SYRIA: A New Road to Damascus

Source: VOM USA and VOMC Partners The war in Syria is one of the greatest crises experienced in the Middle East within the past 20 years. It has claimed the lives of more than 100,000 people, both Muslim and Christian. Thus far, more than two million Syrians have fled for refuge to neighbouring countries. Yet, in the midst of the crisis, members of our persecuted family in this part of the world are boldly reaching out with the love of Jesus. And the reactions of Muslims have been astonishing. Christians, once widely considered "infidels" in Syria, are now often affectionately referred to as "the Bible People."

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"When you hear about one Muslim coming to Christ, it's a great thing, and everybody rejoices," explains a VOM Syrian contact. "Today, in Syria, I'm not talking about one person. We're talking about hundreds and even thousands of Muslims coming to know Christ!" Although there are great risks when ministering in the midst of this war zone, another Christian worker affirms that they are not allowing fear to prevent the Lord's work: "God is doing miracles inside the country. But even if He allows us to die, it will be an honour for us...to glorify His name." Teams of believers are working sacrificially in the refugee camps, extending compassion while sharing both material and spiritual aid. The opportunities for ministry today exceed what we thought possible. Working with the Syrian church and local workers, VOM is actively distributing vitally needed necessities such as food, blankets, Bibles and Christian literature; providing support for in-country pastors and evangelistic teams; and proclaiming the Gospel through radio broadcasts. To participate in this project through our Relief and Development Fund, click here. More information on the situation in Syria can be found here.

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While we can thank the Lord for bringing many Syrians out of darkness and into His marvellous light, we are mindful of our need to pray for these fellow believers who are still facing not only the horrific effects of war but also continued persecution. Please intercede for those who are bravely using this opportunity to advance the Kingdom of God. May He greatly bless our combined efforts to convey His love in action, peace in the midst of the storm, and the hope of eternal salvation.

NIGERIA: Innocent Civilians Killed in Recent Extremist Raids

Sources: Release International, AFP, BBC, Stefanos Foundation Two pastors have been killed and three churches destroyed, as militants attack yet more civilian targets in northeast Nigeria. In Borno state, a pastor was killed on September 26th when militants raided and set fire to the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria (EYN) which is located in Barawa village. Another EYN church was burned down in nearby Chikide village. On the same day, in Yobe state, suspected Boko Haram Islamist militants opened fire inside a church in Dorawa town, killing another pastor and his two children. They then set fire to the church and two other buildings before fleeing. The Dorawa church is just 28 kilometres from the site of a brutal attack that took place in July of 2013 on a school where dozens of students were killed. A similar attack took place recently on September 29th at the College of Agriculture in Gujba district, Yobe, where gunmen killed an estimated 50 students as they slept. Previous reports of persecution in Nigeria, including video podcasts, can be located at the Nigeria Country Report. May God greatly comfort and sustain all who have been bereaved due to these recent militant attacks. Pray that He will raise up new spiritual leaders for the two churches that have tragically lost their pastors due to the violence perpetrated against Christians and other innocent members of their communities. Thank the Lord for the strong overcoming faith of His people in Nigeria, encouraging many more to turn to Him during this time of crisis. May the country's governing authorities be granted wisdom, resolve and courage as they work to stamp out the devastating attacks of the Boko Haram extremists.

PRISONER UPDATE

IRAN: Female Prisoner Hospitalized for Serious Heart Condition

Source: Mohabat News Iranian Christian convert, Maryam Naghash-Zargaran (also known as Nasim), is presently serving a four-year term in the women's ward of Evin Prison for "propagating against the Islamic regime, and colluding to undermine national security." The court verdict states that Nasim had started a house church and was evangelizing Muslim women and youth. Since her incarceration, the 35-year-old believer has experienced some serious health concerns. On Sunday, September 29th, Nasim was transferred from Evin prison to Modares hospital to be treated after an apparent heart attack. Although she had previously undergone heart surgery, the stressful conditions of imprisonment have acerbated her heart disease. The mental anguish and resulting depression Nasim also recently suffered have compounded matters, indicating that her imprisonment is posing serious risks to her health. Reportedly, there are three other known female Christian converts and activists being detained in Evin prison. Like Nasim, Somayeh Bakhtiari, Ronak Samavat, and Nasim Zanjani have also been sentenced for holding prayer meetings and worship services in house churches. To learn more about Iran's political stance on Christianity, go to the Iran Country Report. It's very difficult for us to truly understand the tremendous pressures Muslim converts face in a society that harshly opposes the Christian faith. This typically includes persecution at the hands of their family members who may disown them, cause physical harm and possibly death. Please pray for God's protection, strength and peace upon Nasim and others who are imprisoned in Iran for their faith...those who've bravely spread the Gospel message of Jesus Christ despite the great dangers posed to them. May mercy be extended to these believers by the legal system, so they will be released. Let's also pray that Nasim will be completely healed and restored to full health and wellness, serving as a testimony of God's faithfulness and power in her life. We encourage you to share your prayers on behalf of these suffering brothers and sisters in Christ by posting on our prayer wall.

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