Crowns of Courage: Serving the Lord in Temporary Bodies

 Source: ICC

04/29/2024 Afghanistan (International Christian Concern) – For those who choose to work and serve in modern Afghanistan, there is no mystery as to the severe risks involved. Yet for many brave believers, the importance of their mission far outweighs the dangers.

This was the case for Gayle Williams, a 34-year-old aid worker with SERVE Afghanistan of British and South African nationality.

Leading up to her work in Afghanistan, Williams worked in Pakistan, serving displaced Afghans living in refugee camps. As her love for the Afghan people deepened, she persevered in her journey to serve in-country and eventually made her way to southern Afghanistan in 2006.

Here, surrounded by Taliban violence, she humbly served disabled children and those who had been injured in the conflict. While SERVE Afghanistan is Christian in its beliefs, it was not evangelistic in nature, focusing more on tangible relief projects than gospel outreach. Williams’ colleagues recalled that she was personally very cautious not to openly share her faith with Afghans.

Yet, despite its efforts to keep a low profile, SERVE Afghanistan still attracted the attention of local Taliban militants. Their targeted violence against the organization and other Christian groups sought to deter aid workers from the region and undermine the government’s security efforts.

Shortly before her own death, Williams grieved at the funeral of a colleague. Here, she told a friend that she hoped to be buried in the same Christian cemetery in Kabul and said, “These bodies are only temporary. When I get to heaven, I will have a new body.”

Sure enough, only a few weeks later on October 20, 2008, Taliban militants fatally shot Williams as she walked down a quiet street in the capital city of Kabul.

The Taliban claimed responsibility immediately for the attack. “This woman came to Afghanistan to teach Christianity to the people of Afghanistan,” Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid told The Associated Press. “Our [leaders] issued a decree to kill this woman. This morning our people killed her in Kabul.”

Around the world, family, friends, and world leaders grieved the senseless murder. Coming down harshly on the attack, the UK Secretary of State for International Development said, “Her killing was a callous and cowardly act by people who would take Afghanistan back to the dark days of the Taliban tyranny which scarred the country for so long.”

Perhaps most touching, Gayle’s sister Karen expressed that she and her family had forgiven the assailants because they knew Gayle would have done the same.

While the work in Afghanistan remains perilous, hope is not lost. As long as there are brave men and women like Gayle Williams bringing light into the darkness, the gospel will continue touching hearts in the most difficult places on earth.

Breaking News: Islamic Extremists Set Fire to Homes of Christians in Southern Egypt

Source: ICC

4/24/2024 Egypt (International Christian Concern) — Around 11 p.m. on Tuesday, April 23, Islamic extremists set fire to several homes and shops owned by Coptic Orthodox Christians in Al-Fawakher village in Saft Al-Khammar Al-Gharbiya, Minya Governorate.

As the flames grew, the extremists attempted to prevent Christians from leaving their burning homes. However, authorities reported that there were no fatalities. The attack occurred after word spread that residents of the village, which is home to 3,000 Christian families, had obtained a permit to construct a church building. Some associated with the church received threats after the building permit was issued, prompting Abna Makarios, Archbishop of Minya, to alert authorities.

Despite promises of safety from security forces, the cries of help from the archbishop and the local Coptic community went unanswered as the attack unfolded. Security forces arrived only after the attack, leaving a yet unknown number of Christians to perish in their burning homes. 

Extremists later shared a video on social media showing Coptic homes on fire as a song praising the attack played in the background. 

Early Wednesday morning, the archbishop posted on Facebook that authorities had contained the fire and arrested the suspects. 

VIETNAM: New Regulations Bring Tighter Restrictions

Source: VOMC
Sources: Christianity Today, Morning Star News, Government Religious Committee of Vietnam

Flags of Vietnam and the Communist Party of Vietnam. Photo: Wikipedia / Vuong Tri Binh (cc)

With the release of Decree 95, which took effect on March 30th, Vietnamese governing officials declared that the new regulations they were instituting would ensure freedom of belief for all people within the country, enhancing the responsibilities of individual agencies and organizations. The decree expands on the "Law on Belief and Religion" that was implemented in 2018, which outlines additional policies and procedures regulating religious activities in Vietnam.

In the view of the country's spiritual leaders, however, the new decree has added regulations that will further restrict religious freedoms. Two of the most significant changes revolve around financial reporting and the rights of local officials to suspend religious activities for unspecified "serious violations."

The decree requires that all finances and in-kind goods be reported within 20 days of receipt. Yet this rule is impossible to follow for many religious communities, since they are often not registered due to the government's stringent registration criteria. As a result, the requirement to report income, as well as expenditures, may be onerous for many churches throughout the country.

A third of the policies presented in the Decree 95 document focus on suspending religious activities for various violations. Such infractions include "infringing on the morality of our indigenous culture" and "using religion for personal aggrandizement." The use of such vague terminology could allow local Communist authorities to shut down any group considered a threat to the authoritarian government in Vietnam.

For Christians in Vietnam, how the new rules will actually play out is yet to be seen, as not all religious regulations have been strictly enforced in the past. As one local church leader states, "In Vietnam everything is open; everything is negotiable." Despite the new regulations, Hien Vu from the Institute for Global Engagement is confident that the country's pastors and church leaders will remain steadfast and resilient. "They are used to these restrictions," he explains. "We'll deal with it when it comes; but we'll do whatever God calls us to do."
For more reports on the challenges facing Christians in Vietnam, go to our country report.

On behalf of church leaders throughout Vietnam, pray that God will grant them wisdom as they deal with the outcome of the newly implemented regulations. 

May their ministries not in any way be thwarted by the potential challenges, but rather further thrive due to the help and guidance provided by our Heavenly Father. 

For believers who have been arrested or otherwise persecuted for their faith in Jesus, ask the Lord to impart to them His sustaining grace and strength so they will remain resilient amid opposition. 

Also, pray for the outpouring of God's Spirit upon the citizens of this country in general, leading all those who view Christianity as "a threat" to acknowledge their need for repentance and salvation through Christ.

NIGERIA: Chibok Victim Recovered Ten Years After Kidnapping Attack

Source: VOMC
Sources: Open Doors UK, The Guardian, People, BBC, Punch

Lydia Simon and one of her children. Photo: Zagazola

The Nigerian army announced on April 18th that one of the schoolgirls who had been abducted from the town of Chibok more than a decade ago has been safely rescued. The statement issued by the military provided a photo of Lydia Simon, who is five months pregnant, along with the three children whom she gave birth to while in captivity. No further details were given surrounding Lydia's rescue, other than the fact that she was found in the community of Ngoshe. At last report, the young woman was yet to be reunited with her family.

On April 14th, 2014, a total of 276 girls were abducted by Boko Haram militants while at their secondary school in Chibok, a predominantly Christian town in Borno State. While many of the students have either escaped or been freed over the years, it is believed that approximately 90 victims remain missing today. Since many of the recovered girls were forcibly married to their captors, they may be at risk of the cultural stigma associated with their pregnancies or having borne children during captivity. While speaking at a 10th-anniversary service, Yana Gala – whose daughter is one of the 90 girls still missing – is more concerned about their safe return. "My hope and prayer is that the God [who] doesn't fail will bring back our own children," she says. "Even if they have children now, no matter the condition they are in, we want them that way."

The attack on Chibok is just one of many kidnapping incidents perpetrated by militant Islamic groups in Nigeria.
To view previously published reports on this attack, and/or to learn about the other challenges Nigerian Christians encounter, go to our country report.

Praise God for the rescue of Lydia and her children, along with the other young women who have been recovered over the past ten years! 

As they re-adjust to their daily lives, pray that each one of them will receive emotional, physical and spiritual healing. 

As for the Chibok schoolgirls who remain missing and separated from their families, pray that the Lord will provide them ongoing grace and protection, as well as the help they need. 

Wherever these young women are located, may they continue to sense His unfailing love and presence in their lives. 

Please also prayerfully uphold their concerned families as they anxiously await news of the missing girls' rescue and well-being. May they too experience God's strength, comfort and hope.

PAKISTAN: Murder Victim's Family Members Face Threats

Source: VOMC
Source: Morning Star News

Farhan Ul Qamar Photo: Morning Star News

On November 9th, a 20-year-old Christian student named Farhan Ul Qamar was killed in his family's home by a man known for his hatred towards Christians and Jews. The attack is believed to have occurred as a result of religious tensions escalated by the violence in Gaza.
For details on Farhan's murder, go to this page.

After the attack, Muhammad Zubair confessed to the killing, though he claimed to have mistaken Farhan for one of two brothers who had earlier expressed support for Israel. In court, however, Muhammad later retracted his confession. Since the incident, the family members of the murdered student have faced threats, demanding that they drop all charges against Muhammad.

On March 18th, six men held the Christians at gunpoint, warning that they would all be killed unless a settlement is reached and the accused killer is released. Thankfully, another family member living nearby was able to call the police who subsequently arrested the intruders. However, local authorities released the men after warning them to not intimidate the family again. Though shaken, and despite ongoing warnings to drop all charges, the family is determined to pursue justice for Farhan.

In the midst of the threats against Farhan's family members, may the Lord provide each of them His divine protection. 

And as they continue to grieve the tragic loss of their precious loved one, pray that the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard their hearts and minds. 

Ultimately, may the Lord's mercy and justice prevail, not only in Farhan's case, but also in the lives of other potentially hostile community members. 

Keeping this in mind, please intercede for all those in this South Asian country who desperately need a revelation of God's tremendous love for them. As a result, may they seek to live in peace and harmony with Him and the members of their communities.

INDIA: Prison Sentence for Alleged Forced Conversions

Source: VOMC
Sources: Morning Star News, Hindustan Times, Church in Chains, Release International

Pastor Ramesh Ahirwar and his wife Sakshi. Photo: Morning Star News

A Christian couple was recently sentenced to prison after accusations were made that they had been involved in pressuring others to convert to Christianity. Pastor Ramesh Ahirwar and his wife Sakshi are from the village of Vivek Nagar in Madhya Pradesh. A man had accused the couple of abducting his estranged wife Sapna (who also happens to be Pastor Ramesh's niece) before allegedly pressuring her to convert, holding the woman against her will, and not allowing her to return home to be with him. He also purported that the Christian couple offered to build Sapna a home and give her money each month. The complainant, Abhishek, further claimed that the Christians attempted to convert him as well, offering him a job in return.

During the court hearing, Sapna testified that she was neither coerced into changing her religion nor offered any financial incentives. She stated that the pastor did not, in any way, pressure her to stay away from her estranged husband, but that she did so of her own volition. Despite Sapna's testimony, the district court convicted the two believers and sentenced them to two years in prison, along with a fine. The verdict has since been appealed and the next court hearing is scheduled for April 30th.

While anti-conversion laws have already been passed in 12 of India's states, some Hindu nationalist groups are pushing for nation-wide legislation. Considering that the country's general elections are starting on April 19th, VOMC joins its sister mission, Release International – along with other Christian organizations – in the call for an end to this divisive and widely misused legislation, which has resulted in an increase in violence and arrests against religious minorities.
To review previously posted reports addressing the persecution of Christians in this South Asian country, please go to our country report.

As the nation of India holds its national elections in the coming days, pray that the country's voters will be guided by a desire for equality and the protection of human rights for all citizens. 

Also prayerfully remember Pastor Ramesh and his wife Sakshi, along with the many other followers of Jesus who are facing the threat of violence or incarceration because of the false allegations against them – in hopes that justice prevails in each of their cases. 

While awaiting judicial and/or governmental intervention, may the Lord grant them divine protection, peace, strength, as well as the provisions necessary to meet their individual spiritual and practical needs. 

Additionally, please intercede for Abhishek, asking God to work in his heart and mind so that any vindictive motives would cease, and that he will ultimately experience a life-changing encounter with the Living Christ.

CHINA: Members of Raided Church Detained

Source: VOMC
Source: ChinaAid

Elder Chang Shun and his son.  Photo: ChinaAid

On March 10th, the members of the Maizhong Reformed Church in Fuyang, Anhui province, were gathered at a restaurant when their meeting was suddenly raided by local police. Without showing identification or giving reasons for the raid, the police began interrogating the Christians. Officials from the local religious affairs bureau, along with national security agents, also entered the restaurant and began taking pictures.

After questioning the believers who had attended the gathering, the authorities took 18 Christians, including two children, to the police station. The interrogation continued until well after midnight before Elder Chang Shun was given a 15-day administrative detention for "carrying out activities in the name of an illegal social organization." This is the third time that Elder Chang has been detained within the past six months. Additionally, as a result of the raid, eight other church members were each given a 13-day detention.

After learning of Elder Chang's detention, his wife, Li Yunyan, released a letter calling for prayer and expressing deep concern for her husband. The couple's children, unable to grasp what was happening, asked their mother, "Why do they have to take Daddy? Daddy is not a bad person." 
For more information on the persecution of our Christian brothers and sisters in China, go to our country report.

Prayerfully uphold the members of this persecuted church as they contend with ongoing oppression because of their desire to meet together for worship. 

Pray specifically for Elder Chang and his family, along with the other recently detained church members and their loved ones, asking that each of these believers would receive the encouragement, strength, courage and perseverance they need to remain undeterred by the governmental opposition. 

May God also work mightily in the lives of the Chinese Communist Party officials, turning their hearts towards repentance and faith in the Lord Jesus.

OCCUPIED UKRAINE: Russian Forces Charge Another Church Leader

Source: VOMC
Source: Forum18

An "Orthodox Church of Ukraine" monastery. Photo: Wikipedia / Rbrechko (cc)

In May 2023, Father Kostiantyn Maksimov, a priest from the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, was taken by Russian occupation forces. Several other religious leaders have either been killed, tortured or reported missing after being detained by members of the Russian forces.

In late March of this year, the Regional Prosecutor's Office for the occupation forces in the Zaporizhzhia Region announced that Father Kostiantyn was to face trial on charges of espionage. The prosecutors allege that the priest had reported the location of Russian air defences to the Ukrainian security service via Telegram, an instant messaging app. At last report, no details have been released regarding when and where the trial will be held.

In a separate incident, two priests from the Orthodox Church of Ukraine were convicted of "conducting missionary activities" in September 2023. (Read a previously published report.) Father Khristofor Khrimli and Father Andri Chui are from the Donetsk Region of Ukraine, an area currently considered part of Russia by occupational forces. Both church leaders were ordered to be deported from Russian territory, but since court officials claim that the region of their home is now within the jurisdiction of Russia, there was uncertainty at the time as to where the priests would be sent.

According to a recent update, the two men were deported to the country of Georgia in March. Since then, they have returned to Ukraine but are living in an area that's under the control of the Ukrainian government. Due to orders of the court representing Russia's occupational forces, they are forbidden to return to their home community within the Donetsk Region.

Continue to pray for peace in Ukraine, especially within the hearts of those residing in occupied or volatile regions of the country. In the midst of the ongoing threats of violence and oppression, may God also minister His divine protection, love and provision. 

Specifically pray that the charges issued by Russian officials against Father Kostiantyn and other falsely accused religious leaders will be dropped. And may Father Khristofor and Father Andri, along with the many other Christians who have been forced from their homes, receive the resources and support required to continue reaching out with the hope of the Gospel – wherever they happen to be located. 

On behalf of all the remaining Ukrainian church leaders and their congregants, pray for ongoing strength, wisdom and guidance as they faithfully gather together for worship and continue in their endeavours to meet the needs of others in their communities.

SOMALIA: Christian Merchants Killed by Suspected Militants

Source: VOMC
Sources: Morning Star News, The Star, Citizen Digital

Ahmad Diriye, Emir of al-Shabaab Photo: Wikipedia / U.S. State Department

Six Kenyan merchants, all of them professed followers of Jesus, were killed in a border town between Kenya and Somalia on March 29th. The perpetrators of the crime then fled the Somalian town of Dhobley and travelled further into the country. It is believed that those responsible for the attack are members of al-Shabaab, a militant Islamic group based in Somalia.

The six slain believers had been selling plastic utensils and other household goods in Dhobley for the past six years. On the day of the attack, these merchants were just opening their shops for business when a group of gunmen with covered faces drove by and shot the Christian men at close range. Four of the believers died immediately, while the other two succumbed to their injuries later while in hospital.

It is widely believed that the slain followers of Jesus were targeted for their religious affiliation and activities. Along with their business pursuits, the Christian men frequently shared the compassion of Christ to Muslims in the community. It was reported that several Muslims had been secretly attending the believers' evening prayer services to learn more about Christianity, which likely angered local Islamic militants.

Prior to the mass shooting incident, one of the victims, Joseph Githonga, reported to a local church leader in February that some Muslim community members had complained about the Christians' worship activities. For the church members' safety, the Christian leader advised Joseph and the other believers to avoid singing but continue quietly holding their Bible study meetings.

In the 2024 World Watch List, Open Doors ranked Somalia as second among the 50 listed nations considered to be the most difficult for those practising Christianity. For more information on the persecution of Christians in this East African nation, and/or to review other posted reports, go to our country report.

Pray that the Lord will minister greatly needed comfort to the friends and loved ones of these men who were recently killed for their faith. 

May those responsible be held accountable for their criminal actions. 

Also prayerfully uphold other believers living within this region of the world whose lives are at risk because of their faithful Christian witness, asking God to provide them protection, courage and strength. 

Last, but not least, please intercede for the salvation of those in East Africa who are opposed to the Gospel message, in hopes that many of them would turn to faith in Christ and experience His saving grace.

NICARAGUA: Increased Difficulties for Christians

Source: VOMC
Sources: Reuters, Evangelical Focus, Christianity Today, LaCroix International, Vatican News, Mountain Gateway

President Daniel Ortega Photo: Wikipedia / Office of the President, Republic of China (Taiwan)

Under the regime of President Daniel Ortega, life for Christians in Nicaragua has become increasingly difficult. Many Catholic priests have been detained, often for being overtly opposed to the abusive actions committed by the country's governing authorities. During the last week of December alone, nine priests were detained.

According to another report, between the years of 2019 and 2023, the Catholic church experienced 1,200 cases of aggression, including dozens of arrests and expulsions from the country. More recently, on January 14th of this year, 19 members of the Catholic clergy were expelled from their posts in Nicaragua and deported to the Vatican. Included among these clergymen was Bishop Rolando Alvarez, a prominent critic of the Nicaraguan president, who had earlier been sentenced to 26 years in prison on charges of treason.

While the Catholic church has been repeatedly harassed by the government, other organizations within the nation that stood against the regime were also targeted. In July 2023, the Red Cross was expelled from the country for criticizing the inhumane treatment of prisoners. The members of many other Christian organizations have been subjected to harassment and false allegations. Altogether, the government has seized the properties of numerous non-profit groups, including 256 evangelical Christian associations.

For one particular American-based agency, Mountain Gateway, this opposition has resulted in charges against 14 pastors, including three church leaders from the United States. All assets of the ministry were confiscated and the 11 Nicaraguan pastors, along with two lawyers, were accused of money laundering and sentenced to prison terms ranging from 12 to 15 years. Additionally, the Christians received huge fines of over $100 million CAD each. Charges have also been filed against the three American pastors. However, since these three Christian leaders were not in Nicaragua at the time of the arrests, they had not been detained.

Speaking of the difficult situation, Jon Britton Hancock, who serves as the President of Mountain Gateway, stated: "This is not the outcome we hoped for, and it is heartbreaking to know that people who we consider family are sitting in prison for sharing the Gospel. We trust that God is in control of this situation and have faith that He will have the final say on this all."

Despite the harassment and persecution, followers of Jesus throughout Nicaragua are continuing to practise their faith. A recent survey showed that 45 percent of the country's citizens identify themselves as evangelical Christians, with a similar percentage of the population referring to themselves as Catholics. Even so, lawyer Wendy Flores describes the persecution of Christians as a "silent" matter, since many in the country still support the government and others avoid addressing the injustices of the regime for fear of reprisals.

In the midst of the increased hostility from Nicaragua's governing officials, pray that Christians throughout the country will receive greatly needed wisdom. 

And whenever there is uncertainty as to when they should speak up and when they need to remain silent, may these believers receive the Holy Spirit's divine guidance. 

On behalf of all our imprisoned Christian brothers and sisters in Nicaragua, pray that the Lord will sustain each of them with His strength, encouragement and peace, while intervening in each of their legal cases so that they can be released from custody. 

Ultimately, may the powerful life-transforming message of the Gospel reach all levels of Nicaraguan society – including the country's leadership – so that many more people will come to know Jesus as their Saviour and Lord.

REPORT UPDATES: Xi'an Church of Abundance; Prisoned Evangelist: Chen Wensheng; Detained Church Leader: Chang Hao

 Source: VOMC

The following three reports provide up-to-date information received from ChinaAid regarding the recent court cases of Christian leaders in China.   Pastors Lian Changnian and Lian Xuliang   Xi'an Church of Abundance In August 2022, three ministers from the Church of Abundance located in Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, were detained on allegations of fraud. (See more details on their detentions.) The three church leaders were identified as Lian Changnian, Lian Xuliang and Fu Juan. Though these believers were placed in "residential surveillance at a designated location," their families received no information on their whereabouts for a duration of six months. During that time, the detained Christians endured starvation, deprivation and other forms of torture. While the three believers have been held in custody since August 2022, they were not formally detained until February 15th, 2023, and then officially arrested one month later. Finally, in late January 2024, the Christian workers were brought before the court. At the time of publishing this report, their trials have not yet concluded. In the meantime, the accused church leaders are facing recommended sentences of five years in prison, along with fines exceeding $70,000 CAD. Evangelist Chen Wensheng   Prisoned Evangelist: Chen Wensheng Known as a "Gospel Warrior," Chen Wensheng has been arrested multiple times for his evangelistic work. Even during his imprisonment, he found opportunities to share the Gospel with fellow prisoners. His most recent encounter with the authorities was on August 29th, 2023, when he was apprehended while attempting to board a plane to South Korea. (For more information on his arrest, visit this report.) Chen's wife recently visited him while he was in custody. She reported that he appeared to be "radiant and joyful." Additionally, she described how Chen had been spreading the Gospel throughout the detention centre and wanted to be transferred to another facility so he could continue reaching others! Accused of "organizing and funding illegal gatherings," Chen's case was heard by the court on March 27th. However, no further details about the trial have been made available to date. Chang Hao’s wife, Enlin, accompanied by his lawyer.   Detained Church Leader: Chang Hao On March 28th, a report was released calling for prayer on behalf of Chang Hao, a detained church leader who had experienced mistreatment and extensive court delays after being charged by Chinese authorities (read more). It has since been revealed that the believer's case was scheduled to be heard in court on March 25th. However, when Chang's lawyer appeared in court, he was informed that the case involved state secrets and therefore would not be heard in public. The court officials then attempted to conduct the trial via video conference. After strong protests from the lawyer, the judge postponed the trial. The new hearing date is yet to be determined. Accused of "picking quarrels and provoking trouble," Chang was detained on April 14th, 2023, and held in custody for more than four months. Throughout that time, no information had been provided to his concerned family. Chang was finally charged on November 28th of that same year. (To learn more about the challenges encountered by this Christian leader, a previously published report is available here.) Despite concerns for Chang's health, the imprisoned believer's family members continue to place their trust in the Lord. His 87-year-old mother, who considers her son's arrest to be one of "grace and honour," continually thanks God for His sovereignty over the situation. After finding out about the latest trial delay, Chang's wife, Enlin, was also able to confidently declare that "everything is in God's hands." Prayerfully remember each one of these detained Chinese believers who are enduring imprisonment and mistreatment because of their faithful witness for Christ.  Pray that these devoted followers of Jesus – along with the many other believers who are suffering in various areas of China – will be filled with the strength, hope and grace they need to continue serving as steadfast witnesses of God's unconditional love.  Also remember their concerned families who often receive no news for extended periods of time. During this difficult season of familial separation, may they also receive God's sustaining grace, comfort and peace.

IRAN: Overseas Conversion Leads to Prison Sentence

Source: VOMC
Sources: Article18, Human Rights in Iran

Evin Prison, where Laleh is being held. Photo: Flickr / sbzphoto (cc)

For some time, an Iranian woman named Laleh Saati lived in Malaysia and, while there, she was baptized as a Christian. Not wanting to return to Iran, Laleh applied for asylum, but the process continued to drag on without resolution. Frustrated with the delay, as well as missing her elderly parents, she returned to Iran in 2017.

Since her return, Laleh had been summoned for interrogation by intelligence agents multiple times. Then, on February 13th of this year, the Christian convert was arrested at her father's home in Ekbatan Town, a suburb of Tehran. Photographs and videos of her baptism and Christian activities in Malaysia were presented as evidence against her.

On March 16th, the 45-year-old believer was brought before a judge who asked her why she risked returning to her home country, given that she had "done such things [Christian activities] outside of Iran." She was then sentenced to two years' imprisonment, followed by a two-year travel ban for "acting against national security by connecting with 'Zionist' Christian organizations."

This case clearly demonstrates that Iranian authorities are able to obtain information on the activities of asylum seekers in foreign countries and use that against them. While most Western countries acknowledge the dangers faced by Iran's Christians, asylum claims are often rejected if the judge questions the genuine nature of a religious conversion.
For more information on persecution in Iran and the difficulties experienced by our Christian brothers and sisters in this Middle Eastern country, go to our country report.

Remember Laleh in your prayers as she faces this two-year prison sentence. 

Pray that she will receive the comfort, courage and spiritual strength needed to continue standing firm in her faith. 

May God soften the hearts of the Iranian authorities involved in Laleh's case, allowing this Christian woman to be freed of all charges and thus released from prison. 

Also uphold Laleh's parents during this painful time of separation, asking that they too would tangibly sense the Lord's comforting presence with them.

MYANMAR: Baptist Pastor Killed by Unknown Assailants

Source: VOMC
Sources: UCA News, Radio Free Asia, VOMC Contact, Democratic Voice of Burma

Pastor Nammye Hkun Jaw Li Photo: Radio Free Asia

On March 18th, three armed men entered a computer shop run by Pastor Nammye Hkun Jaw Li from his home in Magaung township. There, the men shot the pastor twice in the stomach and, when he did not immediately die, they also shot him in the head. At the time of publishing this report, the identities of the gunmen and the reason for the assassination are not completely evident. The pastor leaves behind a grieving wife and three children.

The slain Christian man was a well-known community leader who often participated in anti-military protests. He was also involved with a community-based anti-drug organization called Pat Jasan. The community has witnessed significant unrest because of military activity in the area. Additionally, there have been several reports of local Christian leaders being killed or arrested by members of the military junta. However, in this particular case, it is believed that Pastor Nammye was attacked due to his activities in fighting drug cultivation and distribution.

Hundreds of innocent people in Myanmar have been killed or displaced due to the ongoing violence. Military forces also commonly target Christians.
For more reports on the dangers threatening believers in this Southeast Asian country, go to our country report.

Please prayerfully lift up Pastor Nammye's wife and children as they mourn this terrible loss, asking our Heavenly Father to comfort them with His presence and provide for all of their emotional, spiritual and practical needs. 

In the midst of the ongoing violence, pray that followers of Jesus in this war-torn region will serve as agents of His love and peace. 

Furthermore, intercede for those responsible for this attack who have yet to be identified and brought to justice, in hopes of them realizing the seriousness of committing such a crime and leading them to sincere repentance. 

May the message of God's saving grace spread throughout the country and bring many more people to faith in Christ.

PAKISTAN: New Look at Evidence Against a Long-Imprisoned Christian

Source: VOMC
Sources: Morning Star News, AsiaNews

Reshma Bibi, Anwar’s sister, has been waiting for his release since 2002. Photo: Morning Star News

In 2002, Anwar Kenneth received a court verdict sentencing him to death, purportedly for defending Christianity in the days following the September 11th attacks on the New York World Trade Centre. He had written a letter in which he defended his Christian faith and, as a part of that, expressed his belief that Muhammad, the founder of Islam, was not a prophet of God.

Anwar was consequently convicted of blasphemy for allegedly insulting Muhammad – a conviction that carried a mandatory death sentence. The Lahore High Court upheld the verdict in June 2014. However, in a significant move that took place on March 12th of this year, the Supreme Court of Pakistan sought opinions on whether the letter Anwar had originally sent falls within the definition of blasphemy. Lawyer Abdul Hameed Rana argued that Anwar, as a devout Christian, had the right to express his religious beliefs, which do not accept Muhammad as a prophet. The lawyer also indicated that the letter did not contain any derogatory language which could be interpreted as blasphemy.

Pakistan's blasphemy laws have been used against religious minorities for many years. While a death sentence for blasphemy has never been carried out, some accused believers – including Anwar – have spent many years in prison under the threat of death.
To learn about other cases of persecution against followers of Jesus in Pakistan, go to our country report.

Please join us in praying that Anwar will finally be acquitted after all these years. 

As he awaits the court officials' decision, pray that this long-suffering believer will continue to trust in the Lord who promises to uphold all those who steadfastly cling to Him (Psalm 63:8). 

Prayerfully remember the many other Christians who are likewise serving time in Pakistan's prisons due to similar false accusations. 

May this recent development in Anwar's case serve as an impetus towards meaningful societal change, resulting in the resolution of challenges posed by the country's current blasphemy laws.