The total number of Eritrean Christians arrested since the beginning of May has now risen to more than 160. On May 26th, nearly 100 people were arrested. (To review VOMC's report on these arrests, click here.) Since then, many more arrests have been confirmed...and they include families with young children.
According to a ministry partner, 12 children (one as young as two months old) are now imprisoned with their parents. For the more than 30 children left without the care of their incarcerated parents or guardians, the country's security police are monitoring them to make sure they do not get support from the Christian community.
Since the implementation of a 2002 law, members of outlawed churches have resorted to meeting in secret at various homes. Unfortunately, these house meetings were also targeted by the authorities. Over the past 15 years, countless homes have been raided, and local sources estimate that hundreds of Christians are being held for long periods in Eritrea's prisons as a result.
Those imprisoned for their faith are released only after admitting that they've broken the law prohibiting Christians from gathering outside registered and recognized groups. Sources further explain that, depending on the prison head at each location, prisoners are asked to sign one of two agreements. Either they promise not to engage in unlicensed religious activities or they are asked to renounce their allegiance to Christ.
Those who refuse to sign can be held for years, even decades. Previous reports on the imprisonment of Christians in Eritrea, as well as informative video documentaries, are available at the Eritrea Country Report.
We ask for your prayers on behalf of our oppressed brothers and sisters in Eritrea. May they continue to remain faithful, even in the face of such intense pressure from governmental authorities. Pray that they will explicitly place their trust in the One whose love and promises are never failing (Psalm 33:18). As they lean heavily on His provision and care for their families -- and eventual deliverance from prison -- may they be further strengthened and encouraged to declare their relentless love for the Master of this vast universe who has the final authority over all.
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