INDIA - Pastor's Conference Attacked by Hindu Militants/Christian Martyred for Christ (VOM Sources)

On February 2, a pastor's conference in Raipur, Chhattisgarh state was attacked by about 100-500 members of the Hindu militant group Dharam Sena. At least 10 Christian leaders were injured and property and money stolen. Pray God heals all those injured and that believers remain faithful.

On Saturday, February 10, 58-year-old Christian, S. Stanley, was stabbed and killed by rioting youth in front of his house in Pavaloor, Kerala State, India. Youths assembled in front of his house shouting blasphemous abuses against Christians. When Stanley and his wife asked the youths to leave, they became angry and stoned the house. While Stanley was inside the house calling the police, the attackers climbed over the locked gate, entered the house and stabbed him several times on his back, neck and stomach. His wife was also assaulted, VOM contacts said.

“Where Stanley was martyred has traditionally been an area of India that has seen less persecution. The fact that something like this is happening is further evidence of the worsening climate for Christians in India,” VOM contacts said. Pray for Christians in India to be bold witnesses for Christ in spite of threats and attacks against them.

Pray for the family of this brother, especially his wife who sustained injuries from the beatings. Isaiah 48: 13; Psalm 41:3
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LAOS Christian Homes Destroyed in Fire (VOM Sources)

Twenty Christian families in Khmu village lost their homes and bamboo church in an accidental fire. About 150 people are in urgent need of blankets, mattresses, clothing and building materials. Relief supplies are on the way from a ministry in Laos which is helping these believers. Khmu Christians in Laos already have many difficulties because they follow Jesus; this recent fire adds extra burdens. Pray for God's provision for these families, especially since it is winter in Laos. Pray their testimony and reliance on God will bring others to Christ. 2 Corinthians 1:3-6
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INDONESIA Muslim Mob Attack House Church (VOM Sources)

This week 50 Muslim fundamentalists stormed a house church in an Indonesian village, questioning the use of the house for church services. According to VOM sources the mob raided the house disrupting the service and smashing a keyboard. Christians in the village are afraid and leaders are considering moving the house church to another area. Psalm 138:3, Psalm 32:7
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CHINA UPDATE: House Church Leader Released (VOM Sources)

On Monday, February 5, 2007, Liu Fenggang was released after serving three years in prison. The well known house church leader expressed appreciation for the help his family received while he was in prison. "I am thankful of God's grace and the prayers and letters from brothers and sisters all over the world. The suffering my wife and son had to endure is nothing compared to the martyred brothers and sisters in China. I will continue to stand up for this just cause for which I am called to speak up for the persecuted," Liu said. 1 Corinthians 15:57, Psalm 41:2 VOM urges Americans to pray for Christians in China. You can also write to the Chinese government asking for the release of Christians. Go to www.prisoneralert.com for more information.
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