Over the past three years, hundreds of Muslims have come to Christ through the ministry of missionaries serving quietly in Ethiopia. Early this month, however, the identity of one of these missionaries in north eastern Ethiopia was discovered by those opposed to the spread of the Gospel. According to a VOMC source in Ethiopia, a large mob formed on July 8 intending to kill the missionary, whom we will call "Stephen" (not his real name). His house was burned and he was dragged into the bush. Police managed to intervene, but the mob turned on the police, wounding two of them.
Stephen was taken into custody where police beat him and allowed other prisoners to attack him. He was finally released after paying 2000 Birr ($285.00 CDN). The authorities released him during the night because of threats against his life. Mission leaders are presently appealing his case to the high court in Bahir Dar.
Pray for the protection and continued ministry of Stephen and others like him who are risking their lives to share their faith in Jesus Christ. Pray for discretion and guidance for those willing to carry the cross of Jesus Christ.
For more information on the difficulties facing Christians in Ethiopia, click here. To watch an eight-minute video on the plight of evangelicals in Ethiopia, produced by VOMC, entitled "Gathering the Scattered," go to the Video section of our multimedia website, www.vomcanada.com.
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