Late into the evening of April 23rd, Islamic militants set fire to several homes and shops owned by Coptic Orthodox Christians in the village of Al-Fawakher, which is located in Egypt's southern Minya province. Although the attackers attempted to prevent the occupants from leaving their burning homes, thankfully there were no reported fatalities.
It is believed that the attack may have been triggered by plans to build a new church building in the village. The local Christians had received a permit to build the new place of worship, but they then began receiving threats from opposing community members. Even though the threats were reported to the authorities (who promised to provide protection), no assistance was given to the Christians during the attack, and security forces arrived only after it occurred. Arrests were made in connection with the incident but, at last report, no official statement has been issued by the police.
Rev. Riadh Jaballah, VP of International Ministry for The Voice of the Martyrs Canada, believes that the attack was intended "to create sedition and division between the community's Muslims and Christians." He adds that the persecution of those practising Christianity is not new, especially leading up to the Orthodox observance of Easter. In the aftermath of the violence, Rev. Riadh urges us as fellow believers to respond in four ways: 1) encourage one another, 2) be aware of the situation, 3) share that information, and 4) pray. "We are [all] believers," he further explains. "It doesn't matter about [our] denominations. We need to stand up together." To review more reports addressing the challenges facing followers of Jesus in Egypt, go to our country report.
Prayerfully remember the many Christians in this village who are now homeless and/or without a source of income, asking God to fill them with His peace and provide for their daily needs – including those such as protection and encouragement. May His Holy Spirit convict the militants responsible for perpetrating this violent attack, stirring their hearts to the point of repentance and the surrender of their lives in faith to Jesus. Further, pray that our Christian brothers and sisters in Egypt will respond to the opposition in a Christ-like manner – serving as testimonies of His love, mercy and grace to the community members who stand against them – resulting in an easing of tensions and the cultivating of harmonious relationships among all the villagers.
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