 Pray that many Buddhists will come to know the Lord. Photo: Flickr / Stan Dalone & Miran Rijavec |
On the evening of February 16th, a mob of approximately 250 villagers led by 11 Buddhist monks stormed a pastor's property in Asgiriya, Kandy district, demanding that worship services at the site cease immediately. The monks belong to the hardline nationalist organization, "Bodu Bala Sena" (BBS), which means "Buddhist Strength Force."
The pastor, in response, explained to the mob that he has the right to religious freedom. However, the mob dragged the pastor and his wife from their home and physically assaulted them. The couple's 18-year-old daughter was also verbally abused.
Afterwards, the General Secretary of the BBS gathered the villagers outside the pastor's house and warned them against such "traitors." He threatened the same treatment for any villager supporting Christian worship.
Thank God for protecting this pastor and his family from serious harm. As they continue to serve their Saviour, pray that He will grant them courage in the face of very real risks. Ask that wisdom and strength be given to this pastor and other church leaders throughout Sri Lanka, as they often are targeted in acts of persecution. Please also remember the villagers and monks who launched this attack. May they hear the Good News and also come to faith in Jesus.
For more information on Sri Lanka's persecuted church, visit the Sri Lanka Country Report.
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