Source: www.csw.org.uk
Date: January 15, 2022
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. (Hebrews 13:8)
No matter how impossible, frustrating or unchanging a situation may seem, Hebrews 13:8 reminds us that God is the only one who never changes. With this assurance in mind, let’s pray with fresh hope for transformation in 2022.
Pray for the protection of human rights in Vietnam
Throughout 2021, a stream of activists, journalists and social media users were arrested and tried for peacefully expressing their views or advocating for human rights. The Christmas period was no exception, with some sentenced to ten years in prison.
Read more and pray for harassed religious communities in Vietnam, including ethnic minority Montagnard Christians.
Pray for Pastor Lorenzo’s trial in Cuba
During the trial on 20 and 21 December, Pastor Lorenzo’s lawyer was only allowed to bring two witnesses to speak in his defence, while the prosecution called 17 to testify against him. His wife, Maridilegnis, described it as ‘two days in which the truth did not prevail.’
We ask you to pray once again for his freedom, as his sentencing is due tomorrow, 16 January.
Pray for urgent action in Myanmar/Burma
On 25 December, the Karenni Human Rights Group discovered the bodies of at least 35 civilians who had been burned alive by the Tatmadaw (the military) on Christmas Eve, including elderly people and children.
Please pray for an end to these horrific atrocities. Click here to learn more.
Pray for China
December saw a string of violations against religious communities in China, including the increased surveillance of Early Rain Church. Elder Li Yingqiang was detained on 24 December, while arrest notices were also issued for two leaders of Qingcaodi ‘Green Pastures’ Church – a church planted by Early Rain.