VOM-USA Prayer Update for July 26, 2013

The Voice of the Martyrs USA: www.persecution.com

Iran—Eight Christians Sentenced to Prison
Sources: VOM Sources, ASSIST News Service

Matthew 5:11–12

On July 16, eight Iranian Christians were sentenced to prison after being convicted of “action against national security” and “propaganda against the system.” The sentences, which range from one to six years in length, follow the court’s issuance of bail amounts ranging from $80,000 to $200,000. The Christians are expected to appeal their convictions. The National Council of the Church of Iran said the charges against the eight Christians were entirely without foundation and that they would continue to “pray for our leaders and for peace and reconciliation in our nation.” In Iran, non-Muslim religious activities are commonly characterized as threats to national security.

Egypt—Radical Muslims Continue Attacks on Christians
Source: VOM Sources

Psalm 9:13–16

Magdy Lamie, a 59-year-old Egyptian Christian, was beheaded this month by radical Muslims, further emphasizing the danger of being a Christian in Egypt, a VOM contact reported. In the city of Luxor, Christian leaders received reports that four other believers were martyred. In Upper Egypt near Menia City, church meetings have been canceled and Christians avoid moving about in public for fear of being attacked. Radicals have painted marks on local Christian-owned shops to make for easy attack and to warn outsiders not to purchase from the Christians. Many Christian shop owners have closed their shops. Christian women and girls are staying at home to prevent being attacked or kidnapped by radical Muslims.

Guinea—Anti-Christian Persecution Increasing in Guinea
Source: VOM Sources

Hebrews 10:32–39

Violence against Christians in Guinea, especially along the Liberia and Cote d’Ivoire borders, has been steadily increasing. Three churches in Guinea were burned in the last week, according to VOM contacts, and Christians have been told that they will be taken into the forest and forced to endure animalistic ritual ceremonies. Christians are often refused jobs, robbed and ridiculed, and new Christian converts are immediately ostracized by family and friends. A number of Christians have had children or wives taken from them, while others have suffered physical violence because of their faith in Christ.

India—VOM Project