Thank God that the security situation in Nigeria is showing signs of significant improvement, according to our partners.
An increase in violence had been expected after the presidential elections in February but, according to Stefanos Foundation, incidents of violence and kidnapping are now declining compared with the first and second quarters of this year.
Thank you for your faithful prayers for our persecuted brothers and sisters in Nigeria over many years. Please continue to pray that this latest trend continues and that the killing and abduction of innocent Christians finally comes to an end.
Sadly, attacks are still being perpetrated. Just two weeks ago, more than 30 believers were kidnapped in southern Kaduna state, reported Morning Star News (MSN).
Raiders ambushed the Christians while they were working on a communal farm in Chikuri, Chikun County, and took them away at gunpoint on October 7, according to local resident Victor Dabo.
‘Over 30 Christian farmers who were cultivating a farm have been abducted in one fell swoop,’ Dabo told MSN. ‘Please pray for the Chikuri Christian community.’
Another resident, Dogara Peter, said his mother and sister were among those kidnapped. The abductions marked the third time the terrorists had invaded their community, he added.
ISRAEL
Please continue to pray for Christians and the situation in Israel. May followers of Christ – whether Messianic Jews or Arab believers – know God’s peace and protection during this volatile time. Our friends Voice of the Martyrs (VOM) USA provide local help including front-line workers in key regions, supporting training for local churches and help with Bible distribution. Pray for their protection.
IDOP 2023
Join us on Sunday, November 5, for a special online prayer evening to mark the International Day of Prayer for the persecuted church (IDOP). The event will be hosted by the Evangelical Alliance. Release International’s CEO Paul Robinson will be speaking and we will be presenting a fresh interview with former prisoner-of-faith Twen, from Eritrea. You can book to watch here. If you would like to mark IDOP in your church we have resources you can download and use here.
(Sources: Morning Star News, Stefanos Foundation, VOM USA)