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| Pray for the safety of church members in Ukraine. Photo: Flickr / Peter Collins |
Since the political uprising began in Ukraine, pro-Russian separatists have taken control of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions of the country. The takeover has resulted in an escalating frequency of attacks being made against Christians residing within these areas, including the recent seizure of an evangelical church in Donetsk.
This latest attack took place on November 12th by armed separatists who broke into a newly constructed church, forcing the congregant members out of the building and forbidding them from holding any further services there. The separatists also threatened to kill anyone who disobeyed their orders.
A statement was issued by The Council of Evangelical Protestant Churches of Ukraine this past July, reporting on the intense persecution of Christians, and of evangelicals in particular. This statement made reference to the "abductions, beatings, torture, threats of execution, pogroms at the places of prayer meetings," as well as the capture of Christian buildings. Concerned ministry workers within Ukraine state that "the threat of war on a large scale" is growing daily.
Please pray for the protection of our oppressed brethren in Ukraine as they experience mounting insecurity and persecution. May they hold fast to their faith, being assured through the promises of God's Word that safe refuge can be found in Him (Proverbs 18:10). Pray particularly for the pastors and church leaders within these regions, asking the Lord to grant them wisdom from on high as they seek to lead their congregations amid such difficult circumstances and provide ongoing encouragement to those in their communities. Despite the invasion of darkness in this country, may the followers of Christ continue to let their lights shine brightly so that others in need of salvation will discover "the Way, the Truth and the Life" (John 14:6).
