VOM-USA Prayer Update for October 4, 2013

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

Iran—Christians Jailed for Their Faith
Sources: VOM Sources and Mohabat News

2 Timothy 2:9–10

Iranian Christians are requesting prayer for their country following a series of arrests just as the government released some prisoners in an effort to appear more liberal. At least 20 Christians, mainly from Muslim backgrounds, were detained in Tehran, Karaj, Isfahan, and Tabriz. As a sign that he is politically progressive, the government of incoming President Hassan Rouhani pardoned and then released 11 prisoners of conscience from prison on Sept. 20. The next day, the family of imprisoned Pastor Behnam Irani went to meet with a judge in Karaj, Iran. Pastor Behnam’s family asked the judge to pardon him and allow him to be released like the other prisoners of conscience. The judge denied the request, and stated that Behnam had to serve his six years of prison and that the only way he would be pardoned and released from prison was if he repented and returned to Islam.

Indonesia—Former Muslim Holds Fast to Christ
Source: VOM Sources

Luke 18:29–30

A Muslim background believer from Bandung, Indonesia, has stood fast despite persecution for his faith. “Bagus” was a Muslim cleric for most of his life, until five years ago when he converted to Christianity during a search for “peace in his life.” Upon his conversion, Bagus’ four sons, including their families, would have nothing to do with him. Bagus’wife had passed away earlier, and he remarried a Christian woman. Even though the woman was 60 years old, after her marriage to Bagus, her father came and forced her to leave the home. Bagus has now lost all of his family, friends and worldly goods. A Muslim friend took him in, giving Bagus a place to live. When Bagus was asked why he converted, he said, “I was looking for peace. I had no peace in Islam, but now I have peace all the time.”

Central Asia—Christian Woman Thrown out of Home
Source: VOM Sources

Isaiah 40:11

“Glenna,” a Christian woman in Central Asia, was recently kicked out of her home by neighbors, a VOM worker reported. Glenna’s husband passed away two years ago, leaving her with three small children and a baby on the way. Shortly after, her landlord discovered she was a Christian and kicked her and her children out of their apartment. She was able to find a new place to live and was given a job as a kids’ club leader. However, recently, her neighbors again had Glenna evicted because of her Christian behavior. Even so, Glenna said, “It is important to love those that hate and persecute you.” As of last week, the Lord provided a new place for Glenna and her children to live. Please pray for their continued witness.

Tanzania—VOM Project

Pray for 250 Muslim background believers and new converts in Zanzibar. VOM helps prepare them to share the gospel with Muslims by supporting two leader-training conferences. Many of these believers have been expelled from their families.

Colombia—VOM Project