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| The destruction of churches without prior notice is a matter of great concern for Sudan’s Christian communities. Photo: Morning Star News |
Christians in Sudan have faced further opposition by members of their community -- including governing officials -- as more incidents of destruction have taken place recently in different parts of the country.
Suspected Islamic extremists set fire to the Lutheran Church of Sudan in the eastern city of Al Qadarif on October 16th, apparently in response to an outreach conducted by local Christians. Church leaders state that the attack followed a prayer meeting which was part of a week-long evangelism campaign...something typically conducted each year. The church building, along with an attached guest house, were both completely gutted as a result of the fire.
Meanwhile, in the country's large historical city of Omdurman, officials demolished another Lutheran Church of Sudan building on October 21st, under the pretext that it was in an area designated for business. However, as pointed out by the country's concerned Christian leaders, the same rationale has not been applied to a nearby mosque which remains standing without any objection. "It seems that the government is systemically targeting churches in these times," explains one church leader. "They did not give us notice before the demolition." Although a complaint was filed with the Ministry of Religious Guidance and Endowment, the applicants have received no response.
Since 2012, Sudan's officials have harassed and expelled foreign Christians and bulldozed church buildings, claiming that the churches belonged to the South Sudanese before the group's formal secession from Sudan. Sudanese officials have also raided Christian bookstores and arrested followers of Christianity. Due to its mistreatment of Christians and other human rights' violations, Sudan has ranked sixth on the 2015 "World Watch List" of 50 countries in which Christians experience the most persecution, moving up from 11th place the previous year. More information on the country of Sudan can be found at this page.
Please pray that the Lord will greatly encourage and strengthen the members of both congregations who have lost their church buildings and facilities, asking Him to now guide them to new premises and provide the means necessary for relocation and construction. Despite the tide of evil that has taken place with the recent destruction of churches, may the light of God's love be radiant through His people in Sudan -- touching the lives of many more residents in their communities. Also intercede for President Omar al-Bashir and his government in hopes that the religious rights of all citizens would be upheld fairly...and appreciation and respect be extended to the Christians, recognizing them as responsible citizens who are contributing to their communities in helpful and positive ways.
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