As the eighty members of the New Life Fellowship in Ponda, Goa began their worship service on December 18, twenty Hindu militants barged into the church carrying chains, iron rods and sticks. They began smashing equipment and chased the worshippers away. They then dragged the pastor to the local police station and alleged that he was disturbing the peace. Pastor Cajetan Tellis was threatened if he tried to preach in the church again.
The week before, militants had brought six police officers to the church, accusing Pastor Tellis. After questioning him, the police could find nothing to charge him with. Six people have been detained in connection with the December 18 attack.
Pray that the police will continue to see Pastor Cajetan's innocence and that the accusers will have to give up for lack of response. Ask God to give Pastor Cajetan wisdom to know how best to lead the congregation during this time of trouble. Pray that the congregation will wholeheartedly support their pastor, and that the unity of the believers will be a clear testimony to the community. Ask the Lord to soften the hearts of those who have been detained and that they will turn to Christ.
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