Christians Face Intimidation and Violence

19 November 2003

Christians in Mosul in northern Iraq are facing serious acts of intimidation and violence, according to a November 17 report by Zenit. It is believed that at least some of the violence comes from militant Wahabi Muslims, a very strict Islamic sect centered in Saudi Arabia.

Last week a bomb, made up of a cluster of hand grenades, was found in front of a Catholic school in Mosul. Thankfully it was defused before it could explode, but the school was forced to close for at least a week. Also last week, the residence of the Syro-Antiochian bishop was shot at with an assault rifle. Again, no injuries were reported.

It is unknown whether there is any connection between these attacks and the increasing violence against the occupying forces in Iraq, but these were clearly directed specifically against Iraqi Christians.

Pray for peace in Iraq. Pray that an active and effective security force will be established to bring about stability in the country. Pray for protection for Christians in Iraq during these uncertain days.

Iraq

Current Ministry Projects
VOMC is partnering to teach and equip persecuted Christian women sewing skills so that they can provide a sustainable source of income for their families and give them the opportunity to be witnesses for Christ through their new businesses. VOMC partners to provide biblical training on discipleship and the theology of persecution to Muslim Background Believers.

Project Funds: Women’s Ministry, Equipping the Saints, Underground Church
Country Information
Population
41,266,109 (2023 est.)

Ethnicity (%)
Arab (75-80), Kurdish (15-20), other (5)

Religion (%)
Islam (95-98), Christianity (1), other (1-4)

Leader
President Latif Rashid (2022)

Government type
Federal parliamentary republic

Legal system
Mixed legal system of civil and Islamic law

Source: CIA World Factbook
Pray for Iraq
Pray for the protection of the remaining believers in Iraq during this time of upheaval and danger. May many churches and Christian relief organizations seize the opportunity to provide greatly needed assistance and ministry to the numerous suffering people of this war-torn nation. As God’s work of healing, provision and restoration takes place, pray that a stable democratic government will be established.