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| Some of the kidnapped Christians. Photo: The International Jihad Network Libya via Morning Star News |
A Libyan militant group affiliated with ISIS abducted 13 Egyptian Christians on January 3rd -- the third such attack on Egyptian believers in the span of two weeks.
In the early hours of the morning, gunmen from what they themselves refer to as the "Islamic State of Tripoli" raided a housing complex in the coastal city of Sirte and kidnapped the 13 believers, who were specifically selected because of their Christian faith. All of those abducted happen to be closely related family members who are originally from Minya, Upper Egypt. They had reportedly come to Libya to work in construction.
One of the missing men's relatives shared of his grief: "The feeling of depression and worry and sadness is indescribable. But if it's God's will for them to be martyrs for the name of Christ like the apostles, (serving as) a witness to the kidnappers, we pray God will provide grace, peace and acceptance of His will."
Previously, on December 30th, seven Christians were kidnapped as they attempted to drive back to Egypt on the road that passes through Sirte. Just days prior to this incident, on December 23rd, a Christian couple had been shot and killed at their home in the city; their teenage daughter was kidnapped and later tragically murdered.
Libya has increasingly become lawless as rival militias vie for power. In particular, the city of Sirte is renowned as a stronghold for these Islamic militant groups.
Let us lift up the country of Libya to our Father in prayer, asking that His Spirit touch the hearts of those perpetrating such atrocious acts of violence. As a result of the Holy Spirit's ministry, may the citizens of Libya -- specifically those in the city of Sirte -- turn to faith in Jesus Christ. Pray on behalf of the many believers who have been kidnapped in recent weeks and their concerned loved ones, that they may indeed be blessed with God's grace and peace...accepting His will in each of their situations. Also remember those who are mourning the loss of the brutally murdered Christians. In the midst of their grief, may they, too, receive the ministry of God's comforting presence and the strength He so lovingly promises.
To learn more about Libya's persecuted church, please visit our website.
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