Persecuted Christians
from Voice of the Martyrs (www.persecution.com)
INDIA — Assailants sever Christian's hand in India — VOM Contacts
On July 4, unknown assailants attacked a college professor, severing his right hand and part of his arm in Kerala, India. According to The Voice of the Martyrs contacts T.J. Joseph, a professor at Newman's College in Thodupuzha, was returning from a Sunday service at his church when a van pulled up beside him. The assailants forced him from his car and attacked him with knives and swords, amputating his lower arm and inflicting deep wounds to his body. At last report, doctors were attempting to save his limb. According to reports, several Muslim students were offended by test questions on an exam T.J. Joseph gave two months ago. After protests by Islamic groups, T.J. was suspended from his job and apologized for his “unintentional error.” Nevertheless, he continued to receive threats. T.J.’s assailants in the July 4 attack are suspected to be members of the Islamic militant group, the Popular Front of India, but the attack was condemned by other Islamic groups. The media in India reported that T.J. Joseph forgave his attackers. Praise God T.J. has forgiven his persecutors. Pray for his full and speedy recovery. Pray that the misunderstanding which led to the attack will be resolved. Pray for peace among India's religious communities.
IRAQ — Christian killed in bomb attack — VOM Canada/ Asia News
On July 5, Behnam Sabti, a Christian, died instantly when a bomb exploded under his car in Mosul, Iraq. According to local reports, Behnam was killed because of his “religious identity.” In recent months, Christians and other religious minorities in Iraq have faced violence because of their beliefs. Pray for Behnam’s wife and three children as they mourn the loss of husband and father. Pray that those responsible for this attack will be found and brought to justice. Pray for peace in Iraq and that Christians will be able to live their faith in freedom. Pray Christians will forgive their persecutors.
INDONESIA — Christians face death threat and increasing opposition — Compass Direct News
In recent months, Christians in Bekasi, Indonesia have faced growing opposition from Muslim extremists opposed to “Christianization,” according to Compass Direct News. Compass reported that on June 27, Muslim organizations in Bekasi announced they would establish “paramilitary units in local mosques” to oppose “ongoing attempts to convert people to Christianity.” Muslims have accused Christians of “aggressive proselytizing.” Church services throughout the city have been interrupted repeatedly and Christians have been threatened. In June, the Bekasi Islamic Congress met and set up a “mission center” along with a youth army to oppose Christian efforts. There is also a push for Shariah law in the region. Pray for protection for Christians in Bekasi. Pray the authorities will protect the Christians against opposition from militant Islamic groups.