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| Many displaced Christians still residing in refugee camps have no place to call home. |
When Islamic State, referred to as ISIS by many major news sources, captured the Mosul area about a year ago, Christians were given three choices: 1) convert to Islam, 2) abandon their property and leave the city, or 3) be killed. In keeping with their threats, the members of this notorious militant group later attacked Christian villages and towns within the surrounding areas of the Nineveh Plain, the ancestral home of thousands of believers and other minority groups. As a result, multitudes were forced to flee their communities, seeking refuge and safety in Kurdish-controlled areas and neighbouring countries.
These displaced believers have lost their homes, property, belongings and, unfortunately, any hope for a future in Iraq. The majority are presently living under difficult conditions within temporary settlements and refugee camps. Sadly, for some Iraqi refugees, whose family members have been abducted by ISIS, there is also the uncertainty of their missing loved ones' outcome. And for the remnant of believers remaining in Iraq, pending life-threatening danger is a constant concern.
Despite the peril, many church leaders are doing whatever they can to improve the situation. With a desire to safeguard the Christian presence within their country, they are encouraging remaining congregation members to stay while urging Iraqi politicians to seek a solution.
Numerous churches, monasteries and ancient holy places in the Mosul area have been confiscated, and are now being used by ISIS for other purposes. In addition, there was the widespread desecration and looting of furniture and paintings, as well as the demolition of church crosses and gravestones. Precious ancient manuscripts were also burned.
Military action to recapture the Mosul area has not been prioritized. Plus, there is no consensus politically as to what should be done for the improvement of security or to help the remnant of Christians still remaining in Iraq. VOM Canada is partnering with reputable in-country partners in bringing needed practical aid and encouragement to these struggling believers. Join us by donating to the ministry's "Relief and Development Fund."
Please pray that all the areas captured by ISIS will be liberated, so that the multitudes of displaced Christian refugees will be able to safely return to their homes and communities. May those held in captivity be protected and soon released. Wherever it is that these Iraqi Christians are located, ask that an outflow of God's supernatural love and grace be with them as they trust Him to meet their daily needs. Of course, we must continue interceding for the members of ISIS. Since the Lord doesn't want any member of His beloved creation to perish eternally, may His mercy and compassion be extended to these perpetrators of evil -- bringing many of them to repentance and salvation.
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