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Sudan

• Unlawful Detainment of Church Leaders

  
  Kuwa Shamal and Hassan Taour
  Photo: World Watch Monitor

  Five months since his initial detention, a local pastor has been re-arrested by Sudan's intelligence agency. Rev. Kuwa Shamal joins at least two more Christian leaders in prison, awaiting charges that could potentially carry the death penalty. He was re-arrested on May 24th by members of the National Intelligence and Security Services (NISS) in Khartoum.

  Together with fellow Sudan Church of Christ leader, Rev. Hassan Taour, and a Christian convert from Darfur identified as Abdulmonem Abdumawla, the newly jailed pastor is expected to face serious charges including espionage and undermining state security. Rev. Kuwa, who serves as the church's head of missions, was first detained for three days on December 18th. He later had to report daily to the NISS for long periods of time. For no obvious reason, the routine was lifted in mid-January but then re-imposed a month later. (To review a previously posted report, go to this page.)

  This is not the first time Khartoum has detained Christians unlawfully, failing to prove beforehand the serious charges brought against them later in the courts. In the summer of 2015, Khartoum officials released two South Sudanese pastors who were accused of "spying." More details on this case are available here.

  According to the 2016 Open Doors' World Watch List, Sudan is ranked 8th in a list of 50 countries where Christians are under the most pressure. The predominantly Muslim country has a rating of "extreme" and, for the past two years, has remained among the top 10 offenders. For additional information on persecution in Sudan, visit our Sudan Country Report.

  Please intercede for these incarcerated Christians in Sudan, praying that they will remain strong in their faith -- not wavering in their courageous stand -- during this time of trial. May the Lord deliver them, granting even greater opportunities to spread the good news of His unfailing love and salvation in this spiritually oppressed part of the world. To God be the praise and glory for what He is going to accomplish through the lives and witness of these faithful believers.

• Member of Embattled Church Freed!

  
  Telahoon Nogose Kassa
  Photo: Morning Star News

  Telahoon Nogose Kassa, head of discipleship at the embattled Khartoum Bahri Evangelical Church, was released after Sudan's National Intelligence and Security Services (NISS) arrested him without charges on December 13th, 2015. While it's unclear why Telahoon was released, according to Human Rights Watch, NISS can hold detainees for up to four-and-a-half months without judicial review.

  During the night of December 13th, NISS agents went to the home of the 36-year-old Christian leader, ordering him to report to their offices. Upon doing so the following day, officials arrested Telahoon and took him to a detention centre in Khartoum.

  No reasons for the arrest were given, though Telahoon was questioned for five consecutive days about his relationship with a foreign missionary who had attended a discipleship class. Sources believe that he was targeted for his Christian activities and his opposition to government interference with the church.

  Khartoum Bahri Evangelical Church has fought a government takeover of its property. Telahoon's arrest came four months after two South Sudanese pastors, Rev. Peter Yein Reith and Rev. Yat Michael, were released following eight months in prison on false charges of capital crimes due to their attempts to defend the church against the illegal sale of its property.

  Although we are praising God for the safe return of Telahoon, and for the previously granted release of the two South Sudanese pastors, we do ask for prayer on behalf of a pastor from another church who is still in detention. Authorities arrested Rev. Hassan Abdelrahim Tawor at his home on December 18th. While no charges have been brought against him, NISS officials were said to have objected to his Christian activities.

  More information about this case, as well as other reports on persecution in Sudan, are available at our Sudan Country Report. It is important to note that Sudan was recently subject to a United Nation's Universal Periodic Review on human rights abuses.

• Church Leaders Arrested for Addressing Persecution

  
  Rev. Kuwa Shamal
  Photo: Morning Star News

  Rev. Kuwa Shamal, head of missions for the Sudanese Church of Christ (SCOC), was arrested on December 18th and released on December 21st. Subsequently, he had been required to report daily to the office of the National Intelligence and Security Services (NISS) where he was held from 8 a.m. until midnight; a requirement that was removed on January 16th. However, his colleague, Rev. Hassan Taour, SCOC vice-moderator, remains in detention without charges.

  NISS officials were reportedly upset with the pastors for telling others that Christians faced persecution in Sudan. Authorities had arrested the two men from their respective homes at the same hour. No charges have been brought against them, although NISS officials were to have said they objected to the pastors' Christian activities.

  Since the church leaders' arrests in December, Christians in Sudan and elsewhere have been praying fervently for the two pastors and other imprisoned believers in this northeastern African country. Both of these men are from the Nuba Mountain region of South Kordofan state. Ethnic Nuba, along with Christians, have faced discrimination since President Omar al-Bashir vowed to adopt a stricter version of Sharia (Islamic) law.

  Due to the government's treatment of Christians and other human rights violations, Sudan has been designated a "Country of Particular Concern" by the U.S. State Department since 1999. The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom recommended that the country remain on the list in its 2015 report. More information about the persecution of believers in Sudan can be found at our Sudan Country Report.

  Please join us in praying for the safety and protection of Rev. Hassan Taour. May the Lord's presence provide him needed reassurance during his unjust detainment. Ask God to also touch the hearts of Sudan's governmental and judicial authorities so that His people will receive fair treatment and be granted the freedom to worship Him in spirit and in truth (John 4:24). In the meantime, we can rejoice over the release of Rev. Kuwa Shamal, praising God that this pastor's detainment was short-lived. Please intercede for both pastors, and other believers in the country who are experiencing the pressures of persecution, asking the Lord to give them the courage and strength to continue sharing His love and the message of His saving grace.

• Irrational Destruction of Churches

  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.

• Charges Against Two Pastors Dropped!

  These spiritual leaders and their families are praising God for the good outcome. Photo: ACLJ

  On July 14th, two South Sudanese pastors, who were on trial for crimes calling for the death penalty, were convicted on lesser counts and released on time served. Although agents from Sudan's notorious National Intelligence and Security Services had initially arrested the pastors, the defense recommended that the court drop the charges due to a critical lack of physical evidence.

  Rev. Yat Michael, 49, was convicted of "inciting hatred" for delivering a message of encouragement in December of 2014 to a North Khartoum church in the face of a government-aided takeover of the congregation's property. Rev. Peter Yein Reith, 36, was convicted of "breaching public peace," following his January 11th arrest for submitting a letter of concern from leaders of their denomination, the South Sudan Presbyterian Evangelical Church, inquiring about the whereabouts of Rev. Michael.

  The wives of these pastors have expressed great relief and happiness over the outcome of the recent trial. "They have been just released after the court found them innocent of the more serious charges," one of the wives confirms. "Tell the whole church that God has heard your prayers and the pastors are now free!" (For a previous prayer alert report on this case, click here.)

  While rejoicing with the released pastors and their families over this favourable outcome, let's pray for God's ongoing protection and blessing upon these faithful believers. In fact, may all the church leaders of Sudan be granted wisdom and direction as they lead their congregations during this time of increased pressure due to extremist propaganda. Also, pray that any previously placed travel bans posing hindrance to the pastors' ministry will be lifted so they can freely continue serving in other areas of Africa and beyond.

• Women Needing Protection From Flogging

  Pray for the protection of the accused girls. Photo: Morning Star News

  According to a report issued by Christian Solidarity Worldwide, 12 female Christian students were arrested by the Public Order Police after attending a ceremony on June 25th at the El Izba Baptist Church in Khartoum. After spending some time in custody, two of the women were released. The remaining 10, although granted temporary release on bail, were charged with "indecent dress," under Article 152 of Sudan's 1991 Criminal Act. If found guilty, these women could receive 40 lashes, a fine, or both.

  All of these young women, ranging in ages from 17 to 23, were wearing standard blouses with trousers or skirts. One student, 19-year-old Fardos Al Toum, appeared in court wearing similar attire which the judge deemed indecent. Immediately, she was fined 500 Sudanese pounds (the equivalent of approximately $83 U.S.) or a month in prison. Activists and others supporting Fardos paid her fine. She is now awaiting trial for the original charge, along with the rest of the remaining students.

  When the 12 women were initially arrested, they experienced the degradation of having to remove their clothing in order for Sudan's notorious Public Order Police to "inspect" the garments. One of the country's Christian leaders claims, "They have targeted these girls because of their faith and their race."

  The mistreatment of believers is common in Sudan, with women of the Christian faith being particularly targeted. Another example of this involves the case of Meriam Ibrahim whose story can be found at this page. Since the secession of South Sudan in July 2011, the persistent persecution of Christians has intensified. "President Omar al-Bashir vowed to adopt a stricter version of sharia (Islamic law), and recognize only Islamic culture and the Arabic language."

  We invite you to join us in praying that the charges against the 10 young Christian women will be immediately dismissed. May God's will, way and truth penetrate the hearts, minds, motives, moods and attitudes of those operating in judgement and injustice against them. Pray that these persecuted believers in Sudan will be greatly strengthened by the promises of His Word (Proverbs 22:8, 24:23; Habakkuk 2:12), empowering them to overcome any fear and intimidation caused by the increased demands of sharia law. Instead, may they experience the Lord's peace and protection as the Holy Spirit mediates as their "Advocate" during the court hearings.

• Upcoming Trial of South Sudanese Pastors

  Rev. Yat Michael and Rev. Peter Reith Photo: CSW

  Two South Sudanese pastors on trial in Khartoum had their latest hearing on July 2nd. During the hearing, the judge questioned Rev. Yat Michael and Rev. Peter Reith, inquiring as to why they should be involved in Christian ministry within an Islamic country. He then ruled that their case will continue on July 14th, during which time they are to be tried on all charges -- two of which carry a death sentence or life imprisonment. The lawyer representing the two pastors has been denied access to them.

  Rev. Michael and Rev. Reith were arrested in December 2014 and January 2015 respectively and charged with multiple offences, including undermining the constitutional system and espionage (offences that carry the death penalty) and blasphemy (which may be punished by whipping). For a previous report on their arrest, please click here.

  In another incident, Pastor Hafez of the Evangelical Church in Bahri (where Rev. Michael had preached before his arrest) and Mohaned Mustafa (the lawyer representing the church and both previously mentioned pastors) were arrested on July 1st and detained briefly before being released on bail. On the order of government officials, the authorities had come to destroy part of the church complex. When Pastor Hafez and the lawyer complained that the government employee was attempting to destroy a part of the church compound that was not within the government order, they were both arrested for obstructing a public servant in the exercise of his duties. The government employee continued to destroy the part of the compound that was not within the order.

  The lawyer was driven to the police station but the pastor was made to walk there in handcuffs. During his detention, Pastor Hafez was hit on the side of his head with a gun. After his release, he needed to go to the hospital for x-rays. It is not yet known when the case against Pastor Hafez and the lawyer will be brought to court.

  Please uphold all three pastors and the representing lawyer, Mohaned, who are in need of God's divine peace, protection and intervention. Ask the Lord to go before the upcoming trial, preparing the hearts of all those involved in this case so that it may be conducted in a just and reasonable manner. May the outcome be favourable for all of these genuine servants of the Gospel. Also remember the church in Sudan as a whole, praying that the country's believers will not lose heart but rejoice in the midst of opposition, embracing the opportunity to be strengthened spiritually, further develop in Christ-like character, and bring glory to the matchless name of Jesus (James 1:2-4).

• Church Leaders Face Possible Death Sentence

  The Rev. Peter Yein Reith Photo: Morning Star News

  Two South Sudanese church leaders are currently facing serious charges that could lead to life imprisonment or even the death penalty. The severe charges levied against Rev. Michael and Rev. Reith are the latest development in a series of repressive official actions targeting Christians in Sudan.

  Rev. Michael and Rev. Reith were brought before a criminal court in Khartoum, Sudan, on May 4th. During the hearing, the clergymen were charged jointly with undermining the constitutional system, waging war against the state, disclosure and receipt of official information or documents, arousing feelings of discontent among regular forces, breach of public peace, and offences relating to insulting religious beliefs. Of the five charges, two carry the death penalty or life imprisonment in the event of a guilty verdict. A subsequent hearing has been set for May 14th.

  Rev. Michael has been in detention since December of 2014, while Rev. Reith was detained since January of this year. Both were initially held by the National Intelligence and Security Services (NISS) without charge, yet they were granted neither access to lawyers nor their families until March, when they were transferred to the custody of the Attorney General. It was while in the Attorney General's custody that the two men were finally given access to legal representation and family visits.

  Rev. Michael was arrested shortly after making a speech at a church involved in a land dispute with government-supported private investors. At the time of his arrest, NISS agents reportedly stated that they were offended by the pastor's speech, which encouraged church members to continue standing firm through the trials they were experiencing. The Sudanese authorities have also attempted to illegally sell other properties belonging to the church.

  Remember these two church leaders in your prayers, asking the Lord to give them strength and courage as they face the serious allegations. Pray that all of the charges will be dropped and that these men will be free to return to their loved ones and resume their ministry work. In addition, please intercede on behalf of the many other persecuted Christians in Sudan who are also presently suffering for Christ's sake.

  For more information on Sudan's persecuted church, read our Country Report.

• Continued Prayers Requested by Meriam Ibrahim

  Daniel and Meriam Gabriel Wani / Facebook

  Meriam Ibrahim, the Sudanese mother of two who was sentenced to death for apostasy and then later released, has requested further prayer as she and her young family try to settle into their new lives in the United States. While Meriam and her husband are thankfully reunited, they have been forced to leave other loved ones behind in Sudan. Additionally, Meriam continues to feel endangered, knowing the grave situation facing other Christians in her home country. To watch a recent video interview with Meriam, click here. (For more information about Meriam and her amazing testimony of faith, visit our website.)

• Christian Singer Tragically Killed in the Nuba Mountains

  Neima Abiad Idris

  A Christian wife and mother of six was killed in November of 2014 when an Antonov bomb struck her home village of Kadir in the Nuba Mountains. She is being hailed as a hero and martyr for refusing to run away from the genocidal terror that had targeted her family and community. Christians in the Nuba Mountains face poverty and violent assaults as Arab-Sudanese aim to eradicate the black Sudanese population.

  Neima Abiad Idris, 49, was known as the "Peace Singer." Her most recent musical album was called "Building Peace, Forgiveness and Reconciliation," and served as her prayer and aspiration for the Nuba people. The victimized Sudanese believers are now grieving along with Neima's family, but take comfort in the knowledge that she is now experiencing true peace in heaven.

  Also last November, a church in the Nuba Mountains was destroyed in a bombing incident that took place during a worship service. Thankfully, the congregation had fled the building soon after hearing planes overhead pass several times, and so no one was injured in the attack. The area was bombed again just days before Christmas. VOM USA works closely with this congregation, which has served as a distribution point for Bibles and relief items. Several frontline workers have also been supported through the compassionate outreach of this church.

  Let us bring our persecuted family members in the Nuba Mountains to our Heavenly Father, asking Him to bless them with courage and endurance as they suffer ongoing oppression. In particular, pray for the many who are mourning the loss of Neima. May they rejoice over the fact that she knew the 'Prince of Peace,' and is now living life to the fullest in heaven with Him. Also, may God continue to use her musical ministry to encourage other believers living in this dangerous war zone. Finally, pray that our Lord will be especially near to the congregation members whose church was bombed -- granting them wisdom, boldness and perseverance as they seek a new venue to worship Him together.

  Please visit our Country Report to learn more about Sudan's persecuted believers and the various ways you can pray for them.