Issue 1: Top Stories This Week
In Mozambique, more than 35 people have been killed, at least ten have been kidnapped, thousands have been displaced, and churches and homes have been destroyed.
Previously on July 30th, the militants attacked Muanquina village, setting fire to two churches, a house of prayer and 43 homes belonging to believers. Bibles and other Christian literature were torn up, and personal possessions looted. A pastor is believed to have been kidnapped, with his whereabouts still unknown.
In DRC :
“They killed some believers who were in the church hall. Those who tried to flee were caught at the door and slaughtered in the compound. Others who made it to the road were also caught and killed,” says an Open Doors local partner.
The ADF also took at least 20 children hostage.
However, Somayeh’s husband discovered her faith and beat her and treated her cruelly.
“One day, he found my Bible and tore it up in front of me,” she recalls. “Another time, he ripped up my birth certificate. It was as if my identity was torn apart. I cried so much that day.”
“My husband threatened to kill me… but I couldn’t stay silent.”
In the midst of it all, God brought comfort: “In the midst of those tears, I heard a voice say, ‘Your name is written in the Book of Life,’ and those words gave me strength to carry on.”
She could only risk going to church once a month, and relied upon recorded sermons. Somayeh was questioned by the secret police, but they didn’t find anything.
Starting with a handful of Christians meeting in secret, it grew to an underground house church with more than 30 members.
“When we gathered, we never mentioned our meeting places over the phone – we used code words and were extremely careful,” Somayeh says. “All phones had to be turned off, and we even removed the batteries to avoid tracking.”
“We saw miracles happening with us, and with people around us! Seeing the church grow was one of the greatest joys of my life.”
Then, one day, the intelligence services called with a chilling message:
“We will see you soon.”
Today, Somayeh and her daughter live in another country. She had to flee, leaving everything behind.
Please keep the above points in your prayers, remembering those who have been affected. Thank you. Please also find below links to websites that will help to keep you informed.
