Syria
While Christian minority groups experience relative freedom to worship among themselves, evangelism is not welcome and foreign missionaries are not permitted to enter the country. The secret police watch believers, especially pastors, and take note of conversions from Islam, but so far there has been no physical persecution by the government.
However, Muslim converts to Christ are in danger from their families, in the form of kidnapping, forced marriages, and sometimes murder. One woman ran away from her parents after surrendering to Jesus and refusing an arranged marriage. Her parents are attempting to track her down. She is forced to rent a new apartment every few months to avoid detection and must work outside of her specialty because she could be tracked by her professional license.
Prayers for persecuted Christians in Syria
Christians in Syria
The situation of Christians in Syria is precarious. Aside from the many details of politics and suffering in Syria, one factor stands out in its implication for Christians: Assad’s dictatorial powers restrained other forces that seek to “destroy the Christian community.” Some of these forces are now taking advantage of the revolution.
Christian’s Homes Plundered
According to recent reports many Christians in SYRIA have fled their homes and fear being killed for their faith. In one city jihadists systematically plundered houses, including around 70 homes belonging to Christians. In February the leader of al Qaeda called for Muslims across the region to join in the jihad in Syria.
Pray that Christians will remain firm in their faith. “For Your steadfast love is great to the heavens, Your faithfulness to the clouds.”
Christian Leader Shot, Believers Afraid
A Christian leader in SYRIA was reportedly shot and killed by rebels on January 25 when he came to the aid of a church member who had also been shot amid heavy fighting. Many Christians in Syria are afraid. Some predict that no matter how the situation turns out, Christians will suffer. They have faced pressure under the current system, but some opposition leaders are promising a return to Sharia.
Pray for courage and wisdom. “For the word of the LORD is upright, and all His work is done in faithfulness.”
The Shadow of Death
In Syria, Christians are caught in volatile and dangerous circumstances. Many are being targeted by Muslim rebels who are shooting, kidnapping, and murdering them. Today, we pray for the family and friends of Basilios Nassar, a church leader who was shot in the chest while trying to help a wounded man. .
Christians Kidnapped, Murdered
Christians in SYRIA are being kidnapped, raped, and murdered at alarming rates. Within the past year, approximately 100 have been killed. Recently two men reportedly kidnapped by rebels were found dead. One had signs of numerous injuries and had been hung. The other was cut into pieces and thrown in a river.
Ask God to strengthen the church in Syria and to comfort the grieving. “Steadfast love surrounds the one who trusts in the LORD.”
Situation in Syria
In previous years Christians in Syria have enjoyed “relative” freedom—relative compared to other Islamic countries in the Middle East. But this relative freedom does not mean that Christians have been free from persecution.
Believers Threatened
Muslims told Christian villagers in SYRIA to join Islamist protests against the government or leave. Ask God to protect the believers.
Pray that Muslims will have opportunities to hear the Gospel. “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace.”
Believers Forced to Worship Quietly
Christians in SYRIA had to keep Easter celebrations quiet earlier this year and canceled public celebrations. Believers fear that the current power struggle among Muslims in Syria will cause Christians to lose even the relative freedoms they enjoy. Some Muslims are calling for Jihad.
Pray that Syrian believers will stand fast in their faith. “We give thanks to You, O God; we give thanks, for Your name is near.”
Christian Refugees Flee
UPDATE: Praise God that an Egyptian believer and his daughter have been able to leave SYRIA! After escaping attacks from Muslims in Egypt, they feared Islamic opposition to Muslim background believers in Syria. They fled Syria for Europe without knowing anyone or being prepared.
Praise God for the Christians who have taken them in and are helping them seek asylum! “We ought always to give thanks to God for you...because your faith is growing abundantly.”
