Prayer: Iraq: violence against Christians continues
ICC Note:
Middle East Concern mobilizes prayer for the continuing persecution – and murder – of Christians in Iraq.
12/9/2010 Iraq (Middle East Concern) – Iraqi Christian leaders have requested our prayers as violence against Christians in some parts of Iraq continues.
In Baghdad on Sunday 5th December an elderly couple were killed in their home. This is the latest in a series of attacks on Christians in Baghdad since 31st October when 58 people, mostly worshippers, were killed at the Syrian Catholic Cathedral of Our Lady of Salvation. Recall that in early November 13 Christians were killed in bombings directed at Christian homes in Baghdad, and at least four others were murdered in targeted shootings.
At least ten Christians were killed in and around the city of Mosul in the second half of November. Several were shot dead in their homes, one was abducted and then shot and others were killed by a bomb attached to their car. In one incident, the intended victims survived due to the prompt actions of neighbours.
The increase in violence against Christians is in the context of what seems to be a decline in the overall level of violence in the country. November saw the lowest monthly total of killings for more than a year, 171. Baghdad and Mosul remain among the most unstable areas.
Iraqi Christians request our prayers that:
a. The bereaved will know the comfort and presence of Jesus
b. Church leaders will know the Spirit’s leading and guidance in all aspects of their ministries
c. Iraqi Christians will know the inner peace of Jesus, the protection of the Father and the enabling wisdom of the Spirit each day
d. There will be a reduction in violence across Iraq
e. The churches assisting those Christians who have fled to other parts of Iraq would be able to provide effective support.
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