Sources: Voice of the Martyrs USA, The Washington Post, Charisma News
There is mounting fear of religious persecution taking place in Tanzania as a result of attacks being made against Christian clergy, churches and some Muslim leaders. In a recent incident on September 13th, a priest in Zanzibar suffered severe burns after having acid poured on him by one or more militant Muslims just outside an Internet café. Rev. Anselm Mwang'amba, 61, received burns on his face, chest and arms. VOM sources report that although he cried out for help, the owners of the Internet café delayed in bringing needed water for the dilution of the burning acid.
Although the afflicted reverend was taken to the Mnazi Mmoja Hospital in Zanzibar, his colleagues are considering the possibility of transferring him to a hospital in Dar es Salaam so he will be farther away from his persecutors. Church leaders believe the attack is linked to a militant Islamist group known as "Awakening," which is campaigning for Zanzibar's independence as an Islamic state. In reference to the attack, diocesan chancellor Rev. Cosmas Shayo states, "We are urging Christians not to retaliate." Other reports of persecution against followers of Jesus in Tanzania can be found at this list.
May the Lord completely heal both the physical and emotional wounds Rev. Mwang'amba has experienced as a result of the attack (Psalm 30:2). Pray that the church in Tanzania will not be fearful due to this incident and other similar attacks, but rather would choose to lean even more on our Almighty God who has promised His people strength in times of trouble. Ask Him to thwart any plans the enemy may have to inflict further harm on these believers through the militant group.
IRAN: More Christians Imprisoned for their Faith
Sources: Voice of the Martyrs USA and Mohabat News
Iranian Christians are requesting prayer for their country following a series of arrests that took place about the time the government released some prisoners in an effort to appear more liberal. At least 20 Christians, mainly from Muslim backgrounds, were detained in Tehran, Karaj, Isfahan and Tabriz. As a sign of being politically progressive, the government of newly appointed President Hassan Rouhani pardoned and then released 11 prisoners of conscience on September 20th.
The next day, the family of imprisoned Pastor Behnam Irani went to meet with a judge in Karaj, Iran, asking for pardon to be granted and thus his release from prison, as was done for the other prisoners of conscience. Unfortunately, the judge denied this request, stating that Pastor Behnam had to complete his six-year term. The family members were then told that the only way the imprisoned pastor would be pardoned and released prior to this term was if he repented and returned to Islam. To learn more about his situation, please review this story.
Thank the Lord for the recent release of the 11 prisoners. May He protect and sustain those who remain in jail, especially Pastor Behnam who is suffering from poor health. Praise God for the growth of the church in Iran despite the many challenges. Ask that He will use these incidents of persecution to further spread the Gospel and strengthen the faith of His children. Also, in accordance to Scripture, pray for the Lord to work through President Hassan Rouhani and all those in authority so there will be peace in the land.
PRISONER UPDATE
KAZAKHSTAN: Pastor Now Under House Arrest Pending Trial
Source: Forum 18 News
Pastor Bakhytzhan Kashkumbayev, who has been imprisoned for about five months in Astana, has been placed under house arrest for the remainder of his pre-trial detention, according to a court decision. The 66-year-old pastor has not seen his wife Alfiya or any other family members since his May 17th arrest. (For a previous report providing more details on his arrest, please click here.)
While under house arrest, Pastor Bakhytzhan is "banned from associating with anyone apart from close relatives living with him, receiving and sending letters, holding conversations with the use of any communication devices, and is only able to leave his home for medical appointments."
The pastor was initially arrested on charges of "causing considerable harm to the psychological health" of a church member and accused of using "stupefying substances" on other members of the church, a reference made to the red tea that was used as a non-alcoholic Communion wine. However, one member insists that Pastor Bakhytzhan "is totally innocent and has not harmed my health at all." The pre-trial detention is scheduled to last until November 17th.
Thank the Lord for the opportunity Pastor Bakhytzhan has been given to return home for the duration of his pre-trial detention. In the interim, please pray for God's favour and intervention in this case to ensure a favourable outcome. May He also strengthen the faith of Pastor Bakhytzhan, his family and the congregation members of the church...while using these circumstances to accomplish His greater plans.
We encourage you to share your prayers on behalf of these suffering brothers and sisters in Christ by posting on our prayer wall.
