Photo: Wikimedia / Dinkum (CC)
On the morning of December 6th, approximately 16 members of a church in Pasyala had gathered for a time of prayer and fasting at the home of their pastor. While they were praying together, a group of opposing neighbours – along with several other unidentified individuals – arrived at the residence. The imposing community members questioned the church secretary and the pastor's son, demanding to know whether the Christians had received an official permit to conduct worship services on the premises.
Although an explanation was provided, the intruders proceeded to physically assault the church members, including the pastor's three children. The church secretary immediately contacted the local police, notifying them of the violent outbreak. Dispatched officers arrived at the scene within 30 minutes of receiving the call. Upon their arrival, the pastor informed them that she had previously notified the station about the scheduled church meeting at her home.
When an ambulance was dispatched to transport the injured Christians to the hospital, some of the opposing community members attempted to prevent the vehicle from reaching the pastor's home. Thankfully, due to police intervention, the paramedics were finally able to transport the wounded church members – including the pastor's children. Some members of the mob, who had also sustained injuries during the confrontation, were taken for medical treatment as well.
That night, stones were thrown at the Christians' church building. This additional incident was also reported to the police, who provided protection to the threatened believers. Three days later, the authorities met with both parties involved in the dispute. In response to the inquiry of the officer in charge regarding whether or not the church was officially registered, a representing lawyer clarified that government registration is not legally required in Sri Lanka to conduct worship gatherings.
Subsequently, charges were filed against eight members of the mob. However, police also laid charges against two of the pastor's children, the church secretary, and one other congregant. In an effort to reduce tensions, the church held their worship service at a different location the following week. Since the matter was referred to the courts, there have been no further incidents.
Opposition against Christian activities in Sri Lanka often stems from community members who have been influenced by opposing Buddhist clergy. While legal permits are not required for Christian worship services, this fact is not widely understood, leading to ongoing disputes and harassment. To access further information addressing religious persecution in Sri Lanka, as well as insightful video reports, go to our country profile.
- Ask God to minister through the presence of His Holy Spirit in the community of Pasyala, bringing His peace – which transcends all understanding – into the hearts of all those residing there (Philippians 4:7).
- Pray that as the persevering church members of this community continue proclaiming the Good News of the Gospel, they will faithfully shine the light of Christ.
- Throughout the process, may the Lord's presence go before them, preparing hearts and fostering new opportunities for connection and growth.
- Ask for the Lord's divine protection to remain over these dedicated Sri Lankan believers, so they will be shielded from any future threat of attack and further encouraged to continue standing strong in their faith.
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