Seven Christians beheaded

15 July 2009

Seven Christians were beheaded on July 10 in the town of Baidoa, Somalia by the al-Qaeda-linked group, al-Shabaab -- a militant group that controls much of southern Somalia and the country's capital, Mogadishu. The Christians were accused of renouncing Islam and being "spies" for the government. Public executions, floggings, and amputations have reportedly increased in areas controlled by al-Shabaab in recent weeks.

Pray for the friends and family members mourning the loss of these Christians. Pray that Somali believers will exemplify the love of God through consistent love and prayer for those who persecute them (Matthew 5:43-48).

To find out more about the persecution believers face in Somalia, click here.

Somalia

Somalia Information

Country Information
Population
12,693,796 (2023 est.)

Ethnicity (%)
Somali (85), Bantu and other non-Somali (15)

Religion (%)
Islam (99.9), ethnic religions (0.1)

Leader
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud (2022)

Government type
Federal parliamentary republic

Legal system
Mixed legal system of civil law, Islamic law, and customary law (referred to as Xeer)

Source: CIA World Factbook
Pray for Somalia
Please join us in praying for our ministry partners who are effectively reaching Somalians through the multiple radio broadcasts, specifically asking God to further strengthen and equip them so they can continue with their vital outreach work. Also, pray that the hearts of those yearning to learn more about the Lord will be greatly encouraged through the broadcast messages. May these spiritual seekers be shielded from all harm, while their lives are being radically transformed by the ongoing work of His Holy Spirit.