WhatFinger


Persecution and Prayer Alert, Voice of the Martyrs

IRAQ (Kurdistan Region): Reaching Out to Refugees Fleeing Militants



Sources: CBN, VOM Australia Throughout northern Iraq and Syria, the militant group known as the Islamic State (IS or ISIS) has forced tens of thousands into a life without homes, jobs and family. While these refugees face an uncertain future, churches in the Kurdistan region are helping fill that void with help and hope. In particular, many of the churches in the city of Erbil have opened their doors to the multitudes fleeing the advance of ISIS.
"We wanted to show those people that we don't care if they are Christians, Yazidis or Muslims," Majeed Mohammed, a pastor in the area, explained. "They are human beings and they have been kicked out of their homes by ISIS. We want to show them that as Christians we love them...." The long-term fate of the vast number of refugees remains one of the major questions in this urgent humanitarian crisis. Praise God for Pastor Majeed and other 'Good Samaritans' like him who are opening up their churches, homes and hearts to the overwhelming number of refugees in dire need. Pray for continued provision so shelter and basic necessities can be made available to those in their care. May this fine example of love and service greatly encourage the faith of believers and serve as a bold witness to those who do not yet know Jesus Christ in a personal way. Pray also for long-term solutions for the thousands of refugees, so they may have the hope of a brighter future. May the hearts of the militants be touched as well, bringing an end to the atrocious violence in Iraq.

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RECENT PRISONER UPDATE

LAOS: Christians Pronounced Not Guilty, Yet Remain Detained

Source: Christian Solidarity Worldwide On August 6th, five Christians in Savannakhet province were found not guilty of the crime of murdering a convert to Christianity. The believers were arrested on June 23rd after they prayed for the health of Chan, a convert to Christianity who later died from a previously diagnosed illness. In the days following her death, the authorities also pressured and intimidated Chan's adult children who are also newcomers to the Christian faith. While it has now been ruled that the Christians did not commit any criminal offence, at last report, the five remained detained with no date yet set for their release. (For more information on the arrest of these believers, visit our website.) Savannakhet province is reportedly one of the worst areas in Laos for religious freedom violations. Opposition includes forced evictions, arrests and detentions, disruption of religious meetings and services, forced participation in animist ceremonies, and threats of endangerment. Thank the Lord that these believers have been pronounced not guilty, which is most encouraging. However, please join us in praying that they will very soon be released and, therefore, free to return home to their loved ones. Also remember in prayer Chan's surviving children and other mourning family members and friends who are trying to adapt to life without their loved one. May they all be comforted in knowing that Chan, as a beloved child of God, is now experiencing life to the fullest in heaven. May this reality encourage them to continue following Jesus, despite the opposition they have endured during a difficult time of grieving. Finally, pray that religious freedom will be respected throughout Laos, especially by authorities in Savannakhet province. To learn more about the persecuted church in Laos, visit our website.


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