Photo: VOMC
For the past 10 years, South Sudan has struggled under the weight of unrest and civil war. This upheaval has led to ethnic tensions, political instability, and the ongoing trauma that accompanies prolonged conflict.
Due to economic challenges, Pastor Lino Pasquale had been working for a fishing business in Gondokoro, a region located south of the capital city of Juba. On February 19th, the church leader was returning home with three other men when they were suddenly captured by unknown gunmen. A few days later, the bodies of Pastor Lino and two of the men were discovered. At last report, the fourth victim remains missing.
Pastor Lino served faithfully as the leader of an outreach branch for the Divine Mission Pentecostal Church in Juba. Church leaders have condemned the attack as "barbaric," believing that the pastor and his associates were deliberately targeted. Those who knew Pastor Lino remember him as a devoted shepherd who was committed to sharing the hope of the Gospel.
On the same day that Pastor Lino was abducted, VOMC's Director of Global Education and Discipleship, Steven Wesley, had been visiting South Sudan to teach local believers about the theology of persecution and discipleship. Providentially, Pastor Lino's wife, Eva, was present at that very training session. It was only later that she discovered what had happened to her husband. Tragically, on the same day that she received news of his death, Eva's mother passed away following a short time of illness.
Upon his return from South Sudan, Stephen recorded an interview to share insights from his recent ministry trip. To watch this video report, go to VOMCanada.com/video/TOPAD-SSudan. More information about the challenges encountered by Christians in South Sudan can be accessed at our country profile.
- Prayerfully remember Eva as she now deals with the immense grief of suddenly losing both her husband and her mother. Ask God to lovingly surround this dear follower of Christ – and all who are mourning the loss of those mentioned in this report – with His strength, comfort and peace.
- As the authorities conduct their investigation into this violent incident, may they not only safely locate the missing abducted victim but also bring those responsible for committing the crimes to justice.
- Pray for VOMC's "Theology of Persecution and Discipleship" ministry, asking that this training program will continue to encourage and equip Christians in South Sudan (and other areas of the world) who are enduring persecution because of their faith.
