Prayer Points
February 15, 2004

Pakistan
Three Pakistani Christian men have been falsely charged and imprisoned as a result of their newly found faith in Jesus.  They were scheduled to appear before a judge on Feb. 9, 2004 and the expected bail was $3000 per person. Prayer points: Pray that these believers will not abandon their faith and that they will be vindicated. Pray that any fines will be dropped and that they will receive favor from the authorities.

France
The controversial bill that would ban the wearing of Muslim headscarfs, Jewish skullcaps and display of large crosses in schools, overwhelmingly passed the Lower House on Tuesday, February 10, 2004. The law is expected to take effect in September. Prayer Points: Pray that France will return to a policy of religious freedom for all. This initial step of limiting religious liberties such as the wearing of religious symbols could eventually lead to the closing of churches and church institutions.

Australia:
The freedom of speech case being held in Australia between the Islamic Council of Victoria and Catch the Fire Ministries resumed on Feb 12, 2004. The witnesses for Catch the Fire Ministries will be cross-examined and the judge should hand down a decision soon. Due to the prolonged case, the new estimate of the total legal expenses for defending the case is $150,000. Prayer Points: Pray for peace for the church and ministry leaders who are being charged and for their families. Pray for complete financial provision for legal expenses and that the court will rule favorably.

Sudan:
Peace talks aimed at ending the civil war in Sudan continue in earnest as both parties
seek an acceptable solution to their differences. The suffering and starvation from food shortages continues to plague Southern Sudan. Those living in the Upper Nile Region are in the most danger of dying from starvation, and medical services are almost non-existent. Prayer Points: Pray that the peace talks will conclude with an acceptable political solution, and pray that relief of food and medicines will be delivered and lives will be saved.

Sri Lanka
Three Buddhist monks and six others have been arrested for the torching of the World Vision office located in Anuradhapura.  On February 6 2004, more than a dozen men hurled petrol bombs at the mission office, setting it ablaze.  Christians are targeted for their social efforts, such as establishing medical clinics and feeding the poor programs.   In recent months tensions have escalated between the Christian minority and the Buddhist majority. Prayer Points: Pray that the US government will exert pressure on Sri Lankan authorities so that Buddhist extremists will be prosecuted for their crimes against Christians.  Pray that the Christians in Sri Lanka will continue their Christian activities despite the threats and attacks, and for a speedy end to the situation.