While the majority of Christians around the world were peacefully celebrating our Lord's birth on Christmas Eve, vicious attacks took place during two church services in northern Nigeria that have resulted in the deaths of at least 12 innocent people. This is the third year in a row that violent attacks have been launched against Christians in Nigeria at Christmas. For more information on the challenges facing Nigerian believers, go to the Nigeria Country Report.
Gunmen opened fire at the Church of Christ in Nations located in a small village of Yobe state, killing a total of six people, including the pastor. The perpetrators also set the church on fire and left several congregants seriously injured. That same night, a deacon and five other Christians were killed at the First Baptist Church in the city of Maiduguri (Borno state). Although no one has claimed responsibility for this year's attacks, an Islamist terrorist group known as Boko Haram is widely suspected. Nigeria President Goodluck Jonathan has issued a statement promising improved security for Christian communities.
Please lift up those who have been greatly impacted by the attacks, asking God to overshadow them with His comforting presence and perfect peace. Also pray that He will powerfully minister healing to the injured and bereaved, and that all surviving Christians in northern Nigeria will receive an extra measure of His grace and strength to remain faithful in the midst of persecution. Thank the Lord for His promise to remain close to the brokenhearted and to save those who are crushed in spirit (Psalm 34:18). May He impart wisdom and courage to the country's authorities as they take necessary steps to end the violence caused by extremism.
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