Source(s): Open Doors, International Christian Concern
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Photo: Release International
In the days leading up to Eritrea's Independence Day celebrations during the month of May, authorities arrested more than 140 Christians in an attempt to quell any indications of dissent in the country (see this report). Unfortunately, the renewed crackdown on Christians does not seem to have abated.
In early June, more than 30 Christians were arrested by security forces. Officers raided three private homes in the capital of Asmara where devotees of this "unrecognized religion" had gathered for prayer. According to one report, the believers were promised release only if they disavowed their faith.
In recent months, pressure has also intensified as authorities seek full control of all religious organizations -- including schools, medical clinics and orphanages.
Please remember these arrested believers and the many other prisoners who are being held for their Christian faith, often in horrific conditions. As they patiently await release from imprisonment, pray that needed spiritual and physical provisions will be made available to strengthen and sustain them, as well as for their concerned family members who are facing uncertainty. May the Lord be glorified through the testimonies of faithfulness and hope being demonstrated through His people.
Ethnicity (%) Tigrinya (50), Tigre (30), Saho (4), Afar (4) Kunama (4), Bilen (3), other (5)
Religion (%) Islam (47.4), Christianity (48.8), other (3.8)
Leader President Isaias Afworki (1993)
Government type Presidential republic
Legal system Mixed legal system of civil, customary, and Islamic religious law
Sources: CIA World Factbook, Operation World
Pray for Eritrea
Ask the Lord to provide imprisoned Eritrean believers a means of escape and a place of safe refuge. Pray for Him to also work deeply in the hearts of the country's governing officials so they will grant His people the freedom to worship Him and glorify His matchless name. Mindful of their own human frailties, may these political leaders realize the need to make Jesus their own personal Saviour and Lord by accepting His gift of eternal salvation.
Prison officials continue to hold detainees in cramped, unsanitary shipping containers. Photo: VOMC
In mid-March, 29 evangelical Christians were arrested when Eritrean security forces raided a home prayer meeting in Asmara. According to reports, 17 women and 12 men were taken to the Mai Serwa prison
Eritrean authorities recently arrested 15 Christians during a series of raids on their houses in the capital city of Asmara. All 15 believers had been previously imprisoned for their faith – some for up to 16 years.
Georgio Gebreab and Samuel Okbamichael Photos: Church in Chains
Three semi-retired pastors in the Eritrean capital of Asmara were arrested towards the latter part of July. Since they were all over 70 years old, and only occasionally conducted funeral or wedding services, it is unclear why these elde
Earlier this month, it was reported that 23 women had been arrested at a prayer meeting in Asmara, the capital of Eritrea, along with 12 others in the city of Assab. (To review a previously posted report, go to our country report, where there is also a link to