Egypt, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, China, Prayer Requests & Intercession for Persecuted Christians

Intercessor Report / Prayer Points

February 2002

Egypt – On February 10 a newly-renovated church was ransacked and burned in Bani Wellmes, Al-Minya, by a group of angry Muslims. Some members of the church were warned a few days earlier not to ring the church bells during the consecration ceremony. In addition to damaging the church, the perpetrators also burned at least 15 homes belonging to Coptic Christians. At least one Christian was arrested for firing a rifle, which he shot into the air to scare off the attackers.
Prayer Points: Pray that this episode of violence would be an isolated event and that Coptic Christians and Muslims could continue to live in harmony. Pray that the perpetrators would receive just punishment. Also pray that the church could be repaired so that worship could continue.

Pakistan – The Supreme Court of Pakistan has agreed to hear the case of Christian prisoner Ayub Masih. Masih was sentenced to death in 1998 for blasphemy against the Prophet of Islam. This is his last appeal. The case is expected to be heard in the next few months.
Prayer Points: Pray that Ayub Masih would be acquitted and freed. Ask the Lord to protect him from those who wish his harm. Pray that the government of Pakistan would repeal the blasphemy laws, which have been used to persecute Christians.

Saudi Arabia – Twelve Christian prisoners have been deported since January. However, many of them are without jobs in their home countries. Most of them have families to support. Three Ethiopian Christians who received 80 lashes with a steel cable continue to suffer from some health problems.
Prayer Points: Pray that the Lord would provide jobs for these Christian men and heal them from any physical affliction. Also, ask that God would open doors for these men to tell their story so that Saudi government policies against Christians would be revealed.

Sudan – Despite efforts by US Special Envoy John Danforth to broker peace between the Khartoum government and the rebel Sudanese People’s Liberation Army, government forces continue to bomb civilian targets. Recent targets included Akuem (February 9) and Bieh (February 20), both food distribution centers for the World Food Program. One person was killed at Akuem and an additional 17 at Bieh. Casualties included children.
Prayer Points: Pray that the Government of Sudan would be sincere in their promises to cease bombing targets in southern Sudan. Pray that adequate food relief would reach Sudanese Christians in the “no-go” zones of the country. Ask the Lord to comfort the families of those whose loved ones were killed in the recent bomb attacks.

Praise Report:
China – Hong Kong businessman, Li Guangqiang was miraculously released from prison on February 9. He was originally indicted on charges of assisting an evil cult, a crime punishable by death. The charge was later decreased to illegal business operations and Li was given a 2 year sentence. Shortly thereafter he was released. Please continue to pray for members of the South China Church who have been sentenced to death.
Saudi Arabia – Praise God that all but two of the expatriate Christians being held since last summer have been released from prison in Jeddah. Continue to pray for the release of Dennis Moreno and Worku.

Thanks for your prayers and action.
International Christian Concern

Posted:  February 27, 2002