Four Americans participating in a Bible reading session in Mumbai, India were attacked by 30-40 Hindu youths on July 11 because they believed the Americans were trying to convert Hindus. Three of those attacked were treated for cuts and bruises but were not seriously hurt. While investigating the incident, officials decided that the Americans were in violation of their visitor's visa and ordered their deportation. One official stated, "There is something fishy about their visit which needs to be probed further." One of the four Americans, Philip Allan, had a multiple-entry visa and had frequently visited India, Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Local Christian leaders, however, deny that the Americans had violated their visa conditions. They assert that the Bible reading session they were attending was a private function.
Pray that the ministry of the Church in India will not be adversely affected because of this incident. Pray that those responsible for this attack will see the love and grace of Christ in the lives of Christians around them and will come to faith in Christ.
For more information on the situation facing the Indian Church, click here.
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