Egyptian Christian businessman Sherif Ramses manages a bookstore in Benghazi, the capital of the Cyrenaica province (in eastern Libya). On February 10th, he was arrested because the inventory of his store included Christian books which he made readily available to Arabic-speaking immigrants who either lived or worked in the city or the surrounding metropolitan area. While he has not yet been charged before a court, it has been reported that Sherif has experienced repeated physical mistreatment while in detainment.
Other believers in Benghazi who had in some way associated with Sherif, whether through business connections or socially, have also been recently arrested. All of these associates were working in the area as language teachers or businessmen. Though formal charges have not been made against any of them to date, they are all accused of proselytizing Christianity.
Pray that God will protect and preserve Sherif and his Christian friends during this difficult time while facing opposition and incarceration. May the amazing peace and presence of Jesus overshadow each of these suffering believers in a marvellous way, extending to their concerned family members who need His comfort as well. As admonished in the Scriptures, let us also remember to pray for those in authority, including the officials responsible for making these arrests. May God pour out His Holy Spirit on the entire nation of Libya so many will be brought to repentance and faith in Him!
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