or leading worship, officials could use the new definitions to ban individuals from any religious activity not specially authorized by the law.
Churches and other religious communities worry that the new amendments are a covert way of requiring those still waiting for re-registration to begin the entire process again, offering more opportunities for officials to impose pressure on communities and stop them from gaining legal status.
Pray for Christians in Azerbaijan as they go about their ministry for Christ amid these new amendments. Pray they will continue to echo Peter's sentiment and be determined to obey God regardless of what man says (Acts 5:29). Pray true religious freedom will be upheld in Azerbaijan.
To find out more about the hardships Christians face in Azerbaijan, go to www.persecution.net/azerbaijan.htm.
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4. Update: Continued prayer requested for Christians abducted in Yemen
(Source: Middle East Concern)
June 12 marked the second anniversary of the kidnapping of nine foreigners in Saada, northwest Yemen, three of whom were murdered and two of whom were freed last May (see www.persecution.net/ye-2010-05-20.htm for more). There continues to be no news of Johannes and Sabine Hentschel, a German couple, and their young son, Simon, or of Tony, a British man. Johannes and Sabine's daughters, Lydia, 6, and Anna, 5, are currently living with relatives in Germany and reportedly in good health. It is understood that both German and British investigators have stopped the active search for the missing believers. Those close to this situation remain hopeful that those still missing are alive and ask for continued prayerful intercession on their behalf.
Pray the status of the missing Christians will be made known. Pray that, if they are alive, they will rest in the Lord's care and soon be released unharmed. Pray the families and loved ones of those missing and murdered will know the peace of Jesus amidst continuing speculation and uncertainty. Ask God to encourage and guide Yemen's Christian minority, most of whom are foreigners working in the country who are often isolated from one another in their walk of faith.
You can learn more about believers serving Christ at great risk in Yemen at www.persecution.net/yemen.htm.
***********************************
The Persecution & Prayer Alert is a ministry of The Voice of the Martyrs, Canada. (Mailing address: P.O. Box 608, Streetsville, Ontario, L5M 2C1)
Tel. (905) 670.9721. Website: www.persecution.net

Admin Fri 10 Jun 2011, 12:42 pm

In this week's edition: reports from Pakistan, Somalia, Nepal, China and Egypt.
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1. Pakistani police reluctant to prosecute attack on church
(Source: Compass Direct)
Armed Muslims disrupted the worship service at Numseoul Presbyterian Church in Lakhoki Kahna village, on May 29, cursing the congregation, smashing a glass altar and desecrating Bibles and a cross. Instead of making arrests, police initially pressured Christians to accept an apology from the accused.
Pastor Ashraf Masih told Compass Direct that Muhammad Shoaib, the nephew of a former Member of the Punjab Assembly (MPA), entered the church building accompanied by four men armed with rifles and pistols. They cursed the congregation for "disturbing the peace of the area by worshipping on loudspeakers," though the loudspeakers were used only inside the building. Police were reluctant to register the incident until the pastor told police that his colleagues had witnessed the damage, journalists had photographed the site, and his congregation would block the main road in protest. Police officials agreed to make Shoaib publicly apologize.
Pray for Pastor Ashraf and the members of the congregation. May they conduct themselves in such a way that they will be witnesses for the gospel. Pray for justice for Pakistani Christians. May God grow and strengthen His church in Pakistan.
Read more about persecution facing Pakistani believers at www.persecution.net/pakistan.htm.
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2. Somali Christians persevere amid severe persecution
(Source: Somali Christian Ministries)
In recent years, a number of Somali Christians have been martyred or publicly named as targets for execution in the country, where Islam is the national religion. With a mere 0.05 percent of the population known Christians, many believers have fled to neighbouring countries in fear for their lives. Nonetheless, new testimonies continue to affirm that many Somalis, including Muslim-background believers, are boldly embracing Christ, despite pressure, threats and violence.
A Somali woman who has faced pressure from her Muslim family members since becoming a Christian five years ago recently reported that her husband and children have also left Islam for Christianity. Another Somali, a Muslim-background believer living in Southeast Asia, came to know Christ in recent months. "No matter what will happen to me I will sacrifice my life for Jesus," he said. "I hope you pray for me, whoever you are. I believe that you are my brother or sister in Christ and you will ask Jesus to take away the blindness and sufferings of my Somali people."
Praise the Lord for these encouraging testimonies of Christ moving among the Somali people. Pray Somali believers will continue to set Christ apart as Lord without giving in to fear, always prepared to share Christ while living a holy life (1 Peter 3:14-17). Pray suffering Somali Christians will sense the encouragement and love of the various individuals standing with them in their plight.
To find out more about the trials facing Somali Christians, go to www.persecution.net/somalia.htm.
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3. Planned criminal code to forbid evangelism in Nepal
(Source: Compass Direct)
Five years after it abolished Hinduism as the state religion, Nepal is working on a new criminal code forbidding a person of one faith to "convert a person or abet him to change his religion." Article 160 of the proposed code also says no one will be allowed to do anything or behave in any way that could cause a person from a caste, community or creed to lose faith in his/her traditional religion or convert to a different religion. Offenders could be imprisoned for a maximum of five years and fined up to $685 CAD. Last weekend, the Nepalese government failed to complete a new constitution providing for religious freedom due to a protracted battle for political power.
Pray for all those in authority in Nepal. Ask God to bring about genuine religious freedom in this nation. Pray for the church in this nation. May it remain faithful and grow in strength and in number. You can post a prayer for Nepalese believers on our Persecuted Church Prayer Wall at www.persecution.net/prayerwall.htm.
Read more about the lack of religious freedoms in Nepal at www.persecution.net/nepal.htm.
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4. Two female ministers in China detained, beaten, released
(Source: ChinaAid Association)
Two female house-church ministers in Xinjiang were taken into police custody on May 28 and beaten. Li Tianping and Wang Ling were detained by police in the city of Korla and taken to the Sayibage police station. They were released the next day. Sources credited prayer for the speedy release.
The detentions occurred after local police raided an outdoor praise and worship service at a square in Korla that was attended by about 100 house-church Christians. The two women were detained while leaving the square.
Praise the Lord for answered prayer! Thank Him for the faithful witness of the many Christian believers in China who continue to fellowship together in spite of the opposition they face. May He continue to grow and strengthen His church throughout China.
Find out more about the suffering of Christians in China at www.persecution.net/china.htm.
***********************************
5. Muslim mob besieges Egyptian church
(Source: Assyrian International News Agency)
Thousands of Muslims protested the reopening of the St. Mary and St. Abraham Church in the Cairo neighbourhood of Ain Shams on May 19. The church was forced to close in 2008 because of severe protests occurring against Christians. When the church attempted to reopen, the priests were met with the same protests and violence. Muslims are protesting the church's dome and cross, which reportedly violate the Muslim custom of "dhimmitude." The custom considers displays of faith by religious minorities to be intolerable. Eight [color:9c6c=#000]Coptic Christians were arrested and charged with rioting and violence, three of whom have been sentenced to five years in prison for firearms and weapons possession. Although these three maintain that the evidence was planted, their criminal charges remain. Conversely, the three Muslims arrested during the riots were released.
Pray for justice for the imprisoned Christians. Ask the Lord to strengthen the faith of the believers in the community and pray they will exemplify the love of God through consistent love and prayer for those who persecute them (Matthew 5:43-48).
Read more about the persecution of Egyptian Christians at www.persecution.net/egypt.htm.
***********************************
The Persecution & Prayer Alert is a ministry of The Voice of the Martyrs, Canada. (Mailing address: P.O. Box 608, Streetsville, Ontario, L5M 2C1)
Tel. (905) 670.9721. Website: www.persecution.net

Admin Mon 09 May 2011, 6:39 pm

Welcome to Prayer Focus

As we come to the last part of our focus on Japan, I do hope you will keep this country in your prayers.

Please again share these prayer needs with all your prayer groups and friends.

Thanks and God bless you

Keith

Japan

Christian Literature

The Japanese people read a lot, and so there is a great opportunity to reach them.

Please pray for:

More christian writers of Evangelistic material, which would be culturally relevant.

Gideons and the Bible Society distribute over a million copies of Scripture a year. The Japanese find it difficult to understand the bible. Pray that the Holy Spirit, would open eyes and hearts.

Manga (graphic novels ) are hugely popular in Japan. Please pray for the Manga Bible and Manga comic book, which seeks to reach out to the Japanese.

Christian bookstores .. over 100.

New life league produces 15 million pieces of Literature and Every home for Christ has distributed over 200 million tracts since the war. Pray for real fruit from these ministries.

Word of Life Press Ministries, publishes literature and resources for the whole of Japan. It has a key role in the reaching of Japan.

Christian Media

Please pray for

That this wired nation would seek out good christian websites and more evangelistic websites would be focused on the Japanese people.

Christians in the arts network, encourages and helps Christian's in the arts to reach out.

The Jesus film is available. Pray for it, as it is distributed to thousands of homes every Christmas.

Christian TV and Radio.. many agencies producing programmes. Please pray they would be culturally relevant.

Black Gospel Choirs.. many unsaved Japanese sing in these. Please pray that they would come to faith through singing the words. Christian music is also useful tool in reaching the lost.

Father, we thank you for every tool at the disposal of Your church and we ask that You would bless and enable Your church to reach out in boldness and power to touch Japan for Your glory.

Thanks for praying.. don't stop.

God bless you

Keith

Featured Page Link

Please support and pray for the ministry below

http://www.jclglobal.org/

My website

Please read the wonderful page called Salvation Focus.

http://www.ourchurch.com/member/f/faithhopelove/index.php?p=1_2_-Salvation-Focus

Special Song

Please be blessed by this beautiful song.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mD2PJ0xbAdY

Admin Thu 05 May 2011, 10:25 am

Welcome to Prayer Focus

As we continue to pray for Japan. This time, we are concentrating on the least evangelised groups in the country.

Please share these messages with all your friends/prayer groups etc.. thanks.

Please take time to click on the links at the bottom of this message.

Thanks

God bless you

Keith

Japan

Least evangelised Groups

There are 24 cities with no church at all, including Akabira, Utashinai, Obanazawa, Mino, Motosu,Inabe, Akitakata, Matsuara, Kamiamakusa and Kaseda. Please pray that churches would be planted in each of these cities.

Of the 1,020 towns and villages.. 595 have no church. Please pray that new churches would be planted

Koreans number half a million. There has been over 500 church planted among them.. but more needs to be done

Rural area are untouched by the gospel. Please pray that the gospel would reach every area of Japan

The ruling elite and the Emperor are hardly touched by the gospel. Pray that the Spirit of God would break through. One ministry that is blessing is the VIP club

Chinese- number 25,000+. Please pray for the work being done by OMF

The Ainu- The first people of Japan.. now number less than 25,000. No known believers and little outreach. they need to hear the gospel.. amen

Exploited Women- Please pray for the agencies working to stop these evil practices and storm the gates of heaven against this evil.

Cults- Both the JW's and Mormons are extremely active. Please pray the church would take up arms. Japan has multiple cults .. please stand against these evils

Muslims- Increasing via marriage, immigration and Japanese converts. Little is being done to reach them

PLEASE PRAY THAT THE CHURCH OF GOD GAINS A VISION FOR REACHING OUT TO EVERY CORNER OF JAPAN

Father, there is a task unfinished. We join in prayer for these groups, asking that you would stir your church and so shake the nation . We ask that you give your church vision and boldness to reach out to every area of Japan.

In Jesus Name

Amen

God bless you

Keith

Featured Page Link

Please support and pray for the work of this Ministry.

http://www.rjcnetwork.org/

My website Link

Please read the wonderful words on this beautiful page.

http://www.ourchurch.com/member/f/faithhopelove/index.php?p=1_18_Fathers-Heart

Admin Mon 02 May 2011, 9:31 am

Welcome to Prayer Focus

As we continue to pray for Japan. Thanks for joining with us.

Please pass these prayer needs onto all your prayer groups and contacts, we can really impact the country of Japan and help the church.

If you have any christian contacts in Japan or any Japanese friends, please share it with them, so that they know their country is being prayed for

Please click on the featured page links at the bottom

Thanks and God bless

Keith

Prayer Needs

Pray for more co-operation between the various mission agencies seeking to reach the Japanese people.

There are many opportunities to serve within Japan. Such as Teaching English. Please pray that God would call many people to this role.

The mission field is difficult, because of the difference in culture and the time spent learning the language. Please pray that God would call many to this harvest field and pray that the current missionaries are not discouraged as they serve.

Thank God for the increase in Korean Missionaries. Pray for them to adapt well and to have much fruit in their ministries.

Over a million Japanese live outside the country, mainly in the USA, Brazil and China. Every year over 1,000 return, who have found Jesus as Saviour to share the gospel. Please pray that they would integrate into church life and also that they would know the blessing of the Lord in their work.

Young people are a rare breed in Japanese society. Many are confused and have no religious faith at all, but they are open to the gospel. Please pray that Jesus, would fill the void that only HE can fill.

There are 3 million University/college students. Many ministries are operating in this area, including Campus Crusade and the Navigators. This outreach is vital to the future of the Japanese church. Please pray that an outreach would happen on every campus.

Japan has an aging population. There are many opportunities for Christian Care workers. Please pray that the believers would be called into this ministry.

There is also scope for the opening up of Christian Hospices and Care homes.

Father, we thank you that there is an open door in Japan and we ask that you would call missionaries and workers into this harvest field. We ask that you would uphold and strengthen your people serving you right at this moment and give them boldness and much fruit for their labours.

In Jesus name

Amen

God bless you

Thanks for praying

Keith

Featured Page Link

Please pray for and support this wonderful work of church planting in Japan

http://jcpi.net/

My website Link

Please read the beautiful poems on this page

http://www.ourchurch.com/member/f/faithhopelove/index.php?p=1_21_Poets-Corner

Special Song

This is worship.. sung in Japanese

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERkfK9B7JRk

Admin Mon 25 Apr 2011, 1:20 pm

Welcome to Prayer Focus

As always, it is a joy to share with you. Today we will be sharing about the country of Japan, this is only part 1.. please look out for Part 2.. coming in a few days.

Please print out these requests and keep them by your bible.

Also if you are able to pass them along to your friends and prayer groups, I would be most grateful, as would all the believers in Japan.

If you know of any contacts who either live in Japan or are Japanese, please share it with them.

Please also take time to view the Featured links at the bottom of these messages.

Thanks

God bless you for praying

Keith

Praise God for

The uncertainty of life, has led to a deep spiritual searching among the Japanese people. Pray that more and more Japanese people, would be led to the foot of the cross.

There is an increasing open door to the gospel. The Japanese still believe that Christianity is a foreign religion. Please pray that all barriers would be broken down

Prayer Needs

Japan needs a return to strong moral values. Young people in Japan are prone to Social Phobia and Anxiety. Please pray that the church would lead a national repentance.

There is a deep spiritual Battle going on as many Japanese are still entrenched in Shinto Ancestor worship. Please pray for the breaking of these strongholds. Many Christians are either ignorant or in denial of these practices.

The Japanese view of shame/honour makes the idea of a Creator God alien to these people. Indeed many Christians compromise on this issue. Please pray that Christians, would have their minds transformed by the word of God and that they would not compromise.

Shinto rejects anything that is anti Japanese. Pray for the breaking down of all barriers and that the Christians would stand firm.

Only 10% of the people believe in the existence of a personal God, as many Japanese are buried in their materialistic culture. Pray that this stronghold would be broken down.

The United Church is the largest grouping, but has largely compromised with Shinto practices during the war period. Many churches and believers have sought repentance for these actions. Pray for a deep and lasting revival within the United Church.

Groups such as the JW's and Mormons are more numerous and more active than Christians in some areas. Please pray against this and pray that the church would be mobilised to challenge these false doctrines.

Challenges for the Church

The majority view is the norm in Japanese Society. Pray that the Christians, would swim against the prevailing tide.

The Church is showing new signs of becoming more unified. Pray that these green shoots grow.

A way of doing church, must be sought out, that is less Western, but it must be Biblical. Pray for the new approach. One of the ways people are being reached is through the house church movement.

Many converts from Shintoism (where there are no attendance requirements), do not attend church. Less than half the believers attend fellowship on a regular basis. Pray that Christians, would love to go in God's house on a regular basis.

Many pastors are overworked. Pray that lay people, especially men, would become active in their congregations.

Men are driven by success. Pray that God would raise up a might army of Men. Women outnumber men 7 to 1 in the churches.

Pray that the church, would have a direct and dynamic effect on Japanese society.

70% of the Pastors are over 50. Pray that God would raise up a new generation of Pastors.

Over 300 Japanese are serving God outside Japan. Thank God for this and pray that these dedicated believers are used for God's glory

Father in the precious name of Jesus, we thank You that you have grown Your church in this land of Japan. We ask that You break every barrier to spread the gospel in Japan. We ask that You stir and revive Your church and fill each and every believer, with the power and boldness of Your Holy Spirit.

In Jesus name

DO I HEAR AN AMEN!

Thanks for praying

Keith

Featured Page Link

Please view and pray for this wonderful ministry

http://www.jema.org/joomla15/

My website

Please view the home page of the site. At the top, there is a guest book for you to sign.. at the bottom is some of the best preaching you will find anywhere

http://www.ourchurch.com/member/f/faithhopelove/

Admin Wed 06 Apr 2011, 1:00 pm

Dear Friends

As we pray for the Japanese Church, we need to remember, what has happened with the Earthquake and Tsunami. Let us remember the dear people of Japan and let us remember them in prayer. Let us Pray for the damage done to the Country and Pray that this land would turn to Father God. Let us Pray for the church, that it would be an instrument of Blessing and Hope and that they would reach out with the Saviour's Love. I have places links below to agencies seeking to touch the people of Japan. Please pray for the people seeking to repair the nuclear plant.. the man in charge of this is an active Christian.

We will be returning to Pray for the Church in great detail later this month.

Let us Join in Prayer

Father God, you love all people and are not willing that any should perish, but all should come to repentance. we ask that You would touch the Country of Japan and heal this land. We ask that Your church would respond in Love and grace and show and share the love of Jesus to the People who have been affected by the tragic events of recent days. Move in Power and Grace and Bless and Heal this land.

In Jesus Name

Amen

Featured Links

Please click the following Links

http://www.redcross.org.uk/Donate-Now/Make-a-single-donation/Japan-Tsunami-Appeal

http://www.samaritanspurse.com.au/2011/03/catastrophe-in-japan/

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/japan/japan-earthquake-in-pictures/

http://www.samaritanspurse.org/

Lords Prayer in Japanese

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RnYsY-05ZNw

Prayer Power Page

Please Pray these powerful prayers and place prayer needs on here.. by clicking the brown icon at top, which says Guestbook.

http://www.ourchurch.com/member/f/faithhopelove/index.php?p=1_20_Prayer-Power

Admin Fri 18 Mar 2011, 8:08 pm

In this week's edition: reports from Pakistan, India and Malaysia.
***********************************
1. Pakistani Christian freed from her captors
(Source: Compass Direct)
A Christian mother of seven in Lahore, Pakistan, was recently freed from her Muslim captors after being kidnapped last August, drugged, raped, sold into marriage, and threatened with death if she did not convert to Islam. Forty-year-old Shaheen Bibi was taken from her place of employment to a nearby city, drugged and raped. When she awoke, her kidnappers told her that she had been sold into marriage to one of them. She told them she was a Christian, and they gave her a prayer rug and tried to get her to convert to Islam by reciting a Muslim prayer.
The kidnappers demanded a ransom ($1,170 CAD) from Shaheen's father, Manna Masih, by March 5. Local police refused to help Masih rescue his daughter, claiming that the area she was being held in was too dangerous. Masih then sought help from a human rights organization. On March 6, a team managed to rescue Shaheen from her captors, who handed her over on the condition that they not be the targets of further legal action. After her release, Shaheen reported that there were at least 10 other women in captivity with her. Some of the women had their hands and legs broken because they refused to be forced into marriage.
Thank the Lord for Shaheen's release. Pray for God's comfort and peace to govern her as she recovers from her brutal assault. Pray the other women will also be freed from their captors. Pray for the hope of Christ to radiate in their hearts and minds, even as they suffer. Ask God to bring their captors to repentance and lead them to salvation in Christ.
Find out more about the trials facing Pakistani Christians at www.persecution.net/pakistan.htm.
***********************************
2. Police ransack church and arrest pastors in India
(Source: Global Council of Indian Christians)
Two pastors were recently arrested for conducting a worship service in a home in Tumkur, Karnataka state, India. On March 6, Pastor Mathew and Pastor Jose were holding a worship service in a house church when a police officer disrupted the meeting. The officer asked the pastors to stop the service, and then ransacked the building and confiscated Bibles and other Christian literature. Both men were arrested and taken to the local police station. They were told that a leader of a local Hindu militant group lodged a complaint against them for engaging in "forceful conversion activity." That evening, the pastors stood before the magistrate, who freed them on temporary bail.
Thank the Lord that these pastors were released on bail. Pray all charges against them will be dropped. Ask the Lord to continue to strengthen His Church in India so believers will continue to lovingly and boldly proclaim the gospel despite opposition (Ephesians 6:18-20).
Find out more about the suffering of Christians in India at www.persecution.net/india.htm.
***********************************
3. Christian literature held by authorities in Malaysia
(Source: Compass Direct)
Authorities in Malaysia's Kuching Port have detained approximately 30,000 copies of the New Testament, Psalms and Proverbs in the Malay language, causing great upset among the nation's Christians. Gideons International imported the books from Indonesia for distribution in schools, churches and longhouses in Betong and other Christian areas in Sarawak state. They have been detained since January. Authorities told an officer that he could not distribute the books because they "contained words which are also found in the Qur'an." The officer was ordered to transport the books to the Home Ministry's office for storage. This same officer recently enquired of the Home Ministry officials on the status of the Malay Bibles, and was told by authorities that they had yet to receive instructions on the matter.
This is not the first time government authorities have detained Malay-language Bibles. In March 2009, 5,100 copies of the Good News Bible in Malay, imported by the Bible Society of Malaysia, were detained in Port Klang.
Pray this Christian literature will be released for distribution. Pray that, even among such opposition, the Word of the Lord will continue to go forth in Malaysia. Pray religious freedom will be justly respected throughout Malaysia.
You can find out more about the opposition facing Malaysian Christians at www.persecution.net/malaysia.htm.
***********************************
4. Imprisoned Christian dies in Pakistan
(Source: AsiaNews)
A Christian serving a life sentenced on blasphemy charges has died under suspicious circumstances in Lahore, Pakistan. Qamar David was imprisoned in June 2006 after a business rival accused him of insulting the Prophet Muhammad. He died overnight on March 14, with prison authorities claiming he had a heart attack. Christian human rights activists are calling for an inquiry into Qamar's death. At last report, his body was being held in the Civil Hospital in Karachi where an autopsy was to be performed by health authorities. Qamar was reportedly threatened and viciously beaten regularly by prison guards and inmates during his three years in prison.
Pray those responsible for Qamar's brutal treatment will be brought to justice. Ask God to comfort all those mourning his loss. Pray the blasphemy law will be abolished in Pakistan. Ask God to equip Pakistani Christians to be bold and gracious witnesses to His love and truth in an environment of severe opposition.
To find out more about the persecution of Pakistani Christians, visit www.persecution.net/pakistan.htm.

Admin Fri 11 Mar 2011, 4:30 pm

Welcome to Prayer Focus

Please join us as we share in prayer about the lovely island of Jamaica. Please print out these prayer needs and keep them in or near your bible. Please share them with all your prayer groups and contacts.

Please take time to visit the links at the bottom of this message, they will truly bless and encourage you.

Thanks and God bless

Keith

Jamaica

Location 3rd Largest island in Caribbean

Population 2.8 million

Evangelical Population 28.0% 760,000

Yearly growth 1.4%

Missionaries from Jamaica 100

Praise Points

Thank God for the wonderful christian heritage enjoyed by this country and for the wonderful men and women of God that have come from this land.

This land has sent out many missionaries to all over the Caribbean to share the Gospel.

Prayer Needs

Sadly, this land is in the middle of deep social and spiritual collapse. Many things have brought about this, such as the influence of drugs as South American Drug cartels, have used Jamaica as a staging post and Jamaica nationals as mules for their drug running activities. This has brought about rape, violence and a general upsurge in domestic violence.

The government has sought help from the churches in resolving these issues and this has led to the National Leadership Prayer breakfast, which seeks to bring Christian's together to pray and stand against these evils.

Please stand with these courageous believers and pray that this land would return to it's Christian roots.

The church in Jamaica, needs a massive outpouring of Holy Spirit Revival power. There are many Christian's and hundreds of churches, but little Holy Spirit power and anointing. Pray for the agencies that are seeking to proclaim the truth of God's word

Many Christian's do not live holy lives, please pray that God would bring strong conviction and a strong sense of repentance upon the church.

The church in Jamaica is strategically placed to impact the whole of the Caribbean region. Pray that the Christian's would gain a real vision for not just reaching out to their own land but across all the Caribbean.

Please pray for the 15 bible schools, that they would be beacons of truth and send out hundreds of anointed men and women to serve across the whole region.

Millions of young people have been reached through many agencies. Please pray that there would be much fruit and that these young people would grow in the knowledge of the scriptures.

The very poor, which include the 'barrel children', have had little exposure to the gospel. Please pray that the church would reach out to them.

The Rastafarian's - In recent years, several prominent Rastafarian's have accepted Jesus as Saviour. Please pray that they would be reached and that they would come to Jesus.

Please pray for the work of the Bible Society, as it seeks to spread and share the scriptures across the whole region.

Christian bookstores.. several operate throughout the country. Pray that good sound biblical literature gets into the hands of the people.

Christian broadcasting.. many hours are broadcast. Pray that the words spoken are biblical.

Pray for the work of Scripture Union/Child evangelism fellowship/youth for Christ, amongst young people.

Father in the precious name of Jesus, we ask that you would shake your church in Jamaica. We ask that you would awake your church to your truth, so that it can stand in your strength and show forth your glory, throughout the Caribbean.

In Jesus name

Amen

Thanks for Praying

Keith

Featured Website

Please pray and help this ministry, by joining one of their teams or by giving.

http://www.jaminjamaica.com/index.php

My Website Link

Please check out the Home page of the site

http://www.ourchurch.com/member/f/faithhopelove

Special Teaching

Please watch this wonderful message

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b4VVLO8UNFI&feature=channel

Admin Mon 07 Mar 2011, 1:33 pm

Welcome to India Interest

What a joy it is to share with you once again, as we continue to go through the States of India. Please place this latest state in your folder.. either online or at home.

Please use the featured page links at the bottom of this message. You will be greatly blessed

Thanks for praying and sharing in this great work

God bless you

Keith

Assam

Location: North East India

Capital Dispur

Population 32 million

Evangelical Population 4%

Prayer Points

This state is the major challenge in North East India. Christians are a small minority. Please pray for a mighty move of revival would stir the church and so shake the state.

Please pray that the church would have a heart to reach both Muslims and Hindus, who are the largest religious groupings.

Please pray for a deep and real unity among believers , as this would be a powerful witness, in a state where there is much ethnic violence.

The Assamese speaking peoples, such as the Brahmin, Bania, Kaibartta and others, number over half a million, but have no viable christian witness. Please pray that God would call workers and that church planting would take place.

Bengali speakers, have largely come from Bangladesh and are Muslim. They number nearly 10 million and form the majority in 6 districts. Again there is very little outreach to them. Please pray that God would call workers to this urgent work

Tea Estate workers number in the millions and are mostly immigrants from other States. The largest groups are the Santal, Munda, and Kharia. There is a real open door to share the gospel, but few to share it.

Many tribal peoples such as the Miri, Rajbansi, Deori and Kachari are less than 1% christian and much needs to be done to complete the work.

One of the districts and 25 subdistricts are less than 0.1% christian.. so much needs to be done.

Father , In the precious name of Jesus, we thank you for Your church in this state and we ask that You would stir and revive it and give it a passion to reach out in power and boldness. May Your church be stirred and may Assam be shaken as the Glory of Jesus is shown

In Jesus name

Amen

Thanks for praying

Keith

Featured Page link

Please click on the link below, to see the work of Kids Alive

http://www.kidsalive.org/

My website

Please view thew wonderful page called Fathers heart

http://www.ourchurch.com/member/f/faithhopelove/index.php?p=1_18_Fathers-Heart

Special Song

Please take time to listen to this wonderful song

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iX6-jmg3TJo&feature=related

Admin Sat 05 Mar 2011, 1:48 pm

Welcome once again to India Interest

Our brothers and sisters in this amazing land. I hope you are keeping a record of their prayer needs as we go forward state by state.

Please share these needs with all your prayer groups

Take time also to view the Featured links at the bottom of this message

Thanks and God bless you

Arunachal Pradesh

Location Northeastern frontier State bordering on Bhutan and Tibet

Population 1.27 Million

Evangelical Population 18.0%

Prayer Needs

Praise God that the church has grown from under 1% to nearly 20% of the population. This is due to the impact of missionaries from surrounding states.

The church is strong among the Nissi, Wancho, Adi, Nocte and Tsanga, but there needs to be fuller and deeper co-operation between them. Please pray for this.

There is an anti conversion law in place. Please pray that the believers, would seek to witness in a positive and tactful way

The believers have a real vision to reach every people group and area of the country, pray especially for:

Buddhist People of the west .. such as the Monga and Khampti adjoining Bhutan, have had little chance to hear the gospel. Also Tibetan refugees need to hear the gospel. Please pray that both groups would be reached

Animist People.. such as the Tagin, Adi, Minyong, Tamu and Galong. Please pray that workers would be called to reach them

Seven regions are less than 0.1%Christian. Please pray that Church's would be planted in these regions.

Father in the precious name of Jesus, we thank you that you are doing a great work in this state. We ask that you would continue to pour out your Holy Spirit on this state and that your church would grow and mature and not become complacent

In Jesus Name

Amen

Featured Website

Please pray and Support our persecuted Brothers and sisters 1 Corinthians 12:26

http://www.opendoors.org/

Special Song

We can just Only Imagine, what it is will be like in heaven.. to be truthful.. it will be totally awesome and mind blowing.. amen

https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=0xwzItqYmII

My website

Please view the wonderful page called Jesus is alive. Please use it to reach others for Christ

http://www.ourchurch.com/member/f/faithhopelove/ index.php? p=1_4_Jesus-is-Alive

Admin Fri 04 Mar 2011, 1:51 pm

In this week's edition: reports from Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Egypt and Ethiopia.
***********************************
1. Pakistan's sole Christian minister assassinated
(Source: VOM)
VOM sources in Pakistan are reporting that Pakistan's Minister of Minority Affairs, Shahbaz Bhatti, was assassinated March 2 while on his way to work in Islamabad. This is the latest attack on a high-profile Pakistani figure who had urged reforming harsh blasphemy laws that impose the death penalty for insulting Islam. Bhatti was on his way to work when unknown gunmen riddled his car with bullets. The minister arrived dead at Shifa Hospital.
No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, but private Pakistani TV channels showed pamphlets at the scene of the killing that were attributed to the Pakistani Taliban warning of the same fate for anyone opposing the blasphemy laws. An eyewitness saw three gunmen open fire on Bhatti's car as he left his house. The gunmen then sped away in a car. It was not immediately clear why Bhatti, a member of the ruling Pakistani People's Party, did not have bodyguards with him.
In recent months, Bhatti boldly defended Asia Bibi, a Christian woman sentenced to death for blasphemy. After the killing of Salman Taseer, Governor of Punjab, whom Islamic fundamentalists blamed for having defended Asia Bibi, Bhatti became the radicals' "top target." Bhatti was in Canada just last month, meeting with Prime Minister Stephen Harper and several cabinet ministers during his visit to Ottawa. According to a spokesman for the prime minister, the men discussed the importance of standing up for the rights of religious minorities.
Thank the Lord for the life of Shahbaz Bhatti and his attempts to change Pakistan's blasphemy laws. Pray the Lord will bring comfort to his family in their time of sorrow. Pray the Lord will not allow Pakistani believers to be discouraged, but to be emboldened in their faith, putting their trust in the everlasting God.
Find out more about the intense persecution of Christians in Pakistan at www.persecution.net/pakistan.htm.
***********************************
2. Update: Afghan Christian released from prison
(Sources: Compass Direct, International Christian Concern)
After intense diplomatic pressure, authorities have released Said Musa, 46, a convert from Islam to Christianity who was imprisoned in May 2010 on charges of apostasy (for more information, see www.persecution.net/af-2011-02-17.htm). The date of Said's release was not clear at last report, but it is known that he left the country on February 21. Said wrote a series of letters from his prison cell. In the last letter, dated February 13, he revealed that representatives of embassies in Kabul visited him and offered him asylum. He was later taken to another room where three Afghan officials tried to convince him to recant his faith, promising him that he would be released within 24 hours if he complied. Said, however, stood firm in his faith. "I told them I cannot Islam," he wrote in his letter. "I am Jesus Christ's servant. They pushed me much and much. I refused their demands." Details of Said's release remained confidential in order to protect him and his family, who reportedly still remain in danger.
Praise the Lord for Said's release! Pray the Lord will swiftly reconnect him with his family. Pray that he and his family will continue to look to Christ as their provider, guardian and Saviour.
You can find out more about the sufferings of Christians in Afghanistan at www.persecution.net/afghanistan.htm.
***********************************
3. Murder of Chaldean man in Iraq raises fears
(Source: AsiaNews)
A group of armed men burst into the home of an elderly believer, stabbing him to death in Iraq. Youssif Isho, a 70-year-old Chaldean Christian, lived alone in Karrad, central Baghdad. According to information obtained by AsiaNews, Youssif Isho's death was a targeted killing by extremist groups. Sources warned AsiaNews that other attacks against Christians are possible in the capital. "The faithful continue to suffer," a Christian leader said, "and people are scared, moving cautiously out of fear of more violence." Street demonstrations were scheduled in Iraq's main cities in the wake of the attack.
Pray for all those grieving the loss of this Christian man. Pray the Lord will strengthen the faith of believers in Iraq and take away all fear. Pray the Lord will strengthen and grow the Church in spite of the ongoing violence towards Christians.
Learn more about the tribulations of Iraqi Christians in the Iraq Country Report (www.persecution.net/iraq.htm).
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4. Monk, workers shot in attack on monastery in Egypt
(Source: Compass Direct)
One monk and six church workers were shot and wounded last week when the Egyptian Army attacked a Coptic Orthodox monastery in order to destroy a wall monks had built to defend their property from raiders. The attack with small arms, heavy machine guns and armoured personnel carriers happened February 23 at the Anba Bishoy Monastery in Wadi Al-Natroun, 110 kilometres north of Cairo. The soldiers used armoured personnel carriers to bulldoze the wall, sources said, as the monks sang a prayer in unison, declaring, "God is merciful."
As security diminished following the resignation of President Hosni Mubarak on February 11, the monastery came under increasing attacks from raiders and criminals set free from prisons. The military denied a request for protection from the monks, who then built a brick wall with a metal gate to control access. The army claimed the monastery had not acquired the proper permits and issued a deadline for the wall to be torn down. The monks refused to demolish the wall, and the army moved in. At the time of writing, seven people remained in the Anglo American Hospital in Cairo, two of them in critical condition.
Pray these men will be healed and have their health fully restored. Pray the Lord will strengthen their faith and use their testimony as a witness to others. Pray the Lord will bring peace to Egypt. Pray the current unrest will bring about greater religious freedom and an opportunity to further spread the gospel.
Read more about trials facing Christians in Egypt at www.persecution.net/egypt.htm.
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5. Christian students attacked by Muslim mob in Ethiopia
(Source: International Christian Concern)
A Muslim mob assaulted and wounded 17 Christian college students on a short-term missions trip in Oma village, Ethiopia, on February 26. The students, who were from Meda Welabu University, went to the Muslim village in Bale province. After the students started to distribute Bibles and speak with the Muslims, one of the villagers angrily argued with them, inciting a mob to attack the students. The Muslims shouted "Allah Akbar" (Allah is greater) and hurled stones at the Christians and beat them with rods. The mob overwhelmed the government militia who attempted to protect the students. When the Christians fled the village, the mob unsuccessfully attempted to set fire to their car.
One of the victims who wanted to remain anonymous said, "We thank God that no one was killed. It's sad that we suffered the attacks despite the Ethiopian laws which say there is freedom of religion and equality in the country." While Ethiopia's constitution guarantees freedom of religion, Muslims occasionally attack Christians living in Muslim-majority areas.
Pray these believers will be encouraged to persevere in their faith and Christian witness. Pray they will rejoice in the opportunity to grow in Christ-likeness through the opposition they have faced (James 1:2-4). Pray for those who have been wounded. Pray also for the people who received Bibles from the Christian students.
Find out more about the persecuted Church in Ethiopia at www.persecution.net/ethiopia.htm.
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The Persecution & Prayer Alert is a ministry of The Voice of the Martyrs, Canada. (Mailing address: P.O. Box 608, Streetsville, Ontario, L5M 2C1)
Tel. (905) 670.9721. Website: www.persecution.net

Admin Wed 02 Mar 2011, 4:26 pm

Welcome once again to India Interest

Our brothers and sisters in this amazing land. I hope you are keeping a record of their prayer needs as we go forward state by state.

Please share these needs with all your prayer groups

Take time also to view the Featured links at the bottom of this message

Thanks and God bless you

Arunachal Pradesh

Location Northeastern frontier State bordering on Bhutan and Tibet

Population 1.27 Million

Evangelical Population 18.0%

Prayer Needs

Praise God that the church has grown from under 1% to nearly 20% of the population. This is due to the impact of missionaries from surrounding states.

The church is strong among the Nissi, Wancho, Adi, Nocte and Tsanga, but there needs to be fuller and deeper co-operation between them. Please pray for this.

There is an anti conversion law in place. Please pray that the believers, would seek to witness in a positive and tactful way

The believers have a real vision to reach every people group and area of the country, pray especially for:

Buddhist People of the west .. such as the Monga and Khampti adjoining Bhutan, have had little chance to hear the gospel. Also Tibetan refugees need to hear the gospel. Please pray that both groups would be reached

Animist People.. such as the Tagin, Adi, Minyong, Tamu and Galong. Please pray that workers would be called to reach them

Seven regions are less than 0.1%Christian. Please pray that Church's would be planted in these regions.

Father in the precious name of Jesus, we thank you that you are doing a great work in this state. We ask that you would continue to pour out your Holy Spirit on this state and that your church would grow and mature and not become complacent

In Jesus Name

Amen

Featured Website

Please pray and Support our persecuted Brothers and sisters 1 Corinthians 12:26

http://www.opendoors.org/

Special Song

We can just Only Imagine, what it is will be like in heaven.. to be truthful.. it will be totally awesome and mind blowing.. amen

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0xwzItqYmII

My website

Please view the wonderful page called Jesus is alive. Please use it to reach others for Christ

http://www.ourchurch.com/member/f/faithhopelove/index.php?p=1_4_Jesus-is-Alive

Sponsored content