In recent months, both churches and individual Christians have faced increased restrictions by governing authorities, raising concerns that these pressures signal a coordinated campaign of intensified action against the practice of Christianity. During the third week of December, three Christians were arrested in Chlef. These believers, who had been visiting from the northern town of Tizi Ouzou, had arranged to meet their contact at a local café.
Upon entering the café, police discovered Christian literature in the visitors' possession. The accused were then taken to the police station where they were investigated at length. A local newspaper, known for its hostility towards Christians, described the incident as a "foiled evangelism attempt." The reporter proceeded to falsely accuse the Christians of working under the guise of humanitarian activities for the purpose of alluring young Muslims to convert by means of financial and travel inducements. While the three believers have since been released, they may face charges of proselytism.
In a separate incident, which involved the inspection of a building on December 14th, church leaders reportedly "received an order from the provincial governor to cease all religious activities." The leaders of this well-established church in Ouargla were accused of lacking authorization to use the building as a place of worship and failing to comply with safety requirements. After being mandated to seek permission from the Ministry of Religious Affairs, they were told that worship activities could only recommence three months after obtaining the required permission.
Just weeks prior to the Ouargla church closure, a church and Christian-owned bookshop in the northwestern town of Aïn el-Turk were forcibly closed. In addition, a church training centre in Boudjemaa had to halt its operations. The leaders of the training centre are to be investigated this month. More information on the intensifying persecution of believers in Algeria is available here.
Despite the mounting pressure from local officials, pray that the Christians residing in these troubled areas of Algeria will be encouraged to look up to the Lord, "the Maker of heaven and earth," for greatly needed help and intervention (Psalm 121:1-2). May His abiding presence and reassuring promises strengthen their resolve to share the Good News of salvation with increased fervency -- touching the lives of many in their communities, including those who are unjustly opposing them. May the Commander of this spiritual battle lead them on to the reclaiming of seized territories and ultimate victory through the wielding of His authoritative Word and the power of prayer (2 Chronicles 20:15-17; Ephesians 6:17).
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