Hindu extremists have attacked Koya tribal Christians in villages in a remote area of Orissa state at least 15 times since December 8, 2010. In the latest incident on February 23 in Murliguda, about 60 assailants from the Hindu extremist group RSS damaged Bhadan Hontal's eardrums and beat Markari Soma until he fell unconscious. Christian women and children were among those injured in the attacks on churches. The attacks began on December 8 in Katanpali village when about 35 Hindu extremists stormed the house of Pastor Mark Markani and beat him. Christians have suffered midnight raids on prayer meetings in which they have been beaten, resulting in some Christians fleeing their homes and going into hiding. At least four families have left their village and not returned due to militants' warnings.
Pray the Lord will heal those who have been injured. Pray He will give them the grace to forgive and the courage to continue to be faithful. Pray against further attacks. Pray also for the perpetrators.
Find out more about the trials facing Christians in India at the India Country Report.
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