Praying for The Voice of the Martyrs

[rizen1]

"Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another."(Romans 12:10)


From The Voice of the Martyrs


SOUTH KOREA UPDATE: Korean Hostages Told Convert to Islam or Die – British Broadcasting Corporation

On September 12, South Korean Christian aid workers held hostage by the Taliban in Afghanistan for six weeks, reported being beaten and ordered at gun point to convert to Islam, according to the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). According to the BBC, the former hostages told a press conference they were made to work like slaves while in captivity. Jae Chang-hee told reporters, "We were beaten with a tree branch or kicked around. Some kidnappers threatened us with death at gunpoint to force us to follow them in chanting their Islamic prayer for conversion. I was beaten many times.

They pointed a rifle and bayonet at me and tried to force me to convert." Jae Chang-hee added, "We lived like slaves. We had to level the ground for motorbikes, and get water and make a fire." BBC reported that Yu Jung-hwa said she thought she was going to die. "The most difficult moment, when I had a big fear of death, was when the Taliban shot a video. All 23 of us leaned against a wall and armed Taliban aimed their guns at us, and a pit was before me.

They said they will save us if we believe in Islam. I almost fainted at the time and I still cannot look at cameras." Recalling how Pastor Bae Hyung-kyu was led away to his death, the BBC said Han Ji-young, in tears, added, "Bae didn't even look at us when he was leaving the room. He only said, 'Overcome with faith.'" Continue praying for God to touch the lives of these believers as they deal with their experience in Afghanistan.

Pray God comforts the families of the two that were killed. Pray the testimony of these Christians will draw non-believers into fellowship with Him. Deuteronomy 28, Psalm 91


INDIA Christians Beaten by Militants in India – VOM Sources

BANGALORE:

On September 8, Pastor Angam Haokip was attacked by more than 30 men in the village of Geddalahalli, Bangalore. According to The Voice of the Martyrs' contacts in India, the men forced Pastor Haokip to stop his vehicle. VOM contacts reported, "They asked him if he was a pastor and when he said 'yes,' they pulled him out of his car. The men accused him of 'ruining' the nation and beat him in front of several witnesses. They tried to crush his legs with boulders and also kicked him in the neck." The pastor sustained severe injuries to his back and chest and his car was destroyed. When he tried to file a complaint with local police, it was rejected because the police said a complaint had been registered against him for negligent driving.

HYDERABAD:
On September 9, Pastor Sudhakar and four Christians visiting from Singapore were attacked by members of Hindu militant groups while leading a worship service at Bethel Gospel Church in Amberpet, Hyderabad. According to, a report from the All India Christian Council, approximately 300 believers were gathered when the militants forcibly entered the church building and began to shout obscenities against Christianity. The intruders assaulted Pastor Sudhakar with a rod. Prior to the attack, the militants had filed a complaint with local police alleging the pastor and the Singapore team were involved in forcible conversion.

Pray for healing for those injured in the attacks. Ask God to bless the ministry of these pastors and other Christians who are spreading the gospel in India.

Pray God touches the lives of the persecutors and leads them to faith in Christ. Romans 8:11, Isaiah 40:31



CHINA UPDATE: House Church Leader Released from Prison – China Aid Association

On September 10, prominent Beijing house church leader, Pastor Cai Zhuohua, was released after three years in prison. According to The Voice of the Martyrs' contacts, "Cai was in good spirits when he was released. Cai was not allowed to read or have a Bible for the past three years. Since his release, he has been picked by the Public Security Bureau (PSB) and taken to their office. He has to report to the PSB office once a month and has been warned not to speak out or attend church services." Praise God that Pastor Cai has been reunited with his family.

Pray God gives him and other believers in China courage to continually live for Christ, despite the immense challenges they face.
Pray their testimonies will draw non-believers, even PSB officers, into the knowledge of Jesus Christ. 2 Timothy 1:7, Psalm 27:1

 

[4Given]

Praying for all the marters of the world.God Bless them all

 

[rizen1]

VOM News and Prayer Update:
September 27, 2007

"Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; For YAH, the LORD, is my strength and song; He also has become my salvation."(Isaiah 12:2)

CHINA
Imprisoned Pastor's Health Failing – VOM Sources

On September 24, The Voice of the Martyrs received reports that Pastor Zhang Rongliang's health was failing, and if he is not released, he would die in prison. According to contacts in China, "Pastor Zhang must be carried from place to place by two men supporting him. He does not walk well on his own. He openly questions whether he can finish this sentence. If he is not released, there is a good chance that he will die in prison." Pastor Zhang still has four years remaining of the seven-and-a-half year sentence he received after his arrest in 2004. He already had previously spent 12 years in prison for his faith during five separate detentions. He experienced harsh torture, including electric shock, during his previous prison terms.

Pray for Pastor Zhang's healing and for his release from prison.
Pray the Holy Spirit will encourage him and that his testimony will draw nonbelievers into the knowledge of Christ. Psalm 118:17; 3 John 2

INDIA
Hindu Extremists Plan Assaults in Karnataka – VOM Sources

On September 22, Christians in Bangalore, Karnataka's capital, protested the growing number of Hindu extremist attacks in the state and their planned assaults on church meetings in Mysore district. According to The Voice of the Martyrs' contacts in India, Hindu extremists belonging to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and Bajrang Dal groups planned to launch a series of attacks against Christians in areas of Mysore district.

Pray the plans of Satan will not succeed. Pray the Holy Spirit will touch the lives of the extremists and lead them into the knowledge of Christ. Psalm 27:1; 2 Timothy 1:7


UZBEKISTAN
Crackdown on Christians – Forum 18 News

According to Forum 18 News, several Christians were recently arrested or fined.
On August 27, Sharofat Allamova received a suspended sentence of six months in central Bhukara. This was after police confiscated literature from her in June. Allamova was prosecuted under article 244-3 of the Criminal Code, which punishes "illegal production, storage, import or distribution of religious materials."
On August 28, Pastor Khyn-Mun Kimi and a colleague were fined about one month's salary for "illegal" religious activity in Karakalpakstan.
In an unrelated incident, a group of Protestants in the Southern region of Uzbekistan were detained after they "illegally" met for worship. Police confiscated religious literature and 12 of the believers face impending charges.

Pray Christians in Uzbekistan will remain steadfast in their faith despite pressure from the government. Ask God to touch the lives of authorities in Uzbekistan. Isaiah 54:14, Psalm 91

 

[rizen1]

"Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need."(Hebrews 4:16)


Prayers for October 4, 2007
From The Voice of the Martyrs


MYANMAR VOM Calls for Prayer for Christians in Myanmar - VOM Sources

The Voice of the Martyrs is calling on believers around the world to pray for Christians being affected by the continued unrest in Myanmar (Burma). According to VOM contacts, the government is targeting anyone with influence, and churches have not been spared. VOM contacts report, "Churches cannot meet. We are quietly meeting in small groups of no more than five to pray for our country. China reports five people have been killed, the British Broadcasting Corporation is saying about 10 have been killed, but our people have seen hundreds of bodies and many more filling the hospitals."

Pray for the protection and safety of Christians in Myanmar. Pray the Holy Spirit will convict the hearts of the government officials and that the testimony of believers will draw others into fellowship with Christ. Psalm 27:1, Joshua 1:9


INDIA Pastor Attacked and Church Burned in North India - VOM Sources
On September 16,

Pastor Virendra and his wife, Bhawana, were attacked by Hindu extremists while on their way to a church meeting. They remain steadfast in their faith and say they will continue holding church services despite the attack. According to The Voice of the Martyrs' contacts, "The attackers intercepted the pastor's motorcycle and threw him and his wife off and began to beat them with fists, sticks and rocks. One believer who was on his way to the meeting came along the road just as one of the persecutors raised a large rock over the pastor's head, intending to smash his skull." VOM contacts added, "The believer was able to push the rock backwards, saving the pastor from death. At another point someone was ready to smash [the pastor's] head with a large stick, but his wife intercepted it and he was again saved from death. Pastor Virendra and his wife were beaten for more than 20 minutes, before they finally escaped.

Praise God, Pastor Virendra and his wife were not severely wounded. Pray for God's protection for Christians in India, who continuously risk their lives for the sake of the gospel. Ask for the Holy Spirit to touch the lives of the persecutors and draw them into the knowledge of Christ. Philippians 4:8, Psalm 118:17


ERITREA Evangelist Arrested - VOM Sources

The Voice of the Martyrs recently received information that Mussie Ezaz, an evangelist in the Kale Hiwot Church of Eritrea, was arrested from his home in the capital city of Asmara, and imprisoned this past week. The evangelist has been in full-time ministry for more than a decade.

Pray God encourages and provides for Ezaz and his family. Ask God to give him boldness in the midst of his suffering and that his testimony will draw non- believers into fellowship with Christ. Romans 8:31, Psalm 91

 

[rizen1]

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."(Joshua 1:9)


Prayers for October 10, 2007
From The Voice of the Martyrs


AZERBAIJAN UPDATE: Imprisoned Baptist Pastor's Appeal Rejected - Forum 18 News

On October 3, the Sheki Appeal Court in Azerbaijan rejected Pastor Zaur Baleav's appeal to have his two-year prison sentence overturned. According to Forum 18 News Service, the head of the Baptist Union, Ilya Zenchenko, said, "We are stunned at the result the court handed down. We don't know what to do. It is a tragedy for his wife and children. It was all over in two minutes. Zaur's son is distressed, complaining that there is no hope and no law in Azerbaijan. He is very young, but his emotional reaction is understandable."

Pray the Holy Spirit encourages Pastor Balaev, his family and believers in Azerbaijan. Ask God to use his testimony to draw non-believers into fellowship with Him. Hebrews 13:5,6; Isaiah 54:17


NIGERIA Christians in Northern Nigeria Threatened and Forced Underground - Compass Direct News


Death threats and other dangers have driven most of the Muslim-background members of a church in Northern Nigeria underground. However, three members have remained. According to Compass Direct News, "Of the 25 converts who formed a church in the northeastern state of Borno two years ago, only three remain. Still while worshipping separately in towns where they reside, once a month the converts brave the threats of Islamic extremists and family members to return to Maiduguri to secretly pray and praise together." Rev. Titus Doma Pona, the founder and pastor of an underground fellowship in Northern Nigeria, told Compass,

"The venue and time is agreed among themselves, and the venue is also changed every meeting, so that they are not attacked.". These recent reports of persecution in Northern Nigeria reflect the trials believers endure. Churches have been burned and the abduction and forcible conversion of teenagers by Muslims has become common.

Pray for Nigerian Christians who face death, destruction and hatred for their faith in Jesus Christ.

Psalm 91; 2 Timothy 1:7


TURKEY Alleged Instigators Named in Malatya Murder; Christians Called to Pray - Compass Direct News

The Turkish media recently discovered an e-mail message sent to Turkish Christian leaders in June, revealing the names of Malatya officials who allegedly plotted to murder three Christians in April. The leaders have submitted the letter to the Malatya prosecutor's office. According to Compass Direct News, "The Firat News Agency (ANF) reported on September 18 that an anonymous e-mail message signed ‘A.A.' had named a colonel in the Malatya gendarmerie along with an Islamic faculty member, as the instigators of the plot to kill three Christians. The ANF article identified the officer as Mehmet Ulger, but gave only the initials of several others.

A September 19 article in Birgun newspaper, however, listed the name of the faulty member as Ruhi Babat. It also identified a member of parliament from Malatya, one military commander and another suspect, claiming that the murder conspiracy had been planned for four or five months in advance." Meanwhile, Christian leaders in Turkey have called on Christian congregations to designate each Thursday for prayer and fasting, praying for the upcoming trial and for other cases in Turkish courts dealing with the rights and freedoms of Christians.

Pray God gives Christians in Turkey boldness to stand for Him, and for the Holy Spirit to touch the lives of all those who were involved in the martyrdom of these believers and the persecution of Christians. Isaiah 26:3, Psalm 27:1

CHINA Two House Church Leaders under House Arrest - China Aid Association

On October 1, the Chinese government placed two house church leaders, Hua Huiqi and Liu Fenggang, under house arrest. According to China Aid Association (CAA), "Each of their houses has been surrounded by two dozen police. Some Public Security Bureau (PSB) officers were even staged on top of Pastor Hua's roof in order to prevent anyone from coming in or going out. On October 3, eight PSB officers broke Hua and his wife's bedroom windows, and then cut off the electricity to their house." Hua Huiqi was released from prison in July after serving six months, while Liu Fenggang was released in February after three years in prison. Meanwhile, Hua Huiqi's 77-year-old mother, Shuang Shuying, is serving a two-year sentence. According to CAA, Shuang Shuying was recently beaten severely, received no medical care; she is now dying in her prison cell.

Pray for Christians in China who face increased persecution ahead of the 2008 Olympics. Pray God encourages and heals Shuang Shuying in prison. Romans 8:11, Exodus 15: 26

 

[Br. Bear]

*** Voice Of The Martyrs Prayer Alert 11/10/07 ***

GAZA: Bible Society Bookstore Manager Murdered

Police found Christian leader Rami Ayyad murdered near the Christian bookstore that he managed in the Palestinian territory of Gaza. He had been shot in the head and had multiple stab wounds.

Unknown individuals abducted Ayyad, 30, as he closed The Teacher's Bookshop at 4:30pm Saturday (6 October). The bookshop is operated by the Palestinian Bible Society, which Muslim extremists have repeatedly threatened.

The Bible Society shop was bombed in April after previous threats, destroying most of the first floor. In February 2006, unidentified militants exploded two small pipe bombs in front of the bookshop, destroying its steel and glass doors.

Hamas-affiliated police found Ayyad's body, according to news reports. Authorities with Hamas, which rules Gaza, have reportedly vowed to investigate and punish the perpetrators.

A Palestinian Bible Society release stated that on Saturday Ayyad had noticed a car without license plates following him. At 6 pm Ayyad told his family by telephone that a group of people had taken him and that he would return home late that evening.

Ayyad called later with a similar message, and a Gaza Bible Society worker reported the incident to police. At 6:25am 7 October Ayyad's body was found near the bookshop with gunshot and stab wounds, the release said.

Ayyad is survived by two children and his pregnant wife, Pauline.

In addition to his work at the bookshop's front desk, Ayyad served as a youth leader at Gaza Baptist Church. He also directed the church's summer camp.

Pray God will comfort and protect Ayyad's family and the rest of the Christians in the community.
Pray the Holy Spirit will convict the hearts of the persecutors and that they will seek and find forgiveness.
Pray for peace in this region.

..................................<>< PLEASE ><>...........................................

 

[rizen1]

"Through the LORD's mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. "(Lamentations 3:22-23)

Please note that the prayer for Azerbaijan in yesterday's prayers was also included in last week's prayers. Pastor Zaur and his family still need to be lifted up, so if you prayed for this family twice, it was certainly not in vain!

This e-mail contains two more urgent prayer needs for Nigeria and Eritrea. Thank you for lifting up our persecuted brothers and sisters in prayer.
Prayers for October 16, 2007
From The Voice of the Martyrs

NIGERIA Christians Killed by Muslims; Hundreds Displaced in Kano, Nigeria – VOM Sources

On September 28, angry Muslims killed 10 Christians and set churches, homes and businesses on fire in Tudun Wada, in Nigeria's Northern state of Kano. According to The Voice of the Martyrs' contacts in Nigeria, "At 9 a.m., Muslims began the attacks, setting fire to homes and churches. They attacked and killed any Christian they came across." More than 50 people were injured, while more than 500 members of the minority Christian population were displaced. VOM contacts added, "Muslim attackers burnt down all eight churches existing in the community, homes and businesses in the area."

Christians believe the attack resulted when Muslim students at a government secondary school in the area claimed a Christian student drew a cartoon of the Prophet Muhammad on the wall of the school's mosque. VOM contacts reported, "No Christian student would do this, since the school has nearly 2,000 students and only seven are Christian.... [also] the mosque is usually busy with Muslims praying around the clock during the (Muslim) Ramadan fasting season; therefore, no Christian student would have any way of getting close to the wall of the mosque to make such sketches on the wall."

Pray for the families of those killed. Pray the Holy Spirit will be their greatest comforter. Ask God to encourage and provide for believers in this area. Psalm 119:105, Proverbs 3:5, 6

ERITREA Senior Pastor Arrested – VOM Sources

Pastor Oqbamichael, a well-known leader of the Kale-Hiwot Church in Eritrea, was arrested and imprisoned. This was the second imprisonment for the pastor in the past two years. In 2005, he was arrested at a Christian wedding and was later released after 10 months in prison, which included solitary confinement and hard labor in the Sawa Military Camp. The arrest of Pastor Oqbamichael follows the recent arrest of Evangelist Mussie Ezaz, who is also a minister in the Kale-Hiwot Church.

Pray God sustains and strengthens Pastor Oqbamichael while he is in prison. Pray the Holy Spirit encourages his family and church. Ask God to protect Christians in Eritrea who are serving Him in the midst of severe persecution. John 16:13, 14

 

[lettheredeemed]

Praying for the persecuted church!!!

 

[rizen1]

"No one is holy like the LORD, for there is none besides You, nor is there any rock like our God."(I Samuel 2:2)

Prayers for October 26 2007
From The Voice of the Martyrs


CHINA UPDATE - Prominent House Church Leader Beaten by Police Again - China Aid Association

On October 16, prominent house church leader Hua Huiqi was released from Tiantan Hospital and returned home. However, China Aid Association reported that the following day Public Security Bureau (PSB) police officers attacked and beat up Hua again after refusing to allow him to use the bathroom next to his bedroom. China's PSB recently put Hua under house arrest. Pastor Hua's 77-year-old-mother, Shuang Shuying, remains very ill in prison, serving a two-year sentence.

Pray for Pastor Hua's recovery and thank God for His faithfulness as Hua endures these recent attacks. Pray for the healing of his mother and that her testimony will draw non-believers into the knowledge of Jesus Christ. Psalm 27: 1, Psalm 23


ETHIOPIA Muslims Attack Homes in Ethiopia - VOM Sources

On October 16, Muslims attacked 25 Christian families and demolished 12 homes in Seka Yoyo, in the southwest of Ethiopia's capital, Addis Ababa. According to The Voice of the Martyrs' contacts, the families were forced to flee to nearby Jimma. Thank God no believers were killed or seriously harmed during this attack.

Pray the believers will be safe in Jimma, where there has been several incidents of violence in recent months, leaving at least six Christians dead. Ask God to protect and encourage Christians that have lost their homes. Pray for the safety of Christians in Ethiopia. Psalm 68:19, Philippians 4:19


INDIA Pastors Beaten and Detained in India - VOM Sources

On October 11, Pastor Ganesh Murthy was attacked by two Hindu extremists while he was distributing literature and praying for local people in the village of Rampura, Karnakata. The extremists verbally abused, beat and dragged him to the local police station where he was detained on charges of forcible conversion. The extremists also tried to forcibly convert Pastor Murthy to Hinduism by promising to meet the financial needs of his wife and three children if he complied. However, the pastor refused the offer and stood firm in his faith. He is still in prison.
On October 14, Pastor Thadikal and his wife were attacked in their home in the Vayandu district of Kerala, by two Hindu extremists. The pastor and his wife sustained serious head injuries.

Pray for Christians in India who are standing strong in their faith in Jesus Christ. Ask God to heal and protect those injured. Pray for the release of Pastor Murthy from prison.
Psalm 91, Psalm 107: 20

 

[abigya]

Christians killed in Pakistan

Christians killed in Pakistan massacre

from BBC News


Masked gunmen have burst into a church in eastern Pakistan killing 18 people including children who were at prayer.

The attack - the worst against Christians in Pakistani history - took place during a service attended by over 100 people at a church in the town of Bahawalpur.

The identity of the attackers is not yet known but reports suggest there had been fears of a possible retaliation by Islamic extremists following the US strikes on neighbouring Afghanistan.

According to officials, members of a banned Islamic militant group are under suspicion.

Worshippers said that as the gunmen opened fire they declared Pakistan would become a graveyard of Christians to avenge deaths in Afghanistan.

One witness said six men on three motorcycles rode up to Saint Dominic's Church and pulled out AK-47 assault rifles, shooting police guards before entering the packed church.


We will track down the culprits

Pakistan President General Musharraf
Terrified worshippers are said to have scrambled for cover, some taking shelter in a small room behind the altar, but most were hit.

Eyewitness reports suggest the gunmen locked the doors and sprayed bullets at the Protestant congregation who were using the church at the time, riddling the walls with bullet holes.

Pakistan President General Musharraf has strongly condemned the attack.

"I would like to assure everyone that we will track down the culprits and bring them to justice" he said.

This is the largest ever attack on Pakistan's Christian minority and has led to shock and fear throughout the community. "We already were fearful and now we are really fearful. What is our future?" said one.

Christians make up about 1% of Pakistan's 120 million population.

 

[rizen1]

"And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus."(Philippians 4:19)

Prayers for October 31, 2007
From The Voice of the Martyrs


ERITREA Gospel Singer Helen Berhane Granted Asylum in Denmark - VOM Sources

Eritrean gospel singer, Helen Berhane, who was released from prison in November 2006 after being detained in Eritrea for two years without charge, has been granted asylum in Denmark. Berhane and her daughter arrived in Denmark on October 19, after spending 11 months in Sudan. Her health remains extremely poor, due to the physical suffering she experienced during her detention. She cannot walk without assistance. During Berhane's detention, she was held for extended periods of time in shipping containers and tortured several times by authorities in an effort to force her to recant her faith. Thank God that Berhane has found a safe place to live. Praise Him for her faithfulness.


Pray for God's continued protection and provision for her. Ask Him to give her direction and wisdom, so she can continue serving Him. Pray for believers in Eritrea who face persecution and suffering for the sake of their faith in Jesus Christ. Psalm 84:11, Psalm 119:105


PAKISTAN Christian Homes Demolished in Pakistan - VOM Sources

On October 19, local Muslims demolished homes belonging to three Christian families in the village of Lobhana, near Lahore, Pakistan. According to The Voice of the Martyrs' contacts, more than 70 armed villagers moved in with tractors and began destroying the homes. VOM contacts said, "They demolished and looted three homes and only stopped when the police arrived." Some of the Christians attacked reported that the Muslims threatened to kill them. VOM contacts added that the land where some of the demolished homes were located had been given to the Christian families by the Pakistani government more than 10 years earlier. However, some local Muslims claimed the land, intending to build a cemetery.

Pray for God's protection for Christians in this area. Ask Him to provide resources for these families to rebuild their homes. Pray the testimony of these believers will draw nonbelievers, especially their attackers, into the knowledge of Jesus Christ. Psalm 68:19, Proverbs 3:5, 6


NIGERIA Muslim Officials Dismiss Christian School Librarian - Compass Direct News

Sixteen months ago, Muslim officials forced Asabe Ladagu, a Christian widow, to leave her job as a librarian. The incident occurred after she and others requested land to build a chapel in the capital city of Borno state, in northern Nigeria. According to Compass Direct News, Muslim administrators at Ramat Polytechnic forced Ladagu into early retirement without pay. Ladagu told Compass, "We were branded dangerous people because we were Christians. I have been forced out of office now for 16 months, not retired and not on staff roll of Ramat Polytechnic. Other Christian brethren, too, have either been forced out or have been the subjects of witch hunts."

Pray for God's provision and protection for Ladagu and other Christians in northern Nigeria. Ask God to use their testimonies to draw nonbelievers into fellowship with Him. Philippians 4:19, Psalm 27:1


INDONESIA Imprisoned Christians Sentenced - VOM Sources

The remaining Christian leaders imprisoned in April have been sentenced to five years in prison. They were imprisoned after a video recording of them praying for Muslims was leaked to Islamic organizations. According to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts in Indonesia, "The defendants have been found guilty of abusing the Quran, and the judge sentenced them to five years in prison. Their lawyers are planning to appeal this decision in East Java High Court in Surabaya."

Pray for those in prison and their families. Ask God to give them boldness and wisdom as they face these difficult challenges. Joshua 1:9, Philippians 4:13

 

[Br. Bear]

11 November 2007 - International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church

People in over 130 countries will be united in prayer for the persecuted church.

Over 200 million Christians live under the shadow of persecution daily, risking discrimination, imprisonment and even death because of their obedience and allegiance to Jesus Christ.

Prayer Points:
- For continued boldness amongst believers as they share the gospel. Pray that people's hearts would be softened and open to the truth of the Gospel.

- Pray for Christians who suffer for Christ that they will remain faithful to the Lord and will be kept strong in their personal faith in Him. Pray that they will have courage, strength, wisdom and an unshakeable trust in the sovereignty and love of God. Pray that they will be able to forgive those who persecute them.

- Pray for the wives and children of Christian men in prison. Pray for them in times of loneliness and distress, that they will know God's presence, comfort and strength.

- Pray for the men and women who persecute Christians. That they may come to repentance and the knowledge of Gods grace.

- Pray God will change the hearts of political leaders. Whole nations can be changed when a leader is saved.

- Pray for the leadership of churches in places where pastors, teachers and evangelists are removed from their churches and detained. Pray that the Lord will protect His people against sects and cults.

- The availability of the Bible to all people in their own language is fundamental to the task of world evangelisation. Pray for the translation, printing and distribution of scriptures and for couriers who take them into restricted countries.

- There are hundreds of thousands of Christians in restricted countries who have been converted through radio ministries. Pray for the provision and development of good programs that teach solid Bible truth. Pray that these new Christians will be able to link up with other Christians and find a church where they will be welcome.

- Pray for Christian missions like Voice of the Martyrs which assist, equip and encourage persecuted Christians throughout the world.

 

[Br. Bear]

North Korea: Christians Arrested; Current Status Unknown

In a highly unusual press conference in Pyongyang in September, the National Security Service of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) announced the arrest of "foreign spies" and "native citizens working for a foreign intelligence service." The Voice of the Martyrs (VOM), a ministry serving Christians in restricted nations who are persecuted for their faith, has announced that those arrested in North Korea were in fact Christian believers and not spies.

The security service spokesman at the press conference, Li Su Gil, said that those arrested "carried out the missions by means of diverse espionage equipment." He did not name any of those arrested.

VOM has identified the following North Korean Christians who have disappeared and are believed to have been arrested by government authorities:

Onseong, North Hamgyong Province:
Chul Huh, male
Myung-Chul Kim, male, 36
Chun-Il Jang, male, 39
Young-Su Jin, male, 32
Nam-Suk Kang, male, 48
Young-Yae Lee, female, 37

Hoeryong, North Hamgyong Province:
San-Ho Kang, male, 36

Cheongjin, North Hamgyong Province:
Mi-Hae Park, female, 30
Suk-Chun Suh, male, 29

These North Korean Christians had started a portrait photography studio to help support themselves, and had registered their businesses with appropriate government authorities. According to VOM sources working in North Korea, they were not involved in espionage activities. It is believed that equipment taken by the government was in fact photography equipment used in their portrait work.

"Following Jesus Christ is considered treason in North Korea, where the government mandates that worship is reserved for deceased dictator Kim Il Sung and his son, the current dictator, Kim Jong Il," said Todd Nettleton, spokesperson for VOM. "The Voice of the Martyrs is proud to stand with Christ's followers in North Korea, and deeply concerned for the well-being of our brothers and sisters there. We call on the North Korean government to release these Christian believers, who were involved in legitimate business activities to support themselves and their families."

The Voice of the Martyrs has been actively involved in helping North Korean Christians for decades. Among the projects the ministry has carried out for North Korea is the launch of thousands of "scripture balloons," mylar balloons filled with helium and printed on either side with scripture passages. VOM has conducted other projects to help North Korean Christians but cannot discuss details publicly to protect the safety of VOM workers and contacts inside North Korea.

VOM sources do not know the whereabouts of the arrested believers. It is possible that they have already been tried and executed.

"We pray that they are alive," said Nettleton. "But we know it is possible that they have finished their race on earth and gone on to their eternal reward in heaven. We encourage Christians everywhere to pray for our brothers and sisters in North Korea, who must constantly face the threat of arrest, torture and execution simply for living out their faith in Jesus Christ."


Please pray for these Christians and their families. Pray for all believers in North Korea.
Pray for Kim Jong Il and all those in authority in North Korea.
Pray for the efforts of VOM and other missions at work in this country.

May God bless you as you pray, in Jesus name

and may you see the many beautiful moments in each day that are prepeared for you and in them find encouragement from the Lord and strength to continue in prayer and rejoicing.

Bless you,

Br. Bear

 

[Coconut]

As we consider praying for VOM and those who they help, please keep these things in mind....

VOM was established to awaken the 'free' world to the needs of Christians in countries that were/are closed to and against the gospel. As part of the work, we can GET INVOLVED and therefore assist our brothers and sisters in Christ who suffer for their faith in Jesus. One of the most humbling considerations is that our brothers and sisters, who are persecuted for their faith, PRAY for us !!! Please take time and consider this.

All Christians are part of one body, Christ being the head of that body.

Christians expect to spend eternity together with the Lord (He has paid for us to be there), so consider what you might say when you meet some of your brothers and sisters who have been killed merely for loving Jesus to the end, and let me add, killed often brutally and often after much hardship and abuse such as torture and witnessing their family and loved ones suffer too. Will we be able to look into their eyes with a clear consciense? These are our family. They have prayed for us.

Too often today we hear of the 'end-times', of when WE will face tribulation, etc.(or if we will). Consider this: Over 400 million members of the body of Christ are right now suffering severe deprivation and outright persecution for their faith in Jesus.....estimate how many people in your country are Christians (those who are willing to die for Jesus rather than deny Him). You can probably start to see that you and your fellow Christians make up a fraction of a percent of the body of Christ. Who is suffering ? So when we think of the Church, keep in mind that the church IS the body of Christ, and is made up of believers from all over the world, and not our little congregations. The majority of the body is already being persecuted.
We MUST ALL STAND before the Almighty LORD.

One faith, One body, One baptism, One Spirit, One Lord.

Remember them that are in bonds, AS BOUND WITH THEM, and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body.
Hebrews 13:3

God will bless you both now and forever when you enter into prayer for your brothers and sisters....in ways that the world can not bless you.

If one member suffers, the whole body suffers...in Him is life...those who suffer for Him have this life .... If then they have the Life of Christ, they do not perish....so who is suffering the most...and why are so many in the free world so comfortable in their life.....PLEASE consider this....it can only serve to encourage you to reach toward the hieghts, to make every endeavour to free yourself from the entanglement of this world and to draw you to the fire that purifies, to raise you from luke-warm to having a burning love for your Saviour.

Consider too... if you lost all your possessions, had no money, no home, lost your loved ones, forbidden to meet for fellowship, forbidden to have an income, forbidden to have a Bible, under threat of severe punishment, torture and imprisonment, knowing death by heartless execution is quite possible, (1). Would you deny your faith ?
(2). What could you do, what would you be able to do for others?

Our brothers and sisters pray for us...let us pray for them .

In Jesus name.

Bless you,

Br. Bear.

ps....and please pray for the folks who work at VOM....please.

Yes Lord...

Can the Spirit speak any more expressly than this...?

I heard a man speak these words the other day...again i`m sure the Spirit was speaking thru him...his words struck my heart ...

"When we stand before Christ, He will ask to see our wounds...
If we have none....He will ask...did you not find anything
worth fighting for?"

Heb 10:32 But call to remembrance the former days, in which, after ye were illuminated, ye endured a great fight of afflictions;
Partly, whilst ye were made a gazingstock both by reproaches and afflictions; and partly, whilst ye became companions of them that were so used.

Mat 26:39 Jesus walked on a little way. Then he knelt with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, don't make me suffer by having me drink from this cup. But do what you want, and not what I want."
He came back and found his disciples sleeping. So he said to Peter, "Can't any of you stay awake with me for just one hour?
Stay awake and pray that you won't be tested.

 

[Br. Bear]

*** Voice Of The Martyrs Prayer Alert 5/12/07 ***

IRAQ CHRISTIANS CALL ON THE WORLD TO JOIN THEM IN PRAYER

Pastors and leaders from all over Iraq are asking Christians around the world to join them in praying for their nation.

In spite of the well documented troubles faced by Christians in Iraq there has been a growing prayer movement in the country over the last few years.
In 2005, the first National Prayer Conference in Iraq's history was held, attended by around 640 Iraqis from 17 different churches across the country.
670 Iraqis from 23 churches attended the 2nd National Prayer Conference in 2006, followed by the 3rd conference this past September which 604 Iraqis attended from 24 churches and a number of house churches, despite the many challenges involved in traveling across the country.
This was a significant event, as it brought together believers from almost every church and denomination in Iraq.

Things are getting better especially in Baghdad and we need to continue to pray for the nation to have complete deliverance from the enemy and for the land to be healed.

Please join with the Iraqi Church to pray for the Lord to build His Kingdom in Iraq!

Source: International Prayer Council

~ Praise God for the way He is working in Iraq.

~ Pray for the protection of Gods Children. May they be faithful, holy and strong.

~ Pray for strong leadership and unity within the church.

~ Pray for all those in authority.
in Jesus name, amen.

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Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ Jesus,

please take some time out and ask the Lord to write the needs of our/your fellow Christians, fellow members of His holy body, upon your memories....and when you are brought to remembrance of your kin in Christ, that you fervently pray...as the Spirit leads you.

May your days be filled with wonder and joy.

Bless you.... and thank you on behalf of your family in Christ around the world.

Br. Bear

 

[Br. Bear]

Dear brothers and sisters,

thank you for coming to this post.

I pray you read it carefully and prayerfully, and after you have read it, please take a few minutes at least to consider your needs, and the needs of our brothers and sisters that you read about here..... and then please pray...><>

It is very sad that still today people are treating one another in such horrid ways.
It is even sadder if we can not even spend some time in prayer..... and I mean prayer, like it was our lives that depended on it.

May you be blessed with tenderness and yet determination and vigour, blessed with a stirring in your soul and blessed with great joy, as you seek the Lord in all things, in Jesus name .......>


*** Voice Of The Martyrs Prayer Alert 3/1/08 ***

INDIA: Unprecedented Anti-Christian Violence in Orissa

The district of Kandhamal in the eastern state of Orissa continues to see massive violence against Christians. The All India Christian Council (aicc) has collected reports of at least 6 deaths, 65 churches burned down, 600 Christian homes destroyed, hundreds of Christians forced to flee into forests to save their lives, and thousands homeless. Despite promises by state and central government leaders during meetings with aicc leaders, the violence which began on Christmas Eve is continuing.

Roads continue to be blocked by Hindutva fundamentalists and police curfews prevent fact finding teams from travelling. Confirmed reports from one village give a sense of the carnage which is likely being under-reported.

The violence allegedly began when Christians in a village 150kms from Phulbani, the headquarters of Kandhamal district, began to celebrate Christmas Eve. Local Hindu fundamentalists opposed the event and a fight ensued. Also, a Hindutva leader, Swami Saraswati, was attacked by unknown assailants -- allegedly Christians -- near Daringbadi while he was travelling. The next day the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) called for a strike and its members began attacking Christians across the state.

An aicc fact finding team headed by John Dayal, aicc Secretary-General and Member of the National Integration Council, has been unable to reach the hardest hit areas due to police curfews. On 29 Dec, 2007, Inspector General of Police Pradeep Kapur forced the team to leave the affected areas due to safety concerns. Efforts by a Christian delegation to visit Baminigaon, called the epicentre of the trouble, were unsuccessful as well.

"We continue to plead with leaders of the world's largest democracy to uphold the rule of law and protect Christians in rural Orissa. The government's actions seem to be too little, too late. We are distressed that radical Hindutva groups justify their violent attacks on innocent victims - especially children - by saying they are protesting 'forced or fraudulent conversions'. Similar claims over the past decade have always been proven false. But the bottom line is that religious differences are never an excuse for violence," said Dr. Joseph D'souza, aicc President.

"We are deeply worried by media reports that police and other local authorities in Orissa stood by and watched attacks on Christians. Some media commentators have said the violence is a combination of politics, caste-based discrimination, and religious vendettas. Whatever the motivation, we must not forget that innocent people - mostly Dalits and tribals - are suffering right now," said Sam Paul, aicc Secretary, Public Affairs.

Pray the violence will stop and for the safely and protection of Christians in the area.
Pray for the families who have lost loved ones. Pray the missing will be located.
Pray for the persecutors of these crimes.

-----------------------><>


On behalf of our family in India who you have just read about,

thank you, and bless you

 

[rizen1]

Father I ask that you Hold them, sustain them and strengthen them.

Amen.

 

[bijush.mbcam1]

Christians are butchered in orissa

It is very sad to hear that christians of "ORISSA" (INDIA) are butchered esp. women are found to be missing from homes ,later they are found to be raped and dumped in the fields.

Many christians organisations have been protesting but there is not going to be any effect on the Orissa government.
we ,christians have to fight back and lodged our protest in international forums and refer to the UN and gain support for the christians.
The christians of orissa are from a downtrodden area .
I don't know what is the christian organisation of today is doing in support of christians.
We all have to been like Queen Ester who fasted and prayed for the sake of the Jewish people.She never cared for herself but for the well being of the community.

I think Ester's like people are missing from the world .

If ester's are rising then ,there is a hope for the community many Mordekai's will rise in sopport of ester's.

We all need to report to human rights organisation.Foreign countries have to take an active role in reporting the evil designs of the BJP,VHP,RSS, and other hindu organisations.

 

[rizen1]

"Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Matthew 6:19-21)

From The Voice of the Martyrs


CHINA UPDATE: Case of Arrested House Church Leader Returned to Public Security Bureau - China Aid Association

On November 22, the case for house church leader Zhou Heng was returned to the Public Security Bureau by the Shayibake District People's Procuratorate of Urumqi city, Xingjiang province, China. According to China Aid Association, "Under heavy pressure from the international community, the prosecutors sent back Zhou's case because of insufficient evidence to indict him." Zhou Heng was arrested in August 2007, for receiving three tons of Bibles donated by South Korean churches. The Bibles were intended for distribution to local believers free of charge. Prior to his arrest, Zhou managed a bookstore, called Yayi Christian Bookroom, and sold religious books. Authorities have closed the bookstore.

Pray for the case against Zhou Heng to be dropped. Ask God to protect Christians who live and share their faith under difficult conditions. Isaiah 26: 3, Psalm 23 Psalm 118:17, Psalm 91

NIGERIA Ten Killed, Churches and Homes Burned - Compass Direct News

Ten people were killed, several Christians injured seriously and churches, businesses and homes burned, when Muslim extremists went on a rampage in Yelwa Tudu, Bauchi state, Northern Nigeria on December 11, 2007, According to Compass Direct News, the violence occurred after unidentified people pulled out two bricks from the foundation of a mosque under construction at the Baba Tank Secondary School in Kagadama shortly after construction began on December 2. Compass Direct added, "Muslim extremists believed Christians were responsible for the damage and threatened to attack local believers. Area Muslims joined the attacking students, resulting in the deaths and damages in the city, including the burning of dozens of homes belonging to Christians. The Redeemed Christian Church of God, the Assemblies of God Church and Elim Church were set on fire and damaged. At least a dozen Christian homes were destroyed in the attack." Only one of those killed has been identified as a Christian. The identities of the other nine were reportedly kept a secret by the government and their bodies were hurriedly buried in one grave.

Pray the Lord will fill Christians with His peace and strength as they recover from this attack. Ask God to comfort those who have lost loved ones. Pray Christ will be exalted through this tragedy and that people in this area will continue to be drawn to Him. Philippians 1:20, Psalm 107:2

TURKEY Catholic Priest Stabbed - Compass Direct News

On December 16, a 19-year-old Muslim man stabbed a Catholic priest in the stomach outside a Catholic church in Turkey. According to Compass Direct News, Father Adriano Franchini was stabbed near Izmir's St. Anthony Church by a man identified as Ramazan Bay. Although the attacker fled the scene, he was arrested an hour later. Compass Direct reported, "According to the daily Hurriyet newspaper, the arrested assailant admitted in his statement to the police that he had been influenced by a recent episode of the popular television serial drama 'Kurtla Vadisi' (Valley of the Wolves)." The series caricatures Christian missionaries as political "infiltrators" who pay poor families to convert to Christianity. This recent incident is the latest violent attack on Turkey's Christian community. In April 2007, two Turkish converts and a German citizen were tortured and killed at a Christian publishing house in Malatya, Turkey. Five Muslim men confessed to the killings and were arrested. Their trial is currently in progress.

Pray for protection for Turkey's Christians. Ask God to give them wisdom as they share the gospel in dangerous situations. Isaiah 54:17, Psalm 91

INDIA Christians Killed, Homes and Churches Burned - VOM Sources

Four Christians were killed, many injured and numerous homes and churches destroyed or damaged in Orissa state in violent clashes that began on Christmas Eve. According to The Voice of the Martyrs sources in India, "Hindu extremists used anti-conversion laws to terrorize Christians. More than 18 churches and prayer houses were ransacked and torched in several areas of Kandhamai district in Orissa. Rev. Basant Diggal, reports that he was assaulted and his motorcycle damaged by a group of miscreants in Minia area where vandals went on a rampage causing damage to another church." VOM sources added Hindu extremists in Orissa have been threatening and terrorizing Christians who are marginalized and are in the minority. VOM sources said, "The attacks took place for the sole reason of terrorizing the Christian community and stopping our missionary work. But the church has always grown in persecution and this will happen again in Orissa. The church which grows in love and unity has as its basis a faith marked by suffering and persecution."

Pray for Christians in India who are faced with immense difficulty at this time. Pray for the families of the killed and those whose homes and churches were damaged or destroyed. Ask God to give believers courage to remain faithful despite persecution. Psalm 27:1, Romans 8:31

 

[Br. Bear]

Dear brothers and sisters, we are mostly free to come and go, to live how we please and choose. Please read the following and consider the choices you make. Please also consider how you would feel and react if the following was about you, and with that thought enter into prayer, for if one member suffers, the whole body suffers with it.
Our lives are hid with Christ...and so are the lives of those who are persecuted for their faith and trust and witness for Jesus.....>>>

*** Voice Of The Martyrs Prayer Alert 15th January 2008 ***

CHINA: House Church Leader and Orphans Evicted

Several orphan children and their caretakers were forced to spend the night in a hotel room after having been evicted from their orphanage by local police officials on Christmas day. The orphanage's caretakers, Ming Xuan Zhang along with his two sons, had prepared to celebrate Christmas with the children, but were in no way prepared to deal with the situation that unfolded that morning. After presenting an eviction notice, officials then proceeded to beat the care-takers and the children until they were literally forced onto the street.

The Director of Security order of the Village of Sanhe, along with other government officials from the Religious Bureau and United Work Front Department, had threatened the landlord to stop renting land to Zhang and the children or face imprisonment. Left with little choice, the landlord was forced to evict Zhang after 5 years of faithful occupancy. The children slept in a hotel room as Zhang frantically searched for space to rent for the orphanage. Unfortunately, Government officials had not limited the Christmas Day eviction to a single affair. On 3 separate occasions, landlords were threatened not to rent space to Zhang and the orphans, or face criminal charges and prison time.

Government officials continue to persecute Ming Xuan Zhang for his leadership role in the Chinese House Church. Affectionately known as "Bike", Ming Xuan Zhang has experienced severe persecution and has been imprisoned 12 times by Government officials, who are trying to isolate him from the Chinese house church alliance. In 2006, US President George W. Bush requested a meeting with Ming Zhang during his visit to China, but was denied by Communist Party officials. Zhang and his son were kidnapped at a train station after officials discovered he had been invited to meet the President.

Zhang has written a second open letter to President Hu Jintao, in hopes of receiving relief from persecution. No response has been issued. Government officials continue to hinder Zhang from renting space for his orphanage by threatening landlords who offer to lease to him. Zhang and the children continue to remain homeless as they search for permanent living space.

China Aid Association

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For those in Australia who would like to help, as well as pray :

Please register your concern by writing to:
Embassy of the People's Republic of China:
15 Coronation Drive
Yarralumla ACT 2600
Tel: (02) 6273 4780
Fax: (02) 6273 4878
Email : [email protected]

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May you know the blessing of joy and may that joy give you strength each and every minute of each and every day....in Jesus name,

Bless you,

Br. Bear