Christmas is a season of worship and celebration. It's a time to join with others in expressions of love and gratitude while rejoicing over God's greatest gift: the birth of His Promised Son, Jesus Christ. As we reflect on the wondrous birth of our loving Saviour, may we also turn our hearts and minds to the many believers who are unable worship Him so openly; those who must celebrate the coming of Christ in secret. In some areas of the world, Christmas may even be a time of increased persecution.
Thank you for prayerfully remembering our persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ during this Christmas season. We, here at Voice of the Martyrs Canada, extend to you our sincere appreciation for partnering with us in prayer, friendship and giving throughout this past year. All of us wish you and your loved ones a wonderfully blessed Christmas. May it be filled with peace, joy and steadfast faith in “Emmanuel” – "God with Us"!
Believers frequently encounter violence for their faith. Photo: VOMC
On Sunday, December 7th, armed assailants entered the St. Andrews Anglican Church in Isiokwe, Anambra State, while the priest and other congregants were preparing for morning worship. The gunmen were said to be searching for the church's priest, who was thankfully able to escape to safety. However, the priest's wife and another church member were tragically shot and killed, while several other worshippers were wounded during the indiscriminate shooting.
VOMC's primary mission is to respond to the needs of Christians in countries where persecution is prevalent. However, we also remain alert to potential threats to our religious freedoms here in Canada – including those that hinder the proclamation of the Gospel. One of the more recent concerns relates to proposed amendments to Bill C-9, which is currently under review by members of the Canadian Parliament.
In mid-December, a report was released raising concerns about Bill C-9, which is currently being deliberated by members of the Canadian Parliament. (Read more details.) In a recently published audio podcast, VOMC's Greg Musselman interviews CEO Floyd Brobbel to discuss how this bill may affect faith communities across the country. To listen to this informative Closer to the Fire episode, and access other available podcasts, go to BluBrry.com/CTTF.
