NIGERIA – Six Pastors Killed, 40 Churches Destroyed

Following Muslim attacks on Christians in Nigeria on Nov. 28-29, six pastors are dead, at least 500 other people killed and 40 churches destroyed, Compass Direct News reported. More than 25,000 persons were displaced in the two days of violence, according to the National Emergency Management Agency.

What began as outrage over suspected vote fraud in local elections degenerated into angry Muslims taking aim at Christian sites rather than at political targets. Police and troops reportedly killed about 400 rampaging Muslims in an effort to quell the unrest, and Islamic extremists shot, slashed or stabbed to death most of more than 100 Christians killed.

The Voice of the Martyrs actively supports persecuted believers in Nigeria. When churches are destroyed, VOM assists in rebuilding efforts and provides Christian literature. VOM also supports the Families of Martyrs fund which provides financial aid to widows who have lost their husbands in religious attacks.

CHINA - Underground Christians Arrested

House church Christians continue to be targeted and arrested throughout China, according to a Dec. 4 report from China Aid Association. More than 50 house church Christians were gathered for fellowship in Xiji town, Zaozhuang city, Shandong province on Dec. 2 when Public Security Bureau officials surrounded them and arrested approximately 20 believers. The officials claimed that they would release the prisoners for 2500 Yuan (approximately US$27) each. On Dec.3, more than 50 house church Christians were arrested by local police in Tai Kang county, Henan province. At the time of the report, none of the believers had been released. Pray that these Christians will be released from detention. Pray that, like Paul, their imprisonment will result in the advancement of God's kingdom.

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