Egyptian Christians Abducted by Militants

 Some of the kidnapped Christians.
Photo: The International Jihad Network Libya
via Morning Star News

A Libyan militant group affiliated with ISIS abducted 13 Egyptian Christians on January 3rd -- the third such attack on Egyptian believers in the span of two weeks.

In the early hours of the morning, gunmen from what they themselves refer to as the "Islamic State of Tripoli" raided a housing complex in the coastal city of Sirte and kidnapped the 13 believers, who were specifically selected because of their Christian faith. All of those abducted happen to be closely related family members who are originally from Minya, Upper Egypt. They had reportedly come to Libya to work in construction.

One of the missing men's relatives shared of his grief: "The feeling of depression and worry and sadness is indescribable. But if it's God's will for them to be martyrs for the name of Christ like the apostles, (serving as) a witness to the kidnappers, we pray God will provide grace, peace and acceptance of His will."

Previously, on December 30th, seven Christians were kidnapped as they attempted to drive back to Egypt on the road that passes through Sirte. Just days prior to this incident, on December 23rd, a Christian couple had been shot and killed at their home in the city; their teenage daughter was kidnapped and later tragically murdered.

Libya has increasingly become lawless as rival militias vie for power. In particular, the city of Sirte is renowned as a stronghold for these Islamic militant groups.

Let us lift up the country of Libya to our Father in prayer, asking that His Spirit touch the hearts of those perpetrating such atrocious acts of violence. As a result of the Holy Spirit's ministry, may the citizens of Libya -- specifically those in the city of Sirte -- turn to faith in Jesus Christ. Pray on behalf of the many believers who have been kidnapped in recent weeks and their concerned loved ones, that they may indeed be blessed with God's grace and peace...accepting His will in each of their situations. Also remember those who are mourning the loss of the brutally murdered Christians. In the midst of their grief, may they, too, receive the ministry of God's comforting presence and the strength He so lovingly promises.

To learn more about Libya's persecuted church, please visit our website.

  • Country Information

    Population
    7,252,573 (2023 est.)

    Ethnicity (%)
    Berber and Arab (97), other (3)

    Religion (%)
    Muslim (96.6), Christian (2.7), Buddhist (0.3), Other (0.2) unafilliated (0.2)

    Leader
    Chairman, Presidential Council, Mohammed Al Menfi (2021)

    Government type
    In transition

    Legal system
    Libya's post-revolution legal system is in flux and driven by state and non-state entities

    Source: CIA World Factbook

  • Pray for Libya

    Pray that converts to Christianity will stand firm, despite the threats of suffering and death.

    Pray that strong and effective Christian resources, including Bibles and other literature, will be available in Libya.

    Pray that Libyan Christians will have a strong desire to lead others to faith in the Lord.

Libya News

  • Imprisonment for Leaving Islam
    A dark hall in a prison
      

    Over three months ago, at least ten Libyan Christians were arrested for converting from Islam to Christianity. Two other believers, one from Nigeria and one from Pakistan, have also been arrested because of their association with these Libyan converts. All twelve arrested believers are being held on charges of proselytism (considered "instigating division" by governing officials) which carry a maximum sentence of death.

  • Christian Convert Sentenced to Death for Apostasy
    Sillhouette of a man looking through a window at a city

    A Libyan appeals court has sentenced a young man to death for converting to Christianity, despite there being no official apostasy laws in the country. The name of the Christian convert, who came to faith in Jesus four years ago, has been withheld for his protection. Though the young believer has faced pressure to recant his belief in Jesus, he refuses to forsake his Christian faith.

  • Threats in the Midst of Renewed Church Growth
    Ruins of Basilica of Justinian
    Christianity was once a predominant influence in Libya, as seen in the Basilica of Justinian.
    Photo: Wikipedia / Hakeem.gadi

    Once an active centre of Christianity during the days of the early church, Libya is now known as an epicentre of persecution that's so extreme, there are few believers today remaining in the country. According to some reports, however, the number of Christ-followers is again starting to grow, despite increasing opposition from governmental leaders and families. For more information, go to our country report.

  • Warnings Against Christmas Celebrations
    Mosque in Ghadames - Photo: Wikipedia / Franzfoto
    Islam is the official religion of Libya.
    Photo: Wikipedia / Franzfoto (cc)

    A recent government campaign against the celebration of Christmas is yet another demonstration of anti-Christian activity orchestrated by the authorities in the North African nation of Libya. A movement to confiscate Christmas decorations from stores was lauded by governing officials on the national news agency. In one city, local police shut down all stores that were selling the seasonal decorations.