Christian Persecution in Iraq on the Rise

Christians in Iraq are experiencing a rise in persecution from Islamic extremists. According to a Christian Broadcasting Network News (CBNNews.com) report, Reverend Canon Andrew White, an Anglican minister from Baghdad, told a committee on religious freedom that Christians have been kidnapped, tortured and killed. Rev. White said in the last three to four months conditions in Iraq had deteriorated considerably. He added that he was given disturbing news at a congregational meeting this month. "Things are bad for everybody in Iraq. I said to them (church members), 'tell me what has happened over the past week.' And the people went through what had happened, and I realized that 36 of my congregation in that past week and been kidnapped. None of them have been returned," Reverend White said. Pray God protects and encourages Christians in Iraq. Ask God to send the Holy Spirit to refresh believers who face hardships everyday. Romans 8:31, Isaiah 54:17

Christian Killed by Militants in Baghdad

On June 12, Fouad Salim was killed by Muslim militants in Baghdad while leaving the police station where he worked. According to Compass Direct News, Salim’s family believes he was killed because he refused to convert to Islam. He had informed his family that anonymous people he believed to be Muslim militants had been threatening to kill him if he did not convert. Salim is survived by his wife and two children less than six years of age. Pray God comforts and protects Salim’s family. Pray those who persecute Christians will repent and accept Jesus Christ. Psalm 23, Romans 8:31