Christian on Trial in Afghanistan

A father of six in Afghanistan is scheduled to appear in court on Sunday, November 21. He was arrested in May after a TV station uncovered Christians being baptized and worshiping. Public outrage followed, and a parliamentary leader called for the public execution of converts to Christianity. A general crackdown on Christians ensued.

This imprisoned believer has been tortured, sexually abused, and forcefully deprived of sleep. He has been held for nearly six months without being officially informed of the charges against him. The lawyer assigned to his defense refused to be his advocate on account of his faith.

In June, Muslims forced him to deny his faith, but he now repents and says he will not recant his faith at his trial. In broken English in a handwritten letter, he writes of being ready to “sacrifice my life in public, I will tell the faith in Lord Jesus Christ son of God and other believers will take courage and be strong in their faith. Hundred percent I am stable to my word.”

He could face the death penalty for apostasy (converting from Islam). Pray that his life will be spared and that he will be released. Pray that God will give him courage and peace as he goes to court.

Sources: Compass Direct News, Barnabas Fund, International Christian Concern