Pastors accused of forced conversions.  Christians detained on charges of terrorism.  A Christian couple arrested, tortured, and threatened. Our brothers and sisters need our prayers.  Let’s pray daily for the faithful, and for those who are not to be bold and faithful.

VOM News and Prayer Update: July 7th, 2008

“We work hard with our own hands. When we are cursed, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it;”  (1 Corinthians 4:12)

INDIA

Pastors Attacked, Accused of Forcible Conversion - VOM Sources

On June 24, Pastor Murugan was beaten by Hindu militants who ambushed him and two other believers while returning home from a prayer meeting in Moodalpalya, Karnataka, India. According to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts, “The other two managed to flee and escape any harm. The militants accused the pastor of forcibly converting people and ’spoiling the minds of the children’ and took him to the local police station where he was detained.” In an unrelated incident on June 26, Hindu militants barged into the home of a local believer in Hubli, Karnataka; shouted curses at the Christians gathered for a prayer meeting and beat Pastor Vinod Talakere. VOM sources added, “They dragged the pastor and another believer to the local police station where the men were detained on accusations of forcibly converting people, kidnapping local girls and enrolling them in Bible college.” Pray for the release of these pastors. Ask God to bless their ministry and the work of other Christians spreading the gospel in India. Philippians 4:13

UZBEKISTAN

Christian Detained on Terrorism Charges - Forum 18 News

On June 14, eight police officers claiming to be conducting an identity check, raided the home of Jandos Kuandikov in Nukus, Karakalpakstan, an autonomous region of Uzbekistan, where several Christians were gathered to prepare for a wedding. According to Forum18 News, “Kuandikov was not home at the time, but when he returned he asked the police for a warrant authorizing their action. None was provided. Police demanded statements [proving] that a religious meeting was not being conducted but the family refused. Police then accused Kuandikov of being a terrorist and [a] Wahhabi (a form of Islam found predominantly in Saudi Arabia). The police continued their search and interrogation throughout the day and then took several of those present to the police station. All but [a Christian named] Aimurat Khayburahmanov, were eventually released. At last report, Khayburahmanov remained in detention on false charges of terrorism.” Pray Uzbek Christians will be able to bless and pray for those who falsely accuse them. Pray for Aimurat Khayburahmanov to be released. Luke 6:27-28

IRAN

Christian Detained on Terrorism Charges - Forum 18 News

On June 3, a newly converted Christian couple in Iran was arrested by police for holding Bible studies with Muslims in their home, and attending a house church. According to Compass Direct News, “Makan Arya and Tina Rad were seized from their home in east Tehran after one of Makan’s relatives informed security police of the couple’s Christian activities. Their 4-year-old daughter was left behind, ill and unattended. The couple was taken to an unknown jail where they were severely beaten and interrogated for four days.” Compass reported, “Makan was accused of ‘activities against national security’ and Tina of ‘activities against the holy religion of Islam.’ The authorities threatened to take their daughter away to a religious institution and warned they could be imprisoned on charges of apostasy or fabricated drug charges if they didn’t stop their Christian work.” The report added that eventually the couple was pressured into signing a statement claiming they had not changed their religion from Islam and promising that they would stay away from their house church and other Christians. “After a court hearing, Makan was freed on bail charges of US $19,634 and Tina upon payment of US $29,451. The couple returned home to find that the window of their shop had been smashed by local Muslims. On June 23, Makan received a letter threatening him with continued attacks if he did not put up evidence of his Islamic faith on the front of his shop, to which he responded by hanging pictures of Muslim leaders on his window,” Compass added. Ask God to strengthen the hearts of these believers to proclaim His Name without hesitation or fear. Pray for healing, especially for Tina who currently cannot walk as a result of her mistreatment in detention. Luke 6:27-28

CHINA

Christian Couple Arrested, Tortured and Threatened - Compass Direct News

On July 2, Public Security Bureau (PSB) police officers evicted prominent house church leader, Pastor Hua Huiqi and his family from their home in Beijing, China. According to China Aid Association (CAA), “Hua and his family were resting in their rental apartment when PSB officials led by Officer Yang Jian, used a 10-pound hammer to break down the doors and locks of the apartment. Hua’s brother was beaten by police officers and suffered severe damage to his eye. Hua and his family, including his 90-year-old father, were forced onto the street with their furniture. They are currently in search of a new home and are being hosted by a Christian family in Beijing.” According to CAA, “The Chinese government has expressed its intentions to either detain Hua until September 30, a date well after the Olympics, or to remove Hua and his family completely out of Beijing during the Games. The Chinese government had branded Hua and other human rights and religious activists as ‘troublemakers’ and is adamant about keeping such people from attending the Games in August.” Praise God for Pastor Hua and his family’s faithfulness. Ask God to watch over his family, especially his elderly parents who are great examples of faith and courage. Ask the Holy Spirit to convict the persecutors and draw them into the knowledge of Jesus Christ. Isaiah 40:29-31

Those of us who are Christians know that pastors cannot force conversions.  Conversion to Christ comes only by Christ Himself.  When a man or woman, boy or girl meet Jesus through faith, He changes them into a growing image of Himself.

Let’s be faithful.

-Tim A. Blankenship

Hate speech is one thing that is often debated.  Whether there should be laws against it, legistrating freedom of speech of any kind, etc..  Many times a day I am reminded of the evil heart of human kind, even my own.  Some who would be for a Constitutional Ammendment forbiding “Hate Speech” also call for tolerance.

Trial of Faith received a comment a few days ago from “Luke” on one of the articles concerning a Voice of the Martyrs Prayer Update.  He signified laughing at the suffering of Christians in foreign lands.  Tolerance is fine for everyone else, except those who will be honest, bold and brave enough to tell the world that there is only one way to God.  Do whatever you will to those Christians, and that’s okay.

The following is the comment approved by this moderator:

Luke said,

July 3, 2008 at 3:49 pm

hahaha look at you christian dogs. now you have to susffer like foul dogs. first you killed people in the days of colonialism. hahaha foul rats. i’m happy you rats are killed. hahahahahaha for killing for you dogs jesus was a gay

Now, tell me who is using “Hate Speech”.  There were a few other comments from “Luke” and other names with similar sounding words.  It was the decision of this moderator that these did not belong on this site, so they were deleted.

We Christians do not enjoy suffering in serving the Lord, but if suffering comes we do not quit because it comes.  Suffering for the cause of Christ gives Him glory, and strengthens our faith.

It angers me to think that there are members of the human race that laugh at the suffering of others.  By there laughing they would participate in the torture and killing of others.  I forgive them, but they need His forgiveness for their salvation.  I left a responding comment to “Luke” concerning his comment:

T. A. Blankenship said,

July 4, 2008 at 8:17 am

Luke,
I would be the first to tell you that as a Christian I am not perfect, however, I do know that I have the assurance of standing before my Creator forgiven and cleansed because of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Christians have always suffered and died for our faith, and our suffering in this life is not unlike the suffering of all people. Through our suffering, though, our faith is strengthened.
Luke, Jesus died for your sins, and in His burial He carried the guilt, shame, and reproach and condemnation of them away; and He rose bodily from the dead. One day He is returning, and I pray you will be right with Him before that day.
“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him would not perish, but have everlasting life.”
Believe in Him Luke and be saved.
I forgive you.
T.A.

“Luke” and to any who come here with a hate filled heart for Christians and God’s Son Jesus Christ; I do pray for God to open your eyes, and your heart, and that you will look upon our Lord and Savior, call on His name and be saved, from the terrible wrath and judgment of sins that is going to come upon you.

May God help those of who love Jesus Christ to love as He loved those who nailed Him to His cross, when He said, “Father forgive them; for  they know not what they do”.

-Tim A. Blankenship

Please pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ suffering for the glory of Jesus Christ:

VOM News and Prayer Update: July 1st, 2008

“The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you.”

(1 Corinthians 16:23)

PAKISTAN

Christians Abducted at Gunpoint by Muslim Extremists - VOM Sources

On June 21, 16 Christians were abducted by Muslim extremists when they gathered to pray in Academy Town, Peshawar, Pakistan. According to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts in Pakistan, “Salamat Masih and 30 of his family and close friends were gathered to pray and celebrate the birth of his daughter, when 12 Taliban [members] of the Lashka-e-Islam group broke into his house yelling and shouting. They held the believers at gunpoint. The Muslim house-owner, Haji Muhammad Saraj, was also present at the time to collect rent.” VOM contacts added, “With machine and automatic guns, they forcibly separated the men from the women and children. Slapping the Christian men, they commanded all 16 men, including Pastor Zulifqar and Haji Muhammad Saraj, to get into the five waiting vehicles.” The 16 Christian men were held captive for an hour. “They were beaten and abused, and had all their money and mobile phones stolen from them. During this time, the Taliban attempted to persuade Pastor Zulifqar to convert to Islam, which he unquestionably refused. After sunset the Taliban took them to another place where they were kept in a cave until their release 10 hours later,” VOM contacts reported. Pray for believers in Pakistan. Pray God protects them and provides for all their needs. Also pray their courageous testimonies will draw nonbelievers into fellowship with Him. Psalm 91:1-2

EGYPT

Christian Homes and Businesses Attacked - VOM Sources

On June 19, a mob of local Muslims attacked businesses and homes belonging to Coptic Christians in the village of Al Nazla, Fayoum province. According to VOM contacts, “When a convert from Christianity to Islam left that day on a three-day trip to Cairo, local Muslims concluded that she had gone missing. Rumors circulated that she had been abducted by her Christian family members. A mob of Muslims then went on a rampage in the village, beating and injuring Christians and destroying property.” Ask God to strengthen those affected by the mob violence and for them to remain steadfast as they suffer. Pray that the perpetrators of this attack will come to repentance and salvation. Revelation 2:10

INDONESIA

Church Closed Again - VOM Sources

Recently, Muslims closed a church and blocked Christians from entering and holding services in Jatimula, Bekasi, West Java, Indonesia. According to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts in Indonesia, “Muslims blocked the alley leading to the church building. Pastor Anna and Huta Julu had to lead worship outside their church building and believers had to sit in the dirty alley to pray outside their church.” VOM contacts added, “The sign outside the church building stated, ‘This church building is sealed,’ and it was written on a letterhead belonging to the Tambun Selatan district of Bekasi local government.” This is the second time Muslims have closed the church in Bekasi. The church was first closed on September 10, 2005, when a mob of 100 Muslims nailed boards over doors and windows and prohibited believers from entering the building. Praise God for the unwavering faith of believers in Indonesia. Ask God to watch over Pastor Anna and Huta Julu as they continue to lead other believers in Indonesia. Pray for protection for believers as they courageously live for Christ in the midst of hardships. John 15: 18-21

AZERBAIJAN

Pastor Arrested - Forum 18 News

On June 20, Pastor Hamid Shabanov was arrested after police claimed to find an illegal weapon while searching his home in Aliabad. According to Forum 18 News, “Pastor Shabanov’s family and congregation insist that police planted the gun they claimed to discover. Shabanov’s brother sees the arrest as a direct attack on the pastor’s Baptist church and an attempt to halt Christian activity in the area. Shabanov’s home was among those searched when another local pastor arrested on fabricated charges, Pastor Zaur Balaev, was detained in May 2007.” Pray that the truth of this situation will be made known and that Pastor Shabanov will be released. Pray that Christians in Azerbaijan will be emboldened to follow in their Savior’s footsteps. 1 Corinthians 4:9-16

Let us be grateful, and thank the Lord for the freedom we have in a free land.  Let us also pray for revival and spiritual awakening in our churches and land.

-Tim A. Blankenship

These Christians are men and women who stand for the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the most hostile environment for Christianity.  As brothers and sisters in Christ let’s aid them with prayer, for strength, encouragement, the power of the Spirit of God, wisdom for their persecutors, judges, and prosecuters.

VOM News and Prayer Update: June 17th, 2008

“It is written: “I believed; therefore I have spoken.”With that same spirit of faith we also believe and therefore speak, because we know that the one who raised the Lord Jesus from the dead will also raise us with Jesus and present us with you in his presence. “  (2 Corinthians 4:13-14)

IRAN

House Church Leader Arrested – Compass Direct News

On May 31, house church leader Mohsen Namvar was arrested by eight police officers in his home in Tehran, Iran. According to Compass Direct News, “The officers confiscated a number of Namvar’s personal belongings including his computer, printer, CDs, books and money. He was given no official explanation for the arrest, and his current location is unknown.” Compass Direct added, “According to an Iranian pastor residing outside the country, Namvar had anticipated that police would come for him since hearing that he had been implicated during police interrogations of Christians in the city of Amol in April. He had been warned by a friend that authorities were keeping him under close watch. Namvar was previously held and tortured for baptizing Muslim converts to Christianity in the spring of 2007.” Pray for Namvar’s release. Pray that he will act as a faithful witness for Christ during his detention. Pray that his wife and children will rely on the Lord for comfort and strength. Matthew 5:14-16

INDIA

Christians Attacked at Vacation Bible School – VOM Sources

On April 25, Pastor Mohan Babu and two other believers were severely beaten by 35 Hindu extremists for holding a Vacation Bible School (VBS) near Bangalore City, in Karnataka State. According to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts in India, the three-day VBS was organized by Ragigudda Baptist Church. VOM sources said, “Around 60 children from different backgrounds were attending the VBS. As they were worshiping, about 35 people belonging to a Hindu extremist group forcefully entered the hut chanting slogans and demolished the hut. The extremists mercilessly beat Mohan, Samuel and Krishna, alleging forceful conversion. The perpetrators chased the children without any courtesy and tore the Bibles. Mohan was severely injured on his lips and was profusely bleeding. The believers are living in fear and did not lodge complaint with the police.” Pray for healing for all those injured in this attack. Pray they forgive their attackers and for the children who were attending VBS to continue growing in their faith despite the attack. Psalm 140:1-8 Psalm 140:1-8

TURKEY

Murder Suspects Accuse Each Other in Trial in Turkey – Compass Direct News

On June 9, seven suspects on trial for the brutal murder of three Christians in Turkey appeared in court – each one protesting his innocence and incriminating one or more of the others. According to Compass Direct News, “The hearing in eastern Turkey marked the first time the five jailed murderers and two accused accomplices have appeared together in court to be cross-examined over contradictions in their individual court testimonies.” Compass Direct added, “In addition to the five accused murderers – Hamit Ceker, Cuma Ozdemir, Abuzer Yildirim, Salih Gurler and Emre Gunaydin – two others, Kursat Kocadag and Mehmet Gokce, face charges as accomplices.” Turkish Christians Necati Aydin and Ugur Yuksel and German Christian Tilmann Geske were brutally killed on April 18, 2007, at Zirve Publishing offices in Malatya. Keep the families of those killed in your prayers as the trial continues. Ask God to make the truth known to authorities as they prosecute this trial. Also pray for protection for the families of those killed and for believers in Turkey who serve Christ in the midst of persecution. Psalm 91

UZBEKISTAN

Government Airs Television Program Aimed to Incite Muslims Against Christians – Forum 18 News

Earlier this week, Uzbekistan’s state-run TV station showed a film which Christians and other religious minorities believe will incite religious hatred. According to Forum 18 News, the film entitled “In the clutches of ignorance,” was shown before live coverage of the Euro 2008 football championship, to attract the largest possible audience. Forum 18 News reported, “The first broadcast of the film made some members of religious minorities ‘afraid to go out on the street where they live for fear of being persecuted.’ A member of a religious organization not attacked in the film stressed that members of their community are disturbed ‘that members of religious minorities are cast in such a negative perspective.’” A Protestant attacked in the film told Forum 18 after the second showing, “The government is trying to stir up Muslims against Christians.” Forum 18 News added, “Following the first showing, a Baptist congregation which has been attacked elsewhere in the state-run mass media was raided and banned from meeting. One Baptist complained that ‘broadcasting such a film amounts to incitement of religious hatred in our country.’” Pray God protects Christians in Uzbekistan. Ask God to stop any attacks that the enemy has planned against believers as a result of this film. Pray Christians in Uzbekistan will show their persecutors the love of Christ. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

May the LORD of all give them courage and strength for each day.  May He also give the Christians of the United States the courage, and faith to stand as the hatred for God and godliness increases here.

-Tim A. Blankenship

When I look at our society today I see so many who are quickly perishing, and are completely unaware of it.  Why do I say they are unaware of it?  They live as though there was no end.  They live as though there is no God.  They live as though they will answer to no one.

We are all fickle at times.  We can so easily be led astray, be deceived and deluded.  There is something we all must realize and that is, that, there is more to life, than “Me”.  “Me” will one day end, and then what.  Hear what the apostle Peter has written,

“For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass.  The grass withereth, the flower thereof falleth away: But the word of the Lord endureth for ever.  And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.”  1 Peter 1:24-25 (KJV).

It is a terrible thing for man who is quickly perishing to give so much confidence and power to things which we cannot take with us.  I heard the story of a woman who was married to a wealthy man, on his death bed, who wasn’t leaving anything to her, and wanted it all cashed out before he died and, then,  put into his coffin with him at his burial.  She went and cashed everything out, and the day of the funeral put a box in the coffin before they closed the lid.  A friend who was with her asked, “What was in the box?”, and she proceeded to tell her of her deceased husband’s request, and that she had placed it in the box.  She went on to say, “I deposited the money in my checking account, and wrote him a check.  Now he can cash it any time he chooses.”

Any one with any sense knows when you die, that, silver, gold, or paper money will be of no service to you.  It too will rot, rust, decay, and one day blow away in the wind with the rest of the dust.

There is only the “word of the Lord” that endures for ever, and that will be in the lives of those who put their faith and trust in Him through His Son Jesus Christ, and His death, burial and resurrection.  “Forever, O LORD, Thy word is settled in heaven.” (Psalm 119:89).  Those who will come to God the Father through God the Son will have an eternity with Him in glory.  Call on His name today.

-Tim A. Blankenship

The following are prayer updates from VOICE OF THE MARTYRS for May 27, 2008:

VOM News and Prayer Update: May 27, 2008

“And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry,”  (1 Timothy 1:12)

IRAN

Iranian Police Arrest 12 Christian Converts, Four Remain in Prison - Compass Direct News

On May 12, Iranian police arrested 12 known Muslim converts to Christianity and confiscated their books, computers and printers in the southern Iranian city of Shiraz. According to Compass Direct News, “The arrests began at 5 a.m. on May 11, when two couples were taken into custody before boarding their flights at the Shiraz International Airport and sent directly to jail. All four were subjected to hours of interrogation, questioning them solely ‘just about their faith and house church activities.’” Compass Direct News added the detained Christians had been identified as: Homayon Shokohie Gholamzadeh, 48; his wife, Fariba Nazemiyan Pur, 40; Amir Hussein Bab Anari, 25; and his wife, Fatemeh Shenasa, 25. Although the two wives were released the same day, Anari was detained until May 14, and Gholamzadeh remains jailed. “Two hours after the early arrests of May 11, police authorities invaded the home of Hamid Allaedin Hussein, 58, arresting him and his three adult children: Fatemah, 28; Muhammed Ali, 27; and Mojtaba, 21. All the family’s books, CDs and computers were hauled off as well. Hussein, his daughter and one son were released later the same day, but [his] son Mojtaba remains in prison,” Compass Direct added. On May 13, local police also arrested two more former Muslims involved in a separate house church in Shiraz as the Christian converts were talking together in a city park. Both men, Mahmood Matin and a second man identified only as Arash, are still in jail. Yet another arrest incident was reported last month in the northern city of Amol, in Mazandaran province near the Caspian Sea. Two of the arrested converts to Christianity, one a pregnant woman, are still imprisoned with no news of their whereabouts. Psalm 91

CHINA

Prominent House Church Leader Arrested - China Aid Association

On May 19, Pastor Lou Yuanqi, a prominent house church leader in the town of Qingshuihe, Xinjiang province, was arrested by police. According to China Aid Association, “After being interrogated for an hour in the township police station, Yuanqi was transferred to a detention centre and charged with ‘inciting separatism.’ The pastor has been previously arrested several times. This is the first instance, however, of him being placed under criminal detention which means that he will likely face a serious indictment in court.” Pray for Pastor Yuanqi to experience the joy and peace of Christ while he suffers. Pray for Chinese house church leaders to stand in God’s grace as they continue to face pressure from the authorities. Acts 5:40-42

NIGERIA

Teenage Girls Kidnapped By Muslims; Rescue Incites Violence - Compass Direct News

On May 12, the police rescued two Christian girls, Mary Chikwodi Okoye (15) and Uche Edward (14), kidnapped by Muslim militants three weeks earlier in Bauchi state, Nigeria. According to Compass Direct News, “The kidnappers initially took the girls to the house of a Muslim leader in the town of Wudil. Okoye’s foster father and a group of believers heard where the girls were being held. When they arrived at the home, however, the girls had been relocated to the residence of a Muslim leader in Ningi. When the team went to this home they were told by the leader that the girls had converted to Islam and could not be released. The police then stepped in and evacuated the girls to eastern Nigeria where they were reunited with their biological parents.” Compass added that the following day, Muslims associated with a paramilitary arm of Kano state’s Sharia Commission went on a rampage, attacking Christians and setting fire to local churches, in protest of the girls’ release. Six church buildings, the Deeper Life Bible Church, St. Mary’s Catholic Church, All Souls Anglican Church, Church of Christ in Nigeria, Redeemed Christian Church of God and the Redeemed Peoples Mission, were destroyed in the attack. The Muslims also attacked shops belonging to Okoye’s foster father, looting and destroying goods worth over 50 million naira (US $430,198). Thank the Lord that Mary and Uche were found safe. Ask God to strengthen those affected by the mob attack to enable them to remain steadfast as they suffer. Pray that young Christian girls in Nigeria who have been kidnapped by Muslims will remain strong in faith and be freed. Revelation 2:10

Posted by Tim A. Blankenship on Trial of Faith.

VOM News and Prayer Update: May 6, 2008

“There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death.”

On April 21, the government in Kazakhstan brought charges against the Salem Church in the capital city of Atyrau, in Atyrau province, for holding “illegal” meetings under Article 374, part 1, of the Administrative Code, which punishes unregistered church activity. According to Forum 18 News, “The charges are a response to a group of Russian-speaking church members meeting regularly in a private home instead of the church’s registered address. The church’s leader, however, stated that the Administrative Code allows such groups to meet in a member’s private home, so long as important religious ceremonies-such as baptisms and weddings-are not conducted.” Meanwhile, local authorities have asked the New Life Church, also in Atyrau city, to re-register since their old registration did not indicate a legal address. Forum 18 reports, “Since the church does not currently have a building, re-registering will be difficult as Kazakhstan’s amended Religion Law demands that a church indicate a legal address. Church members fear they will be subject to penalty because authorities will now consider their church activity ‘illegal.’” Pray for wisdom for these churches and their leaders as they face pressure and opposition from authorities. Pray that the Word of God will continue to spread throughout Kazakhstan. Psalm 5:11-12

My hopes are that these Prayer Updates will better help the Christian who is living at ease, wherever that may be, to pray for our brothers and sisters who are being persecuted for their faith in Christ Jesus.  The following is the latest Prayer Update from Voice of the Martyrs:

VOM News and Prayer Update: April 1, 2008

“We work hard with our own hands. When we are cursed, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it;”   (1 Corinthians 4:12)

NORTH KOREA

North Korean Students Arrested for Reading the Bible - Free North Korea Broadcasting

Ten college students in Ham Kyung Book Do Chung, North Korea, were recently investigated and arrested for reading a Bible and watching a video CD about the Bible. According to Free North Korea Broadcasting, Mr. Jung, former vice president of GumRung Company of the Rodong Dang Labor Organization Department, reported the case and has since escaped to China to avoid arrest by the National Security Agency (Bowiboo). “In March 2006, 200 Life Bibles and several hundred CDs were purchased in China and secretly placed in flour bags before being smuggled into North Korea. This huge Bible smuggling case was headed by GumRung Company employees who were influenced by Christianity in China and underground Christians in Nasun City. All the leaders have been arrested and are being severely tortured. If I am caught, I will be sent to a prison camp for political criminals. I didn’t want to die in prison camp, so I escaped,” Mr. Jung said. In the Free North Korea Broadcasting report, Mr. Jung added that most of the arrested students attended Chung Jin College. “These students shared the Bible and video CD with their friends. They also distributed the Bibles and video CDs to the other college towns,” he said. Pray God encourages and protects believers in North Korea. Ask God to give them courage and for them to love their persecutors. Psalm 107:2

LAOS

UPDATE: Arrested Pastors Taken Back to Their Province - VOM Sources

On March 27, The Voice of the Martyrs contacts in Laos reported that eight pastors arrested when entering Thailand to attend meetings had been picked up by police from their province and escorted back home to Laos. “The police from their province have taken them back to their province and put them back in prison again. We do not know how long they will be in prison,” VOM sources said. Pray for protection and courage for these pastors and their families. Pray they will love and forgive their persecutors. Joshua 1:9

INDIA

Nuns Attacked, New Anti-Conversion Bill Passed - VOM Sources

• MAHARASHTRA - On March 23, Sister Mercy Tuscano and Sister Philomena D’Mello were attacked by more than 49 Hindu extremists in Alibaug, Maharashtra, for allegedly converting tribal groups to Christianity. The nuns were injured in the attack, which included women who are followers of a spiritual leader in the area. Both nuns were treated in the hospital and have since been released. They are members of a non-governmental organization that extends humanitarian services such as AIDS awareness to tribal groups in the region. Pray for the recovery of the two nuns from their injuries. Ask the Lord to strengthen Indian Christians to continue serving the Lord despite facing pressure for their faith.
• RAJASTHAN - On March 20, the governing Bharatiya Janata Party in Rajasthan state passed a new “anti-conversion” bill that has stricter provisions than the previous bills passed in 2006. The new bill states that a society or trust found to be “contemplating” the use of money for converting people can have its registration canceled. Christians fear that this stipulation will provide the pretext for numerous complaints against Christian organizations. The bill also dictates that any person who intends to convert must send a notice to the government at least 30 days in advance or face a fine of up to 1,000 rupees (US $25). Isaiah 54:17

WEST BANK

Pastor’s Son Injured in Bombing - VOM Sources

On March 20, Amiel Ortiz, the teenage son of Messianic pastor David Ortiz, was seriously injured when a bomb delivered to the family’s home in the Jewish settlement town of Ariel went off in his hands. The explosive was reportedly delivered in one of the gift baskets Jews exchange on the Purim holiday. At last report, Amiel was in serious condition, unconscious and breathing through a respirator. Local Christians suspect the Ortiz family was targeted by militants angered by the family’s evangelistic work. Christians in the region face frequent opposition from authorities, Orthodox Jews and Muslims for their efforts to share Christ. Pray for healing for Amiel. Ask God to give comfort and protection to the Ortiz family as they serve Him. Pray that their passion for Christ will be the light that draws others to Jesus. Romans 8: 11

May God use our brothers and sisters in Christ wherever they are free in Christ, but bond by persecution, to encourage, bless our lives, and inspire us to be brave, bold and most of all faithful to our Lord Jesus Christ.

Thank you for praying

Tim A. Blankenship

Here is the latest Prayer Update from Voice of the Martyrs:

VOM News and Prayer Update: March 25, 2008

“Your love, O LORD, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies. Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your justice like the great deep.”   (Psalm 36:4-6)

AZERBAIJAN
UPDATE: Baptist Pastor Released from Prison ” VOM Sources
On March 19, Baptist Pastor Zaur Balaev was released from prison in Azerbaijan, under a presidential amnesty on Novruz Bairam, a holiday marking the beginning of spring. The Voice of the Martyrs contacts reported Pastor Balaev was met by his son and Ilya Zenchenko, head of the Baptist Union. “When Balaev was released, journalists asked whether he was feeling grateful to Azerbaijan’s president for his release. Zaur answered that he always in everything feels grateful to Jesus only and no one else. Journalists immediately quit shooting (footage) of him,” VOM contacts said. The Voice of the Martyrs rejoices with Pastor Balaev and his family on his release. We encourage you to continue praying for their protection and wisdom as he returns home to his family and congregation. Ask God to give him discernment and favor. Isaiah 54:17

SRI LANKA
UPDATE: Wife of Martyred Pastor off Ventilator and Recovering ” National Christian Evangelical Alliance of Sri Lanka
The National Christian Evangelical Alliance of Sri Lanka (NCEASL) reports the wife of martyred Pastor Edirisinghe is recovering from severe injuries sustained during an attack that killed her husband. “The NCEASL chairman visited Shiromi yesterday. She is experiencing a great recovery, she speaks, breathes well and has been transferred to Kandy General for surgery to remove [the] bullet,” NCEASL reported. Mrs. Edirisinghe was critically injured on February 17 when two assailants gunned down her husband outside their home in Ampara, Sri Lanka. She sustained critical injuries to her stomach and their two-year-old son was also injured in the attack. Pray for her quick recovery from the remaining surgeries. Ask God to heal her emotions and to touch their son with the love of Christ. Pray God will give them supernatural ability to forgive the assailants and for their testimony to draw nonbelievers into fellowship with Christ. Psalm 23

LAOS
Pastors and Believers Arrested by Police, Nine Church Leaders Sentenced to Prison ” VOM Sources/Compass Direct News

• UDOM SAI PROVINCE ” Eight Khmu pastors from Udom Sai Province in Laos who were arrested when entering Thailand to attend meetings, are waiting for the police to escort them back home. According to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts, ‘We are still waiting for the police to arrive from Udom Sai to escort the prisoners to their home villages. Their families have been told they will be tried once they get home with a likely huge fine and imprisonment. We do not know what the charges will be, but we do know that Udom Sai is a real hot spot as far as persecution and has been increasing over the last 12 months.” The pastors were arrested on March 18 when they entered Thailand and were followed by the Laos police. They were searched and two of them had Bibles. Everything the pastors had with them was confiscated, including a cell phone. The Voice of the Martyrs encourages you to pray for these pastors and their families during this difficult time. Ask God to protect and encourage them. Pray for their speedy release and that their testimonies will draw their captors into fellowship with Jesus Christ. 2 Timothy 1:7
• BOKEO PROVINCE ” On February 22, Laotian officials arrested 15 Hmong Christian families in Bokeo province, Laos. According to Compass Direct News, the arrests occurred a day before a court sentenced nine Hmong church leaders to 15 years in prison for ‘conducting Christian ministry and meetings that had grown beyond acceptable levels for Communist officials.’ Compass reported, “The day before the sentencing, Laotian authorities arrived in Bai Sai Janrern village in Bokeo district with six trucks in which they hauled away eight Christian families. Authorities also arrested at least seven families from Fai village three miles away.” The arrested families make up a total of 58 Hmong Christians. According to the Compass report, the nine Christian leaders, sentenced to 15 years in prison for Christian ministry, were arrested in July 2007, during a police and military raid of suspected rebels that left 13 innocent Christians dead. The Voice of the Martyrs stands with believers in Laos and encourages you to pray for these believers who have been arrested because of their faith in Jesus Christ, Ask God to give them strength and courage to forgive their persecutors. Hebrews 13:6

The following is the newest Prayer Update from Voice of the Martyrs.  Please join me in lifting our brothers and sisters in Christ up to the Lord in prayer for strength, mercy, grace, power, patience, hope, and peace.  And anything else which will glorify our Lord and Savior.

VOM News and Prayer Update: February 19, 2008

“But He said to them, ‘Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?’ Then He arose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm.” (Matthew 8:26)

NIGERIA
One Dead, 60 Injured in Muslim Attacks on Christians – VOM Sources
On February 2, one Christian was killed, 60 others injured, and churches, businesses and homes set on fire, in the latest Muslim attacks on Christians in Bauchi state, Nigeria. According to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts in Nigeria, “One Christian man was killed, over 60 people were seriously injured and five churches were damaged.” This latest attack took place after two friends, a Christian lady and a Muslim man, had a disagreement. VOM contacts report, “These two were said to be friends of some sort until they had a disagreement on February 1. The Muslim man claimed that the Christian lady made some blasphemous utterances against the Prophet Muhammad. They were said to have parted ways that day without much trouble, but with a threat from the man that he would deal with the lady in his own way.” VOM contacts added that the following day the Muslim man ganged up with Muslim extremists and started searching for the lady. “The lady was alerted of the attack and ran to the police station. The gang traced her to the police station and insisted the police release her. When the police did not release her, the attackers set the police station on fire. After the lady and the police escaped, the Muslim extremists attacked Christian homes, churches and shops,” VOM contacts said. Believers who lived in the damaged and destroyed homes have not returned because of fear they might be attacked again. Pray for Christians in this state. Ask God to comfort the family of the deceased and those injured. Pray these believers will be encouraged to remain faithful in their walk with the Lord. Psalm 23:3-5

ALGERIA
Christians Under Increased Pressure – VOM Sources/ Middle East Concern
Christian leaders in Algeria have asked for international support following recent incidents that threaten human rights, especially religious rights. According to a February 7 report from Middle East Concern, believers are under pressure because the local Algerian media has been running an intense campaign against the church. Seven Christian fellowships are known to have been closed by the authorities and several believers have been arrested and formally charged. Pray that the closed fellowships will be opened, those arrested will be acquitted and for God to turn the negative media reports and use them for good. Ask God to encourage believers in Algeria and for the officials persecuting them. Pray they will hear the message of Jesus Christ. Romans 15:3-5

CHINA
Women Detained and Treated Indecently by Police – China Aid Association
On February 2, two Christian women, Meng Xiu Lan and Zhou Cheng Xiu, were detained by police in Jun Tun County, Yunan Province, after they were found distributing Christmas cards. According to China Aid Association (CAA), the two women, aged 55 and 53 respectively, were “threatened, mocked, stripped and frisked violently.” CAA added, “Police then handcuffed the two women and escorted them back to their homes. After searching the homes, police illegally confiscated CDs, handouts, Bibles, song books and calendars, without proper documentation.” Pray the Lord comforts and encourages these women after this difficult experience. Ask God to use their testimony to draw nonbelievers, including their persecutors, into fellowship with Him. Isaiah 53:4-5

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Egyptian Court Recognizes Faith of 12 Converts to Christianity – VOM Sources
Praise God! An Egyptian court has recognized the faith of 12 converts to Christianity. The decision overturns a lower court ruling which said the state need not recognize conversions from Islam because it constituted “apostasy,” an act often treated as a capital crime in the Muslim world. A lawyer for the 12 Coptic Christians described the case as a victory for human rights and freedom of religion that will open the door for hundreds of other Copts who want to return to their original faith from Islam. There is concern, however, over the ruling’s mandate that the converts’ former religion must be noted in their official documents, as this could leave them vulnerable to discrimination. Thank the Lord for this victory. Pray that these individuals will not be subject to further discrimination. Pray that those who were born into Muslim families and convert to Christianity will also have their conversions recognized by the Egyptian government. Psalm 103:1-5

These are not without hope, because they have the promises of Jesus Christ.  They do need that hope strengthened every day.  If they cannot get a copy of God’s word, then our prayers will need to do, and the very presence of our heavenly Father with them.  Let’s pray too, that the Christians of the USA will become bold, and loving with the eternal word and gospel of Jesus Christ; even to the laying down of our lives.  We are thankful for the decision of the Egyptian court to recognize the faith of 12 Christian converts.  Praise the Lord.  He is good.

God bless you all.

T.A.