A church building was set on fire and bombed during a worship service at the Mserete Keristos church in the district of Yayu, in southwest Ethiopia on August 15, according to VOMC sources. At approximately 1:30 p.m., the roof of the church was set on fire and a large explosion interrupted the prayer service being conducted in the compound. The church building and the houses of three evangelists were destroyed in the explosion. The police apprehended several Muslims who lived outside of the area in connection with the incident. Local Christians had previously received warnings that Muslim militants were plotting to attack the church.
The aftermath of the August 5 bombing |
This bombing follows a similar incident in Jijiga on August 5, when a church service was disrupted by an explosion in one corner of the building. Thankfully no one was injured and the church resumed their service later that day. This week, VOMC received photos and a video of the actual church service when the bombing in Jijiga took place. Click here to view a video excerpt of the actual bombing.
Thank the Lord that no one was harmed during these attacks. Pray that these Christians will be encouraged to continue to meet together despite opposition (Hebrews 10:23). Pray for them as they rebuild after the bombings. The Voice of the Martyrs is presently investigating how we can most effectively assist the church in Yayu.
For more information on the persecution of Christians in Ethiopia, click here. Ethiopia is our featured country on www.vomcanada.com. Check out the various videos online.
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