 Anti-Christian protest held by the Bodu Bala Sena in October 2012 in Piliyandala, Sri Lanka Photo: www.nation.lk via WEA |
As previously reported in recent prayer alerts, Christian persecution in Sri Lanka has intensified due to the rise in the country's Buddhist nationalism.
Extremist Buddhist groups such as the Bodu Bala Sena (Buddhist Strong Army) and the Sinhala Rawaya (Sinhala Echo) have incited religious disharmony and carried out malicious attacks, targeting both Christian and Muslim minorities in the country.
In a wave of violence, around 30 churches have come under attack this year alone. In 2012, there were 52 reported incidents of persecution. Quite alarmingly, these attacks have occurred with impunity, and with little or no state action to prosecute those responsible.
In addition to the rising violence, churches are also facing restriction in the form of forced closure by the authorities. For instance, local governments and police have ordered many churches to close down, claiming that they are not authorized by the state.
In a recent incident in the Hambantota district, authorities called on certain evangelical churches to confirm their legality, warning church leaders that failure to do so will result in the closure of churches. Previous reports can be found by going to the Sri Lanka Country Report.
May our Christian brothers and sisters in Sri Lanka continue to place their trust in the Lord during this time of mounting pressure and persecution. Pray for His protection over all who are at risk of violence, especially those who are willing to place the ‘mission of God' ahead of their own comfort and security. May the Holy Spirit grant church leaders discernment on how to appropriately respond to the situation. Also intercede for those inciting these religious tensions, and thus persecuting His precious people, that they would experience a radical change of heart, repentance and the saving grace of God.
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