Update: Negotiations begin for release of Christian hostages

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Johannes, Sabine and children,
Anthony S.
Authorities in Yemen have reportedly started negotiations for the release of six Christian hostages -- a family of five from Germany and a British engineer -- who were kidnapped along with three other women in June (click here for more information). The bodies of the women, Rita Stumpp (26), Anita Gruenwald (24) and Eom Young-sun (33), were found shortly after the kidnapping. Until recently, however, the state of Johannes (37), his wife Sabine (37) and their children, Lydia (5), Anna (3) and Simon (1), as well as Anthony was unknown. The kidnappers have demanded a ransom of $2 million USD as well as immunity, free passage and a guarantee that they will not be handed over to neighbouring Saudi Arabia. (Sources: Middle East Concern, AFP)

Pray that the efforts to negotiate the release of these Christians will be successful. Pray for protection and health for the kidnapped believers. Pray that their kidnappers will come to know Jesus Christ through their witness. For more information and prayer requests, please click here.

For more information on the plight of Christians in Yemen, please click here.

Country Information

Population
30,399,243 (July 2021 est.)

Ethnicity
predominantly Arab; but also Afro-Arab, South Asians, Europeans

Religion (%)
Muslim 99.1%, other 0.9%

Leader
President Abd Rabuh Mansur Hadi (2012)

Government type
In transition

Legal system
Mixed legal system of Islamic law, Napoleonic law, English common law, and customary law

Source: CIA World Factbook

Pray for Yemen

Pray that the small body of believers will find deep and sustaining joy in their faithfulness.

Pray that the gospel will penetrate the hearts of many Yemeni people.

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