More than one year after the country's 2012 revolution, violence against Christians in Egypt has escalated. One of the recent attacks occurred on February 15th, when a mob of a few hundred Islamic militants threw stones and set fire to St. Georgas Coptic Church, located in the poor village of Sarsena (about 100 km. southwest of Cairo). The church, which was built about 20 years ago, provided ministry to approximately 200 Christian families. Reportedly, the extremists felt justified in their actions, stating that the church was illegal because of its close proximity to their Muslim neighbourhood.

Unfortunately, attacks against Christians in Egypt have become too frequent. During a recently aired radio interview, Father Rafic Greiche, a spokesperson for the Greek Melkite Church, explains the serious ramifications of the country's increasing persecution. "Christians don't feel secure at all -- especially now," he states. "We have a lack of security, and the people are demoralized." He then mentions another great concern: "The people who are emigrating are the people who have money and are the most educated," thus alluding to the possibility that the poorer members of Egypt's Christian communities may be left with no one to speak up for them and guide them in times of difficulty. For an historical overview on this country and past reports/video clips, check the Egypt Country Report.

Pray that the Christians living in the village of Sarsena and throughout Egypt will be strengthened and encouraged as they face this season of persecution. May God protect and bless all who have chosen to follow Him and become part of His beloved family. Pray, too, for the forgiveness and salvation of those who are essentially serving as pawns of the enemy -- the real culprit behind the ploy to harm God's people. According to 1 John 4:4, "He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world." May our Almighty God arise, proving His great faithfulness and bringing glory to His wonderful name!