Sources: CNN, Release International, BBC
A double-suicide bombing took place on September 22nd within the compound of the All Saints Church in Peshawar (about 120 kilometres from the country's capital of Islamabad). According to a hospital official, the death toll has risen to 81. Among those killed were choir members and children attending Sunday school. The incident is described as one of the deadliest attacks ever on the Christian community in this country. Two militant groups with links to the Taliban are claiming responsibility for the attack. (For previously posted video clips and reports of persecution in Pakistan, please go to
www.persecution.net/pakistan.htm.)
Dr. Arshad Javed, chief executive of Peshawar's Lady Reading Hospital, explained that the attack has also left 120 people wounded, with 10 of them in critical condition. In addition to being traumatized and grief-stricken over the loss of loved ones, many of the surviving victims are experiencing extreme physical pain due to the severity of their burns. The hot, uncomfortable conditions and inadequate number of medical specialists available to them are adding to their suffering.
May the "Prince of Peace" bring comfort and peace to the troubled hearts of these victimized believers whose lives have been shattered by the sudden destruction and tragic loss resulting from this violent attack. Thankfully, God is able to mend the broken pieces, and turn what was meant for evil into something good (Genesis 50:20). Pray that healing and restoration will take place in these believers' lives and church fellowship, and that through this tragedy many others in Pakistan will experience His salvation...including those opposing the Christian faith.
NIGERIA: Twenty-Five Christian Buildings Marked for Demolition
Sources: VOM Contacts, All Africa
Government authorities in northern Nigeria's Borno state plan to demolish 25 churches and schools, ostensibly to make room for new housing. However, no plans for the housing development have been produced. Christian leaders believe this is yet another attempt by local governments in northern Nigeria to persecute the Christian minority. (Other informative reports can be accessed at
www.persecution.net/nigeria.htm.)
The proposed demolitions would compound the security challenges that these believers are already facing from the militant group, Boko Haram. "We have seen the eviction notice from the Borno state government," says Dr. Asake, general secretary of the Christian Association of Nigeria. "We are Nigerians, and there are other places where the state government can develop. The areas earmarked for demolition are already developed with churches and schools. Christians have already suffered enough in Borno state."
Thank the Lord for the faithfulness of the Christians in Nigeria, asking Him to strengthen their faith further so they will overcome this most recent challenge of governmental opposition. Pray that He will intervene to preserve their places of worship, fellowship and teaching. Through it all, may these Nigerian believers continue to reach out to their Muslim neighbours with the love of Jesus.
IRAN: Recent Release of Two Imprisoned Believers
Source: Christian Solidarity Worldwide
Iranian Christians Maryam Jalili and Mitra Rahmati were released from Evin Prison on September 18th, six weeks before their two-and-half-year sentences were due to be completed. The women were among eleven prisoners of conscience selected for release.
Maryam and Mitra, both converts from Islam, were arrested on Christmas Eve in 2009, along with 13 other believers, after a raid by government officials on a house church in Pakdasht (southeast of Tehran). While most of the other church members were released shortly after being arrested, the two women were detained until March 17th, 2010. After their initial release, they were re-arrested in April of 2011 and imprisoned a second time for being members of an "illegal group." More stories highlighting the heroic faith of Iranian Christians can be found at
www.persecution.net/iran.htm.
During Iran's 2013 presidential campaign, newly elected President Rouhani, viewed as a moderate and pragmatist, promised to uphold the rights of women and religious minorities and permit the release of political prisoners. He also pledged to set up a "civil rights charter" which would ensure equality without discrimination based on race, religion or gender.
While we rejoice with Maryam and Mitra, this update serves as a reminder for us to continue interceding on behalf of fellow Christians in Iran who are still facing tremendous challenges. Pray that the new president will follow through on his promises, bringing about greatly needed change in the way the Iranian government treats those who have been unjustly detained. Please lift up the following incarcerated believers who are among those still awaiting release: Farshid Fathi, Benham Irani, Saeed Abedini and Shahin Lahooti. May the Lord minister ongoing protection, strength and encouragement to them and their families, bringing about ultimate freedom from imprisonment and joyful reconciliation with loved ones.
We encourage you to share your prayers for those who are suffering with other believers around the world by posting on our prayer wall:
www.persecution.net/prayer-wall.htm.
