PAKISTAN: Allegations Lead to Mob Violence

Source: VOMC
Sources: Voice of America, Pakistan Today, Morning Star News, CLAAS, British Asian Christian Association, The Times of India

Angered mob members burned Nazir Masih's belongings in the street. Photo: ECSPE

An angry mob consisting of hundreds of people rampaged through a Christian community in Sargodha, Punjab, on May 25th. Thankfully, police were able to disperse the crowd with tear gas and rescue at least two Christian families whose homes had been surrounded. However, significant damages took place during the mob attack, and 74-year-old Nazir Masih was left with life-threatening injuries. Stirred up by Islamic clerics who accused Nazir of blasphemy, the mob ransacked and burned the Christian man's home and shoemaking business. The crowd also attacked other Christians in the community and threw stones at responding police, injuring at least ten officers.

The elderly shoemaker had been accused of desecrating the Quran after a neighbour saw him burning wastepaper outside his home. According to Nazir's family members, when the accused had gone inside his home, someone threw a copy of the Muslim holy book into the fire, leading to the accusation. His family also claims that a group of people from the city who were jealous of Nazir's successful business had instigated altercations in the past.

As of May 27th, Nazir had undergone head surgery and was reported to be in stable condition. Police state that his family is presently staying in a governmentally operated safehouse, and can return to their home when the situation in the community stabilizes. Over 100 individuals were arrested in connection with the violence and police were deployed to restore and maintain order in the area.

In Pakistan, mob violence is relatively common when accusations of blasphemy are made and then broadcasted over mosque loudspeakers. In a similar incident that took place during August 2023, thousands of people attacked a Christian colony in Jaranwala, resulting in the destruction of hundreds of buildings (learn more). Blasphemy allegations are not always propelled by religious fervour, as they may also be used as a means to settle personal scores in disagreements.
For more information on the persecution encountered by Christians in Pakistan, go to our country report.

Pray for complete healing on behalf of Nazir, as well as protection for him, his family and other Christians within the community. 

May peace and harmony be restored in this area of Pakistan, bringing an end to the violence and destruction. 

Pray that legal safeguards will be instituted to prevent blasphemy laws from being misused in any way. 

Continue to prayerfully uphold Christians throughout Pakistan who are endeavouring to share the love of Christ in their communities, despite the animosity they may face.

NIGERIA: Hundreds Rescued from Boko Haram Captivity

Source: VOMC
Sources: The Associated Press, International Christian Concern, Voice of America, Reuters

Boko Haram terrorists have claimed the lives of multitudes in Nigeria.

On May 20th, the Nigerian military reported that 350 captives had been recovered from Boko Haram bases in the Sambisa Forest, a well-known enclave for the militant group in eastern Nigeria. Some of the captors were killed during the military operation. All of the rescued former hostages were taken to the Borno state government house where they will be cared for until they can safely return to their homes.

Most of the rescued victims, who were mainly women and children, had been held captive for months; and some of them for years. The 209 children, 135 women and six men, who were wearing worn-out clothing, appeared exhausted during the press conference. Some of the women had infants with them, believed to have been born from forced marriages to their captors. Hajara Umara has seven children and spoke of how she and other captive women were unable to escape because of the need to care for their children.

In another raid against Boko Haram, which took place during mid-May, the military of Cameroon rescued over 300 civilians along the country's borders with Chad and Nigeria. Additionally, during the previous month, a number of other civilian hostages were rescued by troops from Chad and Cameroon. Negotiations between officials of these neighbouring countries are presently underway to help the rescued civilians return to their homes.

Unfortunately, these recent raids against Boko Haram have not resulted in a cessation of violence. On the evening of May 24th, gunmen – believed to be belonging to a faction of the militant group – attacked the Kuchi community in Niger State, killing ten people and kidnapping dozens of others. The assailants returned two nights later, seizing livestock and food while also setting fire to local shops. At least 700 residents were forced to flee to nearby communities.

Members of the Boko Haram terrorist group seek to overthrow the Nigerian government and establish an Islamic nation. Often, Christians are particularly targeted in the attacks. Since the establishment of Boko Haram in 2009, its members have been inciting terror against many Christian communities.
Additional information on the violence committed against Nigeria's followers of Jesus is available at our country report.

Praise God that hundreds of innocent victims have recently been released from captivity! 

Pray that the Lord will meet all of their practical and spiritual needs as they recover from the trauma and gradually reintegrate into their communities; all the while, helping them to navigate through the changes that have taken place over the months/years since their captivity. 

May the peace of Christ not only be sensed within their own hearts, but also in the lives of others throughout Nigeria – including the terrorists – thus bringing an end to the violence. 

In the interim, ask God to provide our Nigerian Christian brothers and sisters safety and encouragement as they continue to steadfastly proclaim the message of Jesus.

ERITREA: Christians Imprisoned for 20 Years Without Charge

Source: VOMC
Sources: Church in Chains, Christian Daily

Photos: Christian Solidarity Worldwide / Human Rights Concern Eritrea / Release Eritrea

On May 23rd, 2004, Eritrean authorities arrested two pastors from the Full Gospel Church in Eritrea: Dr. Kiflu Gebremeskel and Pastor Haile Nayzgi. The arrests were made in response to a government ban instituted in 2002 against all but four of the country's religious communities. Throughout 2004, arrests continued against pastors of the banned organization, which consisted of between 120 and 150 home church congregations at the time. Pastor Meron Gebreselasie was arrested in June 2004. Then in November of that year, Dr. Futsum Gebrenegus, Dr. Tekleab Mengisteab and Rev. Gebremedhin Gebregiorgis were also detained.

All six church leaders remain in prison without trial 20 years later. They have had no contact with their loved ones nor anyone else outside of the prison throughout the duration of that time. Since there has been no legal process, the imprisoned believers are being held without official cause and with no indication of how long they may be detained.

A colleague who was also influential in starting the Full Gospel Church, Rev. Ghirmay Araya, recently passed away while in custody (read more). Estimates concerning the number of believers currently being detained without charge in Eritrea vary from 350 to as many as 1,000. Among those known to be in custody is the son of Rev. Ghirmay.
To review other reports on the imprisonment of Christians in Eritrea, along with ways that you can pray for your persecuted Eritrean family in Christ, visit our country report.

Ask God to rescue all those currently being held in Eritrean prisons because of their faith in Christ. 

As they continue to wait for this anticipated outcome, pray that He will minister His peace, hope, and unfailing comfort in the lives of these imprisoned believers and their long-suffering families. 

May those of our dear Eritrean Christian brothers and sisters who are enduring inhumane conditions and abuses while in detainment tangibly experience the supernatural strength, protection and endurance of our Heavenly Father, knowing that He promises to never leave nor forsake His children (Hebrews 13:5).

Pakistan - Mob Brutally Attacks Elderly Christian Man after False Blasphemy Claims Circulate

 5/25/2024 Pakistan (International Christian Concern) – 

Around 7 a.m., an angry mob attacked an elderly Christian man after claims that he had burned pages from a Quran circulated throughout the Mujahid colony in Gillwala, a predominantly Christian community in Sargodha, Pakistan.

Members of the large mob, which quickly filled the street, brutally beat Nazir Masih, repeatedly kicking him as he lay bleeding on the ground. Masih remains in critical condition at an area hospital.

The mob also looted and burned a shoe shop owned by Masih’s son, Sultan Masih, and burned the family’s home, where Nazir, his two sons, and 10 other family members live.

A total of seven people were reportedly injured in the attack, and police arrested 15 people involved in the incident. Members of Nazir’s family were placed in protective police custody. International Christian Concern (ICC) staff on the ground will assist the family members once authorities release them.

Several videos of the attack have circulated on social media. ICC obtained additional footage of the attack from sources in the area. One video shows Nazir lying still on the ground, his face bloodied as several men kick his lifeless body. Another shows Nazir sitting on the ground, covered in dust and blood, as the angry mob surrounds him. At one point, a man violently shoves him from behind.

A third video shows men and boys looting Sultan’s shoe shop and burning piles of shoe boxes. Yet another clip shows smoke billowing up from what appears to be the shoe shop.

ICC also obtained footage of another man, a relative of Nazir’s, sitting in a chair with his feet chained together. His face appears to have been beaten as several men stand around him, angrily shouting.

ICC sources in Pakistan reviewed the videos and heard members of the mob shouting slogans commonly used by Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), an Islamic extremist party. Authorities arrested members of TLP in August 2023 following the attack on the Jaranwala community, in which a mob of radical Muslims burned more than 200 homes and two dozen churches.

“This is a tragedy. It has been less than a year since the incident in Jaranwala took hundreds of homes, dozens of churches, and many livelihoods,” an ICC staffer said. “Now Islamic radicals are mercilessly beating the elderly on false blasphemy accusations. The existence of Pakistan’s blasphemy laws sends a message to Islamic radicals that this mob violence is justified. The laws are used as a weapon against Christians and allow this behavior to continue among Pakistan’s most vulnerable communities.”

ERITREA: Recent Passing of Imprisoned Church Leader

Source: VOMC
Sources: Release Eritrea, Release International, Christian Solidarity Worldwide, AnglicanTV

Reverend Ghirmay Araya Photo: Release Eritrea

Reverend Ghirmay Araya was one of the founders of the Full Gospel Church in Eritrea. Under the country's oppressive regime, the denomination was banned in 2002 and its senior leaders were imprisoned in 2004. Over the decades since, thousands of other Eritreans have been imprisoned for their faith, often enduring torture and inhumane treatment.

Even though semi-retired, Reverend Ghirmay was rearrested in July 2021 and detained without charge at a maximum-security facility in Asmara. It was recently announced that, after spending almost three years in detention, Reverend Ghirmay passed away in prison at the age of 83. It was said that he "endured his suffering with steadfast faith." The pastor leaves behind five children and 13 grandchildren.

One of Reverend Ghirmay's sons, Samuel, has also been imprisoned because of his ministry as a Lutheran pastor. Though the father and son had been detained in the same facility, they were never able to visit one other. Sources also state that prison officials did not inform Samuel of his father's passing. The imprisoned son is presently being held in a metal shipping container – a notoriously inhumane practice where prisoners are forced to suffer extreme desert temperatures and unsanitary conditions.

Dr. Berhane Asmelash from Release Eritrea continues to express concerns about the hundreds of other Christians who are presently imprisoned in the country, some of whom are being held in the same facility where Reverend Ghirmay died. "Many are getting on in age and suffer from various health conditions," he wrote. Most of these detained believers are being held without charge, and some have been in custody for as long as 20 years.
For other reports on the persecution of Christians in Eritrea, go to our country report.

Prayerfully uphold the family of this beloved saint as they mourn his passing. May they be wonderfully comforted by the assurance that Reverend Ghirmay is now in the glorious presence of his Saviour. 

Also pray for greatly needed physical and spiritual fortitude on behalf of his son Samuel and the many other Eritrean followers of Jesus who remain incarcerated because of their faith. 

May God work mightily in this nation so that Eritrea's governing leaders would end their intense persecution of the country's Christians, release all those who are currently being arbitrarily detained, and put policies into place that will respect the rights of all Eritrean citizens.

PAKISTAN: Pastor Meets with Imprisoned Zafar Bhatti

Source: VOMC
Source: Church in Chains

Zafar Bhatti Photo: Pakistan Christian Post

Zafar Bhatti has been held in prison for 12 years on allegations of blasphemy. Although initially sentenced to life imprisonment in 2017, the Christian man's punishment was changed to include the death penalty in January 2022. During his time in prison, Zafar has faced various health issues. Diagnosed with diabetes, he suffered two minor heart attacks in 2019 and another in 2020.
For previously published reports on Zafar's case, go to this page.

On May 2nd, a pastor was able to visit Zafar at the Adyala Prison in Rawalpindi. The visiting Christian leader reported that Zafar's health remains a serious concern. Prison doctors have expressed alarm that his heart function is very poor and there are no further treatment options available. Zafar's wife, Nawab, is also in poor health. Blind in one eye, she has developed cataracts in the other. Although cataract surgery is being arranged, she is currently unable to visit her husband in prison.

The detained believer is continuing to appeal his sentence. While a court hearing had been scheduled for May 2nd, no judge was willing to hear his case. Consequently, the appeal session is currently listed as pending, with no set date. According to supporters of Zafar, the Christian man has a strong case, but judges in Pakistan have been unwilling to hear blasphemy appeals due to intimidation and pressure from the public to hand down convictions, regardless of the evidence. Prison authorities have recommended that Zafar appeal for bail on medical grounds, likely to avoid international scrutiny should his condition worsen in prison.

On behalf of Zafar and his lawyers, pray that God will grant them wisdom and guidance as they consider their next steps. 

May the Lord also intervene in the hearts of Pakistan's judges, in hopes they will be receptive to the Holy Spirit's promptings so that a successful appeal hearing will soon take place – leading to this long-suffering believer's safe release from prison. 

Please also pray for the health concerns that both Zafar and his wife are experiencing, asking our Heavenly Father to provide for their medical needs and ultimately grant them divine healing.

MEXICO: Displaced Christians Pressured to Accept Agreement

Source: VOMC
Source: Christian Solidarity Worldwide

A church building in Hidalgo. Photo: Wikimedia / Frankms (cc)

More than 100 members of the Great Commission Baptist Church in Hidalgo State were recently forced from their homes because they refused to participate in their villages' religious festivals. The Christians took refuge in a government building in Huejutla de los Reyes, where they called upon municipal and state authorities to intervene.
For more details on this situation, see this page.

On May 15th, Pastor Rogelio Hernández Baltazar and another church leader held a press conference, outlining the efforts that have been made by the municipal government. The church is being asked to accept an agreement in which the village leaders would fine the victims 150,000 pesos (over $12,000 CAD). The proposal also seeks to ban three of the Christian families from returning to their homes, stating that those who return will be met with the same severe restrictions they had been subjected to over the years. The church leaders expressed that they do not want to accept the proposal, despite being pressured by the government to do so.

Those seeking refuge have since moved out of the municipal building to another location in the city, where they are completely dependent on humanitarian aid from local churches. The number of displaced church members has grown to include over 150 people, as individuals who had been working outside their villages at the time of the displacement were refused entry when they tried to return home.

During this time of uncertainty, may God's peace, comfort and courage rest on these displaced believers. 

While continuing to meet their daily needs through the provision of local churches, may the Lord also miraculously transform the hearts of the opposing village leaders so that a reasonable resolution will soon be achieved. 

Additionally, pray that the governing municipal and state authorities would also realize the injustice of the situation and take necessary action to prevent this vulnerable Christian community from encountering further harassment and abuse.

IRAN: Detained Christian Convert Released on Bail

Source: VOMC
Sources: Open Doors Canada, Church in Chains

Esmaeil Narimanpour Photo: Article 18

Christian convert Esmaeil Narimanpour was detained at his home on Christmas Eve in 2023. When his family members attempted to inquire about his situation, they were subjected to interrogation by security forces for several hours.
For more details on this incident, go to this page.

It has since been reported that Esmaeil was charged with "acting against national security by communicating with Christian 'Zionist' organizations." After more than four months in detention, during which time the believer had been primarily held in Ahvaz's Shiban Prison, Esmaeil was released on bail as of April 30th. No further details about the Christian man's case are available at the time of publishing this report.

Praise God that Esmaeil has been granted bail. 

Pray that all legal matters will be fully resolved and that the Lord will shield him from any further persecution by the Iranian authorities. 

In addition, please intercede for the citizens of Iran as they face upheaval following the recent accidental death of President Ebrahim Raisi. 

While this situation alone may not bring about needed change for our Iranian brothers and sisters in Christ, may those in power – including Ayatollah Khamenei – receive a divine revelation of the Lord's sacrificial love for humanity and thereby acknowledge the need for His compassion and righteousness to be extended to all people.

MEXICO: Over 100 Protestants Forced from Their Homes

Source: VOMC
Sources: Christian Solidarity Worldwide, VOM Australia, Evangélico Digital

A church building in Hidalgo. Photo: Wikimedia / Frankms (cc)

For several years, leaders in the villages of Coamila and Rancho Nuevo, which are both located within the state of Hidalgo, have been pressuring members of the Great Commission Baptist Church to participate in religious festivals that go against their beliefs. In December 2022, one of the non-compliant Protestant believers was admitted to hospital after being tied to a tree and beaten. Additionally, since 2018, the children of church members in these villages have been banned from attending school.

After years of tension between village leaders and members of the Protestant community, matters came to a head this spring. On March 25th, Pastor Rogelio Hernández Baltazar and other church leaders were arbitrarily detained for 48 hours. Subsequent to their detainment, five plots of land belonging to members of the church were taken over by village leaders in early April.

Since then, church members have been attacked on several occasions, and three Protestant families were prevented from returning to their homes. Furthermore, 139 church members – including at least 70 children – were forced to flee their homes on April 26th after village leaders cut off their electricity. The church building was also vandalized, and guards were posted at the entry points of the two villages in order to keep church members out.

The displaced Baptists are currently being sheltered in a municipal building in Huejutla de los Reyes where they are requesting assistance from the government. Local churches are providing humanitarian aid and have joined in the call for governing municipal leaders to intervene.

When speaking earlier in the year about the treatment of his church members, Pastor Rogelio stated, "When you convert from Catholicism, you lose all rights and all standing in the village."
For more reports on persecution in Mexico, go to our country report.

Please prayerfully uphold these displaced Mexican believers, asking God to provide for their practical and spiritual needs. As they determine what steps to take next, may they receive greatly needed guidance, encouragement and strength. 

Pray that the state government will also respond to the 'call for action' by ensuring these persecuted Christians are duly granted 'freedom of belief,' and thus treated respectfully by village leaders – particularly in areas of Mexico where communities practise a combination of ancestral indigenous beliefs with traditional Catholicism. 

As a result, may peace and justice be upheld throughout the country.

INDONESIA: Two Women Injured in Attack on Prayer Meeting

Source: VOMC
Sources: Morning Star News, Jakarta Globe

A church building in Indonesia. Photo: Wikimedia / F-GSPY (cc)

Two young women were slightly wounded when a mob attacked a Catholic prayer meeting on May 5th in the city of Tangerang, Banten Province. The group meeting, which consisted of 15 Catholic students who had gathered in a home for prayer, was disrupted when armed assailants forced their way into the residence, injuring two females during the intrusion. Some concerned local Muslims attempted to defend the students, with one of them sustaining a minor cut from the attack.

One of the intruders has since been identified as the local village leader – a Muslim man named Diding. According to police, the conflict began when Diding started shouting threats and statements of profanity in an attempt to incite other members of the community to attack the Catholic group. Diding claims that he was disrespected by the students, whom he had told earlier that worship was only permitted within a church building and not in a home. Four local residents, including Diding, were later arrested by police on charges of assault.

Religious gatherings in homes are frequently targeted by those in the predominantly Muslim country of Indonesia who are opposed to minorities. However, despite local opposition, there are no legal restrictions outlawing citizens from gathering for worship in private homes.
To review additional reports addressing the challenges of Christians in this Southeast Asian nation, go to our country report.

Pray that a radical cultural shift would take place in Indonesia, bringing the members of this society to a greater tolerance of the religious differences among them. 

May Christians throughout the country be filled with God's compassion and wisdom as they interact with those around them, serving as testimonies of His love and grace so that many spiritually needy people will likewise come to faith in Christ.

KAZAKHSTAN: Multiple Raids of Unregistered Gatherings

Source: VOMC
Source: Forum18

A Bible study in Kazakhstan Photo: VOMC

Police in the Shu district of southern Kazakhstan raided four worship gatherings during the months of March and April, resulting in a total of seven fines being laid. During the raids, officers filmed those who were present and demanded that they provide written statements explaining the reasons for their gatherings. These raids affected the worship activities of three unregistered Protestant churches.

On the morning of March 3rd, police invaded the home of Valter Mirau, whose residence is located in the village of Koneyeva, just before he and his fellow church members were about to begin their Sunday worship meeting. Valter was issued a fine for his "leadership of an unregistered, halted, or banned religious community or social organization." Two other church members who had attended the gathering were also fined.

In another incident, police raided a Council of Churches Baptist meeting that was led by Pastor Andrei Boiprav in the village of Shu on April 14th. While no fines were issued at the time, officers took photos and videos of the attending Christians and warned them to stop holding unregistered religious gatherings.

Police returned to Pastor Andrei's congregation on April 28th, claiming that they had received complaints from neighbours, though all nearby residents denied having contacted the authorities. One officer later appeared apologetic, explaining that the order had come from the Religious Affairs Department. Fines were issued against the congregants as a result of their involvement in an unregistered religious gathering. Immediately after raiding Pastor Andrei's church, officers moved on to another Protestant community in the village known as "the Children of God."

Religious groups in Kazakhstan are required by law to register with the government. However, the process to do so is very complex, expensive and restrictive. Some groups, such as those affiliated with the Council of Churches Baptist, choose not to register, sometimes due to concerns that it could lead to increased government interference – as was the case under the country's former Soviet rule.
Further information on the persecution of our Christian brothers and sisters in Kazakhstan is available here.

Pray that God will grant wisdom, protection and encouragement to believers throughout Kazakhstan as they navigate how to best deal with opposing officials of the country's governing forces who are mandating the cease of all worship activities. 

May those directly affected by these recent raids not grow despondent in the face of opposition, but rather become further empowered to effectively live out their Christian faith and witness. 

As a result, may the Gospel message of God's love and saving grace spread throughout the country, leading many more people to eternal salvation through the provision of His Son Jesus – the Risen Saviour.

NIGERIA: Violence Continues Unabated

Source: VOMC
Sources: Morning Star News, International Christian Concern, Punch, TVC News

A Nigerian church service. Photo: Flickr / SIM USA (cc)

In areas throughout Nigeria, violence has continued relentlessly, disproportionately affecting the Christian population. Those responsible for the brutality are generally members of Islamic terrorist groups such as Boko Haram or the nomadic Fulani herdsmen. While attacks perpetrated by the herdsmen often stem from conflicts over their free-ranging cattle, the accompanying violence also commonly involves a religious element, as militant members of the predominantly Muslim group specifically target Christians and churches. Within the past month, multiple attacks have occurred in at least four different Nigerian states.
(For previously published reports on the suffering of Nigeria's Christians, go to our country report.)

Kaduna State
Pastor Manasseh Ibrahim, who led a church in the Kurebe area of Kaduna State, was ambushed and killed on April 23rd as he was travelling to a church conference. Although the motive and identities of the perpetrators remain unknown, it is believed that the pastor was attacked by bandits.

In a separate incident, the village of Ambe was raided around midnight on May 5th by a large number of Fulani herdsmen armed with guns and machetes. During the attack, six Christian villagers were killed and eight others wounded. According to a police spokesperson, one of the assailants was apprehended by the villagers, and a police investigation is underway.

Plateau State
In the early morning of April 19th, militant Fulani herdsmen attacked the farming community of Tilengpan Pushit while the residents were sleeping. During the raid, a total of 12 people were killed. According to a survivor, most of the victims were women and children.

The state's governor, Caleb Mutfwang, expressed his "heartfelt condolences" to all those who have been affected by the attack. He also appealed to Christians to remain steadfast, stating that his government will continue to collaborate with security forces to better protect vulnerable communities.

Benue State
At least 28 Christians were killed in Benue State between April 20th and April 22nd. Dozens of surviving victims have been treated for injuries sustained during the violence, and several other believers were reportedly kidnapped. The attacks happened in three villages located within the Gwer West area of the state.

In response to the recent wave of attacks, protestors blocked a major roadway on April 23rd to protest the inaction of the government in addressing the issues leading up to the violence. One of their demands includes the need for enforced legislation to prohibit open grazing, a practice that has resulted in many of the attacks perpetrated by Fulani herdsmen.

Enugu State
At least six Christians were killed in the southeastern Nigerian state of Enugu on April 28th. The slain victims, who included children, were from the village of Ugwujoro Nimbo. As a result of the incident, seven other believers were treated for injuries caused by machete cuts.

While the state governor has assured local villagers that those responsible for the attacks will be pursued and captured, residents in the area remain fearful of further violence. According to a community leader, villagers have been leaving their homes each evening and staying in safer locations to avoid possible repeat of attacks.

Please prayerfully remember all the innocent Nigerians who have been affected by these recent attacks, including survivors suffering from physical and emotional wounds, family members mourning the loss of their loved ones, and villagers living in dread of other similar incidents possibly occurring. 

May God minister complete healing to each of these traumatized believers – comforting their grieving hearts and providing them His peace, strength and protection. 

Further, pray that the country's governing authorities will actively work to resolve the various issues associated with this violence, and that those responsible for committing such horrific crimes would be brought to justice.

ALGERIA: Sentence Upheld for Pastor Youssef Ourahmane

Source: VOMC
Source: Middle East Concern

Pastor Youssef Ourahmane Photo: Middle East Concern

Pastor Youssef Ourahmane is a senior pastor and vice president of the Église Protestante d'Algérie (EPA). In March 2023, he was charged with organizing an unauthorized religious assembly and sentenced to two years in prison, along with a fine of 100,000 dinars (approximately $1,000 CAD). Following an appeal of the verdict, the pastor's conviction was upheld, but his sentence was reduced to one year in prison.

Another appeal hearing took place on April 23rd. The verdict of this most recent hearing, which was released on May 2nd, upheld the one-year prison sentence and fine. However, the sentence has since been suspended pending a further appeal to the Supreme Court.

In an episode of the Closer to the Fire podcast, host Greg Musselman interviewed three Algerian church leaders about the challenges they are encountering. You are encouraged to view this inspiring video. For more reports on the persecution facing Christians in Algeria, go to this report.

Continue to prayerfully uphold Pastor Youssef during this difficult time, asking that his case be heard soon by the Supreme Court. May God's truth and justice ultimately prevail. 

Please also pray for the many other church congregations throughout Algeria that are being subjected to ongoing restrictions from the government. 

For believers who are able to gather together, even if done so in an informal manner, may they be a tremendous source of blessing and encouragement to one another.

CHINA: High Security for Trial

Source: VOMC
Source: ChinaAid

Evangelist Chen Wensheng Photo: ChinaAid

The case of Chen Wensheng was heard by the Hengyang City Shigu District People's Court on April 18th. However, when Chen's relatives and friends arrived that morning to attend the trial, they found about 40 black-clad special force officers guarding the entrance of the court building. In addition, the entire street was blocked off under the pretext of performing a "drill" so that any supporters could be prevented from attending the trial. Despite aggressive actions by the police, Chen's supporters are reported to have demonstrated "patience and calmness."

Chen Wensheng is a street evangelist who has gained a reputation as a "Gospel Warrior." Having been arrested several times, Chen is now on trial for allegedly "organizing and financing illegal gatherings." Sources report that he is "radiant and joyful" despite his imprisonment and actively spreading the Gospel message while in detention.
For more information on this believer's case, see this page.

Pray that the case against Chen will soon be dropped so he can be rightfully released from custody. 

In the meantime, may this dear brother in Christ receive ongoing strength, encouragement and wisdom as he faithfully ministers the hope of the Gospel to those imprisoned along with him. 

Continue to remember his wife, along with other family members and friends, who are missing him during this time of separation, praying that they too will receive greatly needed encouragement from the Lord.

CHINA: Verdict Against Christian Elders

Source: VOMC
Source: ChinaAid

Elder Hao Ming with his wife. Photo: ChinaAid

In November 2021, Wu Jiannan and Hao Ming were arrested on suspicion of fraud. On March 15th, 2023, after spending more than two years in detention, the two Christian elders were released on bail pending their trials.

On April 9th of this year, the trials for both of these Christian workers finally took place. Considered guilty by the Jingyang District People's Court, they were each sentenced to three years in prison with a five-year suspended sentence. Each of these accused men were also fined 30,000 yuan (approximately $5,700 CAD). Additionally, Elder Wu was ordered to return all the funds received from the church, which amounted to approximately $20,000.

Elder Hao Ming, who has rejected all the accusations, never pleaded guilty nor accepted the punishment. This Christian elder says that he does not plan to appeal the verdict; rather, he is relying on God's righteousness for vindication.
To learn more about the cases against these two church leaders, along with reports addressing the many challenges encountered by our persecuted Christian brothers and sisters in China, go to our country report.

Prayerfully ask God to minister great peace and comfort to both of these accused men and their individual families. 

May He also continue to guide, strengthen and encourage all other followers of Jesus throughout China who are likewise facing governmental opposition because of their faith and Christian activities. 

May the Lord work mightily in the lives of the country's authorities – softening their hearts towards the things of God – so that His people will be permitted to worship openly and freely without any threat of arrest or harassment.

How Can Spiritual Leprosy Be Healed?

 The Persecuted Church 101

"Some 365 million Christians worldwide suffer, not only for their faith but for ours as well. How is it possible that, for much of the body of Christ, we do not feel the pain of persecution with our brothers and sisters?"

1 Corinthians 12:26
New International Version
26 If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.

WORLD WATCH LIST 2024

EGYPT: Christian Homes and Businesses Burned

Source: VOMC
Sources: Mission Network News, International Christian Concern, Christian Solidarity Worldwide

Late into the evening of April 23rd, Islamic militants set fire to several homes and shops owned by Coptic Orthodox Christians in the village of Al-Fawakher, which is located in Egypt's southern Minya province. Although the attackers attempted to prevent the occupants from leaving their burning homes, thankfully there were no reported fatalities.

It is believed that the attack may have been triggered by plans to build a new church building in the village. The local Christians had received a permit to build the new place of worship, but they then began receiving threats from opposing community members. Even though the threats were reported to the authorities (who promised to provide protection), no assistance was given to the Christians during the attack, and security forces arrived only after it occurred. Arrests were made in connection with the incident but, at last report, no official statement has been issued by the police.

Rev. Riadh Jaballah, VP of International Ministry for The Voice of the Martyrs Canada, believes that the attack was intended "to create sedition and division between the community's Muslims and Christians." He adds that the persecution of those practising Christianity is not new, especially leading up to the Orthodox observance of Easter. In the aftermath of the violence, Rev. Riadh urges us as fellow believers to respond in four ways: 1) encourage one another, 2) be aware of the situation, 3) share that information, and 4) pray. "We are [all] believers," he further explains. "It doesn't matter about [our] denominations. We need to stand up together."
To review more reports addressing the challenges facing followers of Jesus in Egypt, go to our country report.

Prayerfully remember the many Christians in this village who are now homeless and/or without a source of income, asking God to fill them with His peace and provide for their daily needs – including those such as protection and encouragement. 

May His Holy Spirit convict the militants responsible for perpetrating this violent attack, stirring their hearts to the point of repentance and the surrender of their lives in faith to Jesus. 

Further, pray that our Christian brothers and sisters in Egypt will respond to the opposition in a Christ-like manner – serving as testimonies of His love, mercy and grace to the community members who stand against them – resulting in an easing of tensions and the cultivating of harmonious relationships among all the villagers.

VIETNAM: Christian Found Dead After Meeting with Police

Source: VOMC
Sources: Christian Solidarity Worldwide, Morning Star News, International Christian Concern, Radio Free Asia

Pray that believers in Vietnam will remain faithful to Christ. Photo: VOMC

On March 8th, the body of Pastor Y Bum Bya was found hanging from a tree at a cemetery near his home in the Dak Lak Province of Vietnam. Though local authorities declared the Christian leader's death a suicide, reports indicate that his body showed signs of torture. The believer's death happened shortly after he had been summoned to meet with police.

Pastor Y Bum Bya, who served as the leader of an unregistered evangelical church, was experiencing severe persecution because of his Christian activities. Prior to the fatal incident, he had been publicly humiliated and charged with trying to "destroy the great national unity." Additionally, in December of 2023, he was beaten and forced to renounce his association with the church. Also during that time, the pastor's cell phone was confiscated.

On the day of his death, local police contacted the targeted church leader, allegedly to arrange a meeting with him in order to return his cell phone. However, about the time the officers were scheduled to be at his home, they sent word to him requesting that the meeting take place at the nearby cemetery instead. When Pastor Y Bum Bya did not return home from the meeting, his relatives began searching for him – only to discover his body hanging by a rope.

Calling for an investigation into his death, local Christian leaders organized a petition, which has been signed by 31 associated congregations. In doing so, the leaders of these unregistered churches have placed themselves and their congregations at risk of retribution from the authorities.
For additional reports on the persecution of believers in Vietnam, and/or to view formerly videotaped documentaries, go to our country report.

Pray that our Heavenly Father will intervene in this situation, ensuring that justice prevails and that those responsible for Pastor Y Bum Bya's death are held accountable for their wrongful actions. 

May God's comfort, peace and strength rest on the slain church leader's family and congregation members as they now mourn this unexpected loss. 

Please also pray that the Lord will provide for the physical and spiritual needs of all those who are facing danger or imprisonment because of their Christian activities, asking that these persecuted followers of Jesus will be reassured of His unfailing presence and sustaining promises during difficult times.

INDONESIA: Pastor Accused of Blasphemy

Source: VOMC
Sources: Morning Star News, Jakarta Globe

During a recent Sunday sermon, Pastor Gilbert Lumoindong made mention of Islamic prayer and compared the practice of almsgiving with Biblical tithing. After being posted online, the sermon quickly gained attention on social media. According to Jumzar Rahman, who serves as the head of the South Sulawesi Arimathea Forum, offence was taken by some Muslim viewers. "The video hurt us," he states. "We Muslims feel offended." Consequently, two complaints were filed with the police, claiming that Pastor Gilbert had blasphemed against Islam.

The Jakarta Metro Police have taken the lead with the investigation but, at last report, official charges have not yet been laid against the accused Christian leader. Pastor Gilbert has offered his heartfelt apologies, stating that he had no intention of insulting Muslims nor their Islamic practices. He further claims that some social media users had edited his video to render his comments offensive.

Pastor Gilbert has since personally met with leaders of the Indonesian Mosque Council (DMI) and the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) to offer his apologies. After meeting with the pastor, Cholil Nafis from the MUI council said that he accepts the apology. "Gilbert Lumoindong said that he had no intention of insulting Islamic teachings, let alone creating divisions," he explained after the meeting on April 16th. "We as religious people certainly accept his apology. We all forgive as we ask that this incident be a lesson for him and all of us."

Indonesia has the largest Muslim population in the world. While freedom of religion is mandated by law, followers of Islam – who account for more than 85 percent of the country's population – often receive preferential treatment by the government. Churches also frequently encounter opposition, particularly from local governments and organizations.
To learn more about the persecution of Christians in Indonesia, go to our country report.

Pray that this investigation will conclude without any charges being laid against Pastor Gilbert. 

On behalf of this accused church leader, ask the Lord to provide him continued guidance, direction and needed assistance as he endeavours to wisely deal with the situation. 

The same applies to other Christians who are residing in the country, especially as they seek ways to minister to their unbelieving neighbours. 

May this incident bring about opportunities for the message of the Gospel to spread throughout Indonesia, leading many more people to faith in Jesus Christ.