Today the Washington Times is reporting a massacre against a church in Ain Shams, a suburb of Cairo. As parishioners were exiting the church, several gunmen fired bullets in their direction, killing dozens.
Investigators have not yet identified the gunmen, but one witness insists they are supporters of Egypt’s former president, Mohamed Morsi.
“Bearded men belonging to Morsi’s supporters opened fire on the citizens as they exited the church,” the witness told the Christian Post, saying the gunmen fled in a pick-up truck.
Among the casualties is 10-year-old Jessi Paulis Issa, niece of the church’s pastor, Nashrallah Zakaria.
Following the incident, Pastor Zakaria sent an appeal to the Egyptian government, urging it to crack down on violence against Christians. Pastor Zakaria is hosting a prayer vigil on behalf of the victims and their loved ones.
Egypt’s Christian population is growing immensely, now encompassing 12.83% of the nation’s population. In light of recent political divisions, propelled by the ousting of president Mohammed Morsi, Egyptian Christians are susceptible to violence on a daily basis.
Pray that God will deliver Egyptian Christians from fear at this dangerous time.
- Pray that God will comfort the families and friends of the victims.
- Pray that Egyptian Christians will not be embittered towards their adversaries, but instead will “love [their] enemies and pray for those who persecute [them].” (Matthew 5:44).
- Pray for the perpetrators. Pray that they will be brought to justice, and that God will speak to their hearts.
Population
