On the afternoon of November 20th, the pastor of the Gospel Tabernacle Church in Polgolla, Sri Lanka, went to visit a Christian family with another member of his congregation for a time of prayer. As they were concluding their time together, the Christians noticed that a crowd had gathered outside, including a Buddhist monk.
Concerned about what was happening, the pastor and homeowner went to speak with the people. When the monk found out who the pastor was, he admonished the resident, declaring the town a "Buddhist village" in which the pastor is not welcome. In an effort to peacefully diffuse the situation, the visiting pastor suggested they discuss the matter further at a local temple, but his offer was refused.
The crowd then surrounded a home across the street, which belonged to another member of the pastor's church. They began shouting at the resident, demanding to know why she goes to church and the reason her children no longer attend Daham pasal (Buddhist religious instruction). Since the woman was alone, the pastor and other Christians attempted to intervene on her behalf. Yet the mob began to beat them, inflicting cuts on the body of one of the defending believers. The pastor and three other wounded congregants have since received medical treatment at a local hospital for their injuries.
For reports on previous incidents of violence against Christians in Sri Lanka, please go to our country report.
Praise God that no one was seriously injured in this recent attack. Pray that the peacemaking efforts of each targeted believer will serve as a vibrant testimony to their opposing neighbours, reflecting the light of Christ's love to all those around them. Please also intercede for the ongoing ministry of this pastor and the members of his church, asking the Lord to fill them with wisdom, courage and strength as they endeavour to share the Gospel in the midst of a hostile environment.
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