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2015-06-25

• Rising ''Aggression'' Towards Palestinian Christians

  

  There is concern that a large number of Muslims residing in Palestinian territories and Israel have become "radicalized," creating deepening divisions between faith communities. Church leaders report that tensions between Muslims and Christians have risen since 2014, with some blaming the rise of Islamic State and extremist ideologies.

  After being the target of recent attacks and inflammatory speeches, Palestinian Christians are now feeling unsafe. In February, those residing in Nazareth were alarmed by the appearance of a billboard ordering them not to spread their faith or talk about Jesus in a way that contradicts the Quran. In East Jerusalem, an imam at the Al-Aqsa Mosque posted an online video urging Muslims to be in a constant state of war against the "polytheist enemy," namely Christians, and also against Jews.

  About one month ago, a mob attack took place in the Christian Quarter of Jerusalem, following a row between a Christian and a Muslim. In addition, an Ethiopian monastery was spray-painted with anti-Christian messages. Local Muslim leaders have since apologized for the mob violence and are reportedly working to halt the spread of extremism.

  Let us pray for God's peace and protection to reign over all the inhabitants of the Holy Land. May moderate Muslims unite with the targeted Christian members of their communities in the stand against extremism in its various forms, promoting religious tolerance and goodwill toward all humankind. Ask that the followers of Jesus be strengthened and encouraged as they continue to fulfill His call to be "salt" and "light" in our world, which includes the Holy Land.

• One Year Since Islamic State Capture of Mosul

  Many displaced Christians still residing in refugee camps have no place to call home.

  When Islamic State, referred to as ISIS by many major news sources, captured the Mosul area about a year ago, Christians were given three choices: 1) convert to Islam, 2) abandon their property and leave the city, or 3) be killed. In keeping with their threats, the members of this notorious militant group later attacked Christian villages and towns within the surrounding areas of the Nineveh Plain, the ancestral home of thousands of believers and other minority groups. As a result, multitudes were forced to flee their communities, seeking refuge and safety in Kurdish-controlled areas and neighbouring countries.

  These displaced believers have lost their homes, property, belongings and, unfortunately, any hope for a future in Iraq. The majority are presently living under difficult conditions within temporary settlements and refugee camps. Sadly, for some Iraqi refugees, whose family members have been abducted by ISIS, there is also the uncertainty of their missing loved ones' outcome. And for the remnant of believers remaining in Iraq, pending life-threatening danger is a constant concern.

  Despite the peril, many church leaders are doing whatever they can to improve the situation. With a desire to safeguard the Christian presence within their country, they are encouraging remaining congregation members to stay while urging Iraqi politicians to seek a solution.

  Numerous churches, monasteries and ancient holy places in the Mosul area have been confiscated, and are now being used by ISIS for other purposes. In addition, there was the widespread desecration and looting of furniture and paintings, as well as the demolition of church crosses and gravestones. Precious ancient manuscripts were also burned.

  Military action to recapture the Mosul area has not been prioritized. Plus, there is no consensus politically as to what should be done for the improvement of security or to help the remnant of Christians still remaining in Iraq. VOM Canada is partnering with reputable in-country partners in bringing needed practical aid and encouragement to these struggling believers. Join us by donating to the ministry's "Relief and Development Fund."

  Please pray that all the areas captured by ISIS will be liberated, so that the multitudes of displaced Christian refugees will be able to safely return to their homes and communities. May those held in captivity be protected and soon released. Wherever it is that these Iraqi Christians are located, ask that an outflow of God's supernatural love and grace be with them as they trust Him to meet their daily needs. Of course, we must continue interceding for the members of ISIS. Since the Lord doesn't want any member of His beloved creation to perish eternally, may His mercy and compassion be extended to these perpetrators of evil -- bringing many of them to repentance and salvation.

• The Case of Blasphemy Victim Asia Bibi

  This past Friday, June 19th, marked the tragic six-year anniversary of the arrest of Asia Bibi (also known as Asia Noreen), a Christian mother and the only woman presently on death row for blasphemy.

  It all began when Asia was working alongside a Muslim extremist who refused to touch the "unclean" water source from which the Christian mother drank. This led to a verbal quarrel between the two women and subsequent allegations that blasphemous remarks were made by Asia against the Muslim prophet. Though the international community is highly sympathetic to the Christian woman's plight, the Pakistani government is not. Past reports on Asia's situation are available at March 20, 2014 and December 4, 2014.

  Recent reports have alerted VOMC of the need to urgently pray for a turnaround of Asia's current health situation. She is reportedly suffering from severe physical problems, including intestinal bleeding and -- according to family members after a recent visit -- Asia was "so weak she can hardly walk." Lawyers are working on behalf of the incarcerated believer, requesting that Asia obtains the urgent medical treatment she desperately needs.

  May the renewing of God's Spirit, Word and strength come upon Asia, providing her greatly needed healing both physically and spiritually. In the meantime, continue to pray for Asia's immediate and safe release, asking the Lord to grant her justice in an unjust world (Psalm 140). Also remember to uphold Asia's concerned husband, children and other loved ones in prayer as they journey through this storm with God's abiding presence, clinging to the hope and promises of His unfailing grace in their time of need.