Persecuted Church Along Side Of Our Church

VOM-USA Prayer Update for July 16, 2010

2010-07-16T05:27:00.000-05:00

Prayer is the pulse of life; by it the doctor can tell what is the condition of the heart. The sin of prayerlessness is a proof for the ordinary Christian or minister that the life of God in the soul is in deadly sickness and weakness." - Andrew Murray

"praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints" - Ephesians 6:18

On Tue. Jul 13 2010 at 09:24 AM Moderator wrote:
INDIA — Assailants sever Christian's hand in India — VOM Contacts

On July 4, unknown assailants attacked a college professor, severing his right hand and part of his arm in Kerala, India. According to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts T.J. Joseph, a professor at Newman's College in Thodupuzha, was returning from a Sunday service at his church when a van pulled up beside him. The assailants forced him from his car and attacked him with knives and swords, amputating his lower arm and inflicting deep wounds to his body. At last report, doctors were attempting to save his limb. According to reports, several Muslim students were offended by test questions on an exam T.J. Joseph gave two months ago. After protests by Islamic groups, T.J. was suspended from his job and apologized for his “unintentional error.” Nevertheless, he continued to receive threats. T.J.’s assailants in the July 4 attack are suspected to be members of the Islamic militant group, the Popular Front of India, but the attack was condemned by other Islamic groups. The media in India reported that T.J. Joseph forgave his attackers. Praise God T.J. has forgiven his persecutors. Pray for his full and speedy recovery. Pray that the misunderstanding which led to the attack will be resolved. Pray for peace among India's religious communities.

Psalm 5:11-12

IRAQ — Christian killed in bomb attack — VOM Canada/ Asia News

On July 5, Behnam Sabti, a Christian, died instantly when a bomb exploded under his car in Mosul, Iraq. According to local reports, Behnam was killed because of his “religious identity.” In recent months, Christians and other religious minorities in Iraq have faced violence because of their beliefs. Pray for Behnam’s wife and three children as they mourn the loss of husband and father. Pray that those responsible for this attack will be found and brought to justice. Pray for peace in Iraq and that Christians will be able to live their faith in freedom. Pray Christians will forgive their persecutors.

Joshua 1: 8-9

INDONESIA — Christians face death threat and increasing opposition — Compass Direct News

In recent months, Christians in Bekasi, Indonesia have faced growing opposition from Muslim extremists opposed to “Christianization,” according to Compass Direct News. Compass reported that on June 27, Muslim organizations in Bekasi announced they would establish “paramilitary units in local mosques” to oppose “ongoing attempts to convert people to Christianity.” Muslims have accused Christians of “aggressive proselytizing.” Church services throughout the city have been interrupted repeatedly and Christians have been threatened. In June, the Bekasi Islamic Congress met and set up a “mission center” along with a youth army to oppose Christian efforts. There is also a push for Shariah law in the region. Pray for protection for Christians in Bekasi. Pray the authorities will protect the Christians against opposition from militant Islamic groups.

Revelation 2:9-11

VOM-USA Prayer Update for July 9, 2010

2010-07-10T22:55:00.000-05:00

VOM-USA Prayer Update for July 2, 2010

2010-07-02T11:42:00.000-05:00

VOM-USA Prayer Update for June 25, 2010

2010-06-25T05:45:00.000-05:00

"Prayer is the pulse of life; by it the doctor can tell what is the condition of the heart. The sin of prayerlessness is a proof for the ordinary Christian or minister that the life of God in the soul is in deadly sickness and weakness." - Andrew Murray

"praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints" - Ephesians 6:18

On Tue. Jun 22 2010 at 01:03 PM Moderator wrote:
INDIA — Christian Forcibly “Reconverted” to Hinduism — VOM Canada / Asia News

On June 8, 19-year-old Bhakta Bivar was beaten, tortured and forced to participate in a ceremony “reconverting” him to Hinduism, according to VOM Canada and Asia News. Six Hindu extremists reportedly stormed Bhakta’s home in Nuapada district, Orissa state, India, intending to kill him and his parents. When the attackers realized Bhakta’s parents were not home, they beat him and dragged him to the local Hindu temple, where he was forcibly “reconverted” to Hinduism. The next day, police arrested five of the assailants, who were charged and then released. Pray that Bhakta will not be fearful but will turn to the Lord for his daily strength. Pray that the persecution he has faced will embolden him to witness to his Hindu neighbors. Ask God to bring peace to India’s Orissa state.

Matthew 5:13–16

SOMALIA — Christian Convert Abused by Family — Compass Direct News

A 17-year-old girl in the Gedo Region of Somalia was severely beaten by her family recently after they discovered she had converted to Christianity, according to Compass Direct News. Nurta Mohamed Farah, 17, was later taken to a doctor, who prescribed medication for a “mental illness.” When she refused to abandon her Christian faith, her family forced her to take the medication. Nurta’s family has read Islamic scripture to her twice a week since May 10, when they learned of her conversion. Somalis traditionally believe that the Quran cures the sick — especially the mentally ill. Nurta has been shackled to a tree during the day and held in a small, dark room at night, according to Compass. “There is little the community can do about her condition, which is very bad,” a Christian source told Compass. “I have advised our community leader to keep monitoring her condition but not to meddle for their own safety. … We need prayers and human advocacy for such inhuman acts, and for freedom of religion for the Somali people.” Pray that Nurta will be encouraged and emboldened as she suffers for her faith. Pray that her steadfast commitment to Christ will soften the hearts of her parents so that they, too, will come to know him.

Psalm 91:1–5

CHINA — Pastor Released on Bail — China Aid Association

On June 13, Pastor Wang Dao was released on bail after being held for more than a month on charges of “gathering a mob to disrupt the public order,” according to China Aid Association. Pastor Wang was arrested in China’s Guangdong Province in early May. Pastor Wang, a leader of the Liangren Church, has reportedly been threatened with exile and denied the right to meet with his lawyers. He now faces new charges of “hindering the administration of credit cards.” Pastor Wang insists the criminal charges were brought against him because of his Christian faith. Pastor Wang’s house church has also faced unjust treatment from authorities, according to China Aid. Church members have reportedly been locked out of their rented building, ordered to disband from a peaceful meeting in a park and evicted from another rented building. Upon his release, Pastor Wang expressed thanks to all those in his Christian family who have prayed for and supported him. Pray that the charges against Pastor Wang will be dropped and that he and members of his church will stand firm in their faith in Christ.

Psalm 23:1–5

VOM-USA Prayer Update for June 11, 2010

2010-06-18T06:36:00.001-05:00

"Prayer is the pulse of life; by it the doctor can tell what is the condition of the heart. The sin of prayerlessness is a proof for the ordinary Christian or minister that the life of God in the soul is in deadly sickness and weakness." - Andrew Murray

"praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints" - Ephesians 6:18

On Tue. Jun 15 2010 at 09:34 AM Moderator wrote:
AFGHANISTAN — Christian Aid Groups Suspended — The New York Times

On May 31, the Afghanistan government suspended two Christian relief organizations over suspicions that they converted Afghans to Christianity. Proselytizing and converting from Islam to Christianity are crimes in Afghanistan. According to a New York Times report, an Afghan television station, Noorin TV, mentioned the two Christian organizations in a report that showed Westerners baptizing Afghans, and Afghans praying at private prayer meetings. However, Noorin TV later confirmed that it had no evidence linking the organizations to the baptisms or prayer meetings. Mohammed Sediq Amarkhiel, a spokesman for the government agency that regulates aid groups in Afghanistan, told The New York Times that there was no evidence against the Christian aid groups. He said the groups were suspended because television reports “raised suspicions” and “made people very emotional and angry.” Amarkhiel said the government will further investigate the groups’ activities. “If they are really involved in proselytizing Afghan people for Christianity, then definitely these people will be introduced to the judicial authorities,” Amarkhiel said. The report by Noorin TV led to a protest by Kabul University students and has also fueled anti-Christian sentiment within the Afghan government. According to the Associated Press (AP), the deputy secretary of the Afghan Parliament has called for the execution of Afghan Christians. The AP report quotes the deputy secretary as saying, “Those Afghans that appeared on this video film should be executed in public. The house should order the attorney general and the National Department of Security to arrest these Afghans and execute them.” Pray for believers as they share the gospel in this very difficult region. Pray that their testimony will draw nonbelievers into fellowship with Christ.

Romans 8:34–36

IRAQ — Christian Killed in Kirkuk — VOM Canada

On June 7, a Christian businessman was shot to death in front of his home in Kirkuk, Iraq, according to VOM Canada. Those who witnessed the murder of 34-year-old Hani Salim Wadi described it as a “targeted killing.” Several Christians in Kirkuk and Mosul have been attacked in recent months, and Christians in Iraq have expressed fear of renewed violence. Chaldean Archbishop Emil Nona said, “We are seeing another, the umpteenth, attack against Christians. The violence continues without relief.” Pray for Hani Salim Wadi’s wife, daughter and extended family as they mourn their loss. Ask God to guard the hearts of Iraqi Christians against fear so they can continue serving him with boldness.

2 Timothy 3:10–12

VOM-USA Prayer Update for May 28, 2010

2010-05-30T00:36:00.001-05:00

"Prayer is the pulse of life; by it the doctor can tell what is the condition of the heart. The sin of prayerlessness is a proof for the ordinary Christian or minister that the life of God in the soul is in deadly sickness and weakness." - Andrew Murray

"praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints" - Ephesians 6:18

VOM-USA Prayer Update for May 28, 2010
On Tue. May 25 2010 at 02:15 PM Moderator wrote:
IRAN — Christian Women Acquitted — Elam Ministries

On May 22, Maryam Rustampoor and Marzieh Amirizadeh were acquitted of all charges by the Iranian judicial authorities, according to Elam Ministries. Iranian authorities warned Maryam and Marzieh that any future Christian activity would be dealt with seriously. “We are most grateful to everyone who prayed for us,” Marzieh told Elam Ministries. “I have no doubt that God heard the prayers of his people.” Maryam added, “I believe our arrest, imprisonment and subsequent release were in the timing and plan of God, and it was all for his glory. But the prayers of people encouraged and sustained us throughout this ordeal.” Following their acquittal, Marzieh and Maryam left Iran for another country. Praise God for his mercies and for the final acquittal of these women. Thank God for their courage and resilience, and pray that God will continue to protect and encourage them. Pray that their courage and testimony will draw their persecutors into fellowship with Christ.

Psalm 18:2–3

UZBEKISTAN — Christians Arrested and Fined — Forum 18 News

On May 18, three members of the Church of Christ in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, were sentenced to 15 days in jail following a raid on their church, according to Forum 18 News. Eight believers were charged in connection with the raid. Three of those charged, Avanesyan, Dechkov and Adambaev, were detained immediately and sentenced to 15 days in jail, while the other five, Babaeva, Son, Kim, Avakyan and Ravilova, were fined. Two of the believers were fined 80 times the minimum monthly wage (more than $1,500), and the others were fined five times the minimum monthly wage (more than $100). Local Christians are concerned that authorities are trying to close the Church of Christ, according to Forum 18 reports. Pray that God will give these believers the strength to stand firm despite persecution, and pray that they will be bold witnesses of Christ’s love and truth to their oppressors.

Revelation 2:9–11

EGYPT — Update: Christian Convert’s Lawsuit Suspended — Compass Direct News

An Egyptian court has suspended a lawsuit filed by Mohammed Hegazy to change the religion status on his identification card from “Muslim” to “Christian,” according to Compass Direct News. The courts will not rule on Mohammed’s case until the Constitutional Court rules on a challenge to the section of civil code that, in theory, allows Egyptians to change the religion status listed on their card. Mohammed fears that the court’s suspension endangers his children’s welfare and will force them to lead a double life indefinitely. “I didn't want them to have to go through the same harassment and persecution that I went through,” he told Compass Direct. “My daughter won’t be able to go to school without constantly fearing for her safety. She might even be killed simply because she is my daughter.” Pray that God will sustain and protect Mohammed, his wife and their two young children. Pray that the courts will ultimately allow Mohammed to change the religion status on his I.D. card and that his case will embolden others to push for religious freedom in Egypt.

Hebrews 10:32–34

VOM-USA Prayer Update for May 14, 2010

2010-05-14T16:03:00.000-05:00

"Prayer is the pulse of life; by it the doctor can tell what is the condition of the heart. The sin of prayerlessness is a proof for the ordinary Christian or minister that the life of God in the soul is in deadly sickness and weakness." - Andrew Murray

"praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints" - Ephesians 6:18

On Thu. May 13 2010 at 02:08 PM Moderator wrote:
IRAN — Christian Released on Bail — Farsi Christian News Network

On April 24, Vahik Abrahamian, an Armenian Christian, was temporarily released from Evin prison after 53 days in solitary confinement, according to Farsi Christian News Network (FCNN). Abrahamian and his wife were arrested by undercover officers while returning home from visiting a friend. His wife was released immediately, but Abrahamian was searched and detained. While in prison, he was denied access to a lawyer and was not allowed to speak with his family. Abrahamian finally gained temporary release from prison after paying bail. “The arrest of this Christian man, who is a dual citizen of Iran and the Netherlands, caused great shock and concern among his friends and acquaintances,” FCNN reported. “He had voluntarily returned to Iran to serve his people as a social worker and to demonstrate the love of God to them.” Pray for him and other believers who face persecution in Iran. Pray that Abrahamian’s case will be dismissed, and ask God to move on behalf of Christians in prison who are awaiting court dates in cities like Tehran, Shiraz, Mashhad, Isfahan, Qom, Rasht and Tabriz.

Psalm 91:1–5

IRAQ — Bomb Attack Targets Christian Students — Compass Direct News

On May 2, a bomb attack near Mosul killed one person and injured nearly 160, including at least 50 Christian students, according to Compass Direct News. The attack targeted three buses that transport Christian students from villages east of Mosul to their classes at the University of Mosul. The buses were traveling their daily route, escorted by two military vehicles, when a roadside bomb followed by a car bomb exploded as the buses cleared a checkpoint east of Mosul. The owner of a nearby auto repair shop, Radeef Hashim Mahrook, was killed in a secondary blast as he tried to help the students. More than 1,000 students have dropped out of classes for the rest of the semester as a result of the attack. Pray that God will comfort those mourning the loss of Radeef. Ask God to heal the bodies of the injured students, and pray that this experience will lead them into a closer relationship with Christ. Pray for an end to these attacks against the Christian community in Iraq.

Revelation 2:10

CHINA — Update: Chinese Pastor Released — China Aid Association

Pastor Dou Shaowen was released from prison on April 17, nearly two months before the end of his one-year sentence, according to China Aid Association. Government officials had abolished his house church in Zhengzhou city, Henan province, in December 2008, but Pastor Dou continued to organize religious activities. He was arrested on June 14, 2009, and sentenced to one year of re-education through labor. Pastor Dou reportedly lost 38 pounds while in the re-education camp, where he was forced to work 18 hours a day and sleep in a room with more than 70 other prisoners. Praise God that Pastor Dou has been released early from prison. Pray that God will heal Pastor Dou’s body and that Pastor Dou will remain steadfast in the faith.

1 Peter 5:8–10

VOM-USA Prayer Update for May 7, 2010

2010-05-07T15:57:00.000-05:00

"Prayer is the pulse of life; by it the doctor can tell what is the condition of the heart. The sin of prayerlessness is a proof for the ordinary Christian or minister that the life of God in the soul is in deadly sickness and weakness." - Andrew Murray

"praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints" - Ephesians 6:18

On Thu. May 06 2010 at 04:36 PM Moderator wrote:
IRAQ — Christians Warned to Leave Iraq — VOM Contacts

Christians in Iraq have been warned by Muslim extremists to leave the country immediately or risk violent death, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. An Iraqi bishop received a letter from the General Secretariat of the Islam Supporters warning Christians in Baghdad and other areas to “leave the country of Muslims (Iraq) for good and immediately in the form of mass transmigration.” “You can follow Pope Benedict XVI and his followers who have disfigured humanity and Islam,” the letter said. “There’s no more room for you, infidels, among the Iraqi Muslims. Our swords shall be placed upon your necks and the necks of your followers and other Christians residing in Mosul.” Despite the threats, Christians in Iraq remain strong in their faith. “We thank God for his protection during this difficult time the country is passing through,” a VOM contact said. Pray that the Lord will protect our brothers and sisters in Iraq, and ask God to give them the grace to forgive their persecutors.

Romans 8:35

NIGERIA — Christians Killed by Muslim Youths — Compass Direct News

On April 24, seven people were killed by Muslim youths in Jos, Nigeria, according to Compass Direct News. Two journalists for the Church of Christ in Nigeria newspaper, The Light Bearer, were among those killed. Nathan S. Dabak, a 36-year-old assistant editor, and Sunday Gyang Bwede, a 39-year-old reporter, were on their way to interview a local politician in Gado-Bako when they were attacked and stabbed to death. An unidentified motorcyclist was also killed in the attack. Four other Christians were murdered on the same day in Dutse Uku district after the body of a missing Muslim teenager was found. The four Christians were killed when hundreds of Muslim youths rampaged through the area in protest. Three of the believers were stabbed to death. Only weeks ago, a pastor from the Church of Christ in Nigeria and his wife were murdered in Bauchi state. These are the latest in the ongoing attacks against believers in Nigeria. Pray for family members and friends mourning the loss of these Christians. Pray that in the face of their terrible suffering, God’s grace will be sufficient. Pray that God will change the hearts and minds of the Muslim youths involved in these attacks. Pray for lasting peace in Nigeria.

2 Corinthians 1:5

BANGLADESH — Christians Held Captive — Compass Direct News

On April 16 three tribal Christians in Lemuchari village, Khagrachari district, Bangladesh, were abducted by Buddhist members of an armed rebel group and taken to a pagoda, according to Compass Direct News. Pastor Shushil Jibon Talukder, Bimol Kanti Chakma and Laksmi Bilas Chakma, all members of the Maddha Lemuchari Baptist Church, were taken to the pagoda after being beaten in an attempt to force them to return to Buddhism. Pastor Shushil was injured so severely that he couldn’t walk and was taken to the pagoda on a stretcher. Pray for the safe release of the three believers. Pray that they will remain steadfast in their faith. Pray that those harming Christians in Lemuchari village will repent and accept Jesus as their Savior.

1 Peter 5:8–10

VOM-USA Prayer Update for April 30, 2010

2010-05-01T12:15:00.001-05:00

"Prayer is the pulse of life; by it the doctor can tell what is the condition of the heart. The sin of prayerlessness is a proof for the ordinary Christian or minister that the life of God in the soul is in deadly sickness and weakness." - Andrew Murray

"praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints" - Ephesians 6:18

On Thu. Apr 29 2010 at 02:48 PM Moderator wrote:
INDIA — Christians Attacked by Hindu Extremists — VOM Contacts

On April 17, Hindu extremists attacked a group of Christians at a prayer meeting in Madhya Pradesh, India, causing the death of a 25-year-old man and severely injuring three other believers. According to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts, Hindu radicals disrupted the meeting of more than 400 Christians and began destroying Bibles and other property. They attacked the Christians with sticks and iron rods, accusing them of forcible conversions. During the attack, Amit Gilbert, a master of divinity student, fell into an open well, hit his head on the well’s outer wall and drowned. One of the other injured Christians sustained a broken back and at last report remained in serious condition. Pray for those mourning the loss of Amit, and pray that the three injured Christians will fully recover. Pray that Christians in Madhya Pradesh will exemplify the love of Christ through love and prayer for those who persecute them.

Matthew 5:43–48

NIGERIA — Pastor and Wife Killed — Compass Direct News

On April 13, a pastor and his wife in Boto village, Bauchi state, Nigeria, were abducted and killed by suspected Islamic extremists, according to Compass Direct News. Pastor Ishaku Kadah and his wife, Selina, were reportedly abducted from the headquarters of their church, which was also their home. Their burned bodies were discovered hours after their abduction. Extremists previously set fire to their church building in January, days after Christians displaced by violence in Plateau state had taken refuge at the church, according to Compass. “Police have reportedly arrested two suspects [in the murders] and have launched a manhunt for several other accomplices,” Compass said. The brutal killings of Pastor Ishaku and his wife are the latest in a series of violent attacks against Christians in northern Nigeria. In January and March, Christians and Muslims rioted in several villages outside the city of Jos. Churches and homes were burned, and many Christians and Muslims were killed. Pray that God will comfort those who mourn for Pastor Ishaku and his wife, and pray that their murderers will be brought to justice. Pray that Nigerian Christians will be committed to sharing the gospel and will strive for peace and reconciliation rather than seeking revenge.

Philippians 4:7

IRAN — Christian Teen Arrested — Farsi Christian News Network

On April 11, officers from the Ministry of Information arrested 19-year-old Daniel Shahri, a Christian in Isfahan, Iran, according to Farsi Christian News. Undercover officers went to Daniel’s home under the pretense of delivering a letter. When the door was opened, officers stormed inside the house. Daniel was not at home, so the officers confiscated personal belongings including his computer, DVD player, DVDs, CDs, cell phone and books. The officers then forced Daniel’s sister to call him and ask him to come home. When he arrived, the officers arrested him and took him to an unknown location. Three days later, Daniel was finally allowed to contact his parents, who are blind and have physical disabilities. Daniel told his parents he was being held at Dastgard prison on charges of “publishing falsities and insults to the Muslim faith.”
Pray for Daniel’s health and safety. Pray that he will be released soon and that all charges will be dropped. Pray that increased persecution in Iran will result in increased boldness among believers.

Acts 4:29–31

VOM-USA Prayer Update for April 23, 2010

2010-04-23T15:08:00.000-05:00

Prayer is the pulse of life; by it the doctor can tell what is the condition of the heart. The sin of prayerlessness is a proof for the ordinary Christian or minister that the life of God in the soul is in deadly sickness and weakness." - Andrew Murray

"praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints" - Ephesians 6:18

On Tue. Apr 20 2010 at 01:09 PM Moderator wrote:
PAKISTAN — Hindu Background Believers Harassed — VOM Contacts

Christians who have left Hinduism and accepted Christ have been harassed, verbally abused and beaten by Muslims in Pakistan, according to VOM contacts. On Sept. 11, 2009, “Mahir,” a VOM contact in Pakistan, distributed 200 VOM Action Packs, 200 Triumphant Church books and 55 New Testaments to Hindu tribal people in Pakistan. That day, five Hindus were baptized in a water tube that supplies water to nearby fields. “On the same evening, 15 fanatic Muslims, including Muhammad Akram Muhammad Aslam, Muhammad Nadeem and their fellows came to Mahir and verbally abused her and stopped her visiting this village,” VOM contacts said.
Later that night, the Muslims visited Kishan, a Hindu background Christian, and threatened him.
Kishan shared his testimony with the Muslim men and told them the wonderful changes Christ had brought to his life. The men did not harm Kishan, but Muslim extremists later attacked and beat Kishan’s son “Hassan.” Kishan’s testimony touched the heart of a fanatic who was one of the persecutors. “‘Bashir’ and his family are seekers, and they have accepted Jesus Christ and have secretly been praying for their faith to grow strong,” VOM contacts said. Praise God for the strong faith of these believers in the face of persecution. Pray that God will give them boldness to continue serving him and sharing their testimony. Praise God for Mahir’s faithfulness, and pray for her protection.

Psalm 18

CHINA UPDATE — Court Rejects Uyghur Christian’s Appeal — ChinaAid Association

On March 16, The People’s High Court of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region rejected an appeal from Uyghur house-church leader Alimujiang Yimiti, according to ChinaAid Association. In October 2009, Alimujiang was sentenced to 15 years in prison for “providing state secrets to overseas organizations.” One of Alimujiang’s lawyers believes Alimujiang’s Muslim background plays a large part in the case. “We are fairly sure that there are a lot of factors which are totally outside the law that have influenced the investigation of this case. This is very clear from the procedures that were followed within the courts and from the final decision,” another lawyer said. Pray that Alimujiang, his wife and their two sons will rest in the knowledge that God is in control. Pray that God will protect and strengthen Alimujiang while he is in prison, and pray that the authorities will act justly in this case.

Psalm 23

IRAN UPDATE — Iranian Christians Await Court Ruling — Elam Ministries

Maryam Rustampoor and Marzieh Amirizadeh, Iranian Christians who were arrested by security forces in March 2009, await the results of an April 13 court hearing, according to Elam Ministries. The women, who were accused of being anti-government activists, were conditionally released from the notorious Evin Prison in November 2009. Maryam and Marzieh have been receiving medical treatment since their release from prison, but they remain weak and suffer from various illnesses. The outcome of the April 13 hearing was unknown at last report. Pray that God will protect Maryam and Marzieh physically and spiritually. Pray that they will recover completely from their illnesses and remain bold in their witness for Christ. Pray that all charges will be dropped.

Psalm 91

VOM-USA Prayer Update for April 16, 2010

2010-04-16T08:17:00.002-05:00

Prayer is the pulse of life; by it the doctor can tell what is the condition of the heart. The sin of prayerlessness is a proof for the ordinary Christian or minister that the life of God in the soul is in deadly sickness and weakness." - Andrew Murray

"praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints" - Ephesians 6:18

VOM-USA Prayer Update for April 16, 2010
On Tue. Apr 13 2010 at 01:07 PM Moderator wrote:
IRAN — Christians Released from Prison — Farsi Christian News Network

On March 17, Maryam Jalili, Mitra Zahmati and Farzan Matin were released from prison after being held 80 days, according to Farsi Christian News Network. The three were arrested along with 12 other believers on Dec. 24 at a home near Tehran, where they had gathered for a Christmas celebration. Their families had been concerned that the three were being interrogated and were physically weak or perhaps sick. Praise the Lord that these believers have been released from prison. Pray that they will continue to serve Christ boldly, and continue to pray for other Christians in Iran who are imprisoned because of their faith.

Psalm 27:1

VIETNAM — Update: Family Flees Village — Compass Direct News

On March 9, Sung Cua Po, a Hmong Christian, fled into the forest with his family after authorities ordered their expulsion, according to Compass Direct News. The family has suffered severe abuse from villagers and local Vietnamese officials in recent months. In mid-February, Sung Cua’s father pressured him to make offerings to family ancestors, but he refused. Later that month, community members took the family’s entire one-year supply of 40 bags of rice. Police were also authorized to demolish the family’s home, if necessary. Pray that God will protect and provide for Sung Cua and his family. Pray that their example of steadfast faith will draw others to Jesus Christ and that Vietnamese authorities will stop harassing Christians.

Isaiah 57:17

KAZAKHSTAN — Christians Targeted for Religious Activity — Forum 18 News

On April 1, Vissa Kim, pastor of Grace Light of Love Church, was fined 10 months’ salary for “harming a woman’s health by praying for her,” according to Forum 18 News. “Now it looks like pastors will get fines for praying for the sick in churches,” a member of Kim’s church told Forum 18. Elsewhere in Kazakhstan, government authorities are targeting Christian-run drug rehabilitation centers. Sergei Mironov, who operates a clinic in Taraz, southern Kazakhstan, was given one year’s restriction on freedom of movement after being convicted of depriving a client of his freedom, according to Forum 18. Authorities have reportedly closed his clinic. In addition, a criminal case has been opened against the leader of another Christian-run rehabilitation center in Almaty. “Religious communities can do social work, but only if they do it in accordance with the Religion Law,” a government official told Forum 18 concerning Mironov’s case. Praise God for the courage of these Christians in Kazakhstan. Pray that they will remain faithful and that their testimonies will draw their persecutors to Christ. Also pray that the charges against the Christians will be dismissed.

Romans 8:31

VOM-USA Prayer Update for April 9, 2010

2010-04-10T09:14:00.000-05:00

"Prayer is the pulse of life; by it the doctor can tell what is the condition of the heart. The sin of prayerlessness is a proof for the ordinary Christian or minister that the life of God in the soul is in deadly sickness and weakness." - Andrew Murray

"praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints" - Ephesians 6:18

On Tue. Apr 06 2010 at 11:49 AM Moderator wrote:
CHINA — Human Rights Lawyer Alive — ChinaAid Association

On March 28, human rights lawyer Gao Zhisheng, who has been missing for more than a year, contacted his wife and children, according to ChinaAid Association. Gao’s wife, Geng He, and children were relieved to hear from him after such a long time. Geng He hopes her husband can rejoin the family in the United States soon. In recent months, rumors had circulated that Gao had died of torture at the hands of Chinese officials. “Gao’s brief phone conversations with western media on Sunday mark the first official contact the public has had with him since his abduction by police on Feb. 4, 2009,” ChinaAid reported. Gao told the Associated Press and Reuters news agencies that he was released from Chinese custody six months ago and taken to Wutai Shan mountain, a Buddhist landmark in Shanxi province. He declined to give other details on his condition, saying legally he could not give interviews.VOM encourages you to pray that Gao will be able to rejoin his family. Praise God that Gao is safe for now, and ask God to encourage him and his family during this challenging time. Pray that God will give Gao the grace to forgive his persecutors, and pray that the Holy Spirit will minister to him.

Zephaniah 3:17

IRAN — Pastor Released from Jail — Farsi Christian News Network

On March 28, Rev. Wilson Issavi was temporarily released from Dastgard prison after posting bail, according to Farsi Christian News Network (FCNN). His charges are pending review by the court. Rev. Issavi, leader of the Pentecostal church in Kermanshah, was arrested in February and detained for 54 days by Iranian government officials. A month prior to his arrest, the Pentecostal church in Kermanshah was closed, and the pastor was told not to reopen it. “The Pentecostal Church of Kermanshah is one of the three churches that during the last year have been closed by the security forces of the government on the charges of attempting to convert Muslims to Christianity,” FCNN reported. Churches in Shahrara and Urumieh have also been shut down. The Pentecostal church, which is an old and historical building in need of repair, was used mainly for weekly Christian services. The Voice of the Martyrs has stood with Rev. Issavi and his family through these challenges. Pray that the charges against him will be dropped and that all Christians who are currently detained in Iran will be freed. Ask God to protect and minister to believers in Iran who risk their all for the sake of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

1 Peter 1:20–21

VIETNAM — Update: Christian Lawyer Released — Compass Direct News

On March 6, Christian human rights lawyer Le Thi Cong Nhan was released from prison after serving a three-year sentence for “propagandizing to destroy the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.” Cong Nhan’s original four-year sentence was reduced by one year after an international outcry over her sentence. Now serving an additional three-year sentence of house arrest, Cong Nhan has stated that she has no intention of giving up her struggle for a just and free Vietnam and accepts that there may be a further price to pay. While in prison, she went on a hunger strike twice when authorities took her Bible away from her. Thank the Lord that Cong Nhan has been released from prison. Pray that she will look to Christ for strength and grace as she faces three years of house arrest.

Psalm 23

VOM-USA Prayer Update for April 2, 2010

2010-04-02T05:09:00.000-05:00

"Prayer is the pulse of life; by it the doctor can tell what is the condition of the heart. The sin of prayerlessness is a proof for the ordinary Christian or minister that the life of God in the soul is in deadly sickness and weakness." - Andrew Murray

"praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints" - Ephesians 6:18

On Tue. Mar 30 2010 at 11:31 AM Moderator wrote:
NIGERIA — VOMedical Helps Victims — VOM Contacts

The Voice of the Martyrs’ medical program is working in Northern Nigeria to provide medical care, support and counseling to Christians following recent attacks by Muslims. VOMedical staff report that many villages have been attacked, the latest occurring on March 17. “Muslims surrounded the small village of Byei, some 30 miles south of Jos. They attacked the homes with AK-47s (judging by the diameter of the bullet holes in the houses’ doors and according to survivors), followed by machetes and fire,” VOMedical staff said. “Thirteen people died in the attack and were buried in a mass grave just outside the village. Seven were wounded and taken to Vom Christian Hospital; five remained admitted when we visited the hospital this afternoon. Most of the wounds were gunshot wounds and burns.” The Voice of the Martyrs encourages you to continue praying for Nigerian believers, who live with the daily possibility of being attacked. Pray that those who lost loved ones will be comforted and that the injured will fully recover. Ask God to help Christians forgive their persecutors.

Joshua 1:9

MOROCCO — Christians Deported — Smyrna Ministries International

In recent weeks, the Moroccan government has continued its crackdown on Christians, expelling as many as 60 Christian aid workers from the country, according to Smyrna Ministries International. Moroccan police accused Christian aid workers from the United States, Korea, Netherlands and England of “violating Morocco’s anti-proselytism laws.” “On March 8, police visited the orphanage Village of Hope, which has been operating with the government’s approval for the past ten years,” Smyrna Ministries International said. “They scoured the grounds looking for Bibles, interrogated children and staff members and announced that the parents had seven hours to pack and say goodbye to their adopted children. All fifteen of the foster parents, the only parents these children have ever known, were deported before nightfall, leaving the 33 children with the police.” The Voice of the Martyrs encourages you to pray for Moroccan believers who have lost their pastors and face interrogation. Pray that God will protect and comfort the orphans and that they will receive the love and care they need.

Isaiah 54:14

SOMALIA — Christian Murdered, House Burned — Compass Direct News

On March 15, al-Shabaab Muslim extremists killed an underground church leader in Mahaday village, according to Compass Direct News. The church leader, Madobe Abdi, had previously escaped a kidnapping attempt on March 2. In a separate incident a month earlier, members of a Somali government-aligned Islamic Courts Union reportedly set fire to the home of someone they thought had converted to Christianity from Islam. Extremists stormed the home after they heard the believer had a Bible and Christian pamphlets. They looted the house before setting it on fire. A neighbor reported, “I saw smoke coming out of the house, then I ran outside and I saw two men coming out of the house with a bucket of gasoline. One of the men was shouting, ‘Allahu akbar! Allahu akbar !’ Then they entered a waiting car and drove off.” Pray for those mourning the loss of Madobe Abdi. Pray for the safety of all believers in Somalia as they serve God. Pray that those who persecute Christians in Somalia will repent and turn to faith in Jesus Christ.

Hebrews 13:5–6

VOM-USA Prayer Update for March 26, 2010

2010-03-26T08:50:00.001-05:00

Prayer is the pulse of life; by it the doctor can tell what is the condition of the heart. The sin of prayerlessness is a proof for the ordinary Christian or minister that the life of God in the soul is in deadly sickness and weakness." - Andrew Murray

"praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints" - Ephesians 6:18

On Tue. Mar 23 2010 at 01:20 PM Moderator wrote:
LAOS — Katin Christians Endure Hardships — VOM Contacts

A group of Christians who were expelled from Katin village in January were again urged to recant their faith in Jesus Christ on March 15, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. The believers have been living in makeshift shelters about 4 miles outside the village, where they were abandoned in January without food or shelter. “At noon [on March 15] … seven Katin believers were summoned to the district office of Ta-Oyl district,” VOM contacts reported. “The district head of Ta-Oyl, Mr. Bounma, urged the Katin believers to reconsider their decision to follow the Christian faith.” When the Christians again refused to renounce their faith, the district head stated that although the Lao constitution and law provide for freedom of religion in Laos, he is not going to allow Christianity in his district. The Katin believers later learned that the officials planned to burn down their temporary shelters along with 11 temporary homes at the site where they were taken in January. Several days after these threats from local officials, a delegation of provincial officials assured the believers that they are free to practice their religion and live anywhere in the district they choose. However, since the temporary shelters are on land owned by a neighboring village, officials could not guarantee the Christians they can remain at the site. Praise God for these faithful believers and for the positive signs from provincial authorities. Pray that local authorities will allow these believers to return to their homes, and pray that the Christians will remain strong in their faith. Also pray for their safety and health; many are sick and in need of medical treatment.

Psalm 27:1

IRAQ — Christian Murdered in Mosul — VOM Canada / Asia News / Agence France Presse

On March 7, a Chaldean Catholic business owner in al Saa, Mosul, was shot to death, according to VOM Canada. Gurgis Sabah, who is survived by his wife and child, is the latest victim in a series of deadly attacks on Christians in Mosul. Three men were murdered in Mosul earlier this month. Ask God to grant peace to those who mourn for Sabah. Pray that God will protect Iraqi Christians and give them the courage and grace to share the good news of Jesus Christ with their neighbors. Pray for peace in this war-torn region.

Philippians 4:7

VIETNAM — Update: Priest Released for Medical Treatment — Union of Catholic Asian News

Father Nguyen Van Ly, who is serving an eight-year prison sentence, has been released and taken to a Church-run home for medical treatment, according to the Union of Catholic Asian News (UCA). UCA reported that at the request of Father Van Ly’s relatives, “prison officials allowed him to temporarily stop serving his sentence to get medical treatment at the home for retired priests for one year.” The priest has already served three years of his sentence.
Praise God for Father Van Ly’s temporary release. Pray for his renewed health and strength. Pray that he will not have to return to prison and that the false charges against him will be dropped. Also pray for other Vietnamese Christians languishing in prison.

Psalm 118:17

VOM-USA Prayer Update for March 19, 2010

2010-03-19T11:55:00.001-05:00

"Prayer is the pulse of life; by it the doctor can tell what is the condition of the heart. The sin of prayerlessness is a proof for the ordinary Christian or minister that the life of God in the soul is in deadly sickness and weakness." - Andrew Murray

"praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints" - Ephesians 6:18

On Tue. Mar 16 2010 at 02:39 PM Moderator wrote:
INDIA — Pastor Brutally Attacked — VOM Contacts

On March 8, Pastor Ravi Chandran was brutally attacked by Hindu extremists in Mysore, Karnataka State, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. Pastor Ravi was attacked by more than 10 extremists, who forcibly entered a believer’s home where the pastor was holding a prayer meeting. “The extremists entered the house and began abusing the pastor and the believers gathered there,” VOM contacts said. “They hit the pastor with glass bottles, as well as kicking and punching him mercilessly, after which they disappeared from the venue.” Pastor Ravi suffered severe injuries to his leg and head. Please pray for Pastor Ravi, his church and all believers in India.

Romans 8:34–36

INDONESIA — Churches Burned — Compass Direct News

On Jan. 22, two church buildings under construction in North Sumatra, Indonesia, were burned by suspected Islamic extremists, according to Compass Direct News. “The attackers came from outside the area to burn the partially constructed buildings of the Huria Kristen Batak Protestan Church (HKBP) and the Pentecostal Church in Sibuhuan village, Padang Lawas Residency, during daylight hours,” Rev. Lubis of the HKBP church told Compass. “Hundreds of people arrived on motorcycles and burned the empty church.” Praise God none of the believers were injured in the fires. Church leaders reported that many believers in the area have fled, fearing for their safety. Pray that God will protect these Indonesian believers and give them courage in the face of persecution. Pray that those who started the fires might be brought to justice, and pray that the Indonesian believers will respond to this persecution in a way that honors and glorifies God.

Revelation 2:10–11

NIGERIA — Violence Against Christians Continues — VOM Contacts

On March 7, Muslims launched deadly attacks against Christians in the three farming villages of Dogo Nahawa, Zot and Rastat near the city of Jos, Nigeria, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. The Muslim attackers, members of the Fulani ethnic group, killed hundreds of Christians, many of whom were women and children. The majority of the believers were members of the Berom ethnic group. VOM has contacts on the ground in Nigeria working to assist and encourage believers. Pray for peace in Northern Nigeria. Ask God to comfort these communities as they deal with this ongoing tragedy. Pray that the faith and witness of these believers might draw their persecutors as well as others who hear their stories into fellowship with Christ.

Psalm 91:1–7

VOM-USA Prayer Update for March 12, 2010

2010-03-12T14:40:00.000-06:00

"Prayer is the pulse of life; by it the doctor can tell what is the condition of the heart. The sin of prayerlessness is a proof for the ordinary Christian or minister that the life of God in the soul is in deadly sickness and weakness." - Andrew Murray

"praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints" - Ephesians 6:18

On Wed. Mar 10 2010 at 06:57 AM Moderator wrote:
UZBEKISTAN — Baptists Fined — Forum 18 News

Uzbekistan’s government continues to fine members of the Baptist Union and harass Protestant Christians, according to Forum 18 News. “Valery Konovalov has been forced to pay a fine, after he was forced to appear as a witness in the trial of three leaders of the Baptist Union,” Forum 18 reported. “The three have themselves been forced to pay what the same court claimed was unpaid taxes, and two were removed from their posts.” In addition, the parents of children who attend Protestant schools in Uzbekistan have been warned to stop attending church. “The children were made to write statements promising that they would stop attending churches,” a Christian told Forum 18. “People are afraid to talk to us when they find out we are Christians.” These incidents are the latest in the Uzbek government’s ongoing persecution of believers. VOM stands with Christians in Uzbekistan and encourages you to pray that charges against believers will be dropped. Ask God to encourage and protect believers and their families. Pray that their testimony of faithfulness will draw the authorities into fellowship with Christ.

2 Corinthians 12:9–11

IRAN — House Church Leaders Arrested — Farsi Christian News Network

On Feb. 28, Hamid and Reyhaneh, a former-Muslim couple who led a house church, were arrested by secret police in Isfahan, Iran, according to Farsi Christian News Network (FCNN). Twenty secret police officers arrested and assaulted Reyhaneh when she resisted. “Hamid was arrested when he returned home an hour later,” FCNN reported. “Other believers present at the time were threatened but not detained, though one was also assaulted when he protested [the arrests].” Police confiscated computers, telephones and literature, including many Bibles. On March 1, Hamid and Reyhaneh’s family contacted the authorities and were told their case would be referred to the Revolutionary Court once charges were finalized. The couple’s two teenage sons are being cared for by Reyhaneh’s sister. Pray that Hamid and Reyhaneh will be released and reunited with their sons. Pray that their sons will be comforted by the presence and peace of Jesus, and pray that Iranian believers will be encouraged. Pray that officials involved will act justly and that they might come to a saving faith in Jesus Christ.

Psalm 91

IRAQ — Three Christians Murdered in Mosul — Middle East Concern

On Feb. 23, three men were shot and killed in their home by unknown assailants, according to Middle East Concern. The men, Aishwa Maroki (59) and his two sons, Mokhlas (31) and Bassim (25), were relatives of Father Mzen Ishoa, a Syro-Catholic priest who in 2007 was abducted and later released. Aishwa’s wife and daughter were also in the home but were not harmed. Pray that those in mourning will trust God as the defender of widows and a Father to the fatherless. Pray that authorities will do all they can to improve security for all citizens of Mosul. Pray that the results of recent parliamentary elections will lead to greater stability and a reduction of violence in Iraq.

Psalm 68:5

VOM-USA Prayer Update for March 5, 2010

2010-03-05T06:15:00.001-06:00

Prayer is the pulse of life; by it the doctor can tell what is the condition of the heart. The sin of prayerlessness is a proof for the ordinary Christian or minister that the life of God in the soul is in deadly sickness and weakness." - Andrew Murray

"praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints" - Ephesians 6:18

On Wed. Mar 03 2010 at 06:54 AM Moderator wrote:
MOROCCO — Officials Raid Christian Meeting — VOM Contacts

On Feb. 4, Moroccan military authorities raided a Christian meeting and arrested 18 people. The authorities also confiscated Bibles and personal belongings, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. “We were surprised by more than 60 Moroccan Gendarmes attacking the house where we had just started our Bible study,” a VOM contact said. “Eleven believers (including an American), two non-believers and five children … were by the Moroccan government for 14 hours.” After 14 hours in detention, the American was deported and the others were released. “It’s the first time in our current Moroccan church history that the Moroccan government used this size of a legion to attack a small Christian meeting,” VOM contacts added. “All the time they kept repeating that this was ordered personally by the new Moroccan Justice Minister [Mohamed Naciri] and by the highest level General of the Gendarmerie [Housni Benslimane].” Pray for believers in Morocco. Pray that God will protect these believers and grant them peace as they face these new challenges. Also pray that the authorities will return their confiscated belongings. Ask God to draw the persecutors into fellowship with him.

Psalm 23: 1–6

CHINA — Christians Arrested, Church Leader Imprisoned — ChinaAid

On Oct. 19, Neixiang police officials arrested 60 Christians attending a worship service, according to ChinaAid Association. After charging them with “disturbing social orders under the name of religious activities,” police fined the believers and put five brothers in 10 days administrative detention. On Oct. 30, police decided to increase the sentence of the church’s leader, Guo Quanyou, to one year re-education through labor in addition to an exorbitant fine. “When the police came to brother Guo’s home to arrest him, they brutally pushed Guo’s wife, Chen Hailan, to the floor,” ChinaAid reported. “The impact caused a concussion and broke her 12th vertebra. Chen Hailan continues to suffer from severe migraines and can barely move her back from the pain.” Pray that Guo Quanyou will be released and that the exorbitant fines will be dropped. Ask God to heal Hailan, and pray that the faithfulness of these believers will draw non-believers to Christ.

Romans 8:34–36

EGYPT — Update: Christian Youths Tortured — VOM Canada, Assyrian International News agency

Christian youths who were arrested in Nag Hammadi, Egypt, on Christmas Eve have been severely tortured, according to VOM Canada and Assyrian International News Agency. The youths were among dozens of Christians arrested on Christmas Eve after an attack on believers leaving a midnight mass, and 15 remain in detention. They have been charged with “rioting and resisting the authorities.” Several youths who were released said they were severely tortured and were ordered to falsely testify that Bishop Kyrollos, the Coptic Bishop of Nag Hammadi, had encouraged them to make demonstrations. “We had to take our clothes off, and we were with electrodes … for eight hours. Electric shocks only stopped when we could take it no longer,” one of the believers said. Pray that God will heal these young men physically and emotionally and that all these believers will remain steadfast in their faith. Pray that God will protect the 15 who remain in detention. Finally, pray for justice in this case, and pray that those who tortured the youths will repent and come to know Christ.

1 Peter 5:8–10

VOM-USA Prayer Update for February 26, 2010

2010-02-26T08:05:00.000-06:00

"Prayer is the pulse of life; by it the doctor can tell what is the condition of the heart. The sin of prayerlessness is a proof for the ordinary Christian or minister that the life of God in the soul is in deadly sickness and weakness." - Andrew Murray

"praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints" - Ephesians 6:18

On Wed. Feb 24 2010 at 11:55 AM Moderator wrote:
IRAQ — Christians Martyred — Agence France-Presse

Three Christians have been killed in Mosul recently, and community leaders warn that violence will increase leading to the March 7 parliamentary election, according to Agence France-Presse (AFP). On Feb. 16, unidentified gunmen shot two Christian students with an automatic weapon. Police told AFP that Zia Toma, a 21-year-old engineering student, was killed in the shooting and Ramsin Shmael, a 22-year-old pharmacy student, was wounded. Both men were Assyrian Christians, according to police. The violence is thought to be related to the upcoming parliamentary election, in which the vote of minority Christians could be a factor between Arab-Kurd rivals. “We don’t want elections, we don’t want representatives, we don’t want our rights, we just want to be alive,” said Baasil Abdul Noor, a priest at Mar Behnam church in Al-Arabi neighborhood, where the shooting occurred. The student’s murder occurred one day after gunmen killed shop owner Fatukhi Munir, an Assyrian Catholic, in his business. On Feb. 14, another shop owner, Rayan Salem Elias, was shot to death outside his home; Elias was a Chaldean Christian. Pray for those who mourn these murdered believers. Pray that the killers might come to know Christ as their savior. Ask God to embolden the Christian community in Mosul to proclaim the gospel even while being persecuted, and pray that they will be filled with Christ’s peace during these difficult times.

Psalm 23

IRAN — Arrests Continue — Middle East Concern / VOM Canada

On Jan. 11, seven Christians were detained in the city of Shiraz, Iran. A court reportedly set bail for each of the believers at the US equivalent of $25,000. Six of the Christians are converts from Islam. Meanwhile, three Iranian Christians remain in detention after their arrest by security forces in Pakdasht on Dec. 24. A sister of one of the three detained Christians was arrested in the city of Isfahan a few days later, along with another Christian convert from Islam. All of those detained are reportedly being denied family visits and access to legal representation. Pray for the release of these Christians. Pray that they will grow into a deeper relationship with Christ as they embrace the fellowship of his sufferings. Pray that the Lord will give strength and encouragement to their families.

Philippians 3:7–10

INDIA — Church Burned — VOM Contacts

On Feb. 18, a church in Chittor district, Andhra Pradesh, was burned by an unknown arson, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. Damage to the church is so extensive that a new church will have to be built in its place. The incident occurred at dawn, when a person or group of people broke into the church, doused it with kerosene and set it on fire, burning the thatched-roof church to the ground. The incident is under investigation. Pray for peace in Andhra Pradesh. Ask God to encourage the pastor and members of this church. Pray that God will provide a way for this church to be rebuilt.

Psalm 91:1–5

VOM-USA Prayer Update for February 19, 2010

2010-02-19T06:21:00.000-06:00

"Prayer is the pulse of life; by it the doctor can tell what is the condition of the heart. The sin of prayerlessness is a proof for the ordinary Christian or minister that the life of God in the soul is in deadly sickness and weakness." - Andrew Murray

"praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints" - Ephesians 6:18

On Wed. Feb 17 2010 at 11:42 AM Moderator wrote:
LAOS — Christians Forced from Homes — Compass Direct News

In January, 48 Christians were forced from their homes in Katin village, Saravan province, Laos. After gathering for Sunday worship, the believers were expelled from their church at gunpoint and taken to an open field. Officials then confiscated personal belongings from 11 Christians’ homes, and six of the homes were later destroyed. Officials also took a pig, worth the equivalent of six weeks’ salary, from one of the believers. When the believers refused to renounce their faith, they were forced to leave the village. Police have been posted at the entrance to the village to prevent the Christians from returning home or retrieving their valuables. At last report, the believers were sleeping in the woods with little food or survival supplies. Ask God to protect and provide for the 48 Christians who were expelled. Pray that they will grow stronger in their faith. Also pray that the Christians who renounced their faith will turn to Jesus for strength and boldness. Pray that officials and villagers will stop persecuting Christians in Katin village.

Hebrews 11:25–26

UZBEKISTAN — Uzbek Christians Targeted — Forum 18 News

Uzbek Christians from the Baptist Council of Churches have faced arrests and physical abuse in recent weeks. On Jan. 18, Tohar Haydarov was arrested in Syrdarya region on charges of producing or storing drugs — charges local Christians insist are fabricated. Police reportedly threatened Tohar and pressured him to renounce his faith. When he refused, police allegedly planted drugs on him. According to police reports, officials later found additional drugs at his apartment. However, the search was not monitored by witnesses. The drugs found on Tohar and in his apartment were tested the same evening, raising suspicions about how the drugs could have been tested so quickly. At a court hearing three days after his arrest, Tohar told believers that police had beaten him and forced him to sign papers. His face was swollen, and he could barely walk. At last report, police were trying to charge Tohar under an article of the Criminal Code that calls for a 10–20 year prison sentence.

In another incident, a group of believers who gathered for fellowship on Jan. 24 in Almalyk City were rounded up by police and taken to the police station. The Christians had gathered at the home of Sergei Brislavski. Police searched Sergei’s home and confiscated Bibles, songbooks and CDs. Three of the 19 believers were treated roughly by officers. A doctor who saw them the next day said the believers had bruises on their shoulders and around their necks. Local Christians believe the police are preparing a criminal case against some of them for repeated violations of the Religion Law. In April 2009, some of the same Christians, including Sergei's family, were fined 50 times the minimum monthly wage for “attracting believers of one confession to another.”

Pray that the truth of Tohar’s case will be revealed and that he will look to Christ for strength. Pray that the Christians in Almalyk will echo Peter’s determination to obey God rather than man, and pray that they will not face criminal charges or fines.

Acts 5:29

VOM-USA Prayer Update for February 12, 2010

2010-02-12T18:03:00.000-06:00

"Prayer is the pulse of life; by it the doctor can tell what is the condition of the heart. The sin of prayerlessness is a proof for the ordinary Christian or minister that the life of God in the soul is in deadly sickness and weakness." - Andrew Murray

"praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints" - Ephesians 6:18

On Tue. Feb 09 2010 at 01:08 PM Moderator wrote:
LAOS — Two Hmong Christians Arrested — VOM Contacts

Two Hmong believers were arrested on Dec. 3 after a relative told authorities they were sharing the gospel, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. The men, who became Christians a few years ago, have led most of their relatives to Christ, with the exception of a father-in-law. When the men began to face persecution, they moved their families to another village. “On Dec. 3, [they returned] to their old village and very suddenly upon their arrival the two believers were surrounded by their relatives, who believers,” VOM contacts said. “They talked and encouraged each other passionately while his father-in-law looked at them resentfully. He then went to the policemen and accused them, saying, ‘They did not come here to change their resident form, but they come here to proclaim and lead more people to Christ, and this is against the government and our country.’” The believers have reportedly been beaten and tortured in prison. Pray that God will protect and encourage these believers in prison and enable their family members to continue serving the Lord. Pray that their testimony will draw their father-in-law to Christ.

2 Corinthians 12:9–11

SOMALIA — Underground Church Leader Killed — Compass Direct News

On Jan. 1, Mohammed Ahmed Ali, a 41-year-old underground church leader, was shot to death by members of the Muslim extremist group al-Shabaab, according to Compass Direct News. Mohammed and his wife, Amina Ibrahim Hassan, were reportedly being monitored by the extremists because they had converted from Islam to Christianity. The extremists killed Mohammed, who became a Christian in 2000, after learning that he had organized New Year’s Day festivities for Christians. After Mohammed was killed, Amina received threatening phone calls from extremists saying, “We also know your home and that you are a follower of the Christians, and we are going to kill you the way we killed your husband.” Amina and her two-year-old son, Abdi Asis Mohammed Ahmed, have safely relocated to Kenya. Pray that God will give Amina and Abdi peace and comfort as they mourn their loss. Ask God to provide for and protect this family. Pray that they will continue to grow in their faith in Christ. Pray for believers in Somalia, who risk all for their faith, and ask God to give them opportunities to share the love of Christ with their persecutors.

2 Thessalonians 1:3–5

INDIA — Church Vandalized in Karnataka — VOM Contacts

On Feb. 4, the St. Mathias Catholic Church in Malavalli, Mandya district, Karnataka, was vandalized, according to VOM contacts. A group of unknown vandals broke open the church’s main door and window before destroying a cross, musical instruments and other valuables. Rev. M. Anthappa, the parish priest in charge, was not at the church when it was vandalized; he has filed a complaint with the police. Pray that those responsible for the vandalism will be brought to justice and that members of the church will not be afraid to live for Christ.

Romans 8: 35–39

VOM-USA Prayer Update for February 5, 2010

2010-02-05T18:16:00.000-06:00

"Prayer is the pulse of life; by it the doctor can tell what is the condition of the heart. The sin of prayerlessness is a proof for the ordinary Christian or minister that the life of God in the soul is in deadly sickness and weakness." - Andrew Murray

"praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints" - Ephesians 6:18

On Wed. Feb 03 2010 at 07:00 AM Moderator wrote:
INDIA – Pastor’s Left Ear Slashed in Brutal Attack – VOM Contacts

On Oct. 5, Pastor Paul Ninama, returning from a prayer meeting when he was brutally attacked by six Bajrang Dal Hindu extremists. The radicals cut his left ear off after beating him with sticks in Pipal Khota Choti village, in Madhya Pradesh, India. According to VOM contacts the six men called out to the pastor in Hindi saying, “Servant of the Lord, Come here!” They then asked him to sit down and as soon as the pastor sat down, they started hitting him with a stick and with their fists injuring his left hand grievously. They kicked him and did not let him get up off the ground. Then, one of the men took a sharp knife, while the others held the pastor down, and he slashed Pastor Paul’s ear and stabbed him near his ear. During the attack, Pastor Ninama screamed for help and nearby villagers caught one of the attackers. The attacker was arrested, but released two days later on bail. The pastor was admitted to a hospital for 12 days. He continues to suffer from great pain in his ear and the area that was stabbed. Please pray for Pastor Paul’s full recovery and for the safety of his wife and seven children.

Romans 8:34–36

Vietnam – Christian Forced to Recant Faith – Compass Direct News

A Christian couple, Sung Cua Ho and Hang thi Va, from Ho Co village, Vietnam have endured physical abuse and threats since Sung converted to Christianity in November 2009, according to Compass Direct News. On Dec. 1, the couple was arrested and beaten by officials after police earlier incited locals to abuse and stone them and other Christian families. Officials reportedly struck Sung 70 times on his head and back. The believers were fined 8 million dong (US$436) and a pig. Sung's cell phone and motorbike were also confiscated. Meanwhile on Dec. 15, police took the couple to members of their extended family who severely pressured them to deny their Christian faith. When police threatened to beat Sung to death and seize his property, which would leave his family destitute, he signed recantation documents. Sung is scheduled to prove his reconversion on Feb. 13 by offering sacrifices to ancestors. Ask God to equip Sung by His Holy Spirit to remain strong in his faith despite severe pressure and threats. Pray for protection for Sung, Hang and their children, as well as the other Christian families in their community. Pray that Vietnam will respect religious freedom for all its citizens.

Psalms 5:11

VOM-USA Prayer Update for January 29, 2010

2010-01-30T08:55:00.000-06:00

"Prayer is the pulse of life; by it the doctor can tell what is the condition of the heart. The sin of prayerlessness is a proof for the ordinary Christian or minister that the life of God in the soul is in deadly sickness and weakness." - Andrew Murray

"praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints" - Ephesians 6:18

On Tue. Jan 26 2010 at 12:44 PM Moderator wrote:
MALAYSIA — Eight Arrested in Connection with Church Attack — VOM Canada / Asia News

Malaysian police have arrested eight people on suspicion of burning the Metro Tabernacle Church in Kuala Lumpur. The attack on Metro Tabernacle was the first in a series of attacks on Christian places of worship, according to Asia News and VOM Canada. Bakri Zinin, chief federal police investigator, said eight people between 21 and 26 years of age “are suspected of being involved in the criminal fire of the Metro Tabernacle Church.” The building, which belongs to the Assembly of God community, is located on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur. Pray that believers in Malaysia will continue to be courageous and faithful. Ask God to protect and encourage them.

2 Thessalonians 1:3–5

NIGERIA — Christians Killed in Attacks — Compass Direct News

More than 100 Christians have been killed in Jos, Nigeria, since Jan. 17, when violent riots broke out between the Christian and Muslim communities, according to Compass Direct News. Police said the ongoing violence was initially triggered by an attack on worshipers at the St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Nasarawa Gwong, in the Jos North Local Government Area. Church leaders said Muslim youths also attacked buildings belonging to the Christ Apostolic Church, Assemblies of God Church, three branches of the Church of Christ in Nigeria and the Evangelical Church of West Africa. On Jan. 18, authorities imposed a 24-hour curfew. Security forces are trying to control the rioters, while both Christian and Muslim groups continue counting their losses. Hundreds have reportedly been wounded. “We have been witnessing sporadic shootings in the last two days,” said the Rev. Chuwang Avou, secretary of the state chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria. “We see some residents shooting sporadically into the air. We have also seen individuals with machine guns on parade in the state.” Pray for peace and for the protection of believers.

Romans 8:34–36

EGYPT — Attacks on Christians Continue —
Assyrian International News / Voice of America

On Jan.8, Muslim mobs shouting “Allah is great” and “no God except Allah” looted and torched homes, shops and cars owned by Christians in the southern Egyptian towns of Nag Hammadi and Bahjora, according to Assyrian International News and Voice of America. A Coptic Christian, Mary Om Boktor Kyrollos, died from smoke inhalation after her home was set ablaze. According to eyewitnesses, water and electricity were cut off, and when fire officials finally arrived they had empty water tanks. The attack occurred a few days after six Christians and a Muslim security guard were shot to death while leaving a Christmas Eve service. In the days following the church shooting, clashes broke out between Christians, Muslims and police. Pray for peace in these troubled areas of Egypt. Pray that Christians will respond with Christ-like love and forgiveness toward the assailants. Pray for those mourning the loss of loved ones.

2 Corinthians 12:9–10

VOM-USA Prayer Update for January 22, 2010

2010-01-22T05:26:00.001-06:00

"Work without prayer is atheism; and prayer without work is presumption." - R W Dale

Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. (James 5:16)

On Tue. Jan 19 2010 at 01:49 PM Moderator wrote:
MALAYSIA — Churches Firebombed — The Associated Press

Seven churches have been attacked in Malaysia following a court decision that allows Christians to use “Allah” when referring to God, according to The Associated Press (AP). The attacks began on Jan. 8 and 9, when four churches were hit with firebombs. On Sunday, Jan. 10, three churches were firebombed. Despite the attacks, thousands of Christians attended services and prayed for unity and an end to the attacks. The attacks followed a Dec. 31 High Court decision overturning a government ban prohibiting non-Muslims from using the word “Allah” in prayers and literature. The court had ruled on a petition by Malaysia's Roman Catholic Church, whose main publication, the Herald, uses the word “Allah” in its Malay-language edition. The government has appealed the verdict. Pray that believers will show grace and love toward the attackers and that their testimonies will draw nonbelievers into fellowship with Christ.

Psalm 91:4

ALGERIA — UPDATE Church Burned — VOM Contacts

On Jan. 10, Muslim extremists set fire to Tafath church in Tizi Ouzou, Algeria, damaging church property, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. The Tafath church has been threatened since December, when extremists disrupted a Christmas celebration. “As Christians continued to come for worship to this church despite the increasing intimidation, the Muslim extremists decided to burn the church,” VOM contacts said. A few days before the attack, extremists broke into the church and stole valuable electronic equipment. On Dec. 26, about 20 Muslim extremists tried to prevent members of Tafath church from holding a service. Extremists confronted believers and barred them from entering the building. “This land is the land of Islam! Go pray somewhere else,” some of the protestors reportedly said. The Voice of the Martyrs encourages you to pray for this congregation and especially their pastor, Mustafa Krierch, and his family. Pray that God will protect these Algerian believers and that their courageous testimony will draw nonbelievers to Christ.

Acts 4:29–31

IRAQ — Elderly Christian Killed — VOM Canada / Asia News

On Jan. 11, Hikmat Sleiman, a 75-year-old Christian man, was shot to death by unknown assailants in Mosul, Iraq, according to VOM Canada and Asia News. Sleiman had just returned home from closing his grocery shop when a group of assailants opened fire, killing him instantly. Local Christians see his murder and a string of other recent attacks against believers as evidence of “ethnic cleansing” designed to force Christians from the area. Some believe Muslim extremists are targeting shopkeepers in an effort to wipe out the Christian community’s economic activity and drive believers from the area. Pray for comfort for those mourning the loss of Hikmat Sleiman. Pray that his attackers will come to know the Lord as their Savior. Pray that Christians in Mosul will be filled with Christ’s peace during in these difficult times.

Romans 8:34–36

VOM-USA Prayer Update for January 15, 2010

2010-01-15T05:02:00.001-06:00

Work without prayer is atheism; and prayer without work is presumption." - R W Dale

Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. (James 5:16)

On Tue. Jan 12 2010 at 09:18 AM Moderator wrote:
IRAQ — Christians Shot and Kidnapped — VOMCanada / Asia News

Attacks on Christians in Mosul have increased in recent weeks. On Dec. 24, Basil Isho Youhanna was shot and killed in front of his house in the northern neighborhood of Tahrir. Four days later, Sarah Edmond Youhanna was kidnapped from The University of Mosul. The kidnappers have since telephoned Sarah’s family and stated they are members of an Islamic group. On Dec. 30, another believer, Zhaki Homo Bashir, was seriously injured when unknown assailants shot him in his shop. Pray for the loved ones of Basil as they grieve. Ask God to protect Sarah and bring her home safely. Pray for Zhaki’s complete recovery. Pray that authorities will protect Christians and other minorities in the country.

Matthew 5:10

IRAN — Christian Sentenced to House Arrest — Farsi Christian News Network

On Dec. 16, Iranian security officials forcibly entered the home of Hamideh Najafi in the city of Mashhad. They seized personal belongings and interrogated Hamideh, requesting the names of Christian evangelists in Iran. Officials also demanded that Hamideh deny her faith and return to Islam. When she refused, officials told Hamideh that her husband would be beaten unless she signed a confession saying that she was mentally disturbed. Hamideh reportedly succumbed to pressure and signed the confession. Although no formal charges were brought against her, she was sentenced to house arrest for three months and has been accused of committing a “political” crime for contacting a foreign Christian television network. Following the court’s verdict, the couple’s 10-year-old daughter, Hadi, was ordered to be transferred to foster parents because of her mother’s alleged “mental condition.” However, since Hadi is suffering from a kidney and bladder infection, she was conditionally left in her mother’s care. Officials have told the couple that if they speak publicly about their faith, Hadi will be taken away and transferred to the custody of the welfare office. Ask God to protect Hadi and her family. Pray that Hadi will recover from her infection and will be able to remain with her parents.

2 Timothy 3:9–12

ALGERIA — Muslims Block Christmas Service — Compass Direct News

On Dec. 26, about 50 Muslim extremists tried to prevent a congregation of Christian converts from holding a Christmas service in the city of Tizi-Ouzou, northern Algeria. Members of the Tafat Church were gathering for the meeting when they were confronted by protestors who barred the church building’s doors. “This land is the land of Islam! Go pray somewhere else,” some of the protestors reportedly said. The pastor was threatened with death, and the protestors stayed outside the church until Dec. 28. Some of them broke into the new building and stole microphones and speakers. The building’s electricity was also cut off. Pray that these Christians will remain committed to their faith. Pray that freedom of religion will be upheld by Algerian officials. Pray that the ministry of churches in Algeria will continue and that the gospel will be preached throughout the nation.

Psalm 91:1–7

Helping Haiti

2010-01-14T19:12:00.002-06:00

Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is at the right hand of God interceding for
us. This is Mark Bube, reporting for this special edition of Telenews from the Committee on
Foreign Missions of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church.
By now, many of you are aware that a major earthquake struck Haiti yesterday afternoon. By
God’s grace, no one in the Hopp family was injured. Writing late last night, Ben reported:
Late this afternoon Haiti was rocked by what is being described as the most powerful
quake to hit the area in 200 years. We felt the tremors here in Kaliko, over 25 miles from
the epicenter. We are grateful that we had no damage to our house and were able to stay
in contact with folks through e-mail and phone. According to a friend who was in Port-
au-Prince at the time of the quake, the city is devastated. Damage is widespread, many
have died and many more are still trapped. I have not yet heard from the brothers and
sisters on Lagonav, but they likely only suffered strong tremors as we did here. Thanks
for praying for us as we figure out how to help. Pray that even through listening and
praying with people we will be able to bring the light of the gospel.
While the mobile telephone networks were down (making communication on the island difficult),
we are thankful to report that this morning Heather heard
from a brother in Christ from Lagonav, who made his way to
the Hopps’ place. Other than a few downed walls in
Ansagalè, there had not been much damage on the island.
She also reported that, when the quake hit, a basketball
tournament had been under way at the school in Port-au-
Prince (pictured, and where the congregation in Port-au-
Prince met), where missionary colleagues Randy and Karen
Lodder (CanRC) labored, and that the school had collapse but thankfully no one was inside.
Reports are coming in from multiple sources that missionary colleague Octavius Delfils (PCA)
and his son, Carlens, were seriously injured and that their home in Port-au-Prince collapsed.
Several of the church people were also injured and have lost their homes. Please keep them in
your prayers. Preliminary word is that PCA missionary colleagues Charles Amicy, Leon Amicy,
and Esaie Etienne are safe and that there was some damage to Esaie’s house.
Please remember the Hopps and these other servants of Christ as you approach the throne of
grace: that lives might be spared; that the physical needs of especially those in the household of
faith might be met; and that, even amidst the rubble of devastation, the Lord might use this
occasion to bring glory to Himself, as His people minister His mercy to the suffering and testify
to His goodness and grace.
Finally, the OPC Committee on Diaconal Ministries has established a “Haiti Earthquake Relief”
fund through which contributions to aid the saints in need may be channeled (use the mailing
address, below).

THE COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN MISSIONS • P.O. Box P, Willow Grove, PA 19090 215/830-0900 • FAX 215/830-0350 • E-MAIL OPForeignMissions@opc.org

VOM-USA Prayer Update for January 8, 2010

2010-01-08T06:14:00.001-06:00

There is nothing more profitable, more priceless you can ask for us than that in spite of physical weariness, of frequent infirmities and the care of multiplying converts, we may be enabled to remain on our knees." - Veteran Missionary

"praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints" Ephesians 6:18

VOM-USA Prayer Update for January 8, 2010
On Tue. Jan 05 2010 at 10:26 AM Moderator wrote:
INDIA – Service Disrupted in Karnataka – VOM Sources

On Dec. 27, police disrupted a worship service, in Karnataka, India, instructing Pastor Kumar to immediately stop worship services and warned him if he held future services, he would be arrested, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. The police also accused the pastor of forcibly converting Hindus to Christianity and scolded him for praying without government permission. Pray Pastor Kumar will remain faithful in sharing the love of Christ. Ask God to encourage and protect members of this church and for believers in India to continue to be courageous in their faith.

Joshua 1:9

AZERBAIJAN/TAJIKISTAN – Update: Religious Communities Face Registration deadline – Forum 18 News

Many religious communities in Azerbaijan and Tajikistan have yet to re-register with government authorities, as required by restrictive religion laws passed in both countries in 2009, according to Forum 18 News. Religious communities failing to register in both countries, by Jan. 1, 2010, are considered illegal, Forum reported. In Azerbaijan, as of Dec. 16, only about 100 of the 534 religious communities previously registered had re-registered. Many religious communities are balking at amendments to the religious registration law which require more extensive information from the registrants to obtain permits to build. Other amendments include a ban on the sale of religious literature in unapproved locations and on religious activity outside registered addresses. In Tajikistan, fewer than half of the religious communities have re-registered. Officials say the highly restrictive Religion Law imposes state censorship on all religious literature, bans state officials from being among the founders of a religious community, requires state approval to invite foreigners for religious visits or to travel abroad for religious events, and restricts children's religious activity and education, Forum 18 reports. Pray that authorities in Azerbaijan and Tajikistan will respect freedom of religion. Pray that Christians in former Soviet republics will echo Peter's sentiment and be determined to obey God regardless of what man says.

Isaiah 54:14

ISRAEL – Jewish Christian Seeks Protection Following Repeated Attacks – Compass Direct News

Yossi Yomtov, a Jewish Christian, is seeking police protection following four attacks against him because of his faith in Jesus Christ, according to Compass Direct News. Yomtov, a resident of Jerusalem, told Compass, police have been slow to investigate hate crimes against him by youths wearing kippahs, cloth skullcaps, typically worn by observant Jews. “In two of the attacks a youth plied him with pepper spray and stun gun shocks,” Yomtov told Compass. “This young man cursed me for my belief in Christ,” he said. “He used ugly curses and spoke in highly abusive language.” Pray for protection for Yomtov as he courageously lives for Christ. Pray his testimony will draw others into fellowship with Christ. Praise God for Yomtov’s witness.

Psalm 21:1

VOM-USA Prayer Update for January 1, 2010

2010-01-01T09:15:00.000-06:00

"There is nothing more profitable, more priceless you can ask for us than that in spite of physical weariness, of frequent infirmities and the care of multiplying converts, we may be enabled to remain on our knees." - Veteran Missionary

"praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints" Ephesians 6:18

On Tue. Dec 29 2009 at 12:43 PM Moderator wrote:
IRAN – Authorities Arrest Two Christians at Christmas Gathering – Farsi Christian News

On Dec. 17, security police and undercover officers attacked a Christmas gathering of more than 70 newly converted Christians in the city of Karaj, Iran, according to Farsi Christian News. Officers photographed and videotaped the believers and also confiscated Bibles, Christian books and a computer. Christians were told they must be available during the period leading up to formal and legal interrogations and that they must appear before prosecutors when ordered. Two of the leaders of the group, Kambiz Saghaee and Ali Keshvar-Doost, were arrested. At last report, Saghaee and Keshvar-Doost remained in detention at an undisclosed location, and their families had neither been able to contact them nor received confirmation from police of their whereabouts. Pray that Saghaee and Keshvar-Doost will be released. Pray that the new converts who attended this meeting will grow stronger in their faith in Christ. Pray for the safety of Iranian believers celebrating the birth of Jesus and the beginning of a new blessed year, as many must gather in secret to avoid attention from authorities.

Psalm 23:1-5

INDONESIA – Militant Muslims Destroy Church Building – VOM Canada

On Dec. 17, a mob of nearly 1,000 Muslims attacked a church building under construction in Bekasi Regency, near Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia, according to VOM Canada. At midnight, Muslims arrived on bikes and on foot at the Church of Saint Albert. They stormed into the building, carrying banners and tanks of kerosene. One witness reported hearing them shout, “Destroy! Destroy it! Replace the church with mosque!” Muslims damaged bricks, broke lights, uprooted newly planted trees and set the building on fire. Praise God, no one was injured in the attack, but damage amounted to about 60 million rupees (approximately $ 6,235). Local Christians were planning to use the nearly completed building for a Christmas service. Following the attack, a leader of the church’s construction committee said, “Even though our chapel was attacked, we are not afraid. We will continue the construction of this chapel until its completion.” Pray that these believers will not be discouraged but will continue to rest in the joy and provision of Christ. Pray that Indonesian Christians will be emboldened by the Holy Spirit to share the truth of the Lord.

Acts 1:8

IRAQ – More Bomb Attacks on Churches in Mosul – VOM Canada/Agence France Presse/Asia News

On Dec. 23, two separate bombs struck churches in Mosul, Iraq, according to VOM Canada and Agence France Presse. One bomb was detonated near the Syrian Orthodox church of St. Thomas. Elsewhere in the city, three people were killed — one Christian and two Muslims — when a bomb hidden in a cart of vegetables exploded outside the Chaldean church of St. George. These attacks are the latest in a series of bombings in the city in recent months. These recent bombings have intensified fears among Mosul’s Christian community, but many Iraqi believers remain unshaken in their commitment to serve Christ. Pray for those who have lost loved ones in these attacks. Pray for healing of those injured. Pray that the presence and peace of Jesus will sustain Iraqi believers and compel them to share God’s truth with their Muslim neighbors.

Psalm 91:1–6

VOM-USA Prayer Update for December 25, 2009

2009-12-25T16:39:00.000-06:00

"On his knees the believer is invincible." C H Spurgeon

"To the present hour we both hunger and thirst, and we are poorly clothed, and beaten, and homeless. And we labor, working with our own hands. Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure; being defamed, we entreat. We have been made as the filth of the world, the offscouring of all things until now." 1 Corinthians 4:11-13

On Tue. Dec 22 2009 at 08:55 AM Moderator wrote:
IRAQ – Churches Bombed in Mosul – VOM Canada / Asia News

On Dec. 15, two churches and a school bombed in Mosul, Iraq, according to VOM Canada. A car bomb exploded in front of the Church of the Annunciation in the al-Mohandiseen neighborhood, damaging walls and windows. The assailants also threw grenades at the church’s school, killing a baby girl and injuring many others. In another attack, an explosive device was detonated in front of the Syro-Catholic Church of the Immaculate in the northern neighborhood of al-Shifaa. No one was killed or injured. The bombings are the latest in a series of recent attacks on Christian sites in Mosul. Pray for comfort for the family of the young girl who was killed. Ask God to give healing to those injured. Pray that Iraqi Christians will be filled with hope and peace as they celebrate the birth of Christ amid the threat of violence.

Psalm 91:1–6

SOMALIA – Christians under Fire for Their faith – Compass Direct News

On Nov. 23, Mohamud Muridi Saidi, a Somali Christian, fled the Kakuma refugee camp on the Kenyan border due to death threats he received from Muslims, according to Compass Direct News. Muslims, transferred to the camp in August, knew Saidi was a Christian, and threw stones at his iron sheet home four times in recent months. As word spread that the Muslims were intending to kill him, Saidi fled the camp and was forced to leave his family behind. At last report, Saidi remained in hiding in fear for his life and was hoping for asylum for his family. He is the sole provider for his mother, wife and four children. On Dec. 3, an unknown assailant poisoned a Somali believer living in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Abdurrahman Hajji Omer died the next morning at the local hospital. He is survived by three children. Ask God to give his abiding comfort to Abdurrahman’s family as they mourn for him. Pray for God's protection and provision for Mohamud Muridi Saidi and his family. Pray that in the midst of challenges, Somali Christians will remain unshaken from the work the Lord has given them, trusting him to bring eternal results.

1 Corinthians 15:58

UZBEKISTAN – State Close to Removing Baptist Leadership – Forum 18 News

Baptists in Uzbekistan fear the head of the Baptist Union, Pavel Peichev and the Union's accountant Yelena Kurbatova will be removed from their roles of leading the registered Baptist Union, after a criminal court upheld a criminal conviction against them, and another Baptist lay person, according to Forum 18 News. The Court also upheld a three-year ban on each holding responsible positions within the church. However, the court overturned massive fines for each. The three continue to insist that the charges against them of evading taxes and involving children in religious activity without their parents' consent were fabricated. “The conviction was unjust and we want it overturned," Peichev told Forum 18, adding an appeal to the Supreme Court is likely. Baptists in Uzbekistan say the authorities' main aim was to remove the leadership of the Baptist Union, continuing a pattern of state interference in the leadership of religious communities. Pray for believers in Uzbekistan who continue living for Christ faithfully.

Psalm 23:1-6

VOM-USA Prayer Update for December 18, 2009

2009-12-18T16:52:00.000-06:00

"On his knees the believer is invincible." C H Spurgeon

"To the present hour we both hunger and thirst, and we are poorly clothed, and beaten, and homeless. And we labor, working with our own hands. Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure; being defamed, we entreat. We have been made as the filth of the world, the offscouring of all things until now." 1 Corinthians 4:11-13

On Wed. Dec 16 2009 at 12:47 PM Moderator wrote:
CHINA — House Church Leader Sentenced to 15 Years — China Aid Association

On Nov. 7, house church leader Alimujiang Yimiti, 36, was sentenced to 15 years in prison for “providing state secrets to overseas organizations,” according to China Aid Association. Alimuijiang’s sentence was unexpected by both his lawyers and family. He was read his sentence at Kashgar Detention Center, where he had been held for the past two years without a verdict or sentence. Officials have changed the charges against him several times, and his case was transferred through numerous courts before the 15-year sentence was handed down. . On Jan. 11, 2008, Alimujiang was formally detained and charged by the Bureau of State Security of Kashgar with “suspicion of harming national security.” On Feb. 20, 2009, the charges were changed to “suspicion of instigating separatism and providing national secrets or intelligence to overseas organizations or individuals.” He faced these charges in a secret trial in the Kashgar Intermediate Court on May 27, 2009. “This is the harshest sentence against house church believers in nearly a decade,” said Bob Fu, president of China Aid. “The whole world should be appalled at this injustice against the innocent Christian leader Alimujiang. We call upon the U.N. and people of conscience throughout the world to strongly protest to the Chinese government for this severe case of religious persecution.” Pray for Alimujiang’s wife and two children, whom he has not seen in more than two years. Ask God to encourage and protect them during this difficult time. Praise God for Alimujiang’s faith and courage.

Psalm 91: 1–6

SRI LANKA — Mob Attacks Church — VOM Canada

About 200 suspected Buddhists stormed the Our Lady Rosa Mystica Church building in Croos Watta, Sri Lanka, on Dec. 6. Assailants destroyed the interior of the building as well as construction materials in the attack. They also tried to assault the priest. He escaped unharmed, but his vehicle was burned in the violence. As word spread of the attack, about 500 local believers blocked the nearby main road in protest, demanding that police arrest the culprits. At last report, one arrest had been made. Local Christians think the attack was due to the growing number of believers in the area and the recent resumption of a construction project to expand the church. Last year, the Sri Lankan Supreme Court overturned a police decision to halt the construction. The church has been attacked twice in recent years by suspected Buddhist militants — once in 2006 and again in 2007. Thank the Lord that no one was injured in the attack. Pray that these church members will exemplify the love of God through consistent love and prayer for those who persecute them.

Matthew 5:43-48

PAKISTAN — Praise: Sandul and Gulsher Masih Released From Prison — VOM Contacts

Praise God! After months in prison Sandul and Gulsher Masih have been released from prison. The court found them innocent from charges of blasphemy against the Quran. We thank God for His provision and for sustaining them during this trial. Continue to pray for other Christians imprisoned in Pakistan and other restricted nations.

Psalm 23:1–5

VOM-USA Prayer Update for December 11, 2009

2009-12-12T05:35:00.000-06:00

On his knees the believer is invincible." C H Spurgeon

"To the present hour we both hunger and thirst, and we are poorly clothed, and beaten, and homeless. And we labor, working with our own hands. Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure; being defamed, we entreat. We have been made as the filth of the world, the offscouring of all things until now." 1 Corinthians 4:11-13

On Tue. Dec 08 2009 at 02:07 PM Moderator wrote:
SOMALIA — Christian Martyred — Compass News Direct

Members of the extremist Islamic group al Shabaab, executed 23-year-old Christian convert, Mumin Abdikarim Yusuf, and his body was discovered in Mogadishu's Yaqshid district, according to Compass Direct News. On Oct. 28, al Shababb members detainedYusuf and searched his home for Christian materials, after a 15-year-old Muslim boy accused Yusuf of trying to convert him to Christianity. While interrogating Yusuf about other Somali Christians, the extremists knocked out all of Yusuf's front teeth and broke several of his fingers. They then shot him twice in the head and dumped his body on an empty residential street. Since it is unknown whether Yusuf revealed information about other Christians while he was tortured, the underground Christians who knew him have relocated for their safety. Yusuf's Muslim family members are also in danger, as extremists have accused them of failing to report his conversion. The Voice of the Martyrs supports persecuted Christians through a project to assist evangelists and encourage converts from Islam. Pray for all those mourning the death of this brother in the Lord. Pray for safety for the relocated believers. Pray that Yusuf's faithful witness will be a testimony to his Muslim family members and that they will turn to Jesus for their salvation.

Matthew 5: 6-10

INDIA — Three Churches Attacked in Tamil Nadu — VOM Sources

Three church buildings in India’s Southern state of Tamil Nadu, India, were attacked, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. On Nov. 29, a bomb exploded at a church in Thammathukonam, badly damaging the building's wall. Later that day, a statue of St. Francis Xavier church was desecrated by extremists in Konamkade while the local congregation was preparing for an Advent procession. Meanwhile, the next day, a group of Hindu extremists broke the windows of a church building in Sulur and threw stones inside. A bag containing a container of petrol, a diesel can and cotton scraps was later found, suggesting that the attackers intended to set the building on fire. Pray that Christians in Tamil Nadu will not give in to fear over these attacks but continue to be bold witnesses for Jesus. Pray that the perpetrators of this violence will be brought to justice.

Romans 12:14

KAZAKSTAN — Update: Christian Facing Deportation Again — Forum 18 News

A German-born believer who was recently prosecuted in Akmola Region, Kazakhstan for taking part in religious worship without state registration is again facing deportation, according to Forum 18 News. In October, Viktor Leven successfully appealed the deportation order, but the Regional Court reinstated the deportation on Nov. 26. Leven stated he may be forced to leave the country at any time. Pray that Leven will not be deported and separated from his wife and six children, the youngest of who is just three weeks old. Pray for endurance for other believers facing similar challenges in Kazakhstan.

2 Timothy 3: 10-12

VOM-USA Prayer Update for December 4, 2009

2009-12-04T17:08:00.000-06:00

"On his knees the believer is invincible." C H Spurgeon

"To the present hour we both hunger and thirst, and we are poorly clothed, and beaten, and homeless. And we labor, working with our own hands. Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure; being defamed, we entreat. We have been made as the filth of the world, the offscouring of all things until now." 1 Corinthians 4:11-13

On Tue. Dec 01 2009 at 12:35 PM Moderator wrote:
CHINA — Church Leaders Sentenced to Prison – China Aid Association

China’s central government has intensified its campaign against Christians and has recently targeted both registered and unregistered churches, according to China Aid Association. On Nov. 2, Judge Sun of the Linfen Intermediate Court instructed the families of five imprisoned leaders from the Linfen-Fushan Church in Shanxi province to hire lawyers for an immediate trial. The church leaders were arrested in September, following an attack on their church. Even though they were detained for more than 50 days, their families did not receive notification of their arrests until recently. On Nov. 12, the five church leaders were all found guilty immediately following a 12-hour trial of the same day. Pastor Yang Rongli received the harshest sentence of seven years in prison for “illegally occupying farming land,” and “disturbing transportation order by gathering masses.” Other church leaders received sentences from four to three years.
“To punish an innocent house church leader for seven years imprisonment is the most serious sentence since 2004 when the senior Henan house church leader pastor Zhang Rongliang received a similar length,” said ChinaAid President Bob Fu.“We strongly condemn these unjust sentences, which are based on trumpeted charges. This case clearly shows the serious deteriorating situation of religious persecution in China.”
In addition, on Nov.12, Public Security officials sealed the doors and shut down the Wanbang Missionary Church in Shanghai. On Nov. 2, government officials banned the church. While officials were blocking the church entrance, believers helped protect the associate pastor as he escaped into the crowd. Two days earlier, a formal notice of abolishment was issued to the senior pastor of the church. The seven pastors at the church also received notices stating that they are "self-claimed illegal preachers," and they were ordered to cease their "illegal religious activities." In recent weeks, many of the 2,000 members at the church have been questioned and threatened by members of multiple government agencies. The senior pastor's cell-phone number has been terminated, and the church's Web site has been shut down. Please pray for the safety of Pastor Yang Rongli and the other church leaders imprisoned and convicted after the raid on the Linfen-Fushan Church. Pray for their release. Ask the Lord for the Wangbang Missionary Church to be reopened soon.

Psalm 91: 1-6

SRI LANKA – Church Attacked, and Pastor Threatened – National Evangelical Alliance of Sri Lanka

On Nov. 5, about 200 members of the Buddhist-led political party Jathika Hela Urumaya attacked the Jesus Never Fails Good News Centre church in Koswatta, Sri Lanka, according to the National Evangelical Alliance of Sri Lanka. The attackers hurled stones at the building, damaging the exterior, windows, air conditioning units and gate. They threatened to kill Pastor Joseph, accusing him of unethical conversions, and demanded that he stop conducting healing services. Believers say the violence was in response to an Oct. 31 open-air healing service led by Pastor Joseph. Two women who attended the service later died at a local hospital. A spokesman for the church said the women attended the service out of their own free will. The Voice of the Martyrs stands with persecuted Christians in Sri Lanka and encourages you to pray that victims of this attack will persevere in the faith. Ask the Lord to work in the hearts of those targeting Sri Lankan believers so that they will repent and come to faith in him. Pray that Christians in Sri Lanka will continue to share the news of God's grace.

2 Timothy 3:11

VOM-USA Prayer Update for November 27, 2009

2009-11-27T09:38:00.000-06:00

On his knees the believer is invincible." C H Spurgeon

"To the present hour we both hunger and thirst, and we are poorly clothed, and beaten, and homeless. And we labor, working with our own hands. Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure; being defamed, we entreat. We have been made as the filth of the world, the offscouring of all things until now." 1 Corinthians 4:11-13

On Tue. Nov 24 2009 at 02:14 PM Moderator wrote:
IRAN — Maryam and Marzieh Released – VOM Contacts

On November 18, Maryam Rustampoor and Marzieh Amirizadeh were released from Evin Prison in Tehran after being held for 259 days, according to Elam Ministries. Family members picked them up at the prison, and the women expressed heartfelt thanks to Christians around the world who prayed for them during their days in prison. “Words are not enough to express our gratitude to the Lord and to his people who have prayed and worked for our release,” they said.
Maryam and Marzieh were released without bail, but charges against them have not been formally dropped. They may still face a court hearing in the future. They were arrested March 5 by Iranian security forces and labeled “anti-government activists.” Marzieh and Maryam’s apartment was searched and their belongings were confiscated. “Their only crime is that they are committed Christians who follow the teachings of Jesus,” Farsi Christian News Network reported following their arrest. “They are being unfairly labeled as ‘anti-government activists’ because of the hostility of the government towards practicing Christians.” Please continue to pray that Maryam and Marzieh will recover physically from their ordeal, and pray that all charges against them will be dropped. Pray also for other Christians in Iran who are persecuted for their faith in Christ.

Psalm 100:1-5

ISRAEL – Christian Family Continues to Be Persecuted – VOM Contacts/Jerusalem Institute of Justice

Eleven year old Rivka’s Messianic Jewish family continues to face persecution from extremist Jewish factions in Israel, according to VOM contacts and Jerusalem Institute of Justice. Rivka’s father is a pastor and even though the family has relocated to another house, their new landlord has already received threats from Jewish extremists who want them evicted. Recently somebody poured sugar into the fuel lines of their vehicle, which destroyed its engine. Earlier this year, Rivka was questioned by a prominent rabbi and two activists from Yad L’Achim, an organization whose stated goal is “fighting Christian missionaries.” Rivka’s family is facing what has become a growing problem in Israel: persecution against Christians by extremist Jewish factions. Pray God will provide for this family and protect them. Ask God to use their courageous testimony to draw non believers into fellowship with Him.

Psalm 7:1

VIETNAM - Update: Imprisoned Vietnamese priest suffers severe stroke – Forum 18 News

Father Nguyen Van Ly, who was sentenced to eight years in prison in March 2007, recently suffered a severe stroke, according to Forum 18 News. He was admitted to the military hospital in Hanoi. At last report, he was semi-paralyzed but was conscious and able to speak. Family members report that he is being treated well. Pray that Father Van Ly will have a full recovery. Pray for strength for his loved ones at this time.

Psalm 103:2-4

VOM-USA Prayer Update for November 20, 2009

2009-11-20T18:13:00.000-06:00

"On his knees the believer is invincible." C H Spurgeon

"To the present hour we both hunger and thirst, and we are poorly clothed, and beaten, and homeless. And we labor, working with our own hands. Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure; being defamed, we entreat. We have been made as the filth of the world, the offscouring of all things until now." 1 Corinthians 4:11-13

On Tue. Nov 17 2009 at 09:27 AM Moderator wrote:
KAZAKHSTAN — Christians Fined, Deported - Forum 18 News

Two Christian brothers, Viktor and Didrikh Leven, have been convicted of participating in religious worship without state registration in Akmola Region, Kazakhstan, according to Forum18 News. On Oct. 14, Viktor, who was born in Kazakhstan but holds German citizenship, was found guilty of "carrying out missionary activity without local registration" under Article 375-3 of Kazakhstan’s Administrative Code. Viktor was fined 6,480 Tenge (US $43) and ordered deported. He successfully appealed his sentence, and his fine and deportation were annulled. Meanwhile, on Oct.28, Didrikh was convicted of violating Article 374-1 of the Administrative Code, which forbids "leadership or participation in the activity of an unregistered social or religious organization." He was fined 100 times the minimum monthly wage. Reportedly, Didrikh plans to appeal to the same Akmola Regional Court that overturned Viktor's punishment. On Nov. 5, Feruza Utegenova, a member of New Life Church in Aktau on the Caspian Sea, was deported to Uzbekistan. She had been convicted and fined in June for "carrying out missionary activity without local registration" (Article 375-3) after she gave a Christian children's magazine to a 12-year-old girl in her neighborhood. The Voice of the Martyrs stands with these and other believers facing persecution in Kazakhstan. Pray that the charges against Didrikh will be dropped. Pray that God will grant Feruza strength and guidance as she seeks to serve Christ. Pray that authorities will stop harassing Christians in Kazakhstan.

Psalm 5:11-12

CHINA - House Church Banned - China Aid Association

On Nov. 2 more than 30 officials from four government agencies barged into the Wanbang Missionary Church in Shanghai, China and accused believers of holding an illegal meeting, according to China Aid Association. Leaders from each of the agencies, including the Shanghai Municipal Public Security Bureau (PSB) and the State Administration on Religious Affairs, then interrogated the senior pastor, Cui Quan. PSB officers also questioned other church partners affiliated with the church. After concluding that church members were meeting “illegally,” police officers banned the church and forbade the believers from meeting in the future. Pray that these believers will be encouraged to continue to meet together despite opposition. Pray for significant and lasting advances in religious freedom in China.

Hebrews 10:23-25

UGANDA - Muslims Attack Worshippers - Compass Direct News

On Nov. 1 more than 39 Muslim extremists armed with machetes and clubs attacked the World Possessor's Church International in Namasuba, just outside the capital city of Kampala, Uganda, while believers were holding a worship service. When the church members heard the Muslims outside, they gathered at the front door to try to prevent them from entering. Some believers were able to escape through the church's rear door. When the Muslims noticed one of the Christians taking photographs of them, they beat him severely. Nearby residents eventually arrived on scene and helped the Christians ward off their attackers. When police arrived, they assisted in stopping the assault but made no arrests. Pray for God to sustain all the victims of this attack through His peace and grace. Pray that the members of the church will grow in to be like Christ even though they face ongoing opposition.

James 1:2-4

VOM-USA Prayer Update for November 6, 2009

2009-11-06T08:51:00.000-06:00

On his knees the believer is invincible." C H Spurgeon

"To the present hour we both hunger and thirst, and we are poorly clothed, and beaten, and homeless. And we labor, working with our own hands. Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure; being defamed, we entreat. We have been made as the filth of the world, the offscouring of all things until now." 1 Corinthians 4:11-13

VOM-USA Prayer Update for November 6, 2009
On Tue. Nov 03 2009 at 09:12 AM Moderator wrote:
CHINA — Student Expelled for Confirming Faith in Christ — China Aid Association

On Oct. 20, Chen Le, a high school student, was expelled from Xinjiang High School for refusing to denounce his faith, according to China Aid Association. The High School Division of the Huashan Middle School expelled Chen after he signed a document confirming he was a Christian. ChinaAid reported that Chen Le does not regret signing the document confirming his faith in Jesus Christ. He continues to stand courageously for his faith, even though his expulsion means he is barred from college entrance exams. The Voice of the Martyrs encourages you to pray for Chen and his family during this challenging time. Praise God for his faithfulness. Ask God to protect and encourage him.

Psalm 140: 12–13

INDONESIA — Police Use Force to Evict Bible Students – VOM Contacts

On Oct. 27, The Voice of the Martyrs contacts reported nearly 1,000 students at the Arastamar School of Theology face eviction from a West Jakarta former Mayor’s office, where they were living temporarily. The day before students received the eviction notice from the High Court of West Jakarta, local government authorities cut off electricity and water to the site, leading to student demonstrations. “That day … a thousand students were demonstrating outside of the building and making [a barricade with their bodies] to prevent the police troops, local government security troops and High Court officials from going into the building and destroying the building,” VOM contacts said. “ The riot began when some people from the back row of police troops stones against the students; then the students repelled it by throwing plastic chairs and stones against the police troops,” VOM contacts added. Local government authorities have told the students to leave the building by Nov. 9 because the building will be destroyed. In July 2008, Muslim extremists destroyed the Bible school campus with Molotov cocktails. They also attacked the students with acid and machetes as they were being evacuated from the burning buildings. The staff and students from the Bible school’s campus were forced into temporary shelters all over the city including a camp ground in Kampung Pulo village. Pray for the students’ encouragement and protection. Praise God for their unwavering witness.

Matthew 5: 10–12

INDIA — Christians Targeted in Violent Attacks — VOM Contacts

The Voice of the Martyrs has received reports of several attacks against Christians in India. On Oct. 25, four men entered the Assembly of God Church building in Old Hubli, Karnataka, during a worship service and started taking notes and photographing the worshipers. When the pastor's wife, Radha David, asked the men to sit quietly and listen to the sermon, they immediately left. A few minutes later, a group of about 50 Hindu extremists stormed into the church. They threatened the believers and dragged Pastor K. M. David Raj outside. The extremists burned Bibles, Christian literature and banners in front of the church building. Police arrested the pastor and three other believers. On the same day, more than 10 Hindus assaulted Pastor Pavithra Kumar, hitting him with fists, wooden rods and field hockey sticks. Though he was badly injured, Pastor Kumar escaped his assailants and ran into his church building. Pray these believers will keep their eyes on Jesus, will persevere in the faith, and will not grow weary or lose heart (Hebrews 12:3). Pray that those who seek to hinder the work of the Church in India will see the love and grace of Jesus in the lives of Indian Christians.

Hebrews 10:32–39

VOM-USA Prayer Update for October 30, 2009

2009-10-30T20:14:00.000-05:00

"Prayer is the coupling of primary and secondary causes. It is the splicing of our limp wire to the lightning bolt of heaven." John Piper

"Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

"You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men." Matthew 5:11-13

On Tue. Oct 27 2009 at 12:19 PM Moderator wrote:
PAKISTAN – Imprisoned Believers Appears in Court – VOM Sources

On Oct. 14, Asia Bibi’s husband, Ashiq Masih, her daughters and VOM contacts met her for 15 minutes before her court appearance. “Asia is in strong faith. Her eyes were hopeful. Praise God,” VOM contacts said. Asia told VOM contacts she prays everyday at 3 a.m. “I thank God that the jail administration has good behavior with me,” she said. “I don’t have trouble from them, but I miss my daughters and family. Please arrange my soon release from this jail.” Asia’s daughters were visibly upset when they met her. “The little daughter was continuously asking her mother ‘Mama when are you coming back home?’” VOM contacts said. Isha, the eldest daughter, cried and hugged her mother and would not let her go. Isha pointed to the veil on her mother’s face and said, “I want to see your face, remove this cover.” It was a sad scene. The court rescheduled another hearing for Oct. 27.

On Oct. 17, Sandul and Gulsher Masir had a court hearing, but again the investigating officer did not appear. Another hearing was scheduled for October 26.

Continue praying for these believers. Call on the Pakistani government to insure that the rights of Christians like Asia, Sandul and Gulsher are protected.

2 Timothy 3:10-12

UKRAINE - Church Bombed in Ukraine - VOM Canada

On Oct. 14, a homemade bomb was thrown into the Calvary Chapel church building in Kaharlyk, Ukraine. The building is also the residence of Pastor Wayne Zschech and his family. At 7 a.m., Pastor Zschech's wife awoke to the smell of smoke. Fire officials were called to the scene the blaze which caused minor damage to the building. The six people asleep in the church at the time of the attack escaped without injury. The assailants spray painted "Out with Sects" and "OYH," an abbreviated name for a Ukrainian Nationalist movement, on the church wall. Pastor Zschech later said, "We pray that the Lord would call people to salvation and that he would build up his body. We rejoice in being chosen worthy to suffer for the sake of our Lord and His Gospel. We do also pray for safety but hold this prayer out with open hands." Thank God no one was hurt in this attack. Pray that the perpetrators of this attack will be brought to justice and come to faith in Christ.

Psalm 140:12-13

CHINA - Update: Chinese Pastor Released - China Aid Association

Praise God! On Oct. 12, Pastor Hua Huiqi, was released from prison, according to China Aid Association. Pastor Hua was arrested by Chinese officials on Sept. 17 and thankfully, he was not physically mistreated during his detention. Upon his release, however, officials reportedly threatened to harm his 13-year-old daughter if he "caused any trouble." Pastor Hua, who is recovering at home, has urged the international community to continue praying for his ailing Christian mother, Shuang Shuying, who has also faced imprisonment. He has also requested prayer for his dying brother, Hua Huilin. Thank God for this family’s faithfulness and ask God to heal those that are sick. Pray the Holy Spirit will encourage and minister to them.

Matthew 5:11-16

VOM-USA Prayer Update for October 23, 2009

2009-10-23T11:33:00.000-05:00

"Prayer is the coupling of primary and secondary causes. It is the splicing of our limp wire to the lightning bolt of heaven." John Piper

"Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

"You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men." Matthew 5:11-13

On Wed. Oct 21 2009 at 08:19 AM Moderator wrote:
RUSSIA — Pastors Fined for Worship — Forum 18 News

Recently, two Baptist pastors in Russia's Baltic Sea exclave of Kaliningrad were fined 2,200 rubles (US $75) after their church members "sang psalms and spoke about Christ" on the street, according to Forum 18 News Service. Kaliningrad police told Forum 18 News that the pastors did not get permission in advance to sing, as required by law. Asked why permission is necessary, a police official replied, "That's the law in Russia!" Aleksandr Legotin, one of the two Baptist pastors, insisted that the Baptists held a religious service and not a demonstration, so the legal requirement to notify the authorities in advance should not have applied. "We follow the law very carefully," he told Forum 18 News. "And under the Universal Declaration [of Human Rights], we have the right to freedom of conscience. The law should be … protecting us from such arbitrariness." At last report, the pastors had not decided whether they would appeal the fine. The Voice of the Martyrs encourages you to pray for believers in Kaliningrad and other countries in Europe where their freedom to worship freely is coming under attack. Ask God to encourage and protect them.

Romans 8:34–36

PHILIPPINES — Elderly Priest Kidnapped in the Philippines — VOM Canada

On Oct. 10, Father Michael Sinnott, a 79-year-old priest from Ireland, was abducted by six armed men while he was conducting prayers at his home in the city of Pagadian, near Zamboanga (Mindanao), Philippines, according to VOM Canada. No one has taken responsibility, but the Islamic extremist group Moro Islamic Liberation Front is suspected in the kidnapping. Father Sinnott is known to have health problems, which increases concern about his well-being. According to reports, Filipino military informants spotted the religious leader and his captors on Oct. 12 in Lanao del Sur province, about 70 kilometers from where he was abducted, and again in another location the following day. Father Sinnott has been serving in the Philippines for the past 40 years. Pray that Father Sinnott's captors will release him unharmed, and pray for his health during this time of trial.

Psalm 91:1–6

IRAN — UPDATE: Further Charges Brought Against Iranian Prisoners — VOM Contacts

On Oct. 7, Maryam and Marzieh were unexpectedly taken back to court, where they faced charges of anti-state activity, propagation of Christianity and apostasy. The judge acquitted them of the charge of anti-state activity, and the other charges will be considered by a general court. Continue to pray for Maryam and Marzieh, who remain in prison awaiting their next hearing. Pray for their health, as they have been denied proper medical treatment.

Romans 8:34–36

VOM-USA Prayer Update for October 16, 2009

2009-10-17T16:43:00.001-05:00

Thank you for praying for persecuted Christians around the world.

Let the fires go out in the boiler room of the church and the place will still look smart and clean, but it will be cold. The Prayer Room is the boiler room for its spiritual life. - Leonard Ravenhill

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. - Ephesians 6:18

On Tue. Oct 13 2009 at 08:59 AM Moderator wrote:
PAKISTAN UPDATE—Sandul Bibi and Gulsher Masih Appear in Court—VOM Contacts

On Oct. 7, Sandul Bibi and her father, Gulsher Masih, appeared in court in Faisalabad, Pakistan, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. The investigating officer in their case, Anayat Ullah Rahmani, did not appear in court. As a result, the judge set another court date for Oct. 17. Sandul and Gulsher have been in prison for more than six months on false blasphemy charges. Pray that Gulsher and Sandul will be released from prison. Praise God for their faithfulness and witness in prison, and ask God to strengthen their family.

2 Timothy 3:10–12

SOMALIA—Christian Leader Killed—Compass Direct News

On Sept. 28, an Islamic extremist shot and killed Mariam Muhina Hussein, an underground church leader, after discovering six Bibles in her possession, according to Compass Direct News.
The day before the shooting, a leader of the Islamic extremist group al Shabaab reportedly sent his wife to visit Hussein's home in Marerey village. She pretended she was interested in learning about Christianity. During the visit, Hussein read passages of the Bible and told the woman that she could visit regularly to discuss God's Word, according to Compass. The following day, the al Shabaab leader, identified as Sheikh Arbow, went to Hussein’s house with several other men and requested a Bible. When Hussein gave one to him, he revealed that he was looking for "Christians who have defiled the Islamic religion" and ordered her to show him the other Bibles that she owned. When she handed them over, Arbow shot her three times, killing her instantly. In recent weeks, several Christians in Somalia have been killed because of their faith in Christ. The Voice of the Martyrs rejoices in the life of Mariam Muhina Hussein. Praise God for her faithfulness. VOM encourages you to pray that those who mourn for her will draw near to Christ for comfort. Pray that God will grant Somali Christians encouragement and strength as they face trials for their Christian witness. Also pray that God will draw persecutors into fellowship with him.

Matthew 5:43–48

INDIA—Pastor Attacked—VOM Contacts

On Oct. 4, Pastor Prakash was attacked by 25 Bajrang Dal extremists while he was ministering in Kaiwara village, Bangalore Rural District, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. The extremists assaulted the pastor and accused him of cheating people. After the attack, the pastor was questioned and held on complaints of “illegal activity.” Fortunately, other believers provided evidence that the pastor had not broken any laws but had visited their homes for prayer. At last report he was still in custody. Pastor Prakash has been in ministry for more than 10 years and pastors a church of 80 members. Recently, he had expanded his ministry to Kaiwara village, where 15 believers had been meeting for prayer on Sundays evenings. The Voice of the Martyrs actively supports persecuted believers by providing legal assistance to Christians like Pastor Prakash who have been arrested for their faith. VOM encourages you to pray for Pastor Prakash’s immediate release. Pray for the safety of his family and other believers in the area.

Revelation 2:10

VOM-USA Prayer Update for October 9, 2009

2009-10-09T17:06:00.000-05:00

Thank you for praying for persecuted Christians around the world.

Let the fires go out in the boiler room of the church and the place will still look smart and clean, but it will be cold. The Prayer Room is the boiler room for its spiritual life. - Leonard Ravenhill

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. - Ephesians 6:18

On Tue. Oct 06 2009 at 10:44 AM Moderator wrote:
INDIA—Relief camp bombed in Orissa—VOM Sources

On Sept. 27, four believers were injured when a Christian relief camp in Nandarigi village was bombed, according to VOM contacts. The camp in Orissa state provided temporary housing for Christians who fled anti-Christian violence last year. A Hindu man who reportedly set off the bomb was killed in the attack. Five days before the attack, the suspected bomber threatened Christians at the camp and demanded food and shelter, according to VOM contacts. The man reportedly returned the night of the bombing heavily intoxicated and assaulted two Christian boys while threatening other believers present. The man then slipped and fell, detonating a bomb. Officials have claimed that Maoist extremists were behind the attack, but local Christians maintain that the bombing was planned and carried out by Hindus. The Voice of the Martyrs has provided food, shelter and encouragement to believers in Orissa affected by the anti-Christian violence. Pray for those injured during this attack. Pray that the displaced Christians will continue to look to the Lord as their enduring source of strength, provision and wisdom. Ask God to work in the hearts of Hindu extremists targeting Christians so that they will repent and come to faith in Christ.

Revelation 2:9–11

ETHIOPIA—Christians imprisoned for evangelizing—Compass Direct News

On Sept. 21, an Ethiopian court dismissed an appeal by two Christians accused of using gifts and money to entice people to convert to Christianity, according to Compass Direct News. Temesgen Alemayehu and Tigist Welde Amanuel went to Amhara state in July to plant a church. After a week, several people had become believers through their witness. On July 19, local residents began to question Alemayehu and Amanuel and later attacked them. Amanuel escaped the assailants and fled to a home nearby, where she was kept safe until police arrived. Although Alemayehu was wounded, she was later rescued by police. Following the incident, Alemayehu and Amanuel were arrested because their assailants accused them of insulting their religion. On July 23, they were sentenced to six months in jail. Pray that these believers will exemplify the love of God through consistent love and prayer for those who persecute them. Pray for their safety and release from prison.

Matthew 5:43–48

CHINA—Pastor and wife forced to vacate home—China Aid Association

On Sept. 23, the Beijing Public Security Bureau and Religious Affairs officials forced Pastor Zhang "Bike" Mingxuan and his wife to leave their home, according to the China Aid Association. They are being detained at an undisclosed location in Henan to "preserve stability in the province" for China's National Day celebrations. In the past few months, Pastor Bike, the leader of the Chinese House Church Alliance, has been repeatedly attacked and detained by officials. Chinese authorities have warned Pastor Bike against speaking or communicating with outside sources, especially the foreign media, about his detention. At last report, the couple was still in custody. Ask God to sustain and protect Pastor Zhang and his wife while in detention. Pray for significant and lasting advances in religious freedom in China.

2 Corinthians 12:9–10

VOM-USA Prayer Update for October 2, 2009

2009-10-02T11:55:00.000-05:00

Thank you for praying for persecuted Christians around the world.

Let the fires go out in the boiler room of the church and the place will still look smart and clean, but it will be cold. The Prayer Room is the boiler room for its spiritual life. - Leonard Ravenhill

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. - Ephesians 6:18

On Wed. Sep 30 2009 at 08:56 AM Moderator wrote:
PAKISTAN - Woman encouraged in Prison – VOM contacts

On Sept. 16, The Voice of the Martyrs contacts in Pakistan reported that 20-year-old Sandul Bibi’s faith is strong despite being held in prison for 11 months. She is encouraged by reading the Bible and a copy of Tortured for Christ. “In the month of March, Sandul…studied (Tortured for Christ). She is really encouraged. Last month when she traveled for Faisalabad for court hearing, secretly she gave that book to her father Gull Sheer and said to him, ‘Please read it in jail. This is a unique book,’” VOM contacts said. When Sandul’s family visited her in prison during the recent Muslim holiday, Ramadan, she told them about fellow prisoners trying to pressure her to celebrate the Islamic holiday which forces Muslims to fast from sun up to sundown. “I am Christian I pray to Jesus Christ why should I say prayers with you,” she told them. “I will not do that.” Even though Sandul has faced some challenges in prison, she told her family her faith in Christ is strong. “When I feel lonely, I talk with God during the prayers, in the presence of God I feel strengthened and peace in mind. I am happy that this way. God fulfils his words that “I am with you,” Sandul said.

Romans 15:4-6

SOMALIA - Christian transporting Bibles killed – Compass Direct News

On Sept. 15, 69-year-old Omar Khalife, a Somali Christian, was shot dead by members of al-Shabaab, a Muslim extremist group, when Bibles were found in his possession, according to Compass Direct News. At approximately 10:30 a.m., a bus transporting Omar Khalife was stopped by extremists at a checkpoint near the city of Merca. When the extremists discovered 25 Somali Bibles in one of the bags Khalife was delivering to an underground fellowship group they demanded to know who owned them. When the passengers did not disclose the owner, they used photos in the bag to determine the owner. When they realized the photos resembled Khalife, they asked him if the Bibles were his. When he did not respond the extremists shot and killed him. They transported Khalife's body and the Bibles to Merca and displayed them as a warning to others. Later that day, a member of the extremist group reported Khalife's death on a local radio program. Khalife, who had been a Christian for 45 years, was active in sharing the gospel and baptizing Christian converts from Islam. He is mourned by his wife and seven children. Praise God for the life and testimony of Omar Khalife. In recent months, Khalife is the latest believer killed by the Muslim extremist group al-Shabaab. Ask God to protect and encourage believers who courageously continue to stand for Him in the midst of danger. Pray for peace in war-torn Somalia.

Psalm 68: 1-5

CHINA – Prominent pastor detained by officials – China Aid Association

On Sept. 17, Pastor Hua Huiqi was arrested by Chinese authorities in Fengtai District, Beijing, according to China Aid Association. Pastor Hua reportedly called his wife, Ju Mei, and told her he had been forced into a Public Security Bureau (PSB) vehicle while on his way to a dinner meeting. Less than half-an-hour later, Hua phoned his wife again and told her that the police had taken him to an unknown location. The phone line then went dead. Meanwhile, on September 22, Pastor Hua was escorted to Beijing Tiantan Hospital by five PSB officials to visit with his brother, Hua Huilin who is seriously ill. The Hua family's request for him to visit his brother had previously been denied. His elderly mother, Shuang Shuying, who was released from prison a few months ago, is also seriously ill and Hua has been denied requests to visit her. Pray for this family that has endured a lot for the sake of Christ. Ask God for Hua’s release and for healing for his brother and mother. Pray believers in China will remain faithful.

Psalm 100: 1-5

VOM-USA Prayer Update for September 25, 2009

2009-09-25T05:27:00.000-05:00

Thank you for praying for persecuted Christians around the world.

Let the fires go out in the boiler room of the church and the place will still look smart and clean, but it will be cold. The Prayer Room is the boiler room for its spiritual life. - Leonard Ravenhill

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. - Ephesians 6:18

On Tue. Sep 22 2009 at 06:03 AM Moderator wrote:
INDIA - Church Damaged in Attack – VOM Contacts

On Sept. 9, St. Francis De Sales Church in Bangalore, India, was attacked by more than 15 Hindu extremists, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. Extremists armed with weapons broke into the church, damaged window panes and statues inside the church. A house behind the church was damaged. The church has about 3,000 members who attend services conducted in different languages such as Tamil, Malayalam and English. Following the attack, the church priests, Father Aloysius and Father Selvaraj, filed a complaint with the police. The Voice of the Martyrs supports and assists persecuted believers in India. VOM ministers to persecuted believers by providing emergency medical treatment and ministry resources like motorbikes for pastors. Ask God to encourage the leaders and members of this church. Ask God to protect and encourage Christians in India as they share the Good News of Jesus.

2 Corinthians 12:9-10

PAKISTAN – Teenager Abducted by Muslims – VOM Contacts

On Sept. 16, The Voice of the Martyrs received reports that Sidra, a Christian teenage girl, was abducted by Muslims in Pakistan. The Voice of the Martyrs contacts reported she was with family members when 16 Muslims isolated her and her brother, and then beat him badly and abducted her. Sidra’s father and mother are frantic and are requesting prayer for their daughter’s safe return. This is the second time Sidra has been abducted by Muslims. In February 2008, she was abducted while getting ready for school and was held in captivity for eight months. While being held Sidra was violated and Muslims attempted to force her to deny Christ, but she refused. Recently the family was holding prayer meetings in their neighborhood and praying for Muslims in their home. They believe this upset local Muslims and led to the abduction.

Psalm 91:1-5

CHINA - Believers Assaulted, Church Destroyed – China Aid Association

On Sept. 13, a mob of more than 400 people, including Chinese officials, barged into the Good News Cloth Shoes Factory on the site of the Fushan Church building in Linfin City, Shanxi province, according to China Aid Association. The officials used two construction vehicles to tear the building's foundation and also attacked church members who were sleeping on the site. Believers were assaulted with bricks and other blunt objects. The attackers smashed windows, doors and appliances, and looted church members' money, cell phones, clothes and books. They also stole the factory's business license. At least ten church members were severely injured in the violence. Several were taken to the emergency room for treatment. However, the hospital was told by unidentified authorities to withhold medical treatment, including blood transfusions, from the injured church members. The factory's electricity, water supply and telephone have been terminated and guards have been placed on-site to monitor the supply lines. The Voice of the Martyrs has supported persecuted believers in China for more than 30 years. Pray that the Lord will strengthen members of the Fushan Church in their hearts, minds and bodies as they face opposition for their faith. Pray that they will demonstrate Christ's love and compassion to their persecutors.

2 Thessalonians 1:3-5

VOM-USA Prayer Update for September 18, 2009

2009-09-18T10:47:00.000-05:00

Thank you for praying for persecuted Christians around the world.

Let the fires go out in the boiler room of the church and the place will still look smart and clean, but it will be cold. The Prayer Room is the boiler room for its spiritual life. - Leonard Ravenhill

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. - Ephesians 6:18

VOM-USA Prayer Update for September 18, 2009
On Wed. Sep 16 2009 at 07:25 AM Moderator wrote:
IRAN: Women in Prison Seriously Ill – Elam Ministries

UPDATE: On Sept. 10, The Voice of the Martyrs received reports that Maryam and Marzieh’s health has deteriorated and urgent prayers are needed for God to encourage, and miraculously heal them. According to Elam Ministries, the women who have been in prison for more than six months are suffering from sore throats, irregular painful stomach aches and intense headaches. “Both have lost much weight during their ordeal, because of their sicknesses and lack of nutrition,” officials at Elam Ministries said. “Marzieh’s tooth infection is only being treated by painkillers.” If the infection spreads, Elam officials added, Marzieh’s health status could become critical. Maryam and Marzieh are being held at Evin prison a notoriously harsh prison. The prison is overcrowded, has limited medical facilities, and many prisoners are reportedly sick and causing a high risk for spreading viruses. Meanwhile, Elam Ministries also reported the judge in charge of their case, has said that they are “not cooperating” because they have refused to deny Christ. “The implication of his remark is that they continue to stay in prison. This is the normal punishment for female apostates: they are kept imprisoned until they recant,” Elam officials added. VOM encourages you to pray for this judge to be either removed from the case or that he orders their release. Pray for their healing and for the Holy Spirit to encourage them. Praise God for their faithfulness.

Psalms 91:1-5

UZBEKISTAN – Baptist Leader and Three others Facing Three Years in Prison – Forum 18 News

The head of Uzbekistan’s Baptist Union, Pavel Peichev, and two other believers face up to three years in prison each when they go on trial under criminal charges of tax evasion and teaching children Christianity against their parents' will at a Baptist-run summer camp, according to Forum 18 News. The three have rejected the accusations against them. Dmitri Pitirimov, one of the accused, told Forum 18 the Baptist Union is a religious organization and is exempt from paying taxes. As the leader of the Joy Children's Camp, he insists the two parents cited in the indictment against them signed documents to confirm their children’s attendance, knew "perfectly well" they were sending their children to a Baptist camp, where the children would be taught the Bible. Pray for justice in this case. Ask God to encourage believers to continue serving Christ despite pressure from the government. Pray the children who attended this camp will continue to grow in their faith.

Romans 8: 34-36

PHILIPPINES - Priest Killed by Unknown Assailants – VOM Canada

On Sept. 6, Father Cecilio Lucero was shot and killed by unknown assailants in Northern Samar, Philippines on Sept. 6. The priest was ambushed by a group of armed men while driving his car. He was shot several times and died instantly. His two passengers were seriously injured. Father Lucero was the pastor of St. Joseph Church in the town of Catubig where he was well known for serving his community as the director of the Social Action Center of the Diocese of Catarman. According to a local bishop, Lucero had asked for police protection after he began receiving death threats by mail in February because of his Christian activities. Thank God for Father Lucero’s faithful life and work. Pray that those who mourn his death will find strength, comfort and peace in Christ. Pray that God will continue to raise up cross-bearing disciples in the Philippines who are willing to remain faithful to Him at all cost.

1 Corinthians 4:9-14, 16

VOM-USA Prayer Update for September 11, 2009

2009-09-11T14:40:00.000-05:00

Thank you for praying for persecuted Christians around the world.

Let the fires go out in the boiler room of the church and the place will still look smart and clean, but it will be cold. The Prayer Room is the boiler room for its spiritual life. - Leonard Ravenhill

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. - Ephesians 6:18

On Tue. Sep 08 2009 at 10:48 AM Moderator wrote:
MIDDLE EAST – Pray for Muslims – VOM Sources

On Sept. 1, The Voice of the Martyrs received a letter from the wife of one of many Christians being held in prison in an Islamic country. In her letter, she shared how her 3-year-old daughter struggles with her husband’s imprisonment and asked for continued prayers. The letter highlights the challenges Christian families are facing in Islamic countries. Many believers are being held in prisons because they refuse to recant their faith. VOM encourages you to pray for this family and many others who are asking God for their loved ones’ release. Pray for the children who do not understand where their parents are. Ask God to comfort them with the Holy Spirit.

Romans 15:4-6

UZBEKISTAN - Believers Arrested – Forum 18 News

On Aug. 23, seven church members belonging to the registered Donam Protestant church were arrested and Christian literature confiscated when more than 20 police officers raided a church service in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, according to Forum 18 News. Members of the Anti-Terror Police claimed the service was “unauthorized” and although three men were released on the same day, four, including the pastor, Vladimir Tyo, were sentenced to 15 days in prison. They have been charged with “violation of the procedure for organizing and conducting meetings.” The judge ordered the confiscated literature be destroyed. This is the latest of many raids on both registered and unregistered religious communities in Uzbekistan. The Voice of the Martyrs supports persecuted believers in Uzbekistan by encouraging them and providing resources to courageous believers. VOM encourages you to pray for the imprisoned believers and their families. Ask God to protect and encourage them and other believers living under heavy scrutiny from the government.

James 1:2-4

INDIA - Hindus Falsely Accuse Christians of Murder - Compass Direct News

Hindus in Madhya Pradesh have accused Pastor Kamlesh Tahed and three other Christians of murdering a young man who was killed in a fight between two locals, according to Compass Direct News. On Aug. 8, Roop Singh Baria was killed during violence between the Baria and Tahed clans regarding 1,000 rupees (US $20), which had been borrowed by one of the Tahed family members. When members of the Baria clan filed a report with the police about the incident, they implicated Pastor Tahed, Kasna Tahed, and two other believers, Ramesh Tahed and Vasna Tahed, in the murder. The four men and other locals insist that the Christians were not present when the murder took place. Commenting on the situation, Pastor Tahed said, "I once was one of them, but in the 20 years since I became a Christian, they have been dragging me into false cases and hate me for my work of evangelism.” In 2001, Pastor Tahed was jailed for 20 days on false charges of "forcible conversion“ and released only after a costly court battle to prove his innocence. At last report, he was in hiding and the three other accused believers were in police custody. Pray that the truth will come out in this situation and that true justice will reign. Pray for strength of faith for the accused Christians. Ask God to protect and encourage Christians in India as they share the Good News of Jesus.

Amos 5:24

VOM-USA Prayer Update for September 4, 2009

2009-09-04T06:02:00.000-05:00

Thank you for praying for persecuted Christians around the world.

Let the fires go out in the boiler room of the church and the place will still look smart and clean, but it will be cold. The Prayer Room is the boiler room for its spiritual life. - Leonard Ravenhill

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. - Ephesians 6:18

On Tue. Sep 01 2009 at 09:06 AM Moderator wrote:
INDIA – Church burned in Andhra Pradesh – VOM Sources

On Aug. 20, The Best Friends Church building in the village of Mahasamudram in Andhra Pradesh, India, was burned to the ground by suspected Hindu extremists, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. A dedication service for the newly constructed church building had been scheduled for Aug. 30. The pastor constructed the building on his property after hosting the services in his home for seven years. Ask God to protect the pastor’s family who live near the burned church. Pray that the believers of this church will continue to gather together for worship. Pray that those responsible will experience repentance and salvation, just as Paul did.

Romans 8:34-36

SOMALIA – Christian Convert Murdered by Extremists – Compass Direct News

Compass Direct News reports that on Aug. 18, a Christian convert from Islam was shot dead in Bulahawa, Somalia, by members of al-Shabaab, an Islamic extremist group. In early 2009, Ahmed Matan began facing harassment from Muslim extremists who demanded to know why he had expanded his trading business to Mandera, a town in neighboring Kenya. Two weeks before his death, Matan informed the former leader of the underground church he had attended since 2001 that extremists were monitoring his activities and preventing him from working in Kenya. Matan is survived by a wife and three children, ages 7, 4 and 3 months. Pray for those grieving the loss of Matan. Pray that Somali believers will remain faithful even upon threat of death.

Revelation 2:10

BELARUS – Church Evicted – Forum 18 News

On Aug. 20, New Life Full Gospel Church in Minsk, Moscow, was issued an eviction notice by government officials, forcing them to abandon their church building purchased in 2002, according to Forum 18 News. The church is adamant they do not fear the government’s threats. “We’re here praying and believe God will protect us,” Sergei Lukanin, the church’s lawyer told Forum 18 News. “As a lawyer I believe the state could do anything, including the use of force. But as a believer I rely on God.” Government authorities have not disclosed why the church is being evicted, but have repeatedly refused to grant the church’s application for registration. In 2002, Belarus passed a restrictive religion law that made all unregistered religious activity illegal. New Life Full Gospel Church is one of many churches in Belarus facing increased restrictions by the government. Forum 18 News said the government has fined two other churches since July in the western town of Baranovichi. Ask God to encourage members of New Life Full Gospel Church and for their testimony to draw nonbelievers into fellowship with Christ.

Psalm 91:11-16

VOM-USA Prayer Update for August 28, 2009

2009-08-30T00:03:00.001-05:00

Thank you for praying for persecuted Christians around the world.

Let the fires go out in the boiler room of the church and the place will still look smart and clean, but it will be cold. The Prayer Room is the boiler room for its spiritual life. - Leonard Ravenhill

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. - Ephesians 6:18

On Wed. Aug 26 2009 at 07:05 AM Moderator wrote:
INDIA – Christians Attacked in Villages in Karnataka – VOM Sources/Compass Direct

GABBUR VILLAGE - On Aug. 9, Hindu extremists barged into a worship service in Gabbur village and assaulted Pastor James dragging him out of the building. He escaped the attackers and filed a report with police. Later that night, the extremists attacked Pastor James again at his home and chased his family out of the village. At last report the family has not returned to their home.

ANNIGERE VILLAGE - On Aug. 11, 80 Christians were attacked by Hindu extremists while attending a training camp for teachers. Extremists accused the Christians of being involved in forcible conversion. They confiscated cell phones, Bibles and assaulted the pastors. One pastor escaped and sought help from the police. Police arrived on the scene but, according to media reports, they watched as Bibles were collected and burned. Eight pastors were arrested later and charged with unlawful assembly, rioting, criminal conspiracy and "acts intended to outrage religious feelings by insulting religion or religious beliefs." The names and addresses of the other Christians were recorded by police before they were sent home. The detained pastors were released on bail on Aug. 18.

PADMANABHANAGAR VILLAGE - On Aug. 16, Pastor John Quadros was attacked and harassed by Hindu extremists while visiting a home to pray for a sick believer. The pastor was accused of forcible conversion, questioned and told to inform officials of any future prayer activities. The extremists threatened to attack him if they heard of further prayer meetings.

Pray that increased persecution in India will result in increased boldness among Christians. Ask God to work in the hearts and lives of Hindu extremists so that they will turn to Him. Pray believers will remain faithful and courageous.

Acts 4:29-31

CHINA - Chinese church banned, Christians arrested – China Aid Association

On Aug. 13, Li Guangren and Zheng Xincai, two members of the Laojie Christian Church in Henan province were arrested two days after authorities officially banned their church for a second time, according to China Aid Association. The Bureau of Religious and Ethnic Affairs in Xiayi County officially banned the Laojie Christian Church, declaring it "an illegal site for religious activities." An earlier statement abolishing the church had been issued on June 27. The church's ban follows a recent proposal made to them by the Village Party Committee of Sangdong to exchange their church property for another only half the size. When the Christians asked for a more equitable replacement, the committee threatened to demolish the church building. Ask God to protect and sustain Guangren and Xincai during their detention. Pray for courage for Chinese believers as they continue to serve the Lord despite harassment and arrest.

Psalm 5:10-12

VOM-USA Prayer Update for August 21, 2009

2009-08-24T06:10:00.001-05:00

Thank you for praying for persecuted Christians around the world.

Let the fires go out in the boiler room of the church and the place will still look smart and clean, but it will be cold. The Prayer Room is the boiler room for its spiritual life. - Leonard Ravenhill

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. - Ephesians 6:18

On Wed. Aug 19 2009 at 07:28 AM Moderator wrote:
BANGLADESH - Pastor Tortured by Police – VOM Contacts

On June 7, police raided an evangelism meeting, arrested and tortured a pastor and two others in Boalia, Bangladesh, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. Pastor Habibur Rahman, of Boalia Spiritual Church was leading the meeting when suddenly the police came in and took them to the police station. That night the police blindfolded them and beat them up. During the beatings, police asked who was supporting them financially, and how long they had been evangelizing and how many people they had converted. At some point during the torture, police burned one of the believer’s hands and lips with a cigarette. VOM contacts reported that Pastor Rahman and the other two tortured believers have recovered from their injuries. They believe the attack occurred at the urging of local Muslims who are unhappy with believers’ evangelism efforts in the community. VOM has provided assistance to Pastor Rahman and the other believers in Boalia. VOM actively supports persecuted believers in Bangladesh by providing discipleship training materials, bicycles for evangelists, and emergency relief for persecuted believers. Pray for Pastor Rahman and the believers in this area as they continue serving Christ in the midst of persecution. Ask God to encourage and give them boldness.

Revelation 2:9-11

NIGERIA - Pastors Beheaded in Borno State – VOM Canada

On July 26, 12 Christians were killed, including three pastors, in northern Nigeria after members of the Islamic extremist group Boko Haram launched attacks on police and government bases. The violence which began in Bauchi state, spread to Borno, Kano and Yobe states. Churches were set ablaze and several people were abducted, including Christians. Many believers were threatened with death if they refused to convert to Islam. According to media reports, three pastors - Pastors Sabo Yukubu, Sylvester Akpan and Pastor George Orji - were brutally beheaded by assailants who were reportedly acting on the instruction of the extremist group's leader, Mohammed Yusuf, who was later killed by authorities. The militants attempted to force the pastors to convert to Islam, but they refused to abandon their faith. They were then beheaded by guards who shouted "Allah Akbar" and fired several gunshots into the air in celebration. Pray that God will comfort the families of those killed in these attacks. Pray that the peace of Christ will rule the hearts and minds of Nigerian Christians in the face of ongoing threats and danger.

Philippians 4:7

VIETNAM – Christians attacked and beaten by authorities – VOM Contacts

On Aug. 9, a service was raided and those in attendance were beaten by a mob of Vietnamese authorities. Initially authorities thought they could dismiss the meeting, but when they realized they could not, they started assaulting Christians causing minor injuries. Praise God there were no serious injuries. Ask God to protect and encourage persecuted believers in Vietnam. Praise God for His faithfulness.

Psalm 92:1-3

VOM-USA Prayer Update for July 24, 2009

2009-07-24T03:45:00.000-05:00

Thank you for praying for persecuted Christians around the world.

Let the fires go out in the boiler room of the church and the place will still look smart and clean, but it will be cold. The Prayer Room is the boiler room for its spiritual life. - Leonard Ravenhill

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. - Ephesians 6:18

On Thu. Jul 23 2009 at 09:53 AM Moderator wrote:
PAKISTAN – Christian Homes Burned – VOM Sources

On June 26, more than 150 Muslim extremists launched a devastating attack on more than 150 Christian families after a fight about a personal matter between Muslims and Christians occurred three days earlier. During the attack Muslims damaged 60 houses, including burning 16 to the ground, poured kerosene on a believer in an attempt to burn her, destroyed two donkey carts and broke 25 electricity meters, in Kasur, Pakistan, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts.
“They disgraced many Christian women,” VOM contacts said. “They tried to burn one of the ladies by throwing kerosene oil on her. Thanks God she was able to escape from them. One of the young girls was having bath, she escaped without her cloths when they attacked.” Pray for these families that have lost their homes and had their property damaged. Ask God to encourage and protect them during this difficult time.

Matthew 5:11-12

IRAQ - Seven churches bombed – VOM Canada

On July 11, two bombs targeted churches in the cities of Baghdad and Mosul and killed at least four people and injured 30 others, according to VOM Canada. The two bombs ripped through the St. Joseph church in western Baghdad at approximately 10 p.m. The next afternoon, three bombs exploded within 15 minutes of each other outside three different church buildings in Baghdad. That evening, a car bomb detonated outside a church building in the eastern region of the city. Minutes later, another bomb exploded outside a church building in Baghdad's Dora district. Meanwhile on July 13, a car bomb detonated near Our Lady of Fatima Church in the city of Mosul. Pray for those who have lost loved ones. Ask God to guard the hearts of Iraqi Christians against fear and enable them to continue serving Him with boldness. Pray that those responsible for these bombings will repent and come to know Christ as their Lord and Savior.

Acts 20:22-24

SOMALIA - Seven Christians beheaded in Somalia

On July 10, seven Christians were beheaded by the Al Qaeda-linked extremist group Al Shabaab which controls southern Somalia and the capital Mogadishu. The Christians were accused of renouncing Islam and being "spies" for the government. Public executions, floggings, and amputations have reportedly increased in areas controlled by Al-Shabaab in recent weeks. Pray for the friends and family members mourning the loss of these Christians. Pray that Somali believers will exemplify the love of God through consistent love and prayer for those who persecute them.

Matthew 5:43-48

CHINA - House churches raided, Christians arrested – China Aid Association

Chinese officials have raided house church meetings and arrested believers throughout the country in recent weeks, according to reports from China Aid Association. On July 3, a house church was raided and eight Christians arrested in the A'Ler Tai area of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. Meanwhile on July 5, officials raided a house church worship service in Dongyong city, Shandong province. Believers were accused of "disturbing social order" for organizing a religious service for more than 40 people in a home. The house church was abolished by the authorities. Pray for believers in China. Ask God to give Christians the endurance to stand firm despite the opposition.

Lev. 19:18

VOM-USA Prayer Update for July 17, 2009

2009-07-17T09:01:00.001-05:00

Thank you for praying for persecuted Christians around the world.

Let the fires go out in the boiler room of the church and the place will still look smart and clean, but it will be cold. The Prayer Room is the boiler room for its spiritual life. - Leonard Ravenhill

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. - Ephesians 6:18

On Tue. Jul 14 2009 at 01:43 PM Moderator wrote:
SOMALIA - Sons of Christian Beheaded – Compass Direct News

Islamic extremists have beheaded two boys in Somalia because their Christian father, 55 year-old Musa Mohammed Yusuf, refused to give them information about an underground church leader, according to Compass Direct News. The extremists from the group al shabaab killed 11-year-old Abdi Rahaman Musa Yusuf and 12-year-old Hussein Musa Yusuf, after abducting them in front of their mother. The terrorists are currently looking for Yusuf in Kenyan refugee camps. Yusuf was a leader of an underground church in Yonday village, 19 miles from Kismayo, Somalia. On February 20, the extremists interrogated Yusuf about his relationship with Salat Mberwa, the Christian leader who discipled him in the faith and led an underground fellowship with 66 believers. When Yusuf told them he did not have any connection to him and knew nothing about him, they left and vowed to return the next day. Yusuf fled immediately and the next day the extremists killed his sons. Yusuf’s wife and 7-year-old son have joined him in the refugee camp in Kenya where Mberwa and other believers are helping them. VOM encourages you to pray for Yusuf and his family as they have lost their sons. Pray God comforts them during this difficult time, and provides the family with other believers who can encourage them with scriptures and songs.

1 Thessalonians 2:2

TANZANIA - Church buildings burned down in Zanzibar – Compass Direct News

On June 28, two church buildings on the outskirts of Unguja Township on the Tanzanian island of Zanzibar were burned by suspected Muslim extremists, according to Compass Direct News. A flier stating, "We don't want churches on our street. Today we are going to burn the church, and if you continue we are going to burn your house also," was left at the home of the man who donated the plot of land for The Evangelical Assemblies of God church building. The church was burned. The Pentecostal Evangelical Fellowship in Africa church building, only a few miles away, was also torched. The week before, an assistant sheikh approached the church leader and told him that the building, which was in the final stages of construction, would be destroyed unless the construction was stopped. Pray that increased persecution will result in increased boldness among believers in Zanzibar. Pray that the passion of God's people in Zanzibar will be a light that draws others to Christ.

Acts 4:29-31

CHINA - Chinese couple sentenced for "engaging in illegal religious activities" – China Aid Association

Officials arrested Pastor Dou Shaowen on June 14 along with other believers during a house church raid. He was given a one year-sentence of "re-education" through labor, according to China Aid Association. Pastor Dou's wife, Feng Lu, received the same sentence. While Pastor Dou is imprisoned in a labor camp, authorities have permitted Feng Lu to serve her sentence at home so she can care for their 12-year-old daughter. However, officials informed her she will be sent to the camp if she is discovered engaging in further "illegal religious activities." The believers who were given 15-day administrative sentences following the June 14 house church attack have not been released at last report. Pray for this family, especially their child. Ask God to encourage and protect them.

Psalm 23

VOM-USA Prayer Update for July 10, 2009

2009-07-10T05:38:00.000-05:00

Thank you for praying for persecuted Christians around the world.

Let the fires go out in the boiler room of the church and the place will still look smart and clean, but it will be cold. The Prayer Room is the boiler room for its spiritual life. - Leonard Ravenhill

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. - Ephesians 6:18

On Wed. Jul 08 2009 at 11:13 AM Moderator wrote:
MAURITANIA - Christian aid worked killed – VOM Sources

On June 23, Al-Qaeda reportedly claimed responsibility for shooting and killing, Christopher Leggett, an American aid worker in Nouakchott, the capital city of Mauritania. On June 25, Al-Jazeera TV reportedly received an audio statement from Al-Qaeda which stated that "two knights of the Islamic Maghreb succeeded Tuesday morning at 8:00 a.m. to kill the infidel American Christopher Leggett for his Christianising activities." Leggett worked for a non-governmental organization in Mauritania involved in training and equipping prisoners to re-enter society. He also oversaw a microloan program which fostered the growth of small businesses. He had been a resident of Mauritania for the past seven years along with his wife and four children. Thank the Lord for Christopher Leggett's life as a cross-bearing disciple. Ask God to comfort those who mourn for him. Pray that Christians in Mauritania will be emboldened to follow in their savior’s footsteps and remain steadfast in faith.

1 Corinthians 4:9-14, 16

EGYPT - Christians attacked by Muslims – VOM Canada

On June 21, Christians in the village of Ezbet Boshra-East, Egypt were fearful to leave their homes after a Muslim mob attacked believers and damaged property, according to VOM contacts. A group of 25 Christians from Cairo arrived in the village to visit Father Isaac Castor, who lives in a building owned by the Coptic Church. When Muslims noticed six of the believers entering the building, they approached the remaining Christians waiting outside and began to taunt them. A Muslim woman approached one of the Christians and slapped her. Hundreds of Muslims then started to throw stones at the building and the believers. Some Christian homes in the village were plundered, farmers' crops were uprooted and Father Castor's car was vandalized. Over a dozen Christians and several Muslims were injured in the violence. Nineteen Christians were arrested and released the following day. Their homes were reportedly ransacked by police and they were mistreated while in detention. Pray for healing for those injured. Pray that Christians in Egypt will put their hope in the Lord as the one who upholds their cause. Ask God to move in the lives of those who persecute believers in Egypt.

Psalm 146

CHINA - Update: House church leaders released in Sichuan – China Aid Association

Praise God! The house church leaders arrested in Langzhong city, Sichuan province on June 9 have been released following international pressure, according to China Aid Association. Thirteen of the leaders served 10 days of administrative detention and were released on June 20. The five leaders placed in criminal detention were released on June 23. Meanwhile, three other house church leaders arrested on June 14 for “illegal religious activities,” in Taochuan village, Shaanxi province have been released. Praise God for these believers and their faithfulness. Ask God to protect them as they continue serving him.

Psalm 23

VOM-USA Prayer Update for July 3, 2009

2009-07-03T13:00:00.001-05:00

Thank you for praying for persecuted Christians around the world.

Let the fires go out in the boiler room of the church and the place will still look smart and clean, but it will be cold. The Prayer Room is the boiler room for its spiritual life. - Leonard Ravenhill

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. - Ephesians 6:18

On Wed. Jul 01 2009 at 11:22 AM Moderator wrote:
INDIA – Pastor and Family Attacked – VOM Sources

On June 14, a pastor and his family were brutally attacked after Hindu extremists barged into their church during a prayer meeting, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. At 11 a.m. more than 40 Hindu extremists belonging to the Rashtriya Swayam Sevak and Bajrang Dal fundamentalist groups, barged into Beersheba Church and asked for Pastor Kulpeep Daniel. The group accused the pastor of forcible conversions. When the Pastor told them who he was, the extremists immediately started beating him. The extremists also assaulted Pastor Daniel’s wife, brother and his two-and-a-half and one-year-old children. The attackers also destroyed the family’s property in the parsonage and musical instruments and other equipment in the church. The pastor and his wife suffered internal injuries. Pastor Daniel has filed a police report. The Voice of the Martyrs actively supports persecuted believers like Pastor Daniel. VOM provides legal assistance to pastors and Christians who are arrested and falsely accused by Hindu extremists.VOM encourages you to pray for this family. Ask God to protect and encourage them especially the young children. Ask God to heal their injuries and bless them.

Psalm 119: 161-162

YEMEN - Christian relief workers abducted and killed - VOM Canada

On June 12, nine Christian relief workers were abducted and three killed, reportedly because they were suspected of being involved in evangelistic work, according to VOMCanada. The Christians left the city of Sa'ada without an armed escort to visit a doctor who lived nearby, according to reports. The believers left the doctor's home after two hours and eyewitnesses saw a group of armed men stop them. Investigators believe the kidnappers executed three of the hostages a short time later. At last report the other relief workers are still being held hostage and have been handed over to tribesmen. Two suspects have surrendered themselves to Yemeni authorities and have been arrested. It is also reported that local imams in the area were concerned that some of the relief workers were involved in evangelism while providing medical aid. Pray for the families of the deceased believers and protection for those who have been kidnapped. Thank God for the faithful lives and work of those killed. Pray that the remaining hostages will be released. Ask God to fill those in mourning with a peace that surpasses understanding in the midst of their grief. Pray for endurance and wisdom for those serving the Lord in Yemen.

Philippians 4:7

PAKISTAN - Christian woman facing blasphemy charges

Asia Bibi, a 37 year-old Christian woman was recently arrested by police on allegations of blasphemy in Punjab province, Pakistan. On June 19, some of the Muslim women who work with Bibi on a farm owned by a local Muslim engaged in a heated discussion with Bibi about Islam. Bibi told them that Christ died on the cross for their sins and asked them what Mohammed had done for them. "Our Christ is the true prophet of God and yours is not true," Bibi said. The Muslim women became angry and began to beat her. Some men then locked her in a room and she was later arrested. At last report Bibi was being held at a police station and local Christians were urging the police not to file blasphemy charges. However, police claim that they must go forward due to pressure from local Muslim leaders. Pray that Bibi will be released. Pray for strength for Bibi's family. Ask God to give boldness to Christians in Pakistan as they witness to their Muslim neighbors.

Psalm 91:1-5

VOM Prayer Updates for June 26th

2009-06-26T08:28:00.001-05:00

On Tue. Jun 23 2009 at 12:57 PM Moderator wrote:
LAOS - 13 Christians Arrested – VOM Sources

On June 12, 13 Christians were arrested by plain clothes police, after visiting Christian villages in Laos, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. The visiting believers met the police when they were in the village for their routine daily work. The police questioned them about what they were doing in the village. The police have not disclosed why they arrested the believers and at last report the Christians are still being held at a provincial police station. The Voice of the Martyrs supports persecuted believers in Laos. VOM provides money to translate Bibles into multiple Laotian languages. Through this project, thousands of Christians will have access to the full Bible for the first time. VOM encourages you to pray for the release of these believers. Ask God to protect and encourage the believers in the villages. Pray God to bless Christians in Laos.

Lamentations 3:21-24

CHINA – House church leaders arrested in Sichuan – China Aid Association

On June 9, several dozen Chinese officials from the Domestic Security Protection Squad barged into Pastor Li Ming’s home in Langzhong city, Sichuan province, where more than 30 house church leaders were gathered, according China Aid Association. Pastor Li's home was searched and all of the believers arrested. Thirteen leaders were sentenced to 15 days of administrative detention. Five other leaders, including Pastor Li, were placed under criminal detention and are likely to face formal criminal indictment or up to three years of "re-education through labor." The remaining leaders have been released. Ask God to give wisdom and guidance to the imprisoned leaders and their families. Pray for an end to crackdowns against believers in China.

Psalm 23

BELARUS - Pastor receives hefty fine – Forum 18 News

A court in the eastern town of Osipovichi has fined Pastor Nikolai Poleshchuk 2,100,000 Belarusian rubles (US$ 739) for running a Christian street library, according to Forum 18 News. The fine, according to local Christians, is the equivalent of nearly three month’s wages. Locals say this is the largest fine ever issued for religious activity in Belarus. In January, Poleshchuk and another believer were approached by the head of the Osipovichi District Ideology Department and told that they had no right to run the street library since their church is unregistered. At a hearing in March, Poleshchuk was given an official warning and the confiscated Christian literature was ordered to be destroyed. At the trial, Poleshchuk was charged with "violation of the procedure for organizing or conducting mass events or pickets." The court also amended their decision regarding the literature and ruled that the books instead be handed to the state. Pray that Pastor Poleshchuk will find peace in Christ in the midst of pressure and opposition for his faith. Pray that God will embolden him and other Christians in Belarus to continue spreading the Gospel in their nation.

Philippians 4:7

VOM-USA Prayer Update for June 19, 2009

2009-06-19T12:30:00.000-05:00

Thank you for praying for persecuted Christians around the world.

Let the fires go out in the boiler room of the church and the place will still look smart and clean, but it will be cold. The Prayer Room is the boiler room for its spiritual life. - Leonard Ravenhill

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. - Ephesians 6:18

On Mon. Jun 15 2009 at 01:27 PM Moderator wrote:
NEPAL - Extremists’ Warn Believers – VOM Sources

UPDATE: On June 10, The Voice of the Martyrs received a copy of a letter from the Nepal Defense Fund (NDF), threatening to bomb 10 Christian homes in Nepal, if believers did not leave in 30 days, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. The letter written by R.P. Mainali, the supreme commander of the NDF, published in a local newspaper, said the Nepalese government should not have released 62 Christians, in 1989 and 1990, who had been jailed for actively proselytising. The letter warned that these Christians, who have continued their work, were threatening Hinduism. “We are giving these unholy elements who are grabbing the authority of the people of the country under the cloak of religion, a notice of one month to leave the country, otherwise we will explode 10 bombs in the homes of the 10 Christians in Nepal, for which we take responsibility in advance,” the NDP letter said. The Voice of the Martyrs encourages you to pray for believers in Nepal who are living under these threats. Ask God to protect them and for their courageous testimony to draw non believers into fellowship with Christ.

Revelation 12: 10-11

CHINA – Bookstore Owner Sentenced – China Aid Association

On June 10, a Chinese court sentenced Christian bookstore owner, 38 year-old, Shi Weihan, to three years in prison for “illegal business operations,” and fined him US$21,975 , according to China Aid Association. Shi Weihan operated a legal bookstore and only sold books with the government’s approval. His Holy Spirit Trading Company printed Bibles and Christian literature and distributed then freely to local house churches. Weihan was arrested in November 2007 for printing and distributing Bibles and other Christian literature. He was released in January 2008 due to insufficient evidence, but was arrested again in March and held indefinitely. China Aid reported his sentence will run from November 2007 to November 2010. Believers hope that Weihan will be allowed to appeal his sentence because of medical reasons. While in prison his diabetic condition has worsened. The Voice of the Martyrs has been actively involved in ministry in China for the past 30 years. VOM supports persecuted believers like Shi Weihan, who are paying a great price for their faith in Jesus Christ.VOM encourages you to pray for Weihan and his family during this difficult time. Ask God to encourage and protect them and for Weihan to be released from prison.

2 Psalm 5:11

PAKISTAN - Imprisoned Christian Strong in Her Faith – VOM Sources

Imprisoned Christian, Sandul Bibi, remains strong in her faith and is concerned about her family’s faith despite being in prison for the past eight months, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. Sandul has been encouraged by the prayers of other believers and her spirits are high even though the prison is hot and she has been suffering from allergies. Her family has provided her with medication for the allergies. In spite of these challenges, Sandul is concerned with her family’s faith and encourages them to remain strong in the Lord. VOM encourages you to continue praying for Sandul and her father Gulsher who are both in prison. Ask God to protect and encourage all believers in Pakistan.

Psalm 91:1-10

VOM-USA Prayer Update for June 12, 2009

2009-06-15T15:03:00.000-05:00

Thank you for praying for persecuted Christians around the world.

Let the fires go out in the boiler room of the church and the place will still look smart and clean, but it will be cold. The Prayer Room is the boiler room for its spiritual life. - Leonard Ravenhill

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. - Ephesians 6:18

On Tue. Jun 09 2009 at 09:27 AM Moderator wrote:
NEPAL - Hindu Extremist Threaten More Bombings – VOM Sources

UPDATE – The leader of the Hindu extremist group, Nepal Defense Fund (NDF), has threatened to bomb the homes of all Christians if they do not stop spreading the gospel within one month, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. In a letter received by local newspapers in Nepal, R.P. Mainali, the supreme commander of the NDF, demanded that Nepal be declared a Hindu state and Christians should not be allowed to worship freely. He said Hindu groups would not allow foreign missionaries and if the government did not comply, “they would fight the government.” NDF was responsible for the May 23 bombing of a Catholic church in Kathmandu that killed three believers and wounded 15 others. VOM is assisting six injured believers with medical treatment through VOMedical. Ask God to heal those who were injured. VOM encourages you to pray for believers in Nepal who face increased persecution and uncertainty. Ask God to protect and encourage them. Pray their testimonies will draw others into fellowship with him.

Matthew 10: 21-25

IRAN – House Church Raided by Police – VOM Sources

On May 21 five newly converted Christians were arrested in Karaj, Iran after plain clothes security officers raided a house church where they had gathered for a Bible study, according to Farsi Christian News Network. Javad Abtahi, was among those arrested and his house was searched during the raid. … was given no arrest warrant by the security officers and his house was searched without any court authorization,” FCNN said. “In this search and seizure, several Bibles, New Testaments were confiscated and all the participants were handcuffed and taken to an unknown location.” The families of the arrested believers have tried to ask the government where their loved ones are being held, without any success. FCNN added that the government has always refused to disclose where it holds arrested believers. The Voice of the Martyrs supports persecuted believers like the five recently arrested. VOM encourages you to pray for these believers and others in Iran who risk their lives daily because of their faith.

2 Matthew 5: 11-12

CHINA - Pastor banned from church in Tianjin province – China Aid Association

On May 16, the Office for Religious Affairs in Jinghai county, Tianjin province, China issued a notice abolishing the Immanuel Church and banning Pastor Han Changxu from serving there, according to China Aid Association. Pastor Han, an ethnic Korean and native of Heilongjiang province, has been the pastor of the church since 2004. During the 2008 Olympics, authorities in Tianjin province placed Pastor Han under surveillance when they discovered he had contacts with missionaries from South Korea. Authorities have also tried to prevent him from maintaining contact with churches in South Korea. Ask God to give encouragement and guidance to members of the Immanuel Church. Pray that Pastor Han will be free to continue his ministry without opposition. Pray that Christians in China will find comfort in knowing that endurance in trials leads to godly character and hope that does not disappoint.

Romans 5:3-5

Prayer

2009-06-11T21:11:00.001-05:00

Thank you for praying for persecuted Christians around the world.

Let the fires go out in the boiler room of the church and the place will still look smart and clean, but it will be cold. The Prayer Room is the boiler room for its spiritual life. - Leonard Ravenhill

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. - Ephesians 6:18

VOM-USA Prayer Update for June 5, 2009
On Thu. Jun 04 2009 at 07:08 AM Moderator wrote:
CHINA - Christians Released From Prison – China Aid Association

On May 9, 16 Christians from the China Gospel Fellowship were released early from administrative detention in Xinye, Henan province, according to China Aid Association. The Christians were released before serving their 10 to14 day sentences and without paying the 1,000 Yuan (US$150) fine. The released believers were part of a group arrested on April 30 and accused of “harming the society by falsely using the name of religion and Qi Gong.” Public Security Bureau officials raided the meeting and arrested the Christians. Two Christians were released days later, but 16 were held until May 9. Praise God these believers were released without restrictions. The Voice of the Martyrs has been supporting and encouraging believers in China for more than 30 years. VOM encourages you to pray for these and other believers who risk their lives for the sake of the gospel. Ask God to protect and provide for Christians in China who risk arrest every time they meet for worship.

Matthew 5:11-12

INDIA – Pastor Brutally Attacked – VOM Sources

On May 2009, Pastor Ramesh Mandevey was brutally attacked and left for dead by 10 Hindu extremists while he was returning from visiting a believer’s home in Tundavata, Madhya Pradesh, India, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. The extremists questioned the pastor and another believer about their evangelistic activities. “Before Pastor Ramesh could answer, they started beating him severely using their fists, clubs and rods,” VOM contacts added. “Thirsty, tired and severely injured, Pastor Ramesh started crawling towards a nearby tree. Before he could reach the shelter of the tree, the extremists returned and snatched his mobile phone, wallet that had Rs. 500 (US$10) and camcorder.” The pastor was later taken to the hospital with severe injuries on his right arm, leg, head and jaw. The injuries on his jaw are so severe that he is unable to swallow food. Before the attack, Hindu extremists lodged a complaint with the police accusing the pastor of forcibly converting Hindus. VOM encourages you to pray for this pastor who is risking his all for the sake of the gospel. Ask God to heal him and use his testimony to minister to his persecutors.

Psalm 9:13-16

NEPAL – Three Christians Killed in Church Bombing – VOM Sources

On May 23, a bomb killed three Christians and wounded 15 others at the Assumption Catholic Church, in Kathmandu, Nepal, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. During Mass attended by more than 250 people, a young man and woman entered the church and placed a bag on the floor of the church. “A few minutes later a bomb exploded sending shrapnel and nails flying into the congregation, “VOM contacts said. A 15 year-old girl was killed instantly and a 30-year-old newlywed who was visiting her family from India, died on the way to the hospital. Fifteen others were injured including one of the priests. Three remain critical. A second bomb was later disarmed by police before it detonated. Pray for the families of the deceased. Ask God to heal those who were injured and to protect believers in Nepal. Ask God to use the testimonies of believers to draw non believers into fellowship with Him.

Psalm 119: 161-168

Persecuted Church Update for the Week of May 29th

2009-05-29T04:13:00.001-05:00

Thank you for praying for persecuted Christians around the world.

Let the fires go out in the boiler room of the church and the place will still look smart and clean, but it will be cold. The Prayer Room is the boiler room for its spiritual life. - Leonard Ravenhill

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. - Ephesians 6:18

VOM-USA Prayer Update for May 29, 2009
On Thu. May 28 2009 at 09:16 AM Moderator wrote:
IRAN - Officials Deny Pension to Iranian Christian – Farsi Christian News Network

On May 14 a retired Christian schoolteacher in Iran, Fatemeh Pauki, was denied her pension by the district court of Ouroumieh, according to Farsi Christian News Network. On March 2, Pauki received a letter from the Ministry of Education stating that her pension would not be paid to her. In recent years, government officials have threatened and detained Pauki. She has been forced to promise that she will not have contact with Christians or attend any Christian meetings and that she will cooperate with the security officials in spying on other believers. Pauki's late husband, Majid Mahmoodi Tabrizi, a convert to Christianity from Islam, was repeatedly threatened by officials in an attempt to intimidate him into renouncing his faith. He was brutally murdered by unknown assailants in July 2005. His family has since received threatening letters warning them against inquiring further into his death. Pray that Pauki will stand strong in the face of persecution. Pray that she will take comfort in the care of her heavenly Father.

1 Peter 5:8-11

INDIA - Christians Beaten, Churches Set on Fire - VOM Sources

The Voice of the Martyrs received several reports of attacks on Christians in India recently.
MANIPUR STATE - On May 10, two church buildings were set on fire by Hindu extremists. The next day, another church building in the area was also torched. The buildings were badly damaged and furniture and equipment destroyed.

KARNATAKA STATE - On May 12, Hindu extremists barged into a school in Chennarayapatna, Hassan district, where pastors and other Christians were meeting for prayer. The extremists accused the believers of forcible conversion and beat several of them, including Pastor K.K. Ramesh. They also verbally harassed the women present and burned Bibles and other religious literature. The extremists eventually made their way to Pastor Ramesh's home and destroyed valuable items there. When police arrived an hour later, they took several believers to the police station and detained them. Those injured were denied medical treatment. All were released later that night without a charge.

TAMIL NADU STATE - On May 14, 10 Hindu extremists accosted Pastor George Philip while he was walking in the village of Kottavillai. When the pastor tried to walk away from the extremists, he was pelted with stones and beaten. He was later hospitalized for his injuries.

Pray for healing for those injured. Pray that the bold faith of Christians in India will be a light that draws others to Jesus.

Matthew 5:14-16

PAKISTAN - Christians Affected by Pakistan Unrest – VOM Sources

More than 80 Christian families are homeless and living on church grounds following the recent and continuing political unrest in Pakistan, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts.
Unlike Muslims, who have been housed and provided for by the government, more than 300 Christians have been displaced and left to fend for themselves. During a camp visit, local believers told our VOM contacts that before this war the Taliban was treating Christians as “infidels.” They stopped them from holding prayer meetings and threatened them, firing guns near Christian homes to stop them from praying. Pray for believers who have lost their homes and are living in refugee camps. Ask God to encourage, provide for and protect them.

Joshua1:9

Thank you for praying for persecuted Christians around the world.

2009-05-22T03:11:00.001-05:00

Let the fires go out in the boiler room of the church and the place will still look smart and clean, but it will be cold. The Prayer Room is the boiler room for its spiritual life. - Leonard Ravenhill

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. - Ephesians 6:18

VOM-USA Prayer Update for May 22, 2009
On Wed. May 20 2009 at 01:44 PM Moderator wrote:
INDIA - Churches Attacked, Believers Beaten – VOM Contacts

In recent weeks, The Voice of the Martyrs has received several reports of violence against Christians. On May 5, Hindu extremists attacked approximately 200 Christians gathered together for a meeting in Mumbai. Extremists forcefully entered the building, blocked the exits and ordered the believers to chant "Jai Shri Ram" (Praise Lord Ram). Those who refused were beaten. Several were injured, including a 5-year-old girl and a pastor who required five stitches in his head. Meanwhile, on May 5, a church building was set on fire by Hindu extremists in Andhra Pradesh state. Neighbors alerted the pastor and church members of the fire and by the time they arrived on the scene the furniture, pulpit, carpet and audio equipment had been destroyed. Also, on May 7, Hindu extremists disrupted a prayer meeting held in a home in Madhya Pradesh state. The extremists shouted abuses and assaulted the believers present. One believer suffered a broken arm. Five of the believers were arrested and taken to a police station. All were granted bail the next day. Pray for peace in India. Pray for healing for injured believers. Ask God to strengthen Christians in India to continue to be salt and light in the midst of oppression.

Psalm 23

TURKMENISTAN – Formerly Imprisoned Christian Under Fire – Forum 18 News

Authorities have threatened to seize the property of a formerly imprisoned Christian man unless he pays a large sum of money they claim he acquired illegally in 1995, according to Forum18 News. Shageldy Atakov was imprisoned in 1999 on charges of swindling another individual out of US$12,000 during a car deal. Atakov and other local Christians maintain that the charges were fabricated in order to stop his Christian activity. While in detention at the Seydi Labour Camp, Atakov was beaten repeatedly, received inadequate medical attention, poor diet and given psychotropic drugs for refusing to abandon his faith. He was released in January 2002. He served the full prison sentence, thus he is already cleared of the alleged debt now being demanded by authorities. On April 29, a local official visited his home in order to assess the value of their property and examine ownership documents. Pray that all false allegations against Atakov will cease. Pray for strength and protection for Atakov and his family. Pray that Christians facing trials in Turkmenistan will remember that they will be counted worthy of the kingdom of God for which they are suffering.

2 Thessalonians 1:5

INDONESIA - Christian Families Driven Out of Their Villages – VOM Sources

Two families were driven from their villages in West Java, Indonesia, in March after they converted to Christianity from Islam, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts. When one family returned home from a mass baptism, their landlord asked them to vacate his property they were renting. He was angry because they were now Christians. “The Muslim leaders [in the village] supported the land owners to drive out the family,” VOM contacts reported. “The husband and father also fired from his job because they had converted to Christianity.” Meanwhile, on March 19, another family in a different village in West Java was also evicted from their home after being baptized. “They were summoned by a Muslim leader [in the village] and told they should leave the village because Christians make the village unclean,” VOM contacts added. Pray for these families and many believers in Indonesia who face persecution because of their faith.

Psalm 29:11

2009-05-18T04:54:00.000-05:00

Thank you for praying for persecuted Christians around the world.

Let the fires go out in the boiler room of the church and the place will still look smart and clean, but it will be cold. The Prayer Room is the boiler room for its spiritual life. - Leonard Ravenhill

And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. - Ephesians 6:18

VOM-USA Prayer Update for May 15, 2009
On Tue. May 12 2009 at 02:47 PM Moderator wrote:
LIBYA – Christian Released from Jail – VOM Canada

On April 29, Daniel Baidoo, a Ghanaian Christian, was released from Libya’s Jedidah Prison after serving eight years of a 25-year sentence, according to VOM contacts. In 2001, Baidoo was convicted of attempting to convert Libyans to Christianity after he was arrested at a post office where he had gone to collect a package with Christian literature written in Arabic. The literature was mailed to him from a ministry in the United States. In Libya, evangelizing to Muslims is prohibited and the government monitors religious literature coming into the country. Baidoo's release was secured by Ghana's Vice President, John Dramani Mahama, who was in Libya on an official visit. Thank God for Baidoo's release. Pray that the Libyan government will respect religious freedom. Ask God to give wisdom and guidance to Baidoo as he continues serving the Lord.

Isaiah 26:3

IRAN – Prison Conditions Deteriorating for Imprisoned Believers – VOM Sources

The Voice of the Martyrs encourages you to continue praying for Marzieh Amirizadeh Esmaeilabad and Maryam Rustampoor who are being held in Evin prison, by the Iranian government, according to VOM contacts. Ask God to continue encouraging and protecting them. Pray God will move supernaturally and they will be released.

1 Peter 5:7

CHINA - 18 Christian House Church Leaders and Members Arrested – China Aid Association

On April 30, 2009, 18 house church Christians and leaders were arrested by Public Security Bureau (PSB) officers, while they were gathered for communion at a house church in Xinye city, Henan province, according to China Aid Association. The Christians were taken to the PSB office in Xinye city and each forced to pay a 1,000 Yuan (about US$150) fine. Currently 16 Christians are still being held by the PSB, including 10 preachers from Hubei province. The imprisoned pastors are, Wang Donggui, Yang Chengqun, GuoDaying, Hao Xuecheng, Lun Zhidian, Lian Fengmei, Chen Mingao, Ren Zhiai, Zhai Laoxue and Zhai Jinai. Pray the believers remaining in prison will be released. Ask God to encourage and protect persecuted believers in China. Pray the testimonies of Christians will draw non believers into fellowship with Christ.

Joshua 1:8

INDIA – Pastors Attacked in Chhattisgarh - Compass Direct News

On April 20 a group of Sikhs in Dalli Rajhara, Durg district attacked Christian pastors who had converted from the Sikh religion, according to Compass Direct News. The pastors were guest speakers from New Delhi at a Christian event organized by Christian Community Church. About 200 people were in attendance. At about 9:30 p.m., leaders from the Sikh community rushed into the church building and beat the visiting Christians, accusing them of forceful conversion and disrupting the community. Local Christian leaders denied that any forceful conversions were attempted. The Sikh community leaders were offended that the visiting converts, who still followed their cultural norm of wearing turbans and sporting beards, were preaching in the area; the Sikh leaders termed them traitors and demanded their arrests, later submitting memorandums of complaint to the state governor, chief minister and home minister. Police arrived and sent the pastors back to New Delhi. Pray the testimonies of these pastors will draw others to Christ. Ask God to encourage and protect them.

Hebrews 12:14

IRAQ: THREE CHRISTIANS KILLED

2009-05-14T16:40:00.001-05:00

On April 26, three Christians were killed and two others wounded in Kirkuk, Iraq, according to CNN.com.
Local police in southern Kirkuk told CNN attackers slit the throats of a Christian woman and her daughter-in-law, killing them both. Meanwhile in a nearby neighborhood gunmen attacked another Christian family shooting the father and his three sons. One of the sons died instantly and the others were wounded.
This incident is the latest in a series of attacks on Christians that have occurred in Iraq in recent years. In October 2008, more than seven Christians were killed and more than 200 families displaced. The Christian community in Iraq is estimated to be 3 percent of Iraq's 26 million people, or about 800,000. Since 2003, Christian leaders, churches and businesses in Iraq have been targeted by Islamic extremists. As a result, many believers have fled.
The Voice of the Martyrs encourages you to pray for these families as they mourn their loss and for healing for those injured. VOM supports persecuted believers in Iraq and in 2008 responded with 300 Action Packs to help persecuted and displaced believers in Mosul. Ask God to protect believers in Iraq as they risk all for their faith.

Pakistan – Six Churches Attacked and Christian Homes Burned by the Taliban

2009-05-11T09:56:00.000-05:00

On Feb. 22, the Taliban attacked six churches, burned several Christian homes and four Bibles and injured children in Karachi, Pakistan, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts.
Eye witnesses reported the Taliban shouting, "Accept Islam, Accept Islam, LA ILAHA ILL ALLAH MUHAMMADUR RASOOL ALLAH," meaning there is no god, only Allah, Muhammad is the messenger of Allah. The churches that were attacked are, Christ United Church, Philadelphia Pentecostal Church, ARP Church, Salvation Army Church and two public churches.
The Voice of the Martyrs supports persecuted believers in Pakistan. Pray for the believers who were injured in this attack and those who lost their homes. Ask God to encourage and protect believers in Pakistan who continue to stand for Him despite persecution.

Saudi Arabia – Saudi blogger released from Prison

2009-04-26T20:15:00.000-05:00

On March 28, Hamoud Bin Saleh, a Saudi Christian arrested in January for writing about his conversion from Islam and criticizing the Saudi kingdom's crackdown on individual rights, was released from prison, according to Compass Direct News.
Hamoud is reportedly forbidden to travel outside the country or appear in the media. In a recent post on his blog, Hamoud attributed his release to several human rights groups that campaigned on his behalf. "A nation which lives in this system cannot guarantee the safety of its individuals," he blogged, according to Compass Direct.
In Saudi Arabia the penalty for converting from Islam, also called apostasy, is death. Still, in recent years, there have been no known cases of Saudis formally been convicted and sentenced to death. The Voice of the Martyrs encourages you to pray for Hamoud. Ask God to protect him and encourage him to remain strong in his faith.

Khmu Christians in Laos Stand Firm Despite Intense Persecution

2009-04-20T15:20:00.004-05:00

Fourteen Khmu Christian families in Laos are standing strong in their faith, despite the Communist government forcing them to relocate to another village and their homes and church building being destroyed, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts.
In 2003, the families were evicted by the government and relocated to another village where they were moved again. "After these 14 families stayed at this village for a year, the Communist party members of the village found out that the head of the village loved them," VOM contacts said. "[The village leader] even allowed them to build a bamboo church on his land."
The Communist district governor was not happy with the head of the village. "... [The] governor kicked him out from his post and then replaced [him] with another man. The new head of the village started persecuting them from 2006 to 2009," VOM contacts report. The leader refused to allow them to register, making them illegal residents and he stopped them from farming land, the contacts said.
Only after each family paid 50,000 kip (US$6) were the 14 families allowed to stay in the village and farm. Locals in the village have also tried to tear down the bamboo church where the families worship. VOM contacts say village officials continually threaten to destroy the church and its bamboo roof has been repeatedly ripped off. VOM has assisted these families with resources to rebuild their homes and church every time they have been displaced. The ministry has helped with zinc roofs, pigs and cattle, among many other things.
In spite of the hardship endured, and the Communist government treating them like second-class citizens, these families remain strong in their faith. "Although this bamboo church has roof tops ripped off, they are still holding worship three times a week with joyful hearts. They love God and are willing to die for their God any time for any cause," VOM contacts said. We encourage you to pray for these courageous families. Ask God to protect them and encourage them. Praise God for their faithfulness.

Iran – Two Iranian Women Arrested and Held in "Notorious" Prison

2009-04-10T17:45:00.005-05:00

On March 5, Marzieh Amirizadeh Esmaeilabad and Maryam Rustampoor were arrested by Iranian security forces and labeled "anti-government activists," according to Farsi Christian News Network (FCNN).
Thirty year-old Marzieh and 27-year-old Maryam are being held at Evin Prison, which is notorious for treating women badly. "Both women are allowed just a one minute telephone call everyday to their immediate families. Both are unwell and in need of urgent medical attention," FCNN reported. During their last call on March 28, Mazieh said that she was suffering from an infection and high fever. She said, "I am dying."
Marzieh and Maryam's apartment was searched and their belongings were confiscated. "Their only crime is that they are committed Christians who follow the teachings of Jesus," FCNN added. " They are being unfairly labeled as 'anti government activists' because of the hostility of the government towards practicing Christians."
The women have reportedly been interrogated numerous times and were held in three different police detention centers before being sent to Evin Prison. FCNN reported an exorbitant bail amount of US$ 400,000 has been set even though Marzieh and Maryam's families have been told on numerous occasions that a judge is not available to discuss the case.
Marzieh and Maryam's arrest is the latest incident highlighting increased government intimidation of Christians in Iran. Believers are subjected to surveillance, arrests, imprisonment, and sometimes torture.
The Voice of the Martyrs encourages you to pray for the immediate release of Marzieh and Maryam. Ask God to heal, encourage and protect them. Pray they will continue to stand for Christ during this difficult time.

VOM's Extreme Devotion Testimonies Encouraging Sudanese Church (AUDIO)

2009-04-02T04:18:00.001-05:00

Stories from The Voice of the Martyrs daily devotional Extreme Devotion are encouraging Christians in war-torn Sudan, according to VOM’s partner in Sudan, Persecution Project Foundation (PPF).
Extreme Devotion has been translated into Dinka, Nuer, Sudanese English and Juba Arabic, and the stories are being broadcast by PPF Radio Peace. "Through Radio Peace, both the victims and the government and militias that persecute them are able to hear God's word. Muslims in the north hear the good news and are given opportunities to escape the cruelty and hopelessness of Islam," PPF said. "Even in the south, where there is little infrastructure, followers of Jesus are being strengthened and disciple in their faith, thanks to our radios for Sudan project."
For the past three years, VOM has funded the translation and programming of Extreme Devotion testimonies in Sudan. In the midst of devastation and violations of the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement between the north and south of Sudan, PPF’s broadcasts are encouraging believers. VOM encourages you to pray for those listening to these broadcasts. Ask God to minister to them and for them to accept Christ and be a light for Him.

Iran – Christian released after 27 Days in Prison

2009-03-26T08:42:00.001-05:00

On Feb. 25, 27-year old Hossein Karimi was released from prison after placing his home as collateral, according to Farsi Christian Network News (FCNN).
Hossein, a new convert, had been arrested on charges of attending home churches, evangelizing, storing Bibles and converting to the Christian faith, FCNN reported.
Hossein was arrested by Iranian secret police on Jan. 30 and was held for 27 days in an unknown location until his release. He’s now waiting for the courts to give him a scheduled date to appear to present his case.
Prior to this recent incident, Hossein was arrested in November 2008. According to FCNN, he was taken into custody, fingerprinted and photographed. He was then released after four days on bail with a consent that he would no longer participate in any Christian activities.
Praise God for Hossein’s faithfulness to the Lord and his release. The Voice of the Martyrs encourages you to pray for him. Ask God to protect him as the Iranian government will be watching him closely. Pray he will continue to stand for Christ.

Young Christian Woman and her Father remain in Prison

2009-03-20T02:42:00.003-05:00

Twenty-year old Sandul Bibi and her father Gulsher remain in prison in Pakistan despite four court hearings, according to VOM contacts.
"On Feb. 24 Sandul and Gulsher had another court appearance and nothing significant was determined," VOM contacts said. "This has been the outcome for the last four court hearings."
Sandul and Gulsher are charged with violating section 295-B of the Pakistani legal code, the 'blasphemy' law. Sandul is falsely accused of ripping pages from the Quran. On Oct. 9 a large crowd of Muslims attacked Christian families at a church, throwing stones and firing guns. They were shouting, 'Kill Gulsher and his daughter Sandul.' Sandul and her father, Gulsher Masih, were arrested after a mob from the local mosque surrounded their house. Loudspeakers from different mosques broadcast accusations that Christians had disgraced the Quran, calling Muslims to attack and burn their homes. The angry crowd threw stones and set fire to Sandul's home. Christians believe Sandul and her father were targeted and arrested because they were aggressively winning villagers to Christ.
The Voice of the Martyrs has supported Sandul and her family both financially and spiritually through this difficult time. VOM encourages you to continue lifting this family up in prayer and ask God to encourage them.
VOM has featured Sandul on the group's Christian prisoner Web site, prisoneralert Praise God both Sandul and Gulsher have received letter of encouragement from our readers. VOM encourages you to visit this Web site and compose letters of encouragement and mail them to Sandul. You can also send letters to the Pakistani government requesting Sandul and Gulsher be released.

100 Year Celebration

2009-03-15T14:12:00.005-05:00

Read about the man who started Voice of the Martyrs here.

Turkey – Christian Bookstore in Turkey Vandalized

2009-02-25T02:38:00.000-06:00

On Feb. 12, a Turkish Bible Society bookstore in the city of Adana was vandalized by Muslim extremists for the second time in a week, Compass Direct News reported. Security cameras showed two Muslim youth vandalizing the storefront of the Soz Kitapevi bookstore. They were kicking and smashing glass in both the window and the door. The door frame was also damaged. On Feb. 7, the glass of the front door was smashed and the security camera mangled. The bookstore had in the past received threats from Muslim extremists.
Last November, a man reportedly entered the bookstore and began making accusations that the bookstore was linked to the Unites States Intelligence Agency and said, "You work with them killing people in Muslim countries, harming Muslim countries."
VOM actively supports believers in Turkey with encouraging radio broadcasts. VOM assists local Christian workers who share the gospel with their neighbors in the communities they live in. Pray for the safety of the bookstore and its owners and workers. Ask God to protect believers in Turkey and that these acts of vandalism will not develop into more serious attacks

China – Christian Released after Two Years

2009-02-16T05:16:00.005-06:00

On Feb. 8 Shuang Shuying was released from prison in China and immediately went to a local hospital to visit her deathly ill husband, 91-year-old, Hua Zaichen.
China Aid Association (CAA) reported Shuying, 79, sent a letter thanking everyone for praying and supporting her. She also revealed that while in prison she was tortured by the Public Security Bureau (PSB). "…The PSB went to my prison interrogating, threatening and harassing me numerous times," Shuying said. "They even directed other prisoners to take off all my clothes and forced me to stand alone outside in the evening without letting me sleep."
Shuying added she was slapped on her face and forced to drink her own urine. Despite these harsh conditions, Shuying's faith remained strong. "During these terrible circumstances, I prayed without ceasing. I asked God to give me strength," Shuying said. "Every time when my son came to visit me and shared with me that brothers and sisters from all over the world had been praying for me, I felt greatly strengthened and empowered which has enabled me to continue to live."
In January 2007, Shuang Shuying, and her son Pastor Hua Huiqi, were attacked and wounded by seven police officers while walking near an Olympic hotel site in Beijing. They were kicked to the ground and later taken to the Olympic police station for questioning, CAA reported. Shuying was sentenced to two years in prison, while Hua served six months.
The Voice of the Martyrs rejoices in Shuang Shuying's release. She was featured on www.prisoneralert.com, VOM's Web site listing Christian prisoners. Visitors to the site wrote more than 8,200 letters of encouragement to her.
VOM encourages you to continue praying for Shuang Shuying and her family, especially her ailing husband. Praise God for her release and ask Him to protect and encourage them during this difficult time.

Three Christians Dead in Eritrean Prisons

2009-02-13T09:51:00.001-06:00

Since October, three Christians imprisoned for their faith have died in Eritrean military prisons, according to Compass Direct News.
Mehari Gebreneguse Asgedom died on Jan. 16 from torture and diabetes while in solitary confinement at the Mitire Military Confinement Center. Asgedom's death followed the revelation in January that another Christian died in the same prison, Compass reports. Mogos Hagos Kiflom was said to have died as a result of torture he endured for refusing to recant his faith, but the exact date of his death was unknown.
In October, Teklesenbet Gebreab Kiflom died while imprisoned for his faith at the Wi'a Military Confinement Center. He reportedly died after prison commanders refused to give him medical attention for malaria.
These latest deaths reflect the Eritrean government's harsh treatment of believers. The Eritrean government targets Christians, often placing them in metal containers that are extremely hot during the day and cold during the night. Nearly 1,800 Eritrean Christians are believed to be under arrest because of their religious beliefs, held in police stations, military camps and prisons in 12 known locations across Eritrea. It is believed more than 28 clergymen are being held.
Jailed Christians are routinely subjected to physical beatings and severe psychological pressure to deny their religious beliefs. Police and military authorities continue to demand the prisoners return to one of the three "official" Christian denominations recognized by the government. But even the legally recognized denominations — the nation's historic Orthodox, Catholic and Lutheran churches — have come under government disfavor in recent years, incurring threats and even jailing by security police officials.
The Voice of the Martyrs provides assistance and encouragement to persecuted believers in Eritrea. VOM supports the families of martyred believers through our Families of Martyrs fund. VOM encourages you to pray for Christians in Eritrea. Pray for the families of the deceased believers Ask God to encourage other Christians suffering for Christ's sake in Eritrean prisons.

Standing For Jesus In Orissa

2009-02-11T07:42:00.003-06:00

"Nothing will happen to me. They know and respect me. Nobody will harm me."
Those were the last words Pastor Kantheswar Digal spoke to his son Rajendra and his wife, Karpul.
A Christian for more than 50 years, Pastor Digal was one of the few believers living in the small village of Sankarakhole, in Orissa state, India. He was well-known by the Hindus who shared his neighborhood. Yet, his son says, the family lived there in relative peace.
"We had no enemies there," Rajendra told our VOM workers about his small hometown. "We could practice our faith in Christ comfortably with no problems with anybody locally."
Nonetheless, on Aug. 24, 2008, when Hindu radicals began violent attacks against Christians throughout Orissa, venomous threats by agitators forced the Digal family to leave their village.
"They told my husband you better leave," says Karpul. "He should leave his house and go away if he wanted to stay a Christian because they were not going to allow any Christians to stay in our village."
The Worst of the Worst
The brutality against Orissa Christians spawned by Hindu fundamentalists was unflinchingly complete. Homes were burned. Churches were destroyed. People were killed. The entire Digal family fled their small village in the Kandhalmal district to the slums of the state's capital. All eight members were forced to live in a one-room, wooden shack.
On Sept. 20, 2008, Pastor Digal left his family in the makeshift shelter they had carved out for themselves. Over their objections he went to their home village to check on their house and livestock.
Pastor Digal was traveling on a local bus to his destroyed home when it was stopped by 18 Hindu radicals. What happened next was a horror unimaginable.
The radicals dragged Pastor Digal off the crowded, dusty bus. They ignored the sickening crunch of bone as both his legs broke. They proceeded to torture him, demanding that he return to Hinduism.
"I am a strong believer in Jesus Christ," Pastor Digal said. "You may kill me but I will never become Hindu."
The 18 men began to beat Pastor Digal. They tied his hands and legs. Witnesses watched as they stripped him of his clothes leaving nothing but a shirt. They burned his face and tortured him in unspeakable ways. Then they dumped this limp body in a creek where it floated for days.
"We Never Got Angry"
Fourteen days later, after frantically calling around Orissa trying to find his father, Rajendra saw his mother on a local television broadcast. She held a black and white photo of his father. He was dead, killed by radical Hindus because he was a Christian. Even though she lost her husband Karpul says "we never got angry after hearing about the news about my husband's killing."
Her son agrees. "I do not carry anger towards them because my Jesus was once also killed on the cross for all mankind, for the entire sinful world," Rajendra said. "My father dedicated his life for my village for people who still did not know Christ. I think for my village, my father also was killed. And by the sacrifice of his own life, they may know Jesus Christ and accept him as their only Lord and personal savior. "
The Digals were one of the hundreds of people helped by VOM ministry partners, thanks to our readers. They received help with relocation, food and other basic necessities. But the aftermath of the horrific violence in Orissa has left tens of thousands of Indian Christians without homes, jobs or stability. In January the government closed the relief camps in Orissa leaving thousands homeless and without protection. Even with the uncertainty, Orissa Christians say they are strengthened by the prayers and love of Christians all over the world. Your love allows them to remain bold for Christ.
"We strongly believe that Christians all over the world are praying for us," says Rajendra. "We are also praying for all of them. (Praying) that everyone should stand firm for witnessing for Jesus throughout their life."

VOM Assists Former Islamic Apologist

2009-02-10T02:59:00.000-06:00

The Voice of the Martyrs has provided encouragement and financial help to "Mohammad" an Islamic apologist who converted to Christianity.
Before becoming a Christian, Mohammad wrote articles attempting to prove Islam was the only way to God. After they were written, however, Mohammad began to have doubts about Islam. He saw violence in Islam and heard his colleagues say that one day those who follow Islam will invade Europe and take their women. After hearing this, Mohammad was very disgusted.
Later, Mohammad met a Christian who invited him to his house. "He gave [Mohammad] a Bible and asked him to read. When he opened the Bible, the first verse he read was 'And all who accepted Him, He gave them authority to be the sons of God,'" VOM contacts said. "Mohammad said it was like an electrical current went through his body when he read those words," VOM contacts added.
"The word of God is powerful," Mohammad added.
Following his conversion, Mohammad was arrested and imprisoned for two years. "He experienced miracles after miracles in jail," VOM contacts said. "The authorities told the extremists in prison that he was a convert so one of them would kill him. But the Lord protected him and kept him day after day. During his time in jail, his wife accepted the Lord, his daughter who is in university and his son who is a teenager."
Since Mohammad's release from prison, many attempted to kill him. He has been receiving all kinds of threats from neighbor and his extended family since he was released.
VOM contacts added, "No one wants to employ him because he has converted to Christianity. Somehow, Mohammad found a job and he was doing great. Before the end of the month, his employer fired him without reason and did not even give him a salary. When he got home he received a phone call from the national security [office] warning him if he ever tries to work he will be killed. They told him, 'You should be dead by now, be thankful that you're not.'"
The Voice of the Martyrs has provided financial assistance and food for Mohammad's family. The day the food was delivered it happened to be his daughter's birthday. She was very delighted to have such a feast on her birthday.VOM contacts who met with and encouraged Mohammad said, "He was in tears and it was a confirmation for him that he will never lack anything."
VOM encourages you to pray for Mohammad, his family and other believers in the Middle East who have great challenges because of their faith in Jesus Christ. Ask God to give them courage and boldness to stand for their faith.

Pakistan – Islamic Extremists Beat Evangelist, Steal Rickshaw

2009-02-03T10:22:00.001-06:00

On Jan. 26, evangelist Azir was kicked and punched in the face by Muslim extremists after transporting Christians and evangelizing tools on his Scripture-covered rickshaw.
The Voice of the Martyrs contacts report Azir was assaulted while returning from a Bible and Christian literature distribution in Punjab, Pakistan. Azir helped transport believers home in his auto rickshaw, given to him by VOM in March 2008. He uses the rickshaw, which has Scripture verses written on it, as an evangelistic tool.
At the distribution, VOM provided Action Packs, the Gospel storybook, He Lived Among Us (HLAU), Bibles and sets of leadership materials to Azir and other church leaders to give to local believers. "After the distribution and a blessed time with the people, the team returned to his village. Azir helped believers to get to their home. They were holding their Bibles, leadership materials, HLAU and Action Packs. This drew the anger of local Muslims who saw them," VOM contacts said.
Muslim extremists started screaming at Azir and verbally abusing him. "Then they beat him. They kicked and punched his face. His tooth was broken and he had a small injury on his lips. They snatched his rickshaw, thank God he was not seriously hurt," VOM contacts added.
Following the intervention of a village leader, Azir's rickshaw was returned. VOM encourages you to pray for evangelist Azir and other believers in Pakistan. Praise God for their faithfulness and courage in the midst of persecution. Ask God to continue strengthening them and for blessings on Azir's rickshaw business.

India – UPDATE - Relief Camps Closed in Orissa

2009-01-25T14:39:00.001-06:00

Government authorities in Orissa state have shut down relief camps forcing thousands of Christians displaced by the wave of violence that began last August to flee, according to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts.
Believers have been left without adequate protection against further attacks or compensation for damages sustained. Many of the believers were threatened with violence while in the camps and fear further attacks if they return to their homes, many of which have not been rebuilt. Officials are providing some of the refugees with 10,000 rupees ($201 US) However, the sum is inadequate to meet their long-term needs and it is unlikely that many will be able to secure employment, as local Hindus often refuse to hire Christians.
VOM provides assistance to persecuted believers in India. Following the Christmas attacks in 2007 and the systematic attacks by Hindu extremists in August 2008, VOM provided immediate assistance to persecuted believers and distributed thousands of Bibles to displaced Christians. VOM also provided resources and supported families that lost loved ones during the attack, through the Families of Martyrs fund. The August 2008 attacks resulted in more than 116 believers killed and more than 50,000 believers displaced.
Ask God to protect believers as they face potential challenges and danger. Pray that their needs are met and they find employment so they can provide for their families.

China – Deathly Ill Husband Denied Visitation with his Imprisoned Wife

2009-01-15T22:15:00.000-06:00

Chinese government authorities have denied Hua Zaichen, 91, visitation with his imprisoned wife, 79-year-old Shuang Shuying, according to China Aid Association (CAA).

Zaichen, who is deathly ill, requested a final meeting with his wife to say his goodbyes, but officials refused to grant the request. "Authorities say Shuang Shuying in not allowed to leave prison before February 8, 2009, the end of her two-year sentence. Officials stated that if her husband died before then, she would be allowed to see his body for 10 minutes and would have to be chained, handcuffed, shackled and wearing a prison uniform," CAA added.

The government's refusal to allow Zaichen to see his wife is the latest in a series of incidents including attacks, arrests and imprisonments for his family. In January 2007, Hua Huiqi and his 76-year-old mother, Shuang Shuying, were attacked and wounded by seven police officers while walking near a 2008 Olympic hotel site in Beijing. CAA reported, "They were kicked to the ground and later taken to the Olympic police station for questioning." Hua's mother was sentenced to two years in prison, while Hua served six months. In October 2007, while under house arrest, Hua was repeatedly attacked and beaten by police at his home. Hua was reading his Bible at his home despite police surrounding his house. He was sent to Beijing Tiantan Hospital because he lost consciousness after repeated beatings from the police.

Shuang Shuying has remained in prison and is also reportedly very ill. She has been held in a medical center because her health has deteriorated. VOM has assisted this family during the many times the Chinese government has persecuted them because of their faith. VOM encourages you to pray for this family that has endured many hardships for the sake of their faith. Pray for Shuang Shuying to be released. Praise God for their courage!

India – Church Leaders Attacked

2009-01-09T10:19:00.000-06:00

Praise God, Christians in Kandhamal district, Orissa were able to celebrate Christmas in relative peace and stability. However, in Hyderabad, Andra Pradesh, this was not the case.
On Dec. 23., several pastors and prayer group leaders in Hyderabad were attacked and severely beaten by Hindu extremists, VOM contacts report. The Christians were returning home from a Christmas prayer meeting near the suburb of Ramnagar. At the time of the report, three Hindus had been arrested for their involvement in the attack.
VOM provides assistance to persecuted believers in India. Following the Christmas attacks in 2007 and the systematic attacks by Hindu extremists in August 2008, VOM provided immediate assistance to persecuted believers and distributed thousands of Bibles to displaced Christians. VOM also provided resources and supported families that lost loved ones during the attack, through the Families of Martyrs fund. The August 2008 attacks resulted in more than 116 believers killed and more than 50,000 believers displaced.
VOM encourages you to continue praying for believers in Orissa, and Christians recently attacked in Andra Pradesh. Ask God to heal and strengthen them. Pray that the perpetrators will turn to faith in Christ and demonstrate God's love and mercy to others.

Eritrea - Approximately 100 Christians Arrested

2009-01-07T04:31:00.000-06:00

Since late November, about 100 Christians, men, women and children, have been arrested by Eritrean authorities, VOM Canada reported. The wave of house arrests began in northern Eritrean cities and moved to southern regions before reaching the capital, Asmara, on Dec. 12. Some of the detained Christians were reportedly transferred to a military facility and were severely mistreated. Local sources indicate that an unspecified number may have died due to untreated injuries sustained in detention.
The Eritrean government persecutes Christians, often placing believers in metal containers that are extremely hot during the day and cold during the night. Nearly 1,800 Eritrean Christians are believed to be under arrest because of their religious beliefs. They are being, held in police stations, military camps and prisons in 12 known locations across Eritrea. It is believed more than 28 clergymen are being held.
Jailed Christians are routinely subjected to physical beatings and severe psychological pressure to deny their religious beliefs. Police and military authorities continue to demand the prisoners return to one of the three "official" Christian denominations recognized by the government. But even the legally recognized denominations - the nation's historic Orthodox, Catholic and Lutheran churches - have come under government disfavor in recent years, incurring threats and even imprisonment.
The Voice of the Martyrs provides assistance and encouragement to persecuted believers in Eritrea. VOM has supported the families of martyred believers through VOM's Family of Martyrs fund. VOM encourages you to pray for these detained believers. Ask God to comfort those who have lost loved ones. Pray that Eritrean Christians will continue to follow Christ's example of faithfulness, even at great cost. Pray that Eritrea's leaders will repent and come to faith in Christ.

Your World without Your Bible

2009-01-04T12:11:00.002-06:00

Imagine your world without your Bible. Can't imagine it? Our persecuted brothers and sisters often have to do just that. Let's make sure they don't. Click here to see how you can help these brethren keep a Bible in their hands. Your eternal reward is in helping God's children all to His glory!

Love Letters To The Saints

2009-01-02T22:07:00.002-06:00

In May 2007, Le Thi Cong Nhan, a Vietnamese Christian and lawyer, was sentenced to four years in prison followed by three years of house arrest. Nhan was arrested and sentenced alongside Nguyen Van Dai, a Protestant church leader and lawyer. They are accused of a wide range of crimes; such as “conspiring with terrorists, in their efforts to promote human rights efforts, including religious rights and democracy.” They are also accused of compiling “evidence of Vietnam’s suppression of the Protestant religion and providing it to the U.S.-based Committee for Religious Freedom in Vietnam and the U.S. embassy.” Following Nhan and Dai’s sentencing, the Vietnamese state news agency accused the lawyers of “posting information on the internet … [and] painting biased and distorted pictures of the country and its internal affairs. Get involved! Pray and write to her today. Here's how: click here to get to her profile. To the right of her profile, you will see a box containing eight links. One of those links is "Write an encouraging letter" onto which you need to click. There is another box below these eight links which changes according to which link you click onto. When that box changes, go into it and click onto "create letter". You are on your way to writing this dear sister a letter...just follow their instructions. When you print out the letter, at the very bottom of the sheet there is a reference to VOM...please cut this off as it could mean further persecution for her. She holds dear each and every letter she might receive from other brothers and sisters. Remember, it costs us so little here on earth but it is an eternal reward! SHE NEEDS OUR SUPPORT! Pray and write today

The Voice of the Martyrs Earns High Ratings for Sound Fiscal Management

2008-12-29T07:00:00.000-06:00

Bartlesville, Oklahoma – In November 2008, two organizations that evaluate nonprofit organizations and Christian ministries — MinistryWatch.com and Charity Navigator — gave The Voice of the Martyrs high ratings for sound fiscal management.
VOM was one of 30 ministries out of 500 to make MinistryWatch.com's list after demonstrating outstanding effectiveness and efficiency in ministry and financial operations.
MinistryWatch.com's assessment looks at seven areas when considering the "best ministries" list, namely: transparency, truth claims, values, sectors/functions, resourcefulness, red flag issues and consultation.
"Ministries were chosen that were not just marketing to Christians as a market segment for "Christian donor money", but ministries that had theological underpinnings and Biblical values that determined their actions," MinistryWatch.com said. 2008 is the fourth year MinistryWatch.com has compiled the list, and The Voice of the Martyrs has appeared all four years.
In addition, Charity Navigator awarded VOM its coveted 4-star rating.
"We are proud to announce VOM has earned our second conservative 4 –star rating for its ability to efficiently manage and grow its finances. …VOM consistently executed its mission in a fiscally responsible way, and out performs most other charities in America. This ‘exceptional' designation differentiates VOM from its peers and demonstrates to the public it is worthy of their trust," Charity Navigator said.
"It is gratifying to have outside groups recognize the utmost integrity with which VOM manages the gifts our donors entrust to us," said Todd Nettleton, VOM spokesperson. "We are thankful for each gift as it enables us to continue to answer God's call on VOM to assist persecuted Christians and be a Voice for them here in the United States."

Love Letters To The Saints

2008-12-25T01:35:00.002-06:00

Twenty- year-old Sandul Bibi is in prison in Pakistan, charged with violating section 295-B of the Pakistani legal code, the “blasphemy” law. Sandul is falsely accused of ripping pages from the Quran. On Oct. 9 a large crowd of Muslims attacked Christian families at a church, throwing stones and firing guns. They were shouting, “Kill Gulsher and his daughter Sandul.” Sandul and her father, Gulsher Masih, were arrested after a mob from the local mosque surrounded their house. Loudspeakers from different mosques broadcast accusations that Christians had disgraced the Quran, calling Muslims to attack and burn their homes. The angry crowd threw stones at Sandul’s home. Christians believe Sandul and her father were targeted and arrested because they were aggressively winning villagers to Christ.
Sandul has written several letters to her family from prison. In her latest letter she says, “I am praying a lot that God releases me from here and I can meet you, but I don’t know when. He will give answers for our prayers. Please pray for me.” If convicted, Sandul faces at least four years in prison. She and her family desperately need your prayers and encouragement. Get involved! Pray and write to her today. Here's how: click here to get to her profile. To the right of her profile, you will see a box containing eight links. One of those links is "Write an encouraging letter" onto which you need to click. There is another box below these eight links which changes according to which link you click onto. When that box changes, go into it and click onto "create letter". You are on your way to writing this dear sister a letter...just follow their instructions. When you print out the letter, at the very bottom of the sheet there is a reference to VOM...please cut this off as it could mean further persecution for her. She holds dear each and every letter she might receive from other brothers and sisters. Remember, it costs us so little here on earth but it is an eternal reward! SHE NEEDS OUR SUPPORT! Pray and write today

Pakistan – Young Christian Woman and Her Father Imprisoned

2008-12-20T10:08:00.001-06:00

Twenty- year-old Sandul Bibi and her father Gulsher are in prison in Pakistan, charged with violating section 295-B of the Pakistani legal code, the "blasphemy" law. Sandul is falsely accused of ripping pages from the Quran. On Oct. 9 a large crowd of Muslims attacked Christian families at a church, throwing stones and firing guns. They were shouting, "Kill Gulsher and his daughter Sandul." Sandul and her father, Gulsher Masih, were arrested after a mob from the local mosque surrounded their house. Loudspeakers from different mosques broadcast accusations that Christians had disgraced the Quran, calling Muslims to attack and burn their homes. The angry crowd threw stones and set fire to Sandul's home. Christians believe Sandul and her father were targeted and arrested because they were aggressively winning villagers to Christ.
Sandul has written several letters to her family from prison. In her latest letter she says, "I am praying a lot that God releases me from here and I can meet you, but I don't know when. He will give answers for our prayers. Please pray for me." If convicted, Sandul faces at least four years in prison. She and her family desperately need your prayers and encouragement.
The Voice of the Martyrs has supported Sandul and her family both financially and spiritually through this difficult time. VOM encourages you to lift this family up in prayer and ask God to encourage them. VOM has featured Sandul on the group's Christian prisoner Web site, www.prisoneralert.com. VOM encourages you to visit this Web site and compose letters of encouragement and mail them to Sandul. You can also send letters to the Pakistani government requesting Sandul be released.

Love Letters To The Saints

2008-12-14T00:20:00.000-06:00

Sun Minghua was arrested in September 2001, on suspicion of organizing and utilizing a cult organization to undermine law enforcement. At the time she was a council member in charge of finances for the South China Church (SCC). After the arrest, police searched her house and confiscated financial documents related to the church.

In April 2001, the SCC was designated a "cult" by the ministry of Public Security. However, this did not stop the church members from continuing in their "illegal missionary work," even with the threat of arrest the SCC is expanding and increasing its membership. It is considered a relatively small house-church group in China, with approximately 100,000 members spread across 10 of China’s provinces. During 2001, the communist government had tried to close SCC down by arresting more than 500 of its leaders.

Minghua was born on June 13, 1965, in Hubei province. Influenced by her Christian mother, she accepted the Lord in 1984; and in 1986, she devoted herself to preaching the gospel. The trial for the charges related to organizing a cult was held December of 2001, when Sun was sentenced to life in prison. At a later High Court hearing, this sentence was reduced to 12 years. Earlier in 1996, she was jailed for a year by the Jinmen Public Security Bureau for evangelizing activities. Get involved! Pray and write to her today. Here's how: click here to get to her profile. To the right of her profile, you will see a box containing eight links. One of those links is "Write an encouraging letter" onto which you need to click. There is another box below these eight links which changes according to which link you click onto. When that box changes, go into it and click onto "create letter". You are on your way to writing this dear sister a letter...just follow their instructions. When you print out the letter, at the very bottom of the sheet there is a reference to VOM...please cut this off as it could mean further persecution for her. She holds dear each and every letter she might receive from other brothers and sisters. Remember, it costs us so little here on earth but it is an eternal reward! SHE NEEDS OUR SUPPORT! Pray and write today.
This information was obtained from China Aid Association, a vital partner with VOM (www.chinaaid.org).

House Church Leaders Released from Prison

2008-12-09T04:14:00.000-06:00

On Nov. 25, 2008, Pastor Wang Weiliang was released from prison on "medical" parole. Praise God, Pastor Weiliang is now receiving care in a local hospital in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, according to China Aid Association (CAA).
In Dec. 2006, Pastor Wang Weiliang and seven other church leaders were sentenced from one year to three and one-half years in prison by the People‘s Court of Xiaoshan district, China. Four were imprisoned and four received suspended sentences. In prison, the men were forced to make clothing and shoes for export and prohibited from praying openly or reading the Bible. These leaders were arrested after thousands of PSB officers bulldozed their church building on July 29, 2006.
Meanwhile, on Dec. 2, house church leader Zhu Baoguo was also released from a Chinese labor camp for "medical reasons." Pastor Zhu Baoguo was sentenced to one year "re-education through labor" on charges of being an "evil cult" leader. Pastor Zhu and four other leaders were detained by authorities during a church service in Dushu village, Henan province on Oct. 12. While the other four leaders were sentenced to five days of administrative detention, Pastor Zhu was sentenced to 15 days. Two days after Pastor Zhu's release from detention, he was sentenced and taken to a labor camp in an unknown location.
VOM has actively supported persecuted believers in China for more than 30 years. VOM continues helping expand underground house churches and Bible schools preparing leaders to spread the gospel in China. VOM rejoices with the families of these leaders and encourages you to pray for their speedy recovery. Ask God to protect them and other believers living under tough conditions because of their stand for Christ.

Love Letters To The Saints

2008-12-03T05:53:00.001-06:00

In September 2007 Chinese government officials closed Alimujiang Yimiti’s business and accused him of using it as a cover up for “preaching Christianity among people of Uyghur ethnicity.” He was later arrested in January 2008 and accused of “subversion of the national government and endangering national security,” a crime punishable by death. Alimujiang, a former Muslim, became a Christian more than 10 years ago and has been an active Christian in the growing Uyghur church. On May 27 Alimujiang’s case went to trial. His case was referred back to the Chinese Public Security Bureau’s prosecutors due to “insufficient evidence.” Get involved! Pray and write to him now. Here's how: click here to get to his profile. To the right of his profile, you will see a box containing eight links. One of those links is "Write an encouraging letter" onto which you need to click. There is another box below these eight links which changes according to which link you click onto. When that box changes, go into it and click onto "create letter". You are on your way to writing this dear brother a letter...just follow their instructions. When you print out the letter, at the very bottom of the sheet there is a reference to VOM...please cut this off as it could mean further persecution for him. He holds dear each and every letter he might receive from other brothers and sisters. Remember, it costs us so little here on earth but it is an eternal reward! HE NEEDS OUR SUPPORT! Pray and write today.

Love Letters To The Saints

2008-11-30T00:10:00.001-06:00

Chinese Christian Li Ying has been in prison more than 2000 days. She is serving a 15-year sentence for her role as editor of an underground-church magazine in China. She was the very first prisoner featured on www.prisoneralert.com. At that time, the email list consisted of barely more than 2000 people. More than 7,400 letters have been printed off of the site to be sent to her since that original posting in February, 2004.

The letters that Prisoner Alert visitors write make a difference! Once when her mother went to the prison to visit Li Ying, the warden asked, “How many relatives do you have in America?” He had noted all the letters arriving for Li Ying! In recent months, Li Ying’s mother has not been allowed to visit as prison officials tried to get Li Ying to recant her faith and sign a document saying that she is part of an “evil cult.” Yet she has remained faithful to Christ and refused to sign.

Li Ying is still in prison, forced to work long hours with little food. Please send her a letter of encouragement and let her know you are praying for her and other Christians in China. Also, write to the Chinese government requesting that Li Ying’s sentence be reduced, as the sentences for others from her house church group have been.

Let your friends know about Li Ying’s suffering, and encourage them also to write to her and pray for her and other Christians in China.

We may not know here on earth the difference we are making; in eternity, though, it will be clear. Written by VOM

Get involved! Pray for and write to Li Ying. Here's how: click here to get to her profile. To the right of her profile, you will see a box containing eight links. One of those links is "Write an encouraging letter" onto which you need to click. There is another box below these eight links which changes according to which link you click onto. When that box changes, go into it and click onto "create letter". You are on your way to writing this dear sister a letter...just follow their instructions.When you print out the letter, at the very bottom of the sheet there is a reference to VOM...please cut this off as it could mean further persecution for her. She holds dear each and every letter she might receive from other brothers and sisters. Remember, it costs us so little here on earth but it is an eternal reward! SHE NEEDS OUR SUPPORT!

Love Letters To The Saints

2008-11-26T08:37:00.001-06:00

On January 26, 2007, 76-year-old Shuang Shuying and her son, house church leader Hua Huiqi, were attacked, wounded and arrested by police while walking near a 2008 Olympic hotel site in Beijing. Shuying has numerous medical problems and is serving two years in prison. We invite you to write a letter of encouragement to Shuying. We have experienced incredible results when readers write to believers who have been imprisoned for their faith. The letters often result in shorter prison sentences. Send a letter of encouragement to Shuying and let her know you are praying for her. Also, write to the Chinese government requesting she be released. Let your friends know about suffering believers in China and encourage them to pray and write too. Get involved! Pray for and write to Shuang Shuying . Here's how: click here to get to her profile. To the right of her profile, you will see a box containing eight links. One of those links is "Write an encouraging letter" onto which you need to click. There is another box below these eight links which changes according to which link you click onto. When that box changes, go into it and click onto "create letter". You are on your way to writing this dear sister a letter...just follow their instructions.When you print out the letter, at the very bottom of the sheet there is a reference to VOM...please cut this off as it could mean further persecution for her. She holds dear each and every letter she might receive from other brothers and sisters. Remember, it costs us so little here on earth but it is an eternal reward! SHE NEEDS OUR SUPPORT! Pray and write today.

Iraq – Two Christian Sisters Killed

2008-11-20T02:44:00.001-06:00

On Nov. 12, two sisters were killed and their mother wounded by a gang of Islamic extremists in the Al Qahira section of Mosul, Iraq, according to VOM contacts. The gunmen shot one of the sisters as she was waiting for a bus outside their home. They then stormed into the home, killed the other sister and injured their mother. A bomb placed by the assailants at the entrance of the house detonated as police arrived on the scene, injuring several officers.

This incident is the latest in a series of attacks on Christians that have occurred in Mosul, in recent weeks. Since October, more than seven Christians have been killed and more than 200 families displaced. The Christian community in Iraq is estimated to be 3 percent of Iraq’s 26 million people, or about 800,000. Some Christians believe they are being targeted in an effort to wipe out the Christian community's economic activity and drive believers from the area. Since 2003, Christian leaders, churches and businesses in Iraq have been targeted by Islamic extremists. As a result, many believers have fled.

The Voice of the Martyrs encourages you to pray for this family as they mourn their loss and for healing for the injured mother. VOM is working to provide assistance to this grieving family. VOM has also responded with 300 Actions Packs to help persecuted and displaced believers in Mosul. Pray displaced families will return safely to their homes, and ask God to protect them and other believers in Iraq as they risk their all for their faith.

Love Letters To The Saints

2008-11-17T09:32:00.001-06:00

In March 2008, Pastor KhamLa Namheng and seven Khmu pastors from Udom Sai province in Laos were arrested when entering Thailand to attend meetings. VOM contacts report, “They went the wrong way trying to avoid a police check point. When the police later searched their bags they found two Bibles and some letters. The police claimed the letters were written against the village authority reporting persecution.”
Pastors’ Kham Chan Konekham, Kham La Namheng, Siphone Namheng, Khamnath Namheng, Serth Naphok, Khou Phouphone, Thong Soun Namtam, and Houng Mokbooc were arrested on March 18 when they entered Thailand and were followed by the Laos police. When they were searched two of them had Bibles, and everything they were carrying was confiscated. This arrest was the latest after 15 Hmong families were arrested in Bokeo Province on February 22. Pray and write to Pastor KhamLa today! Here's how: click here to get to his profile. To the right of his profile, you will see a box containing eight links. One of those links is "Write an encouraging letter" onto which you need to click. There is another box below these eight links which changes according to which link you click onto. When that box changes, go into it and click onto "create letter". You are on your way to writing this dear brother a letter...just follow their instructions. When you print out the letter, at the very bottom of the sheet there is a reference to VOM...please cut this off as it could mean further persecution for him. He holds dear each and every letter he might receive from other brothers and sisters. Remember, it costs us so little here on earth but it is an eternal reward! HE NEEDS OUR SUPPORT! Pray and write today.

Love Letters To The Saints

2008-11-13T10:59:00.000-06:00

Son Jong Nam, an underground Christian in North Korea, has spent more than a year in prison, awaiting public execution. He risked his life returning to North Korea to preach the gospel and VOM contacts believe he is still alive, although contact is limited. Write a letter of encouragement. Let Son know you pray for him and other believers in North Korea. Let your friends know about persecution in North Korea; encourage them to pray and write. Also, write to North Korea officials requesting Son’s release. Pray for and write to Son today. Here's how: click here to get to his profile. To the right of his profile, you will see a box containing eight links. One of those links is "Write an encouraging letter" onto which you need to click. There is another box below these eight links which changes according to which link you click onto. When that box changes, go into it and click onto "create letter". You are on your way to writing this dear brother a letter...just follow their instructions. When you print out the letter, at the very bottom of the sheet there is a reference to VOM...please cut this off as it could mean further persecution for him. He holds dear each and every letter he might receive from other brothers and sisters. Remember, it costs us so little here on earth but it is an eternal reward! HE NEEDS OUR SUPPORT! Pray and write today.

2008-11-11T23:11:00.001-06:00

Virtuous Woman is a wonderful blog I just found. Unfortunately, I found it only because I was alerted to the persecution this woman is receiving. I pray that you will pray for her and that you will take the time to go to her site and encourage her!

Christian Persecution Intensifies Across China

2008-11-10T03:03:00.000-06:00

On Oct. 29, China Aid Association (CAA) reported that since the end of the Olympics in Beijing, cases of religious persecution have increased.

CAA has received reports of intensified religious persecution in Beijing, Heilongjiang, Yunnan and Shangdong provinces. In Beijing, Pastor "Bike" Zhang Mingxuan and his family members have been evicted from their home, beaten and arrested. In Heliongjiang province, one city called Yichun recently banned all house churches, CAA reported. In Yunnan province, some house church members were attacked right after the Olympics. In Shandong province, Pastor Zhang Zhongxin was sentenced to two years of re-education through labor, and after the Olympics his appeal was denied, according to CAA.

Meanwhile, CAA has learned that 29 house church leaders have been serving time in labor camps and prisons in Henan province since July 2007. They are accused of being "evil cult" members. One leader was sentenced to seven years imprisonment, which is the harshest sentence against a house church leader in recent years, besides Pastor Zhang Rongliang, who was sentenced to seven-and-a-half years in 2004, for allegedly "attempting to illegally cross the border and forgery of an official document," CAA added.

The Voice of the Martyrs stands with and actively supports Christians in China. VOM encourages you to pray for Christians in China who are facing immense challenges. VOM actively supports Christians in China through Christmas Care Packs and with Christian literature like the Gospel storybook, He Lived Among Us. Pray the Holy Spirit encourages and protects believers as persecution increases in China.

International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted

2008-11-09T02:33:00.000-06:00

The International Day of Prayer (IDOP) for the persecuted church is this Sunday 9th November. Please join us and hundreds of thousand of others to intercede on behalf of those who live in nations which are restricted and hostile towards the gospel.

The time that we spend in prayer has an eternal impact on the lives of people throughout the world. Through prayer, circumstances change, closed doors are opened, resistant people are made receptive and leaders are installed or removed.

Please pray:

The Lord will give courage to His people who are enduring persecution for His Name

The Lord will place His restraining hand on those who seek to harm His people

Churches facing government opposition will stand firm in their ministry

Christians will have opportunities to reach out with the Gospel without fear of intimidation or harassment

Servants of the Lord will be able to deliver Bibles and Christian literature to places where they are most needed

Christians who have been left without pastors and teachers may be kept strong in their faith

Christians who have been imprisoned for their faith will be released safely

The Lord will restrain the callousness and brutality of prison guards in their treatment of Christians in prison

Pray against the increasing problem of young Christian girls being kidnapped, raped and forced to marry

Those who have lost loved ones by martyrdom will be comforted and strengthened by God during their grief

Christian pastors will be kept from danger and strengthened in their faith as they care for the people of God

New converts may be protected and provided for should their family turn against them.

The current laws in many restricted nations forbidding evangelism, missionary activity and religious instruction, will be repealed

"In the death camps I knew that there were people praying for me. It gave me the spiritual strength I needed to live as a Christian and to trust God. It is the same for everyone in the camps and prisons today." Underground Church pastor, Cambodia

Requested by Stacy Harp of VOM

WE WERE ACCUSED OF “HATE SPEECH” IN WEST HOLLYWOOD (AND MORE):

2008-11-08T01:05:00.001-06:00

We have to remember to pray for Robin and the team! This is NOT getting easier in West Hollywood at our “Heart for Him” booth. The “gays” even came to steal our tracts and testimonies on CD…
continue reading

Prepare for Sunday's International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church

2008-11-07T03:08:00.002-06:00

U.S. Department of State Gravely Concerned by China’s Harassment of Pastor "Bike" Zhang

2008-11-04T08:37:00.001-06:00

UPDATE: The U.S. Department of State released a statement detailing its serious concern about the brutal beating of Pastor "Bike" Zhang's sons by China's Public Security Bureau (PSB) on October 23. They also condemned the harassment and recent imprisonment of Pastor Zhang by the PSB.

"We are gravely concerned by the brutal beating of Pastor Zhang "Bike" Mingxuan's two sons by public bureau officials. We are also deeply concerned by continuing official harassment of Pastor Zhang, a prominent Beijing house church leader, including his arbitrary detention and the forced relocation of his family," said Robert Wood, The U.S. Department of State, Deputy Spokesman in a press release.

Wood's statement called on the Chinese government to release Pastor Zhang and permit his family to return home. "We call upon the Government of China to condemn the violent acts committed against his [Pastor Zhang's] sons, and to bring to justice those individuals responsible for such acts," the statement said. "We are concerned about a pattern of intimidation of religious freedom and rule of law advocates and their family members. We urge China to honor those international human rights instruments to which it is a signatory that protect the rule of law, freedom of expression and freedom of religion."

On October 16, PSB officials severely beat Zhang Jian, the elder son of Pastor Bike, after they entered Pastor Bike's home, secured the exits. The officers beat him with iron bars for nearly half an hour. As Zhang lay bleeding profusely, his mother called an ambulance. The receptionist told her a higher government authority had directed them not to dispatch an ambulance to rescue Zhang because he is related to Pastor Bike. Xie Fenglan next called her younger son, who rushed to the house. Authorities also then beat him.

"We are encouraged to see the U.S. government speaking out on behalf of this persecuted Christian family," said Todd Nettleton, VOM's director of media development. "We join with the State Department in calling on the Chinese government to release Pastor Zhang and to allow his family to return to their apartment."

This incident is the latest attempt by the Chinese government to stop Pastor Bike and his family from sharing the gospel in China. In August, two days before the Olympics, Pastor Bike was arrested along with his wife and a co-worker. The Voice of the Martyrs and China Aid Association launched an international petition drive advocating for their release. More than 58,000 people signed the petition, and it was delivered to Chinese Ambassador Zhou Wenzhong in Washington D.C. Shortly after the petition was circulated and the Olympic Games ended, all three were released.

VOM encourages you to pray for the release of Pastor Bike and the speedy recovery for his sons. Ask God to protect and encourage them and all believers in China during this challenging time.

Belarus – Protestant Bishop Deported

2008-10-31T02:45:00.001-05:00

On October 16, Protestant Bishop Veniamin Brukh, a Ukrainian bishop in the Full Gospel Church, was deported from Belarus because of his active religious activities, Forum 18 News reported.

Brukh, founder of one of the largest charismatic churches in the Belarusian capital, Minsk, told Forum 18 News he believed he was deported because of his "continued active participation in the local Protestant community….The secret police and state affairs apparatus were monitoring that activity. They probably consider me a danger to the state."

According to Forum 18 News, since the enactment of the restrictive 2002 Religion Law "only religious associations—made up of at least ten registered religious communities, including at least one active on the territory of Belarus for at least 20 years—have the right to invite foreign citizens to conduct religious activity." The Belarusian government requires foreigners to seek special state permission—on top of a valid visa before they get involved in Christian activities.

Brukh is one of many Christian leaders all over the world facing tough challenges for preaching the Word of God. The Voice of the Martyrs actively supports and assists pastors who are harassed because of their willingness to share the gospel of Jesus Christ.

VOM encourages you to pray for believers in Belarus who are facing persecution. Pray the churches Brukh led will continue to stand strong and spread the gospel. Pray their testimony will draw nonbelievers into fellowship with Him.

Afghanistan - Taliban Kills Christian Aid Worker

2008-10-26T08:35:00.000-05:00

Taliban gunmen shot and killed 34-year-old Gayle Williams, a Christian aid worker in Kabul, as she was walking to work because she was "spreading her religion," The Associated Press (AP) reported. The Taliban claimed responsibility for shooting Williams, a South African – British national who worked with disabled Afghans.

"This woman came to Afghanistan to teach Christianity to the people of Afghanistan. Our leaders issued a decree to kill this woman. This morning our people killed her in Kabul," Zabiullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Taliban, told AP.

AP reported Williams was working for a Christian charity organization, SERVE (Serving Emergency Relief and Vocational Enterprises), which has worked with Afghan refugees in Pakistan since 1980. In a statement on its Web site, SERVE described Williams as "a person who always loved the Afghans and was dedicated to serving those who are disabled."

In August 2007, the Taliban kidnapped 23 South Korean aid workers from a church group. Two were killed and the rest were released a month later. In 2001, eight international aid workers were imprisoned and charged with preaching Christianity.

The Voice of the Martyrs supports Christians in Afghanistan by providing literature and other ministry tools to the indigenous house church leaders. VOM encourages you to pray for the family of Williams during this difficult time. Ask God to protect believers as they share the gospel under such challenging times. Pray Williams’ testimony will draw nonbelievers and Taliban members into fellowship with Him.

Love Letters to the Saints

2008-10-22T01:33:00.003-05:00

In May 2008, Nguyen Van Dai, a Vietnamese Protestant church leader and lawyer, was sentenced to five years in prison and followed by four years of house arrest. Nguyen was accused of a wide range of crimes, including “conspiring with terrorists, in their efforts to promote human rights efforts, including religious rights and democracy.” He was also accused of compiling “evidence of Vietnam’s suppression of the Protestant religion and providing it to the U.S.-based Committee for Religious Freedom in Vietnam and the U.S. embassy.”

Pray and write to Nguyen Van Dai today! Here's how: click here to get to his profile. To the right of his profile, you will see a box containing eight links. One of those links is "Write an encouraging letter" onto which you need to click. There is another box below these eight links which changes according to which link you click onto. When that box changes, go into it and click onto "create letter". You are on your way to writing this dear brother a letter...just follow their instructions. When you print out the letter, at the very bottom of the sheet there is a reference to VOM...please cut this off as it could mean further persecution for him. He holds dear each and every letter he might receive from other brothers and sisters. Remember, it costs us so little here on earth but it is an eternal reward! HE NEEDS OUR SUPPORT! Pray and write today.

CHINA - Prominent House Church Leader's Sons Assaulted by Chinese Police

2008-10-22T01:27:00.001-05:00

On October 16, Zhang Jian, the elder son of Pastor "Bike" Zhang Mingxuan, was severely beaten by Public Security Bureau (PSB) officials in Beijing, China Aid Association (CAA) reported.

Zhang Jian was at home with his mother, Xie Fenglan, when PSB officials entered their residence and secured the exits before severely beating him with iron bars for nearly half an hour. As Zhang lay bleeding profusely, his mother called the ambulance, but the receptionist told her that a higher government authority gave a directive not to dispatch an ambulance to rescue Zhang because he is related to Pastor Bike CAA reported. Xie Fenglan called her younger son, who rushed to the house and was also beaten by the same authorities, CAA added.

After some time a family friend took Zhang Jian to a local emergency room, where doctors said he may lose sight in his right eye as a result of the beating. The family has not been able to contact Pastor Bike, who was travelling at the time of the attacks, and they fear authorities have detained him. Pastor Bike is an outspoken evangelist. He traveled more than 10,000 miles across China’s 24 provinces passing out Christian literature and sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. He has been arrested several times for his evangelistic activities.

In August, two days before the Olympics, Pastor Bike was arrested along with his wife and co-worker. The Voice of the Martyrs and China Aid Association launched an international petition drive advocating for the release of Pastor Bike, his wife and co-worker. More than 58,000 people signed the petition and it was delivered to the Chinese Ambassador, Zhou Wenzhong, in Washington D.C. Shortly after the petition began and the Olympics ended, all three were released.

Pray for Zhang Jian and his younger brother’s quick recovery from the attack. Ask God to protect Pastor Bike and his entirely family during this challenging time. Praise God for this family’s faithfulness to risk their all for the sake of the gospel.

India – More than 70,000 Christians displaced in Orissa

2008-10-18T04:35:00.000-05:00

UPDATE: The Voice of the Martyrs contacts working to assist believers affected by attacks in Orissa state report that more than 70,000 Christians have been displaced and forced to live in refugee camps.

"At the Peyton Sahi relief camp which houses 35 families and 130 distraught tribals, Chabila Naik, a man who ran an orphanage for 50 children in Sarangada spent three days in the forest after their houses and churches were razed [with fire]. He has not been reunited with the children," VOM sources said.

Stories coming from persecuted believers in Orissa are heartbreaking. Christians spent days hiding in the forest following the attacks that erupted on August 24, after the murder of a prominent Hindu leader by Maoist extremists. “One family which did not want to be named said they had to leave their elderly mother in the jungles while the others walked through rain and darkness for 60 hours to get out of Kandhmal,” VOM sources added.

"We had no choice; I could either save my wife and two kids, or stay with her and ask for death for all of us. But, I am sure God has saved her, though I have no idea where she is," the man told VOM sources with tears in his eyes.

VOM is assisting displaced believers in Orissa and other areas in India where persecution has spread. Pray for believers who face these intense hardships and have in some cases lost contact with family members. Ask God to protect them and provide for their needs. Pray their testimonies will draw nonbelievers into fellowship with Him.

Iraq – Seven Christians Killed in Mosul, Iraq

2008-10-12T17:27:00.000-05:00

Seven Christians have been killed in Mosul, Iraq, so far this month, The Associated Press (AP) reported. "We are worried about the campaign of killings and deportations against Christian citizens in Mosul. Such violations are damaging the national unity," Chaldean Archbishop Louis Sako told AP. "The Christians want only to live in peace and harmony and to work together with all Iraqis for the benefit of Iraq," he added.

On Oct. 4 an armed group of suspected Islamist extremists assassinated a man named Hazim Thomaso Youssif in front of his clothing shop, and Ivan Nuwya was shot to death in front of his home, located near a mosque in the Christian-majority neighborhood of Tahrir. Meanwhile on Oct. 6, a disabled 25-year-old shopkeeper was shot and killed in the neighborhood of Karama. Four other Christians, a pharmacy employee, a disabled man who owns a spare-parts store, and two day-laborers have also been killed.

The Christian community in Iraq is estimated to be 3 percent of Iraq's 26 million people, or about 800,000. Archbishop Sako is based in the northern city of Kirkuk and has overseen believers in Mosul since the killing of Archbishop Paulos Faraj Rahho. Archbishop Rahho was kidnapped and killed by gunmen in March following Mass. His body was found dumped on the streets.

Some Christians believe that Muslim extremists are targeting shopkeepers in an effort to wipe out the Christian community's economic activity and drive out believers from the area. Since 2003, Christian leaders, churches and businesses in Iraq have been targeted by Islamic extremists. As a result, many believers have fled.

The Voice of the Martyrs actively supports Christians in Iraq with Action Packs, material resources for Christian leaders and evangelistic literature. VOM distributes the New Testament in Arabic and also supports widows through the Families of Martyrs fund.

VOM encourages you to pray for those who mourn these lost lives. Ask God to continue to embolden the Christian community in Mosul to proclaim the gospel even while suffering. Pray for God's protection for Christians living under difficult circumstances.