 Photo from AsiaNews |
Ask God to fill those who mourn for these believers with a peace that surpasses understanding in the midst of their grief (Philippians 4:7). Pray for protection for Christians in Kirkuk. Ask God to continue to equip Iraqi Christians to be cross-bearing disciples as they serve Him.
For more information on the persecution of Christians in Iraq, click here.
 Photo from Compass Direct |
James Masih (67) and Buta Masih (72), two Pakistani Christians who were sentenced to 10 years in prison on charges of "blasphemy" in November 2006 for allegedly burning pages of the Quran (read more) were acquitted on April 16. According to an April 21 report from Compass Direct, the men claim that the allegations against them were fabricated in response to a land dispute between James Masih and a Muslim neighbour. According to their lawyer, the men will not immediately be able to return home due to safety concerns. In Pakistan, Christians accused of blasphemy, even those who are acquitted, often face pressure and violence from Muslims.
To learn more about the ongoing opposition of believers in Pakistan, click here.
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Money confiscated from Pastor Zhang "Bike" Mingxuan by Chinese officials on March 21 (click here for the details) was returned on April 17, according to an April 20 report from ChinaAid. Pastor Zhang was summoned to the Nanyang Public Security Bureau office at approximately 9:00 a.m. where he was given back the 150,000 yuan (approximately $27,000 CAD). He told ChinaAid sources, "The authorities gave the money back, because of the pressure. Hallelujah! We will continue the ministry and fight for religious freedom."
For more information on the persecution of Christians in China, visit the China Country Report.
