PAKISTAN: Church Attacked During Prayer ServiceSource: Pak Christian News
A worship service in Pakistan.
Photo: VOMC
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The armed men fired several shots inside the building, causing damage but fortunately not hitting anyone. They then vandalized the facility and dragged Pastor Zulfiqar outside, where they assaulted him with the butts of their guns. Due to the attack, the pastor suffered injuries to his head and one of his eyes.
In response to this violence, the National Commission for Human Rights in Peshawar condemned the attack, emphasizing that such incidents are an affront to the core principles of human rights and freedom of religion. As a result, human rights advocates are calling upon the government to ensure that minority communities are safe and that those responsible for the violence are brought to justice. For other reports on incidents of persecution against Pakistan's Christians, go to our country report.
Pray that the perpetrators of this violent incident will be brought to justice and that necessary protections would be provided to the leaders and congregants of Lala Zarr Church, as well as all other believers who are at risk in various areas of the country. May our Christian brothers and sisters in Pakistan receive ongoing wisdom, guidance and peace as they minister to neighbours in their communities who have yet to understand and accept God's wonderful gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. |
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KYRGYZSTAN: Fines for "Missionary Activities"Source: Forum18In multiple incidents that took place during late March, Christians from registered churches in Kyrgyzstan were issued fines for conducting "illegal missionary activities." News of the raids had not been released until recently due to fear of reprisals.
On March 26th, the State Commission for Religious Affairs (SCRA), along with several police officers, raided the St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Talas. People leaving the evening mass were forced back into the building by armed officers. The congregants were ordered to remain in the building until two nuns signed a confession stating that they were "spreading their ideology" and thus guilty of practising "illegal missionary activities." The two women each received a fine equivalent to an average of two weeks' wages.
Around the same date that the Catholic church was being raided, state officials also invaded a Protestant church, despite the fact that the place of worship is officially registered with the government. During the raid, two foreign believers were issued fines. For security reasons, no further details about this incident are available.
The Catholic church has since appealed the sentence, but without effect. The SCRA has warned the Catholic administration overseeing congregations in the country that any further "violations" could result in the liquidation of the organization's national administration. Government agencies have refused to give any explanation for their actions and threats. For more details on the difficulties facing Christians in Kyrgyzstan, go to our country report.
Pray that the government's opposition against both churches will cease, allowing followers of Jesus to continue worshipping without fear of further repercussions from the authorities. May God especially grant peace, comfort and encouragement to each of the four believers who are presently facing charges, also providing the funds they need to pay the fines levied against them. Additionally, pray that the Lord will work mightily within the hearts and minds of those who are opposing the various churches throughout Kyrgyzstan, leading each one to repentance and salvation in Christ. |
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CHINA: Church Leaders’ Trial Set for August 21stSource: ChinaAid
Yang Rongli
Photo: ChinaAid |
The authorities attempted to coerce the ten church members to turn against the pastor and his wife in exchange for being released on bail. Some firmly refused; others initially agreed but then later refused, and a few chose to cooperate with the police in the face of the mounting pressures against them. The church members who were released on bail will be represented by lawyers appointed by the government. Those who refused to cooperate have remained in prison for the past two years while awaiting trial.
The church has been notified that the case will be heard on August 21st at the Yaodu District People's Court in Linfen. Prior to this situation, Pastor Wang and his wife previously served time in prison because of their ministry activities. In 2009, they were arrested for "gathering a mob to disturb public order" after organizing a prayer rally (read more). For that conviction, Pastor Wang served four years and Yang seven years in prison. There are concerns that the sentencing for the new charges may be more severe.
Please pray for the upcoming trial, asking that there would be a favourable outcome for these accused Christian leaders, many of whom have patiently endured imprisonment for the past couple of years on false charges. May God minister His perfect peace to their hearts and minds, while providing them wisdom, protection, and the spiritual fortitude they need to stand firm in the midst of ongoing pressure. Also prayerfully uphold all the other members of this persecuted church, who have faced so many trials over the years, praying that these faithful followers of Jesus will likewise be empowered by the Holy Spirit so they can continue leading lives of resilient faith. |
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. Matthew 6:8
