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Bombings in Nigeria - Archbishop appeals for peace
The Anglican Archbishop of Jos, northern Nigeria, Archbishop Ben Kwashi (left), writes, “For us in Jos this joyful [Christmas] celebration was interrupted on the evening on 24 December by at least six bomb blasts in two different locations, in Gada Biyu and Unguwar Rukuba. In Gada Biyu the bombs went off, one near a church and the others in places where they caught people who were doing last minute shopping for Christmas in a local market. Both locations suffered fatalities, and there were a number of other casualties who are now receiving treatment in hospital." Local media have implied religious motivations but Archbishop Kwashi has appealed for peace whilst security forces determine the real reasons for the bombings.
Christmas story in their own language
In central Tanzania the Lughulu people will read the Christmas story in their native language for the first time this year. The Seed Company report that this tribal group now have three gospels, Mark, Luke and John and will be reading them in worship services tomorrow. Just over 800,000 Lughulu live in a very rugged, mountainous region of Tanzania. They grow maize, cassava, sorghum, sweet potatoes, coffee, and fruits on terraced mountainsides. Mission workers are also engaged in literacy training among the Lughulu so that they can read scripture for themselves. Lughulu churches also use discipleship materials provided by the Jesus Film Project. The Jesus film, as well as a Bible overview booklet, have already been translated into Lughulu. About 50 percent of the Lughulu profess Christianity but witchcraft and superstition are still common.
Christmas services cancelled in Iraq
Threats of attacks were posted on the websites of armed groups in Iraq have led to the cancellation of Christmas services in Baghdad, Mosul and Kirkuk. Church leaders took this difficult decision after the threats were repeated yesterday. Churches in these cities will not erect any Christmas decorations, and have cancelled all services during the hours of darkness. Christian communities have lived with intense fear since 58 people were killed during an attack on the Syrian Catholic Cathedral in Baghdad on 31 October. The UN estimates that 1,000 Christian families have fled from Baghdad and Mosul to the Kurdish region in northern Iraq since the October attack. Local authorities are trying to provide some protection by building tall concrete barriers around church buildings with airport-style security at the entrances.
After Sierra Leone, another contested election, in Belarus.
The Christian Democratic Party (BCD) of Belarus is one of a group of democratic parties contesting the presidential election held in Belarus on 19 December. After accusations of fraud were made leaders of the BCD went with others to the government headquarters to try to discuss these accusations with leaders of the ruling party. They were refused entry and were then, they claim, attacked by riot police who were inside the building. The organizers of the protest rally planned to hold a peaceful demonstration. The leader of the BCD, Vital Rymasheuski, called people to withstand the provocations of security agents during the rally but other elements within the crowd became violent and 600 were arrested. Belarusian National TV have now put the blame for vandalism and violence on the democratic leaders and on Vital Rymasheuski in particular. Christians in Belarus are praying for a just outcome to this situation.
Stricter Sharia law for northern Sudan?
As tension grows in Sudan ahead of January’s referendum President Omar al-Bashir (left) has vowed to more deeply entrench strict Islamic Sharia law in the northern half of his country if the predominantly Christian south votes to secede. The president’s comments last Sunday appear to reflect his anger at the strong likelihood that the south will vote overwhelmingly in favour of independence. Al-Bashir is meeting the leaders of Sudan's two most powerful neighbours, Egypt and Libya, today to discuss Sudan’s future after the referendum. An enhanced implementation of Sharia law in northern Sudan could create a new point of friction between south and north because hundreds of thousands of non-Muslim southerners live in the north and many may stay there even if the south breaks away. Currently, non-Muslims are exempt from harsh, prescribed Sharia punishments. Sharia law was first introduced in Sudan in 1983.
China to assist 'forgotten' Pakistani flood victims
As the hardships from Pakistan's earlier monsoon floods are exacerbated by the onslaught of winter China has agreed a $10 million grant and a loan of $400 million to help flood victims rebuild homes and care for the most vulnerable. This pledge comes as Pakistan has voiced concern at the dwindling international resources available for relief work. The floods impacted 20 million people, 12% of Pakistan's population. As the temperature dips, hundreds of thousands of displaced children and adults are susceptible to pneumonia and other cold related diseases. Many are living in non-winterized tents, and there are shortages of dry firewood and other materials, such as adequate clothing, needed to create warmth. Further, many of the flood ravaged areas from this year's monsoon remain covered in water and millions are still displaced. Many farmers whose fields are still flooded have no source of livelihood, and food distribution is difficult to carry out under the circumstances.
People traffickers kill Orthodox deacons in desert
The Italian human rights group Agenzia Habeshia has reported that two Orthodox Church deacons have been murdered by people traffickers in the Sinai Desert. They were among 100 Eritrean refugees who had been separated by their captors from a larger group which also included Sudanese, Somalis and Ethiopians refugees. Agenzia Habeshia believes the deacons were singled out for punishment and killed on Saturday for alerting human rights groups about the plight of the remaining 250 refugees and asylum seekers, who have been held by the Bedouin traffickers for more than a month in the Sinai Desert. Christian Solidarity Worldwide said conditions for the refugees were “degrading” and that traffickers were demanding up to $8,000 for each hostage’s release. According to Agenzia Habeshia, the refugees have had their religious possessions destroyed and suffered beatings and torture, including electric shocks.
Congolese bishop in hospital following attack
Reports from eastern DR Congo suggest that the security situation there is deteriorating. On the evening of Monday 13 December an armed group attacked the provincial chairman of the Protestant churches in DR Congo (ECC) in Goma and killed his wife. The bishop was also seriously injured and is now in hospital. The following evening, Tuesday, there was a similar attack in Beni on the wife of a church worker who was away from home visiting a project. She sustained arm injuries and is in hospital. The attackers took everything from the home but thankfully no one was killed in this second attack. Church leaders in Congo has requested prayer for a return of law and order as well as for those who have been bereaved and injured.
Anglicans appoint Director for Development, Relief and Advocacy
Sally Keeble (left), a former Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the UK's Department of International Development has been appointed as the Director of a new Communion-wide Alliance to strengthen the development, relief and advocacy activities of the Anglican Communion. Ms Keeble, who has degrees in Theology and Sociology from the University of Oxford, UK and the University of South Africa respectively, will oversee the work of the Anglican Alliance: Development, Relief, Advocacy which is brings together churches and agencies to collaborate and share knowledge and skills to add value to the development, relief and advocacy activities already undertaken by Anglicans around the world. The Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, commented, "I am delighted at Sally's appointment. She will bring a well-tried level of skill and profound commitment to the role, and I believe she is ideally suit to the task of drawing together the diverse hopes and enterprises of Anglicans around the world in our work of holistic mission."
M A Thomas dies at 74
The controversial founder of Hopegivers International, M A Thomas (left), has died at the age of 74, in India. Founded in 1960 Hopegivers International has become one of the largest Christian mission movements in India. In the past 40 years the movement has established over 43,000 churches, trained over 30,000 pioneer missionaries, and rescued tens of thousands of orphaned, abandoned, and at-risk children in Asia, mostly within India. Thomas faced prosecution by Indian authorities and attacks by Hindu militants for allegedly violating controversial conversion laws, charges he strongly denied. He was often forced to go into hiding to avoid assassination threats or arrests. In December 2008 Thomas suffered a stroke that left him paralysed on his right side and then suffered from several bouts of pneumonia.
Climate agreement welcomed
Christian environmental agencies, who have been lobbying last week’s UN climate change talks in Mexico, have given a guarded welcome to the Cancun agreement. Last minute pressure from the Mexican hosts ensured some agreements were put in place and the failed Copenhagen process was brought back on track. A major achievement has been the establishment of a climate fund to help developing countries tackle climate change. Tearfund’s Head of Policy Laura Webster said: “The wheels have been set in motion and key principles for a climate fund have been agreed. Moving forward we need to see money in the fund to ensure these wheels don’t fall off. … Cancun has managed to resuscitate the climate talks. However in order to get a fair and binding global deal on climate change we will need to see a lot more urgency on both climate finance and emissions reductions from developed countries.” The full Tearfund response is available here.
Russian radio station closed
Christian leaders in Russia are concerned that local government officials are placing increasing limits on religious freedom. Last week yet another local Christian radio station in Siberia was closed down by the authorities. Dan Johnson with New Life Radio Moscow says their Norilsk FM affiliate was the target. "This is the third radio affiliate we've had that's been shut down by the government under a variety of pretexts.” New Life Radio is a satellite service designed to provide Christian radio programming to locally-owned radio stations that can't afford to hire radio staff. Pastor Mikail Dolgikh was using this facility in Norilsk. In fact, he was able to house the station at his regular job at the state-owned telecommunications building. The station started broadcasting in 2007 but was closed last week. As the media comes more under government control all religious groups in Russia are finding it harder to contribute programming to public stations or to run their own stations.
Prayer requested for Cote d'Ivoire
As African leaders seek to bring a resolution to the disputed presidential election in Cote d’Ivoire, church leaders have requested prayer for their divided nation. It now seems likely that an extraordinary session of the African Union Peace and Security Council will meet in Addis Ababa to deliberate on this dangerous situation. Cote d’Ivoire currently has two presidents the outgoing president Laurent Gbagbo and his rival, Alassane Ouattara both claiming to have been legitimately sword in as president last Saturday. Christian leaders are concerned that the longer this uncertainty remains the more likelihood of communal violence there is.
Students are key in mission movements
In a year packed with mission conferences, in Tokyo, Edinburgh, Cape Town and Boston, one person has given significant addresses at two of them. Having delivered the opening key note address at Edinburgh 2010 in May, Professor Dana L. Robert (left), the Truman Collins Professor of World Christianity and History of Mission, and Co-Director of the Center for Global Christianity and Mission at Boston University, last month delivered a stunning address in her home university. The Boston 2010 conference last month drew together scholars and students of missiology to study “Changing contours of world mission and Christianity”. In her opening address Professor Robert reviewed the key role of students and serious theological study in mission movements over the past 200 years and challenged mission leaders today to engage with contemporary student movements. Her full address is available here.
Pastor sentenced to death in Iran
The Christian human rights organization Middle East Concern has request prayer for an Iranian pastor who has been sentenced to death and currently is waiting for his appeal to be heard. Pastor Yousef Nadarkhani was arrested on 12 October 2009 and has been held every since. His wife Fatemah was also detained from 8 June to 11 October this year. On 22 September 2010 the Revolutionary Tribunal of Gilan Province stated that Yousef was guilty of apostasy (i.e. leaving Islam) and therefore sentenced him to death. The written verdict was issued on 13 November. An appeal has been submitted to the Supreme Court by Yousef's lawyers but there is no specific timetable for the Court's consideration of the appeal. Yousef is pastor of a large fellowship in the northern city of Rasht. Yousef and Fatemah have two young sons. The last known judicial execution of a Christian for apostasy in Iran occurred 20 years ago this month when Rev. Hossein Soodmand was hanged.
Violence in Egypt over church extension
Violence has erupted in Giza, Egypt, where local people are resisting the extension of a church community centre. After stand-offs on 11 and 22 November, when security forces withdrew while priests and church members remained in the building, on 24 November the situation escalated. At 3am police surrounded the site while men were working on the roof and 200 people were keeping vigil inside. Both the security forces and members of the church resorted to violence. The security forces used tear gas, rubber bullets and live ammunition. According to the most reliable reports, four church members were killed and at least 50 wounded, many seriously. At least 200 Christians were arrested at the scene or nearby. They have been denied access to lawyers and remain detained. Church leaders insist that they have the necessary permissions for the buildings work but this is disputed.
Evangelical thought on contextualisation
The Theological Commission of the World Evangelical Alliance (WEA) has just published a new collection of essays which will be of interest to evangelical missions engaged in contextualization. The book, Local Theology for the Global Church, comes out of a 2008 consultation in Oxford, UK, when fifteen scholars from around the world gathered to provide an evangelical evaluation of issues surrounding the task of local theologizing. The collection covers issues related to exegesis, cultural anthropology, syncretism, epistemology, and theological education, and includes an interesting chapter on “What shall we Name God” by Youssouf Dembele. In a later chapter Benno van den Toren asks the provocative question “Can We See the Naked Theological Truth?” Copies can be ordered here.
Vietnam imprisons Christian leaders
In Vietnam two Christian evangelists, Ksor Y Du, and Kpa Y Co, have been sentenced to six and four years in prison respectively for “undermining national unity.” Both evangelists, who are of the Ede minority, live in Song Hinh district of Phu Yen Province, where there are twenty Vietnam Good News Mission congregations. Ksor was one of many thousands of ethnic minority people in Vietnam’s Central Highland that participated in demonstrations in 2004 against religious oppression and illegal confiscation of their traditional lands. Many of the demonstrators were Christians. Along with hundreds of others, he was caught trying to flee to Cambodia following the harsh military crackdown after the demonstrations. He spent four years in prison and another year under house arrest. Some observers believe that the Five-Year Communist Party Congress to take place in early 2011 is contributing to an increase in harsh measures against religions and human rights activists.
Digital Bible receives cash injection
An American businessman has agreed to put ‘significant finance’ behind a programme designed to digitize Bible content and speed up the pace at which translations are completed. Mart Green, who recently bailed out Oral Roberts University with a US$70M grant, presented the vision to trustees of the American Bible Society (ABS) this month. The other two major partners are Biblica (formerly the International Bible Society) and Wycliffe Bible Translators. This trio accounts for 90 percent of completed and developing Bible translations. Initially 160 existing texts will be digitized although, Mart Green said, the process for converting several thousand could take 20 to 25 years. Current statistics show that every hour 1,000 people download the Bible onto their iPhone. Green wants to ensure every version of the Bible can be accessed in this way.
Africans focus on theological education
African theological educators met in Nairobi 15-18 November to consider proposals to strengthen theological education for their growing churches. The meeting, co-sponsored by the All Africa Council of Church (AACC) and the World Council of Church (WCC), launched an Africa Theological Education Fund and made plans for an All African Academy of Theology and Religious Studies (AAATR) which will provide a continent wide platform and congress for the leading voices among African theological scholars and African theological and religious research. Plans for a Handbook for Theological Education in Africa, already started under the leadership of Prof. Isabel Phiri, of the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, were also endorsed.
Uzbek Christians suffer increased restrictions
Christians in Uzbekistan fear that a new Code of Administrative Offences, announced this week by President Islam Karimov will increase restrictions on worship and religious education. Infringements of the current Code bring fines – often massive - or imprisonment of up to 15 days. After a police raid on a Protestant church in Chirchik near the capital Tashkent, assistant pastor Vladimir Kim was fined 80 times the minimum monthly wage, while the church's pastor received a fine of 40 times. Uzbek custom officials also confiscated Christian books from a youth group returning from Kazakhstan last week, The youth group was held for nine hours and officials refused to provide copies of Confiscation Certificates saying this was a “temporary removal”. In a separate move two foreign religious websites have had access from within Uzbekistan blocked as part of a policy to isolate religious believers from their fellow-believers in other countries.
Christians lobby on Climate Change
Christian groups and church leaders concerned to promote spiritual values within the debate about climate change are preparing to lobby the forthcoming talks in Cancun, Mexico. The United Nations Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC) takes place in Mexico from 29 November to 10 December. On 7 December the World Could of Churches (WCC), ACT Alliance and Caritas Internationalis will organise a side event on faith-based climate advocacy, including a case study on Nicaragua and interfaith theological approaches from Christian and Muslim perspectives. Christian groups and individuals around the world have been encouraged to express their commitment by adding their face and message to a photo petition for strong international action on climate change.
Middle East ministry seeks new Director in Europe
The Christian mission organisation Middle East Media who have been operating for 35 years across the Middle East and looking for a new European Development Director. The vision of Middle East Media is to bring the gospel to families of the Middle East through market place media so that people see and hear the Christian message in their homes, on their journeys and at work. The good news they communicates is a whole gospel which addresses all areas of human need, spiritual, psychological, emotional and physical. Anyone interested in considering this post can optain a copy of the job description here and make further enquiries here.
'Samaritans' serve Eritrean Christians
As the government in Eritrea announces a further crack down on Christian gatherings and activities in the country, exiled church leaders are receiving training in Sudan. Immediately after Christmas CMS Africa will be offering Samaritan Strategy training to a group of Eritreans now living in Sudan. This ‘Vision Conference’ will build on the recent success of similar conferences in Gambia (the first held in that country) and in Rumbek in Southern Sudan. The Rumbek conference last week was facilitated by two experienced mentors from Kenya. The mission of Samaritan Strategy is encourage, prepare and equip local churches with a Christian worldview (mind-set) to carry out wholistic ministry in their communities.
Anglicans and the Bible
As the Anglican Communion continues to struggle with splits and a desperate search for unity one key issue remains how Anglican use and interpret the Bible. The ‘Bible in the Life of the Church’ project has been investigating this issue. The project Steering Group met in Durban, South Africa from 15-18 November and heard diverse reports from around the world. As well as insights gained into this specific case study, a number of key threads emerged about the process of biblical interpretation itself. The importance of taking ‘context’ seriously in our engagement with the Bible was widely appreciated. For many Anglicans the primary place where they encountered scripture was in liturgy and it was recognised that this liturgical and community context rightly plays an important role in Anglican interpretation of the Bible. The group also noted the need to ‘see the Bible as a whole’.
Blasphemy law claims another life in Pakistan
 Pakistani police in the Punjab suspect two Muslim extremists shot a Christian shortly after he was granted bail in a "blasphemy" case, and less than a week after Islamist militants killed four members of a Christian family for their faith in the same province. In Godhpur village, in Narowal district northeast of Lahore, 22-year-old Latif Masih died after two men with pistols shot him to death near his home. Masih, a member of the United Presbyterian Church, was accused of burning pages of the Quran. He was released on bail after the complainant, Ijaz Ahmed, told the court that he was not sure that Masih was guilty. Junaid Masih, the victim's brother, claimed that Ahmed had filed the Blasphemy charge because he was trying to take possession of his brother's shop.
Nigerian primate tackles corruption
The Anglican Primate of Nigeria, The Most Revd Nicholas Okoh, has challenged his nation on corruption. Addressing the press at the start the Diocese of Abuja “Carnival for Christ” he said, “Jubilee celebration has two cardinal points, namely, restoration of what has been lost; and freedom from all forms of human captivity. In Nigeria today, there is no gain saying the fact that corruption has eaten deep into the fabrics of the nation. There is also the grave need for total emancipation from all forms of neo-colonial manipulations resulting in economic, spiritual, social and political enslavement. Until this need is truly met, Nigeria may not live up to the aspiration for freedom as captured in our National Anthem.” He continued, “As we celebrate Jubilee and our Carnival this year, it is clear that salvation in the spirit of shalom is far from the land – enslavement and oppression still hold sway in Nigeria.”
Irish mission launches Discover
Faith2Share member agency, CMS Ireland, have just launched a new resource for churches and small groups wishing to engage in mission. Discover is a dynamic new resource that helps people explore the biblical background to mission. It has been designed for use by small groups but can be adapted for use by individuals or larger groups. Each of the seven sessions focuses on a particular part of the biblical story of mission. The pack contains a book, a DVD and a discussion guide and is accompanied by a dedicated website. During November there will be launch events in Dublin and Belfast.
Oslo Declaration establishes Ground Rules for Mission
The World Evangelical Alliance (WEA) together with the World Council of Churches (WCC), the Roman Catholic church and others have welcomed this month’s Oslo Declaration “Missionary Activities and Human Rights: Recommended Ground Rules for Missionary Activities”. This the outcome of long term research by the International Institute for Religious Freedom. Their Director, Prof. Thomas Schirrmacher (left), especially welcomed the fact that the Declaration recognizes peaceful mission efforts as an essential part of religious freedom and thereby as a basic human right, while also affirming the other rights of the people being served by missionaries. The declaration seeks to establish ethical guidelines and rules of fair play in the realm of missionary activity. The Oslo Declaration can be downloaded here.
Could Christianity be legal in Bhutan?
Prayer has been requested around the world for a meeting of the religious affairs council in Bhutan in December. For years the tiny Christian population in Bhutan has lived ‘undercover’ but now there are indications that the Buddhist nation’s government may be ready to grant them much-awaited official recognition and accompanying rights. The authority that regulates religious organizations, Chhoedey Lhentshog, will discuss in its next meeting in December. Dorji Tshering, secretary to Chhoedey Lhentshog said, “The constitution of Bhutan says that Buddhism is the country’s spiritual heritage, but it also says that his majesty [the king] is the protector of all religions,” He then suggested that as Bhutan moves towards democracy they will accept Christianity as one of the faiths of its citizens. The government’s move to legalize Christianity seems to have the consent of the present king, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck (left), who is respected by almost all people and communities in the country.
Uruguay to leave Anglican Province
Having had its request to be allowed to ordain women turned down by the provincial synod a week ago, the Anglican diocese of Uraguay has now voted to leave the province of the Southern Cone (South America) and seek alternative fellowship. Bishop Miguel Tamayo (left) of Uraguay, speaking after an extraordinary meeting of their synod in Montevideo, said that after a nine-year wait for a decision on this matter, and in their particular mission situation, the diocese of Uruguay could wait no longer to ordain women for ministry within its churches. The diocese will seek permission to transfer from the Province within a year and if this is not possible an appeal will be made to the Anglican Consultative Council to arrange for oversight, following Provincial canons. Uruguay has been a diocese within the Southern Cone, who new primate, Bishop Tito Zavala, was appointed last week, since its formation in 1988.
Climate justice needed in Europe
Last Friday churches in Europe called for “The redistribution of wealth and sharing of technology between rich countries and poor countries affected by climate change…” as crucial elements of climate justice. The consultation on Poverty, Wealth and Ecology in Europe was organised by the Conference of European Churches (CEC) and the World Council of Churches (WCC) in cooperation with churches in Hungary. Participants stressed that methods of wealth creation and the pursuit of unlimited wealth in rich industrialised countries of Europe often impoverish communities and harm creation as a whole. Challenges of injustice and climate change are interlinked. Social and climate justice belong together. A copy of the full consultation report is available here.
Mission top priority for African Anglican
“Social work without proclamation is dumb while proclamation without social work is blind”, claimed Archbishop Ian Ernest (left) at the opening of last week’s meeting of Anglican primates in Africa. As chair of the Council of Anglican Provinces in Africa (CAPA) Archbishop Ian went on to say, “I understand mission to be two-fold. Evangelism which is the proclamation of the good news of the transforming power of Jesus Christ in those who accept him as Lord and Saviour; and pastoral and social work among the vulnerable, the poor and the marginalized by providing economic development, education, healthcare etc. .. We engage in serving fellow human beings on the premise of the ‘doctrine of love’ as expressed by Jesus himself on the night before his death when he washed the feet of his disciples.” The archbishop also outlined his plan to call a meeting of Anglican Youth in Africa during 2011.
Iraqi Christians continue to die
In Baghdad the attack, on 31 October, on the Syrian Catholic Church of Our Lady of Salvation, in which over 50 people died, seems to have sparked a renewed wave of violence against Christians. On the following Sunday,7 November, two Christians were killed in separate incidents. One was shot dead outside his apartment. Then yesterday,10 November, there was a series of attacks on the homes of Christians in six different districts of the city. Five people were killed and at least 30 were hurt by explosive devices left near homes and two mortar bombs. Whilst one bishop has suggested all Christians should leave Iraq other religious and political leaders have called for increased security measures and have urged Christians not to flee. Many of those who relocate to neighbouring countries also face discrimination and economic hardship.
Sudan : Pray, pray, pray
With the crucial referendum in Sudan now less than two months away the World Evangelical Alliance (WEA) has called on Christians around the world to observe a global day of prayer on Sunday 5 December. “The people of Sudan” say the WEA, “have experienced terrible loss of life and suffering in the last half century as a result of prolonged civil war and unrest. The Comprehensive Peace Agreement ended that war but now peace is threatened again as the North and South prepare to vote in a decisive referendum on 9 January 2011.” WEA Secretary General, Geoff Tunnicliffe, has been in conversation with senior church leaders in Sudan. They said the number one thing the global church could do to help was: “pray, pray, pray”. More details and specific prayer requests can be found at WEA/Sudan.
Christians not expecting change after Myanmar polls
As the people of Myanmar go to the polls for the first time in 20 years the general view within the country seems to be that not much will change. A Catholic priest from Mandalay urged his parishioners at evening mass on 7 November to “pray for the new government which will carry out people’s development.” In another region a young man said, “Many young people are not very interested in the election,” adding that he went to the polling station himself “just for the experience”. In Yangon another Catholic priest who requested to remain anonymous told reporters, “I don’t expect much change after the election, but at least the government is responding to the people’s call for democracy.” Whilst the results have yet to be announced there is little doubt as to who will have won. In the meantime many Christians in Myanmar consider to suffer and others have left the country.
Chilean bishop to head 'Orthodox' Anglican province
A Chilean bishop is to lead an Anglican province which has been at the heart of recent struggles within the Anglican Communion. Meeting in Buenos Aires from 1-5 November, the Synod of the Province of the Southern Cone of America (Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay) has elected Bishop Hector "Tito" Zavala (left) of Chile as its next Primate replacing Bishop Gregory Venables, the bishop of Argentina, who continues to lead the church in Argentina. The role of Primate is a three year renewable term in the Cone. In another vote during the synod the house of clergy voted against allowing women's ordination to the priesthood – a move approved by the houses of laity and bishops.
Sent to prison for celebrating Harvest Festival
In Azerbaijan four Christians have been sent to prison for five day prison for celebrating Harvest Festival. When around 80 Baptists gathered in a private home for the celebration police first turned off the gas and electricity to prevent church members from preparing a festive meal, and then recorded the names of all those present, also photographing and filming them. After a late night closed court hearing, home owner, Ilgar Mamedov and three others - Zalib Ibrahimov, Rauf Gurbanov and Akif Babaev - were given five-day prison terms. Police insisted to religious rights agency, Forum 18, that there was nothing unusual about a late Sunday evening court hearing, claiming that "it happens". Azerbaijan has claimed recently to be religiously tolerant but the harassment of believers of several religious groups continues.
English teachers help Chinese development
The Christian agency TIP has just completed the training of 4,000 Chinese teachers of English language in China during 2010. Of these 80% have come from western regions of China, where English language training is becoming a critical component for the economic empowerment of the poor. In addition, dozens of church leaders and pastors in China have been trained during these sessions. The five-year objective for TIP is to train 200,000 English teachers in China. This training will help China develop its educational reforms and provide greater opportunities for lower income Chinese young people particularly in western areas. Recruitment is now taking place to find the 60 native-English speaking teachers required for the 2011 programme which is aiming at training 10,000 Chinese teachers.
Mission convention draws 25,000
In 1906, and again in 2006, the small town of Mairang in Meghalaya, north east Iandia, saw a revival which swept through the community stopping schools and all work whilst God worked in the lives of the people. Mairang was the venue, this week, for the national convention of the Indian Evangelical Mission (IEM), a member agency of Faith2Share. The main convention drew 800 delegates from all over India but the highlight of the week was the worship on Sunday which brought together a congregation of 25,000 in the local sports stadium. Young people were particularly in evidence at this service. All 800 delegates at the convention were full-time mission workers with IEM, who gathered to share news of progress in mission programmes across India, to pray together, and to study the scriptures as they seek God's direction in their work.
Orthodox Christians consult on mission
The Bulgarian Orthodox diocese of Veliko Tarnovo acted as host, from 20-24 October, for a consultation on Orthodox mission theology and practice. As a follow up to a similar consultation held in Minsk, Belarus, in February, last week's gathering addressed some controversal topics. Fr. Igor Kropochev of the Russian Orthodox Church generated considerable discussion when he spoke about the interface between mission and culture when working amongst the Altai and people of Central Siberia. Fr. Kakhaber Kurtanidze (Georgian Orthodox Church) dealt with the translation of mission theology into missional praxis, and Olga Oleinik (Belarusia) described te work of the newly established Orthodox mission network. A full report of the consultation can be downloaded here.
Iraqi Christians die in attack on church
An attempt to end the seige of the Syrian Catholic church of Our Lady of Salvation in Karada district of Baghdad has ended in the death of at least 50 members of the congregation. Police said a group of armed men, apparently from the Islamic State of Iraq, a Sunni militant umbrella group which includes al-Qaeda in Iraq, began by attacking the Iraq Stock Exchange. They then took over the Catholic church just across the road, where around 100 people were attending evening mass. An eye witness said the priest was killed immediately and the congregation were then confined to a small hall. There was a long stand-off as security forces surrounded the building with helicopters hovering overhead. Most of the casulties died when the security forces eventually stormed the church. The six attackers are also believed to have died.
Indian churches outlaw caste
The recognition of, and building relationships based on, caste is "sin, apostasy and rebellion against God" according to churches in India. The National Council of Churches in India (NCCI), meeting in New Delhi this week, have committed member churches to serve as "zero tolerance zones" for caste-based discrimination. They also called for Lent 2011 to be "a time of purging caste" from Christian communities. "The moment of truth has come", said the NCCI president Bishop Dr Taranath Sagar, speaking at the opening of the conference. He called on churches to get involved, in all sincerity and faithfulness, with the liberation of Dalits as part of the mission of God. Despite the fact that the caste system was abolished under India’s constitution in 1950, "untouchability" is still practiced, particularly in rural areas. Caste-based discrimination affects at least 160 million people in India.
Muslim and Christian leaders to meet
In the wake of several tense conflicts between Muslim and Christian believers around the world senior leaders of both communities, as well as renowned scholars and interfaith practitioners will meet from 1 - 4 November in Geneva. The international consultation "Transforming Communities: Christians and Muslims Building a Common Future", will identify and address issues of common concern and provide guidance for cooperation between Muslims and Christians, including faith-inspired approaches for joint Christian-Muslim action. The conveners of this meeting, the World Council of Churches (WCC); the World Islamic Call Society; the Royal Aal al Bayt Institute; and the Consortium of A Common Word, state "Christians and Muslims have a joint responsibility to contribute the very best of their theological, spiritual, and ethical resources for the common good of humanity." They expect the consultation to "develop concrete ways of building a common future, in order to achieve more compassionate and just societies, based on equality, co-citizenship and mutual respect".
Lausanne Congress calls government leaders to act Biblically
Lindsay Brown, International Director of the Lausanne Movement, ended the Third Lausanne Congress on World Evangelization on Sunday with a rousing call to the Church. “Our vision and hope”, he said, “was firstly for a ringing affirmation of the uniqueness of Christ and the truth of the biblical gospel; and a clear statement on evangelism and the mission of the church - all rooted in Scripture.” The Congress, perhaps the largest gathering of Christians from such a diverse background ever held in the history of the Church, drew 4,000 selected participants from 198 nations. Its reach was further extended over 650 GlobaLink sites in 91 countries and drew 100,000 unique visits to its web site from 185 countries during the week of the Congress. The week included an Executive Leadership Forum and a Think Tank for leaders in Government, Business and Academia. “There is a groundswell of conviction,” said Mr Brown, “that greater concerted effort is needed to apply biblical truth in these arenas.”
HIV/AIDS doctor shot dead in DR Congo
The motives for the senseless killing of a well despected doctor in DR Congo remain a mystery after local police suspended investigations (ostensibly because of lack of funds). Dr. Kambale Muliro was shot in the chest with 8 bullets as he was leaving a café in Beni, eastern DR Congo on 21 October. Dr Muliro was 54 years old, a medical doctor of more than 23 years of experience. He worked with the North Kivu diocese as Director of the Masiki Health Centre from 1997 to 2005. Since then he had been working with the Provincial Health and HIV/AIDS program as their technical director. Colleagues in the diocese describe him as a humble doctor commited to his work, a hard working man and ready to work in difficult conditions for the benefit of poor and vulnerable people. He left a wife and 6 children. Diocesan staff are currently trying to get the investigation into the killing restarted.
Lawyer leads PNG Church Partnership
The newly appointed General Secretary of Papua New Guinea Church Partnership has already made one visit to the region. Louise Ewington who was brought up in Papua New Guinea, where she lived in Arawa on Bougainville Island, with her parents John and Sarah Ewington brings a corporate legal perspective to her new role. Before accepting this position she was a financial services litigator for an international law firm. As Community Investment Managers Louise aslso helped to develop and implement Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives for the firm. In her first newsletter she writes, "The premise on which PNGCP was founded is that of support, friendship, and togetherness between the UK and the Anglican Church of Papua New Guinea (ACPNG). That is the reason why I chose Bung Wantaim (everyone together) as the title for our newsletter, and I think it is important for us to keep that objective in our sights.”
Indonesians pray for the nations
“Great shaking is going to take place”. This was message of the South-East Asia Prayer Consultation held from 12-15 October, in Cisarua-Puncak, West Java, Indonesia. They were refering to the earthquakes, tsunami, typhoons, severe flooding, and political unrest, experienced in the region in recent years. Anticipating what might be yet to come they asked “Are we, the Body of Christ, ready? We have to prepare ourselves now, not wait until the disaster takes place.” 40 delegates from outside Indonesia joined more than 800 local intercessors and prayer mobilisers in a week of intense prayer for nations. Reconciliation took place between Hong Kong and the Philippines over the hostage crisis in August; Indonesia and Malaysia asked forgiveness from one another over the treatment of Indonesian workers in Malaysia, and prayer was offered for the upcoming elections in Myanmar.
Chinese delegation excluded from Lausanne III Congress
As 4,200 Christian leaders gathered in Cape Town, South Africa, for the opening of the third Lausanne Congress, their celebrations were tinged with sadness as they learnt that the Chinese delegation had been prevented from leaving China by Chinese authorities. With the growth of the Church in China it had been hoped that the Chinese delegation would make a significant contribution to this week's gathering but it now seems very unlikely that any of them will make it to Cape Town - some have even been confined to their homes by Chinese government officials. Interview with Doug Birdsall here. The leaders gathered in Cape Town from around 200 countries worldwide will focus this week on who the whole church takes the whole gospel to the whole world in the 21st. century.
Chile chaplain:God with the 33 miners and their rescue
Alfredo Cooper, chaplain to Chile’s president spoke of emergency prayer meetings when the mining disaster struck. "For 17 days we prayed and then the miracle came when the boring machine ... hit the cavern they were in - and we just erupted in praise.... We had a thanksgiving service and since then we’ve had constant prayer. Many of the miners went down as atheists, unbelievers or semi-believers and they have come up to a man testifying that they were not 33 but that there were 34 down there - that Jesus was there with them and that they had a constant sense of his guidance and presence." Mario Sepulveda, 40, the second miner to be saved was reported saying: "I have been with God and with the devil", he said summing up his ordeal and miraculous salvation "I seized the hand of God, it was the best hand. I always knew God would get us out of there".
Touching Heaven, Changing Earth conference
The Anglican church of Southern Africa have chosen this well-known song title as the name for their province-wide conference held 14-16 October in Cape Town which aims to promote effective mission and ministry among Anglicans. As over 4,500 Christian leaders descend on Cape Town in next few days, this is a great opportunity for local Anglicans to connect to some of them and major global mission discussions. Rev Trevor Pearce is a main organiser assisted by Faith2Share's own Mark Oxbrow.
Church Mission Society Partner is Woman of the Year
Susie Hart has won the "Window to the World Award", one of just four given each year at this year's Women of the Year lunch in London, alongside fellow award winner Annie Lennox, Zimbio picture here. Her award salutes women who have demonstrated an indomitable will and determination to bring to our attention the plight of other human beings, changing the way we think about the world.
Celebrating 300 years of SPCK in India
This year the Indian Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge (ISPCK) celebrates its 300th anniversary. It is now a fully autonomous missionary body involved in equipping individuals and churches for mission and ministry and in effectively communicating the Christian faith in both English and many regional languages. A number of local celebrations culminate in the Thanksgiving and Rededication Service on 15th October in New Delhi, where the Archbishop of Centerbury will be also present.
South African Anglicans model reconciliation
The Anglican Church of Southern Africa voted on 1 October to adopt "The Anglican Covenant", the document setting out a statement of common "affirmations and commitments" by churches of the worldwide Anglican Communion which has been drawn up in response to disagreements over a number of issues including human sexuality. Supporting the resolution, Archbishop Makgoba (left) said he believed the church in southern Africa needed to try to "play a reconciling role" amid the current disputes over human sexuality in the Communion. He said the Covenant "is not a guarantee of an easy solution to the problems we face in the Communion" but hoped it would be a way of "healing and moving the Communion forward..." Bishop Glover said the Anglican Church could best be likened to a family: "There are no outsiders; we are all insiders... We are all different but we are members of a family... bound together by bonds of affection and bonds of loyalty."
No oil in church this Sunday
The UK Christian environmental charity Operation Noah holds its first ever 'Oil Fast' tomorrow. It is inviting church communities to hold off from using oil throughout the day as part of its “Exodus from carbon”. The Oil Fast is being held in response to the Deepwater Horizon disaster in the Gulf of Mexico, which Operation Noah said had made the world more aware of the wider costs of its dependence on oil. The concept for the Oil Fast, they say, is rooted in the Christian belief that prayer and fasting can bring healing to even the most desperate of situations. The group wants Christians to "take stock of our joint and personal complicity in the ongoing drive to exploit ever more challenging and inaccessible oil reserves". Churches are being encouraged to use the day to mark the start of their own journey away from dependence on carbon towards the "promised land of a Zero Carbon Britain" by 2030.
82,000 gather to hear the gospel in Kampala
Big rallies still draw large crowds in Uganda. In Kampala last week the Love Kampala Festival, fronted by Andrew Palau, drew an estimated 82,000 people. “God loves Uganda and He loves you,” said the 44-year-old Palau at the Kololo Airstrip. “God wants you to know that you can experience true freedom through His son Jesus Christ.” Throughout the two-day event, and even in the days prior, security was tight because of terrorism fears. The Rev. Henry Luke Orombi, archbishop of the Anglican Church of Uganda, praised the festival as being a foretaste of heaven because it united more than 1,000 churches across denominational lines behind the common goal of glorifying the name of Jesus. Community projects sponsored by the festival included blood donor drives, food distribution, clean water projects, and neighborhood renovation
WCC searches for just economic systems
In launching a book of essays reflecting on the global economic crisis today, Dr Rogate Mshana, co-editor of the collection and director of the World Council of churches (WCC) programme on Justice, Peace and Creation, said “The aim of publishing this book is to encourage individuals, students, churches and other communities of faith to analyze, reflect and act to find solutions. The current financial and economic systems have failed to solve the terrible problems of inequality, poverty and ecological destruction. Far from dealing effectively with today’s challenges, they have aggravated these problems.” The book Justice Not Greed concludes with an official WCC policy statement on “Just Finance and the Economy of Life”.
Sudan referendum may face delays
The international press are today reporting delays in voter registration for the crucial 9 January referendum on independence for Southern Sudan. The chairman of the referendum Commission, Muhammad Ibrahim Khalil, however denied that there were any delays due to technical and logistic difficulties, saying “How could we announce a delay if the date for the start of voter registration, foreseen in November, has not been set?” Some church leaders have expressed concerns about the practicalities of registering all electors in a shortened time period. Next January the population of South Sudan is called to decide whether to remain part of Sudan or secede; on the same day, residents of the oil-rich central Abyei State will vote on whether to maintain a special administrative status conceded by Khartoum or become part of South Sudan. Both votes were decided under a 2005 peace deal that ended decades of north-south civil war.
Wife of martyred missionary writes novel about Muslim extemists.
The widow of Father Daniel Sysoyev (left), the young Russian Orthodox missionary priest who was shot dead in his church on 19 November 2009 has just published a novel with the imprimatur of the Russian Orthodox Church. In the book a young woman, out of love for her husband, finds herself in a camp where Islamists prepare suicide bombers. The publication of this book by Yulia Sysoyeva, with official sanction, will again focus attention not only on Fr. Daniel’s murder and the fate of those suspected of killing him but also on his push for missionary work by the Russian Orthodox Church among Muslims. Born in 1974, Fr. Daniel was at the time of his death the pastor of the Church of the Apostle Thomas in Moscow. He argued that the Orthodox faith requires its adherents to spread the Good News of Christ to others. And during the last decade of his life, he gained the reputation of being an active missionary among the rapidly growing Muslim community of Moscow.
Don't forget the Pakistan floods
As international interest in the plight of Pakistanis affected by the July floods declines, individuals are taking whatever action they can to keep us aware of the millions who continue to suffer. One such venture is the 1toanother blog established by a group connected with Murree Christian School. They write of their blog, “1toAnother is an independent project established to help rural Pakistani communities recover from the devastation caused by the 2010 floods. The project is being run by brothers Josh, Greg and Philip Lock, and Josh’s brother-in-law, Zeeshan Laaldin. The four of us will travel to Pakistan in the first week of October to spend three weeks there, directly overseeing the application of funds raised. In recent months Pakistan has faced its most severe flooding in history, affecting 21 million people. Now as the floodwaters begin to recede, devastation and disease remain, and the need for global compassion and generosity is critical.”
Aid workers kidnapped in Afghanistan
Following last week’s parliamentary elections in Afghanistan, officials have now ordered recounts in seven provinces. As tensions rise with the delayed election results, four aid workers have been kidnapped in the north eastern Kunar province. The British aid worker and three Afghan colleagues were ambushed as they traveled in two vehicles. Kunar police chief, Khalilullah Zaiya, reported that police fought a gunbattle with the kidnappers near the ambush site but the assailants escaped with their captives. The British woman involved is thought to be an employee of the American consulting company Development Alternatives Inc. The increasingly messy-looking election risks becoming another black mark against the government as allegations mount of misconduct and fraud. The Free and Fair Election Foundation of Afghanistan, the main independent Afghan observer group, has been intensely critical.
New African mission on YouTube
The recently launched CMS Africa has utilised the YouTuibe platform to share its vision for discipleship and community transformation across Africa. The 10 minute video demonstrates a creative and holistic approach to mission which is being embraced by churches and movements in many parts of Africa. Dennis Tongoi, Director of CMS AFrica, describes how a focus on leadership, especially amongst women and the youth, is the key to community transformation. The video can be viewed at YouTube here. CMS Africa has grown out of the two hundred year experience of international mission of the Church Mission Society, UK.
Floods bring food crisis in northern Nigeria
Christian and Muslim leaders in northern Nigeria have expressed concern as around two million people are been displaced by floods after authorities opened the gates on the Challawa and Tiga dams. The dams are in Kano state, but about 5,000 villages in neighbouring Jigawa state have been affected. Sop far it is not yet clear whether residents received a warning or if anyone was injured or went missing in the flooding. In a normal year, the water released from the dams flows into fields, irrigating crops of corn, rice and vegetables during the brief growing season. In neighbouring Niger, millions are facing food shortages after a prolonged drought caused crops to fail. That was followed by severe flooding last month. Millions are now facing food shortages in gthe region.
Cool reception for New York Summit on MGDs
Christian development agencies around the world have given a cool reception to the outcomes of this week’s UN review of the Millennium Development Goals (MGDs). Around 140 Heads of State and Government took part in the three-day meeting at UN Headquarters in New York. The aim was to take stock of the progress made so far towards the MDGs and to accelerate progress to reach the Goals by their 2015 target date. Some significant new commitments were made during the meeting but the verdict of many is that this is too little too late and that the 2015 goals will not be met. The UN outcome document from the meeting is available here and many other related documents can be found on the BOND website. Tear Fund has commented that, “The summit, whilst full of good words and sentiment, neglected key issues and has little in the final outcome document that is concrete or measurable.”
Missionary found dead in Jharkhand, India
The Evangelical Fellowship of India (EFI) has reported the death in suspicious circumstances of an Indian missionary working in Jharkhand, north east India. The body of the young missionary, Shravan Kumar, was recovered from a well in the Garwah District of Jharkhand on 13 September, close to a Muslim Idgah. Mr A. K. Singh told EFI that "according to the post-mortem report the death has been caused by drowning". Mr. Kumar, who worked with the Gospel Echo Missionary Society (GEMS) and was based in Pratapgarh, Uttar Pradesh apparently Kumar went missing from his home on 10 September and visited some local workers in Garwah District on the 11 September but was not seen alive after that. This death follows in the wake of a number of attacks on Christian mission workers in India in recent weeks.
Archbishop of Canterbury appeals to world governments
As world leaders meet in New York to consider how best to fulfil their Milliennium Development Goal promises, the Archbishop of Canterbury has issued a video appeal to governments to use their resources to meet the basic needs of the world's poorest people. In the video Dr. Williams marks the many achievements but also highlights the urgent need for stronger partnerships, between governments and other sectors of society, including faith communities, in tackling poverty, hunger, disease and injustice. He identifies the values and vision underpinning a global response to the challenges of poverty and injustice, which are reflected in communities of faith: “Here there are resources not only in terms of skills and persons but of vision and of energy; of faith. A sense of deep obligation, a sense that our welfare is absolutely bound up with the welfare of our neighbour.”
Rwanda elects new Anglican archbishop
The Anglican Church of Rwanda has found a new leader. This week Rt. Revd Onesphore Rwaje (left) was elected as Archbishop to succeed the Most Rev. Emmanuel Kolini who served this central African church as the Archbishop of Rwanda for the past 12 years. Bishop Rwaje currently serves as Bishop of Byumba Diocese and Dean of the Province. An official statement said: "The Anglican Church of Rwanda is pleased to announce to all Rwanda Christians, especially Anglican Christians, that during their House of Bishops meeting, which took place on 17 September Bishop Onesphore Rwaje was elected as the Archbishop-elect of the Province Rwanda and Bishop of the new Gasabo Diocese. Bishop Rwaje said after his election: “I will put emphasis on what I have been doing, which is spreading the gospel, promoting community development initiatives, and fighting poverty in general.”
World accounts for poverty
“The world has come to give an account of itself at the United Nations, at a critical time in the struggle against extreme poverty”, was Joel Edward’s assessment as world leaders gathered in New York this week to assess progress on the Millennium Development Goal promises. Joel, International Director of Micah Callenge was speaking at a gathering of Christians in New York, USA. At a service was based around justice, mercy and humility, the Bishop of Southern Malawi, Rt Revd James Tengatenga, spoke of the importance of humility in tackling poverty: 'We cannot wait for the next generation, as there may be no-one left to do it on our behalf. Right and reverent use of resources are the order of the day”, he said. International organisations such as Tearfund, World Vision, Bread for the World, and Sojourners supported the service.
Arab Vision appoints new International Director
Arab Vision, an organization that produces Christian TV programs in the Arab World, has appointed Dr Mike Morris (left) to be its new International Director. He has previously worked for Youth for Christ and the Evangelical Alliance in England, was a board member of Tear Fund, and served as CEO of Spring Harvest (a Christian teaching ministry in the UK). Mr. Morris come well qualified for his new role as he holds a doctorate in Syriac studies and is also a qualified mediator. Abu Banaat, the founder and former International Director of Arab Vision said, “I consider us privileged that we found a man with such a track record of Christian leadership in England. This makes it easy for me to hand over the leadership role.” Abu Banaat, a Dutchman, has led the organization for 13 years.
Zimbabwe - churches unite to restore nation
In troubled Zimbabwe Trumpet Call! - Churches Together for Transformation has grown into a nationwide initiative which has caught the imagination of the masses. Its broad aim is to call and mobilize the whole Church for transformation of the nation of Zimbabwe through a restored passion for God, one another and the nation. There is an initial, combined focus on agriculture in order to feed the nation and to form a platform for further transformational initiative into all sectors of society. As part of this initiative leaders of the Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe, the Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops Conference and Zimbabwe Council of Churches are inviting all churches to gatherings in Harare and 10 other cities in Zimbabwe, as well as over 50 rural venues on 26 September. As well as distributing 40,000 leaflets in English, Shona and Ndebele five national TV commercials with leaders from various denominations endorsing Trumpet Call! are being screened this month.
Africa prepares for Day of Prayer for Peace
This year’s International Day of Prayer for Peace, which falls on Tuesday 21 September, highlights the work of African churches seeking to build peace within and between diverse communities. The day will be marked by churches across Africa, with the Secretary General of the World Council of Churches joining Christians at prayer in Nairobi, Kenya. One of the African projects featured is a “Peace Village” project in Uganda which supports the process of healing in communities marked by conflict, trauma and pain. Ecumenical groups of youth, women and community leaders from different part of the country come to peace camps at selected villages and participate in developing them. The project was initiated by the Uganda Joint Christian Council as part of the country’s return to relative stability after decades of military dictatorship and civil war.
Christian school destroyed in Kashmir
Sixteen people were killed and a further 60 injured today as Kashmir, India, erupted in the worst violence since separatist protests began sweeping through the disputed Himalayan region three months ago. Authorities blamed the violence partly on Iranian Press TV reports of the desecration of the Qur’an in the United States. In the town of Tangmarg officers opened fire after protesters had set a Christian school and other government buildings ablaze. Later in the day, Mirwaiz Umer Farooq, a moderate Muslim leader, condemned the attack on the Christian school and called on Kashmiris not to be provoked into violence. “It is a very confused situation here,” he said. “Nobody knows which agency is doing what.” This latest bloodshed comes as Indian leaders are searching for a way out of the latest Kashmir crisis.
Asian Christians attacked for proposed Qur'an burning
Despite Pastor Terry Jones announcing that he has suspended his plan to burn copies of the Qur’an, attacks have been taking place on Christians around the world. In Pakistan demonstrators stoned a Church in Daska and three Churches in Narowal district of Punjab province. The Catholic Bishops Conference of Pakistan, NCJP, the bishops of the Church of Pakistan, the Pakistan Christian Congress and other leaders of Pakistani Christian community held press conferences and protests in major cities of Pakistan to condemn the planned actions of Pastor Jones and Dove World Outreach Centre. In Karachi while Christians were holding a demonstration against the burning a member of the St. Paul parish was shot at by Islamic militants. Tensions are also running high in Malaysia, India and Indonesia. In Bekasi, Indonesia assailants stabbed a Christian worshipper in the stomach and assalted a minister in the head with a wooden plank as they headed to morning prayers.
Cholera and starvation follow flooding in Niger
Already suffering from a severe food shortage, and a prolonged drought, the people of Niger in West Africa are now dealing with floods. Over 200,000 people have been displaced after unusually heavy rains. In Niamey, the River Niger reached its highest level in more than 80 years. Before the floods, drought was blamed for crop failure and livestock deaths. 100,000 of the remaining cattle died in the flooding. What crops there were swept away just two months before harvest. Roads have also been destroyed hindering the delivery of shelter materials, blankets, food and mosquito netting. Christian agencies working in Niger now report rising concerns over the spread of malaria and waterborne diseases. The severe flooding in the region is also affecting Chad, Cameroon and Ghana with the World Health Organisation (WHO) reporting a significant rise in outbreaks of cholera.
World Christians disown Florida church
Muslim leaders have today welcomed statements from around the world in which Christian communities have disowned one small church in Florida, Dove World Outreach Centre, which threatens to burn copies of the Qur'an this Saturday. In a statement from the World Evangelical Alliance, Secretary General, Geoff Tunnicliffe, said, "The WEA, on behalf of its member churches, Christian organisations and bodies, strongly condemns the Dove World Outreach Center’s plans to burn copies of the Qur’an. Such an act represents a grave misunderstanding of our role as Christians in building partnership and peace with our neighbors, may they be Muslims or adherents of other religions. As Christians we are called to love our neighbors, do good to them and build bridges of understanding and respect and, by so doing, demonstrate the character of our faith." The Vatican has also expressed deep concern describing the proposed Qur'an burning as an "outrageous act". The World Council of Churches, in a letter to heads of Muslim communities has "firmly rejected and condemned" the proposed burning.
Indian Christians appeal to Mrs. Sonia Ghandi
The leaders of the All India Christian Council have appealed to Mrs. Sonia Ghandi to intervene to prevent a law being passed which will penalise religious minorities. In their letter they say, “We write with deep concern at the two Houses of Parliament passing the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act, 2010 (FCRA 2010). The law was conceived by the former NDA government and was specially meant to target religious minority communities and their social action and welfare organisations. We had hoped that the Bill would be put in cold storage, if not actually buried, with the going away of the NDA government. The Passing of the Bill under a UPA government came as a surprise to us. Civil society had also consistently opposed the FCRA Bill as it ran entirely contrary to the National Policy on Voluntary Organisations adopted by this government. We request your urgent intervention to prevent the operationalisation of what is an entirely unfair and discriminatory Act.”
Youth seek unity in Pakistan
Young people from Karachi and Peshawar dioceses are jointly organising a conference entitled "Unleashing the Potential" seeking to empower less privileged youth. This event takes place as the country is still severely affected by recent floods and will be a unique opportunity to reach out for unity and peace between different denominations during tumultous times. Participants will come from the Roman Catholic Church, the Church of Pakistan, the Anglican Orthodox Church and Pentecostal churches as well as a good number of students from Scripture Union, the Student CHristian Mpvement (SCM), Campus Crusade for Christ and the Pakistan Fellowship of Evangelical Students (PFES). Organisers have requested pray for the people of Pakistan and for this event as a living symbol of the unity of the Body of Christ in this country.
African Evangelicals called to leadership in their nations
Nigerian pastor Gbile Akanni has called on African Christians to wake up and take responsibility for their nations and continent - and just as importantly, for global mission. “God has appointed a moment for Africa and this is it!” he said. Pastor Akanni was speaking at the 10th General Assembly of the Association of Evangelicals in Africa (AEA) held in Mombasa last week. The 130 evangelical leaders gathered from across the continent of Africa heard the new AEA General Secretary, Aiah Foday-Khabenje (left), set out his agenda for the future and calling them to “Imagine the impact of 80 million African evangelicals taking personal and corporate responsibility in relationships, in evangelism and mission, in politics, in climate challenges and the myriad issues the church has a responsibility to speak into.”
Christians united against Florida pastor
As Pastor Terry Jones (left) prepares to burn copies of the Qur'an, the scripture sacred to every Muslim, on the third day of their most holy feast of Eid Al-Fitr on 11 September, he has united Christians around the world who are pleading with him to abandon this foolish act. The fear is that he will also unite Muslims in an anger which will be vented on Christian communities thousands of miles away from his church in Florida. Geoff Tunnicliffe, Secretary General of the World Evangelical Alliance is leading the appeal to this small church and has spoken personally with Pastor Jones. Christians of every tradition have joined their voices in assuring Muslim believers that this small church in Florida in no way represents Christians generally and that their proposed actions are a betrayal of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Sri Lankan bishop appeals for democracy
The Anglican bishop of Colombo in Sri Lanka, the Rt Revd Duleep de Chickera (left), has issued an appeal for democracy as the government there seeks to amend the constitution to give greater powers to politicians. He writes, “Many sections of the population are deeply alarmed at the possible repercussions the proposed 18th Amendment to the Constitution will have on our system of democratic governance. If passed by Parliament, the constitutional changes will remove the restriction on the two terms a person can serve as President … [and] much more than before empower the Government and President to select and appoint persons to serve on the crucial commissions that are meant to safeguard the democratic rights of the people, such as the Elections Commission, Public Services Commission, Judicial Services Commission, National Police Commission, Bribery Commission and so on.”
Kids that buy - Mothers' Union concerned
The worldwide Anglican movement Mothers' Union will campaign this autumn again the commercialisation of childhood. They say, "Mothers’ Union believes children should be valued as children, not consumers. However, childhood has become a marketing opportunity worth £99 billion in the UK. Marketers target children’s natural inexperience, through methods such as celebrity endorsement, in order to reach not only children’s pocket money but also the household purse. These commercial pressures encourage materialism which negatively affects children’s wellbeing, family life and peer relationships, and can encourage values that Jesus taught against." There is a special website for the campaign at Bye Buy Childhood.
Kenya mourns death of Archishop's wife
The sudden death has been announced of Karen Wabukala (left) the wife of the Anglican Archbishop of Kenya. The Most. Rev. Dr. Eliud Wabukala, the fifth primate of the Anglican Church in Kenya was elected to lead his church only last year and was enthroned in All Saints Cathedral, Nairobi in July 2009. His wife's funeral service will take place in the same church later this week. Bishop Eliud and his wife have five adult children between the ages of twenty and thirty. His youngest child died only last year. Earlier this year, in March, Karen Wabukala was the subject of international concern when email spam, supposedly sent from the archbishop's email account, falsely claimed she was sick and needed money for urgent treatment. Christians around the world pray for Archbishop Eliud as he looses his wife so soon after the death of his youngest child.
Churches in New Zealand minister after earthquake
The Prime Minister has described as a miracle the fact that no one died during last Friday's earthquake in Christchurch, which was on the same scale as that which devastated Haiti earlier in the year. The offices of New Zealand CMS remain in tact but their Director, Steve Maina, writes, "we are finding many people in Christchurch desperate for help. We have a family that have moved in to stay with us as they are not able to stay in their house. Many are also looking to God and so a great opportunity for us to show God's love as we help out. This afternoon I spent a couple of hours helping a family shovel silt that gathered around the house in some wee 'volcanos'. So thank you for your prayers."
Church leader beaten in Ethiopia
A Somali church leader who was forced to flee his home and in Somalia and live in hiding in Ethiopia was this week discovered by his pursuers and severely beaten. Mohamed Ali Garas, a prominent Somali church leader and convert from Islam, fled to Addis Ababa five years ago and now pastors a church there. On the night he was attacked, he was walking home when he heard two men calling his name. He turned to see what they wanted, and they attacked, fleeing only when a neighbor arrived on the scene. Although the beating was severe, Garas survived. Somali Christians living in Ethiopia have come under increased attacks from Somali Muslims in recent months. International Christian Concern report that another Somali pastor in Addis Ababa described this latest attack as "an apparent attempt to scare the Somali Christian community in Addis Ababa who considers Ethiopia a safe haven from religious persecution."
Christians pray for Washington Middle East talks
As Middle East peace negotiators assemble today in Washington, Christians in the region, and across the world, are meeting to pray. With emigration from the region continuing to be a major concern, the Christian churches of the Middle East are declining but still have a vital ministry in reconciliation between Israeli and Palestinian factions. On a visit to the region this week the General Secretary of the World Council of Churches, Rev Dr. Olav Fykse Tveit, said yesterday, “Now is the time for a just peace. The Christians here pray for that; all peoples here need it desperately. The time of occupation and violence must end." His message also talks about the need for the final negotiations on the status of Jerusalem to involve the heads of the local churches. He also says the Christians in Jerusalem are "very much concerned by the discourse about religious identity of states in this region, which they fear will marginalize not only their presence and witness but also that of all Christians elsewhere in the region."
Young people invited to steward WCC events in 2011
Young Christians from different Christian traditions was been invited to apply for the World Council of Churches (WCC) stewards programme for one of two 'hands-on learning experiences' at major ecumenical meetings during 2011. The WCC Central Committee meeting on 8-24 February and the International Ecumenical Peace Convocation on 12-26 May are both looking for applicants who must be between the age of 18 and 30 years. More information available at the WCC website.
Plans have been announced by India's Aditya Productions for a $US30M two hour epic on the life of Jesus which will be shot in the Holy Land. Not only is this the first Bollywood film about Jesus but it will also be unique in having mainly child actors, although one unspecified role has been reserved for Pawan Kalyan (left), the megastar "darling of millions". Summing up the appeal of the story, which will be "a very faithful representation of the life of Jesus" from "birth to his crucifixion" with particular emphasis on his youth, the producer, Konda Krishnam Raju, said: "It is remarkable that this man who started his mission from a small village became within a short span of three years a force that influenced mankind for over 2,000 years and is worshiped by millions of people." The film will be available in English, Hindi, Telugu and Malayalam by late 2011. Although fewer than 3% of Indians are Christians, Kalyan, explained: "There are millions of people in India who follow Christianity. It is a great faith, a great religion”.
Ailing Western Church debated by African bishops
Having celebrated the growth of the church in Africa and focused on some of the key issues for their own churches – health, youth, training, etc. – it was inevitable that the African Anglican bishops meeting in Uganda last week would eventually turn their attention to the ‘failing church of the West’. Archbishop Ian Ernest of the Indian Ocean (left), chair of the Council of Anglican Provinces in Africa, told journalists in Kampala "Today, the West is lacking obedience to the word of God. It is for us (Africans) to redress the situation," adding that he has severed all ties to the Episcopalian churches in Canada and the US. The conference host, the Archbishop of Uganda, Henry Orombi, said African leaders were pleased to welcome Archbishop Rowan Williams of Canterbury so that they could voice their concerns about the "ailing church". He said "Homosexuality is incompatible with the word of God. It is good that Archbishop Rowan is here. We are going to express to him where we stand. We are going to explain where our pains are."
Mission frontiers not just geographical says Lausanne
Interviewed by Christianity Today, Lindsay Brown (left), International Director of Lausanne, spoke of one of the hoped for outcomes of this year’s congress being, “a fresh call to the Church to bear witness to Jesus Christ and all his teaching in all of the world - not only geographically, but in the sphere of ideas, business, education, governance, the sciences” He went on to say “We face many key challenges as we seek to bear witness to Christ today. Some are straightforward, like the advance of other faiths. But there are areas the Church has only just begun to reflect on, like care of creation, genetic manipulation or how to approach end of life issues. These need to be identified. People working in the same sphere, like politicians or evangelists, will meet in small groups and begin grappling with issues which bear on their spheres.” The Lausanne III Congress takes place in Cape Town, South Africa in October 2010.
Stop HIV celebrating its 50th Birthday!
At the official opening of the All Africa Conference of Anglican Bishops yesterday Uganda’s President Museveni called for tolerance between people of different faith convictions. He did not, however, extend this to tolerance for people of different sexual orientations and made no comment on recent proposed legislation in Uganda to outlaw same sex relationships. Today during a plenary session on Health in Africa, Rev Canon Gideon Byamugisha, the award winning HIV/AIDS campaigner called on the bishops of the Anglican Communion to take the lead in ensuring the HIV virus never celebrates its 50th birthday in 2031. Canon Gideon - who made history by being the first priest in Africa to publically admit his HIV+ status - said bishops are in a prime position to be leaders in the fight against HIV and AIDS and to challenge the silence and stigma that surround the illness.
Thirst threatens health in Pakistan
Fears are growing in Pakistan of a major health risk as more and more vulnerable people resort to drinking unsafe water. Whilst new areas in the south are flooded, villagers returning to their homes in the north find nothing left and no safe water supply. Ifrahim Mathew of the Evangelical Alliance Pakistan said: “The floods in Pakistan are far worse than any of us first imagined. Meeting the immense needs of the survivors is an uphill struggle. The families we are caring for came to us with nothing but the clothes they were wearing. They have really lost everything. One tent village with 150 families is still waiting for help. We need more donations to help meet their needs. We have been able to help a little already thanks to the kindness of supporters but much more remains to be done.”
African Anglican bishops celebrate growth
The Bishop in Egypt Dr Mouneer Anis (left) told Anglican bishops from more than 400 dioceses at the second All Africa Bishops Conference, in Kampala, Uganda, this week, that this was an historic moment for Africa’s Christian community. “There is no doubt that history is going to record what happens at this conference for future generations,” he said. He explained that although “Africa groans” under the weight of conflicts, epidemics and poverty the African church is growing in extraordinary ways. Africa is predicted to become a continent of 673 million Christians by 2025. The theme of unlocking the potential of the Anglican Communion in Africa to impact the continent and the rest of the world was echoed in the comments of several of the key speakers. The archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. Rowan Williams, added, “If the churches of Africa are indeed going to be for this time a city set on a hill, how very important it will be for the health and growth of all God’s churches throughout the world that this witness continues at its best and highest.” Full press release here.
Evangelism in a Virtual World
In our increasingly ‘virtual world’ August this year saw the 5-billionth digital device connected to the Internet! Digital media are changing our world for ever. The majority of mobile phone and computer users live outside the West. This offers Christians a growing range of opportunities for online outreach and discipleship. Internet Evangelism Day, an advocate ministry for digital outreach, has produced an Open Letter to Missions to highlight this dramatic potential around the world. Internet Evangelism Day are also sponsoring a US-based conference and can offer a panel of speakers who are available internationally to address conferences, consultations or bible colleges, in person or by video Skype session.
Prayer unites Zimbabwe churches
Sunday 26 September has been declared an international day of prayer for Zimbabwe. Whilst the country continues to struggle with massive economic and health issues the churches are uniting around this call for prayer. All the major denominations in Zimbabwe, under the leadership of the Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe, the Zimbabwe Council of Christian Churches and the Catholic Bishops Conference have expressed willingness to come on board and gather to pray for the nation on that Sunday. It is hoped that churches will march through their towns and cities and gather at a central point in their locations to pray as one. In Harare the Civic Centre ground is the planned venue where it is hoped that hundreds of thousands of people will gather to pray. Prayer resources for use on this date are available at Love Zim.
Will Pakistan emergency aid be returned as debt payments?
In the wake of the continuing flood crisis in Pakistan the Jubilee Debt Campaign is calling on governments and international institutions to freeze Pakistan’s debt. The campaigning group which includes British Baptists and Christian Aid is concerned that the country’s annual US$3 billion debt may dwarf the emergency aid being sent to the country. The World Bank’s decision to give Pakistan nearly $3 billion in new loans to cope with the disaster, rather than provide grant-aid, will only compound their international debt problem. Nick Dearden, Director of Jubilee Debt Campaign, said it was “criminal” that Pakistan was being made to repay borrowers who had extended “unjust loans” to military governments over decades. “It is vital that desperately needed emergency aid is not effectively swallowed up in debt repayments and a freeze on such payments must be called immediately,” he said.
Chinese government pays for new church
Only three decades after China’s Cultural Revolution saw some of the most dramatic restrictions on the practice of religion in the modern world, the Christian church in China is now awakening to a new era. On the outskirts of Nanjing a brand new 5,000 seat church is under construction with the land and 20% of the building costs being provided by the municipal government. The Communist Party's senior official with responsibility for this policy is the director general of the State Administration for Religious Affairs, Wang Zuo An. Interviewed by the BBC he said that there are now at least 20 million Protestant Christians in China worshipping in the state-sanctioned church. "Such growth is unprecedented in the history of Christianity in China. Christianity is enjoying its best period of growth in China," he said. BBC world service will broadcast a program about the Church in China on Wednesday 25 August.
Right place, right time!
As the crisis in Pakistan deepens and international aid is slow to arrive one mission has found itself in the right place at the right time. A spokesperson for Faith2Share member Global Teams (GT) writes, ”As we look at this crisis, we believe God has been preparing GT to fulfill a unique role. One of the biggest concerns right now is the threat of water-borne illnesses. As part of a Kingdom Ventures project, GT has been testing water purification systems since March. Little did we know that God had led us to this equipment ‘for such a time as this’. The purification units are small, portable, run on a motorcycle battery, and can deliver 132 gallons of clean water per hour for years. This is life-saving technology – just one unit can provide clean water, safe drinking water, to over 6,300 people.” To assist GT with this project contact Global Teams.
Reconciliation ministry in Israel/Palestine
As the US seeks again to broker a peaceful settlement in Israel/Palestine, the reconciliation ministry Musalaha has again been holding camps for Israeli and Palestinian young people. Often held in desert locations these encounters between young people challenge stereotypes and enable each person to tell their story in a safe environment. Young people learning to live together is as important for the future in this part of the world as tense diplomatic meetings in the US. Masalaha have also just completed a camp for 82 Muslim children aged 7-11 in Hebron in an attempt to provide respite from the fear of daily living. During the week they looked at five basic elements of friendship: loving, giving, trusting, being loyal and accepting through storytelling and songs.
Conflict disrupts bishop's consecration in DR Congo
With continuing civil disruption in DR Congo the consecration of the new bishop of Bunia this coming Sunday, 22 August, has had to be moved from Boga to Bunia. Rev. Bahemuka will be consecrated bishop by Archbishop Isingoma who said this week, “We have been forced to move the consecration activities from Boga to Bunia because of insecurity in Eringeti in the North Kivu Province, which is not far from Boga which is the new field where both government and UN security forces concentrate in their peace keeping measures.” CMS Africa requests prayers that all Congolese bishops and visitors will participate in this event without any worries and also that the bishops will travel together peacefully from Bunia to the Council of Anglican Provinces of Africa (CAPA) meeting in Entebbe, Uganda, which begins on 23 August.
Muslims fund new church centre in UK
British Muslims have given more than £50,000 towards a project to develop a new community centre in Manchester which is led by local churches. The cash has been promised by the Woodfield Avenue Bohra community to help redevelop Levenshulme United Reformed Church into a multi-purpose community facility. ‘The investment symbolises the strength of inter-faith relationships in our community,’ said church leader Rev. Ed Cox. ‘The relationship between the church and the mosque began with plans to develop a joint youth club which, we hope, will now come to fruition when the centre opens later this year.’ Levenshulme United Reformed Church will continue to worship in, and serve the community from, the Inspire Centre, once it’s completed. Working with Levenshulme Baptist Church, the local Muslim and Christian communities will offer a ‘menu’ of services and activities for all members of the community.
Kenya looks forward
Church leaders in Kenya have mostly shared in the nation’s rejoicing over the adoption of a new constitution. There is a general wave of excitement over what the "birth of a second republic" will look like. Government reports say that more than 72 percent of registered voters went to the polls. Those numbers are the strongest turnout for a national vote in Kenya's history. The Kenyan Church was vocal in its opposition to certain provisions in the draft, specifically over abortion on demand, a devolution of power from the presidency, and special conditions that create Islamic courts. Those issues remain on the table. And some church leaders continue to voice concerns about the freedom of Christians groups in Kenya in the future, especially in areas where Muslims are strong. No one has forgotten the storm of protest following the 2007 national election, in which land rights and tribal politics took center stage. This landslide win now gives the government the mandate they need to work on reforming the post-independence system.
President of Sierra Leone seeks God's power
Canon Modupe Taylor-Pearce of the Anglican Church in Sierra Leone writes to Faith2Share, “I am full of a remarkable incident which happened on Sunday July 18, 2010. His Excellency the President [Ernest Bai Koroma] (left) publicly dedicated himself and his cabinet to Almighty God at the National Stadium. I was one of the ministers invited to pray for the President as he sat in the middle of a circle of invited ministers. I was particularly impressed by his speech. He told the world that when he came to power the standards and economy were low on several fronts. However, he stated, the expectations of the people were high. He said that there was no way he could meet the expectations of the people except by trusting in God and seeking His direction. I am confident that God Almighty is blessing Sierra Leone and that we must persevere to bring everyone to a saving knowledge of Christ.”
Lausanne sponsors mission across Africa
The Lausanne III Congress in Cape Town this coming October will not be just a talking shop. Cape Town 2010 Mission Committee Chair Michael Cassidy talks of “matchmaking” as they link evangelistic teams from around the world to impact Africa for Christ this autumn. These working ministry teams will lead twenty-one Mission Campaigns in Congo DRC, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Rwanda, South Africa, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda and Zimbabwe. International evangelists will come to Africa as ministry partners from New Zealand, Germany, Kenya, USA, Madagascar and Ukraine. Information on all events is available at from MissionAfrica 2010. “Impacting a Continent One Life at a Time” has been adopted as the working heart beat of the Mission Committee Leadership Team.
Focus on children in Paraguay
Paraguay was the venue last month for the latest of the 4/14 Window consultations focused on how young Christians between the ages of 4 and 14 can be empowered to transform their families, communities and nations for Christ. The Vice-President of Paraguay, Federico Franco greeted the 600 participants from 45 cities in Paraguay and the main speakers were Luis Bush, Nam Soo Kim and Chang Keun Yang, president of Arriba Ninos. Arriba Ninos is the children’s ministry of the US-based Korean Mission ANAC. Seminars and workshops offered training on how schools, churches and NGOs can network to offer effective children’s ministry in their communities. 4/14 Window consultations are being held in many parts of the world this year.
Afghan killings investigation continues
The International Assistance Mission (IAM) in Afghanistan has stated that Mr Safiullah, the lone survivor of the attack which killed ten of their eye camp team last week, has now been releaaed by local police. Of those who died they said, "We want to pay tribute to each of our colleagues who died, to their commitment to serve the Afghan people. Those who have known them and seen them at work can do nothing but pay the highest tribute to them ... In some news articles, the people on this team have been described as 'saints.' This is not how they saw themselves. They were basically selfless professionals willing to spend their lives and energy in a meaningful way." While investigations continue IAM officials have said that they now have considerable doubt as to whether the motive for this attack was simply robbery as earlier reported.
Anglican church in Zambia celebrates 100 years of mission
Anglicans in Zambia celebrate 100 years of the existence of their church this year. A national celebration will be held in October but festivities start this month with diocesan celebrations. The diocese of Eastern Zambia, led by Bishop William Mchombo, will hold a thanksgiving service on 15 August. Bishop William writes that before the service he “will with a few disciples undertake a walk of 100km, from Chipata to Msoro, the route which the Revd Leonard Kamungu, the UMCA missionary from Nyasaland, now Malawi, took 100 years ago to open up a mission station at Msoro and from whence the Anglican church spread to other parts of the country. We hope to walk for three days, evangelizing on the way and sleeping in at two different schools on two nights of our journey.” Celebrations in other dioceses will follow.
Mission Global Round Table meets in UK
At the invitation of the World Evangelical Alliance (WEA) Mission Commission, the leaders of global mission networks are meeting in the UK this week. Leaders of international networks such as WEA, Lausanne, Third World Missions Association, Micah Network and Faith2Share have gathered with regional and national networks to build stronger personal relationships as a foundation for collaboration in mission. The regional and national networks include COMIBAM (Latin America), MANI (Africa), SEALINK (South East Asia), IMA (India), and Mission Excahange (USA). With no formal agenda other than the desire to listen to God's leading, the 36 leaders present will reflect on current mission challenges and explore how increased collaboration in mission might strengthen the witness of the church around the world.
International aid flows into Pakistan
As floods continue to move south in Pakistan and the death toll rises above 1,600 with an estimated 14 millions people directly effected, Christian agencies are working alongside Muslim organisations in bringing relief. Tear Fund, Christian Aid, World Vision and Lutheran World Relief are among the many who already have local teams working in the country. The provinces of Khyber Paktunkhwa, Balochistan, Punjab and Sindh have been the most heavily affected by flooding. With so many families left homeless, and more monsoon rains expected, the people of Pakistan are in dire need of food, water and shelter to survive this disaster. World Vision’s Shaharyar Bangash, who has spent several days in the flood zone, described the situation: “The people don’t need just one thing, they need literally everything. The number of people in need is massive.” As agencies seek to pool their resources CMS has seconded their mission partner, Nigel Bull, to Tearfund to help coordinate relief work in Sindh.
Ten humanitarian charity workers killed in Afghanistan
Following the killing of all but one of the Nuristan Eye Camp Team in Afghanistan last week, the Executive Director of the International Assistance Mission (IAM), Mr. Dirk Frans, is expected to address a press conference today, Monday. One British, one German and six American doctors, including three women, were among those found shot dead in Badakhshan together with Afghan colleagues. Members of the IAM eye camp team had completed work in Nuristan at the invitation of communities there and were returning to Kabul. IAM has worked in Afghanistan at the invitation of successive governments since 1966. Several Faith2Share member agencies have members serving with IAM and our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of those who have been killed.
Church responds to Pakistan floods
As the full impact of flooding in Pakistan begins to be realized, the Diocese of Peshawar (Church of Pakistan) has launched an emergency relief and rescue program for families affected by the monsoon floods. The death toll from the disaster has now risen above 1,500. The program is assisting more than 1,300 Christian and Hindu families, as well as other minorities and some Muslim church workers, according to an e-mail sent from the Peshawar diocese to church partners. The diocese is providing affected families with food. The United Nations has estimated that almost one million people have been affected by the flooding, 45 bridges destroyed, and thousands of houses swept away. The Church of Pakistan was established in 1970 with a union of Anglicans, Scottish Presbyterians (Church of Scotland), Methodists, and Lutherans.
CMS Ireland Appoints New Mission Director
Ronnie Briggs has been appointed to the role of Mission Director for CMS Ireland. Clifford McSpadden, chairman of the CMS Ireland Board of Trustees, writes, "He brings with him a wealth of experience of the Global Church, the Church in Ireland and of the unfolding story of CMS Ireland. But of even more importance are Ronnie’s love for God and his passion for mission. These qualities, along with a pastoral heart, will provide the context for his leadership of the Society.... Please join us in thanking God for this important appointment, and pray that God would bless Ronnie, Maggie and the children and our partners in Kajiado [where he was serving] during this period of transition."
Mission through discussing difference
Speaking at this week’s meeting of the Standing Committee of the Anglican Communion, Canon Phil Groves (left), who leads the ‘Continuing Indaba’ process, said that he saw engaging in difficult discussions around complex issues of faith as “energising local and global mission”. The ‘Indaba’ process which involves structured conversation and attentive listening, has been well received within the Anglican Communion since its introduction at the 2008 Lambeth Conference. At that conference it was particularly used to encourage a more constructive debate around issues, such as homosexuality, which threaten to divide the Communion. Following a recent consultation, as part of ‘Continuing Indaba’, Bishop Patole of Mumbai said, "It was good to share and we became clear on Indaba and how it can assist our mission in India." Canon Groves said, "The ultimate test of Continuing Indaba is not that we all agree with one another but that local mission is furthered through our global Communion."
Anglicans take two new steps in holistic mission
Holistic mission was the key item on the agenda on the third day of the Anglican Communion Standing Committee meeting this week. Reporting on two new initiatives Rev. John Kafwanka first presented the Evangelism and Church Growth Initiative (ECGI) which was requested by the bishops meeting at Lambeth in 2008. The initiative aims to promote evangelism and church growth work throughout the Communion and to facilitate the sharing of news, stories experiences and strategies of various evangelism and church growth initiatives. As an ‘initiative’ of the church it seeks active participation from individuals, churches and agencies. There is a particular focus to helping Anglicans to reach ‘unreached’ people groups. Rev. Kafwanka also reported on the newly inaugurated Anglican Relief and Development Alliance which will coordinate the extensive work of Anglicans worldwide in this aspect of mission.
Palestinian bishop to lead Lutheran global family
The Rt Rev Dr Munib A Younan, a bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Jordan and the Holy Land (ELCJHL) and president of the Fellowship of Middle East Evangelical Churches, has urged believers to pray that Christians in Palestine will “not lose faith and leave the country”. “Who could imagine the Holy Land … without Christians?” the Palestinian bishop asked as he preached at the Andreaskirche in Uhlbach, a suburb of Stuttgart, Germany during the 11th Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation (LWF). Bishop Younan was this week elected President-elect of the LWF. Younan reminded Palestinian Christians that they should be “brokers of justice, instruments of peace, ministers of reconciliation, defenders of human rights including women’s rights and apostles of love”. He then urged Christians in general “to serve every human being regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, religion or political affiliation”.
Peace agenda set by new head of CWM
The new General Secretary of the Council for World Mission (CWM) has said that he intends to promote a “partnership of peace” and ensure that CWM becomes an “agent of peace-making”. The Rev. Dr. Collin Cowan (left), currently General Secretary of the United Church in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands will begin his new role with CWM at the start of 2011. Dr. Cowan also welcomed the opportunity to develop a close-knit working team with existing staff at CWM and paid tribute to the present General Secretary, the Rev. Dr. Des van der Water, who completes his term at the end of 2010. Established in 1977, CWM is a worldwide community of 31 member churches, mostly of the Reformed tradition. It grew out of the London Missionary Society, the Commonwealth (Colonial) Missionary Society and the Presbyterian Board of Missions.
Bhutan to strengthen "anti-conversion" legislation
The small Himalayan nation of Bhutan has announced its intention to enact a bill which will outlaw conversion when it can be shown that any sort of “coercion or other forms of inducement” have been used. Christians fear, that, as has happened in some other countries, this could be used to jail them for following the commands of Christ to feed, clothe and otherwise care for the poor. A senior pastor from Thimphu suggested that the government of this largely Buddhist kingdom may be concerned about the recent growth of Christianity. Article 7(4) of the Constitution of Bhutan states, “A Bhutanese citizen shall have the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion. No person shall be compelled to belong to another faith by means of coercion or inducement.” The World Evangelical Alliance, World Council of Churches, and the Roman Catholic Church are currently finalising a “Code of Conduct for Christian Witness” which would also rule out “coercion”.
Human rights concerns in Morocco
In the context of a continuing wave of deportations of foreign national Christians from Morocco, it is now reported that up to 7,000 Muslim leaders have signed a document describing Christian work in Morocco as “moral rape” and “religious terrorism”. In the last few months there has also been an increase in the interrogation and surveillance of local Christians. It seems that as well as cracking down on foreign Christians the Moroccan government have simultaneously increased pressure on national Christians. Compass Direct News estimates that 1,000 Moroccan Christian converts within the country are not recognized by the government. Open Doors has learned that increased persecution has made it very difficult for national believers to meet and worship together. Human rights organisations are now raising concerns with Western governments.
FM radio helps plant churches in Nepal
The Christian church in Nepal has seen rapid growth in recent years but there are still regions of the country with very few believers. Now a new radio station opened last week by HCJB Global will reach almost 200,000 people. The introduction of democracy in Nepal has brought many new opportunities for local Christians. Privately operated FM radio stations have only been allowed since 2008. Local volunteers spent months building, connecting electricity, and finishing groundwork for this new station and now 11 of them have volunteered for on-air training. Local Christians working with HCJB hope to plant new churches in the region to provide a place for existing believers to worship, and a home to those who hear the Good News on the radio broadcasts.
Violence again in Pakistan
The killing of two Christian brothers, by unidentified gunmen, in Faisalabad earlier this week has turned a month of simmering communal tension into violent riots. Brothers Rashid (36) and Sajid (30) Emmanuel were killed on court premises on Monday afternoon, prompting local Christians to stage a protest demonstration. Enraged Christians threw stones and shouted slogans against the police and the government. Muslims responded by holding rallies in Faisalabad city damaging shops and houses belonging to Christians in the Warispura area. According to Naveed Walter, President of Human Rights Focus Pakistan, people from the town of Gojra also come to Faisalabad to show their condolences for the deaths of the Emmanuel brothers. The town of Gojra in the Punjab was the focus of international concern a year ago when seven Christians were burned alive over false rumours that Christians had committed blasphemy.
Blogging Patriarch
The Russian Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow, Kirill, has urged the clergy to use Internet blogs for missionary work. Speaking ahead of his second pastoral visit to Ukraine, Patriarch Kirill urged church leaders to avoid idle chat and the temptation to pass on their own thoughts but rather to take seriously the challenge of communicating the gospel in engaging ways through internet blogging. Commenting on the Patriarch’s message, Russian IT-analyst Alexander Mitrofanov said, "Many priests and church leaders have their own blogs in the global network. It helps people searching for their path in life. Jesus Christ taught His apostles to attract people by the word. High technology and the Internet should serve the same purpose." Evangelical groups have been effectively using internet blogs for some time and the Vatican has its own video collection on YouTube.
Tension in Burundi
Faith2Share member agency CMS Ireland has requested prayer for the nation of Burundi. Following the 'one candidate' Presidential election last month in which Pierre Nkurunziza, the ruling CNDD-FDD candidate was reelected, the country has faced criticism within the region. Now, this week, a spokesman of Harakat Al-shabab Mujahideen Sheik Ali Mohamud Rage, at a press conference in Mogadishu, Somalia, claimed responsibility for the recent deadly explosions in Kampala, Uganda, and added "We like to carry out other such explosions in the Burundian capital Bujumbura. So we are warning to the people of Burundi." Within the country church leaders continue to work for community cohesion and reconciliation. The Anglican Archbiship, the Most Reverend Bernard Ntahoturi, who has been active in peace building, was last month reappointed to lead the church for another period of five years.
AIDS not the only killer in Africa
This week Bishop Agapiti Ndorobo launched a high profile campaign against Tuberculosis (TB) in his Roman Catholic diocese of Mahenge in Tanzania. He expressed concern that whilst HIV/AIDS has appropriately received a lot of attention in Africa, TB remains the “hidden killer”. There is a need, he said, to overcome the stigma associated with TB and to provide community education to help people identify symptoms of the disease early enough and seek medical treatment immediately to avoid spreading the disease to other people or becoming chronically ill. The launch was followed by 5 days training for TB Home Based Care Volunteers at Ifakara. Quoting scripture Bishop Ndorobo said that the volunteers should imitate the example of Jesus Christ who felt pity on victims of chronic diseases and healed them. "Healing for you in your mission is to deliver quality care and support to the patients" he said.
Iranian pastor 'liable to capital punishment'
Iranian Christians around the world have called for prayer after two judges agreed to make a well-known Iranian pastor ‘liable to capital punishment’. This move comes as part of a crackdown on the growing Protestant church movement in Iran. Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani was detained in June with his wife, Fatemeh Pasandideh, in the northwestern city of Rasht, because of their Christian activities. A senior pastor of the Church of Iran movement said that judges had ‘already signed’ an Islamic order that would allow a death sentence for Nadarkhani, pending further investigations. News of Pastor Youcef’s arrest overshadowed the release of several other Christians, including two Church of Iran believers and two identified only as ‘Brothers Mehdi and Afshin’. They were part of a group of eight believers arrested last month. Over the last decade the Iranian church has grown significantly and Open Doors now estimates the total number of Christians in Iran to be about 450,000.
Leading Russian pastor shot dead in Dagestan
News broke today than Pastor Artur Suleimanov (left, with wife Zina and family), the leader of the largest Evangelical church in Dagestan, southern Russia, has been shot and killed by an unknown gunman. Pastor Artur was the leader of Asana (Hosanna) Christian Church in Makhachkala, the capital of Dagestan, a church which in recent years has planted a number of other churches in this largely Muslim North Caucasus republic. Pastor Artur was also well known in mission circles and has been a regular participant at the Central Asia Consultation. The Dagestan Interior Ministry reports that the shooting took place near 5, Biybulatov Street in Makhachkala. A spokesman said, “The gunmen shot Suleimanov in the head, supposedly from a handgun, and made a getaway.” Dagestan has seen increased violence and political instability in recent months and the very small Christian communities there remain vulnerable.
African religious leaders can build peace
In a book published this month, African theologian Yacob Tesfai, suggests that Christians in sub-Saharan Africa are well placed to promote a religion-based approach to peace-making. Recognising that many African conflicts have had religious dimensions Dr. Tesfai points out that a recent survey has demonstrated that 70-80 percent of sub-Saharan populations trust religious leaders and “Therefore they have a potential role to play in working for peace.” Tesfai has specialized in Peace and Conflict Resolution in Africa and is a former general secretary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Eritrea. His book “Holy Warriors, Infidels and Peacemakers in Africa” is available here.
Baptist will lead governance of Anglican mission
The UK based Anglican mision agency CMS have announced that the new chair of their trustees will be Mr. John Ripley (left), a leading businessman and member of Bookham Baptist Church in Surrey. Mr. Ripley succeeds Bishop Paul Butler who was recently appointed Bishop of Southwell. After a degree in natural sciences at Cambridge John served as an executive at Unilever for 35 years, finishing his career there as head of corporate development for the worldwide group. In semi-retirement he is already a director of CABI, a not-for-profit organisation specialising in science-based development and information; chair of a school trust and has a non-executive role for the Department for Education. John brings to CMS not only business and financial expertise but also considerable international experience.
Children protected from trafficking in South Africa
Thousands of children in South Africa have been protected from human traffickers during the Football World Cup thanks to holiday clubs set up by the Anglican Church of Southern Africa. The Holiday Club programme, developed by HOPE Africa in co-operation with Scripture Union and The Ultimate Goal, has seen churches and schools using their facilities to provide children with a safe space to go and activities to keep them occupied. With the help of hundreds of young volunteers, more than 5,000 children enjoyed play and life skills educational programmes, as well as meals. Some clubs were able to set up screens to show football matches so that children were not tempted to try and travel to stadiums in the cities. This programme will also train 300 key community activists in South Africa and Namibia and provide safe spaces for victims of human trafficking. It is estimated that 1.2 million children are trafficked globally each year for labour, sexual and other forms of exploitation.
Ugandans called to love Somali neighbours
The Archbishop of Uganda, the Most Rev. Henry Luke Orombi, has responded to the recent bomb blasts in his country by calling on Christians to be vigilant in the fight against terrorism, to seek a peaceful and just society and to become good neighbours to Somali people. In a statement issued today he says, “This act of malice and hatred towards mankind is completely ungodly, especially towards innocent and unsuspecting persons. I condemn this act in the strongest terms possible and hope to see the perpetrators of this hideous crime brought to justice.” He then goes on to stress that “Revenge is not a solution and neither is a sectarian approach to this problem helpful,” and reminds Ugandans that, “a peaceful society is the right of every one regardless of their age, race, gender or religious inclination.”
Methodists take action on Palestine
Visiting the Faith2Share offices today, Canon Naim Ateek (left), director of Sabeel Ecumenical Liberation Theology Center in Jerusalem, was able to report positiviely on resolutions passed this week by UK Methodists. The Methodist conference, which met from 24 June to 1 July in Portsmouth, UK, received a report entitled “Justice for Palestine and Israel” and voted on 11 resolutions pertaining to it. These include a request to the Methodist Faith and Order Committee to “undertake further work on the theological issues, including Christian Zionism, raised in the report" and a call to Methodist people “to support and engage with [the] boycott of Israeli goods” emanating from illegal settlements. The Conference also called for a full arms embargo as an important step towards a just peace in the region.
WCC denounces killing of church ministers in Philippines
Following the killing earlier this month of Benjamin Bayles and Jovelito Agustin, both lay ministers of the Philippine Independent Church, the WCC has written to President-elect Benigno Aquino III urging "the Philippines government to keep its commitment to international human rights instruments and put an end to the killings and to the culture of impunity by prosecuting the perpetrators and granting justice to the victims of human rights violations". Bayles and Agustin were active lay ministers, known in their churches as outspoken advocates of human dignity and of the rights of the most marginalized. Bayles, a human rights advocate, and Agustin, a broadcaster who defended workers' rights, were murdered by suspected paramilitary groups on 14 and 15 June, respectively.
Uganda prepares for 'Love Kampala' campaign
In September Kampala will welcome evangelist Andrew Palau with hundreds of church leaders, and thousands of church members and enquirers converging on the city for the Love Kampala Festival. Preparations for the festival have already begun. From 16 June 740 churches joined together for citywide outreach and service. "Churches working together in unified effort have first begun to love their city by deeds of kindness and reaching out to the poor," said Tim Robnette of the Luis Palau Association. They divided the city into five districts and now have teams in each district ministering through various projects. In one slum, they have already built public latrines. Throughout other districts, Robnette said they have hosted a medical clinic, and provided doctors.
Japanese churches to address suicide epidemic
Suicide rates amongst young people in Japan are at an all time high. As Japan's debt crisis deepens with a debt-to-GDP ratio which is the highest in the world, work-related depression is becoming more and more common and an increasing number of young people are taking their own lives. Although the Christian presence in Japan is small, a network of churches is now seeking to respond to this need. Although they are not quite ready to announce their plan, it is expected that this coordinated intervention will include counseling services and evangelistic activity amongst young adults with a clear message of Christian hope. Japan is currently the most suicide-prone country in the developed world.
Churches respond to flooding in Brazil
In the area of Brazil where Faith2Share recently held its Leadership Consultation more than 115,000 people have been made homeless or are displaced after rain and floodwaters swept through the states of Pernambuco and Alagoas. Hundreds are feared dead as 75 cities declared a state of emergency. At a project run by Compassion International a worker said, "The river's overflowed, and it's flooded the community. So, we're awaiting our child list to know just how many kids have been affected." She went on to say, “the people in the community are going to the church, the local church, for their help." Mission and aid agencies in Brazil are now seeking to support these local churches as they minister to the homeless, the bereaved and those who have lost so much. Heavier than normal rains continue to fall in Brazil and in other Latin American countries as winter begins.
Plea for solidarity with Afghan Christians
Afghan Christians living in exile in India have issued an urgent plea to the international community to help Christians still living in Afghanistan. This letter follows the riots last month after the independent channel Noorin TV showed a documentary disclosing the names and faces of alleged Afghan Christian converts. Protestors called on President Hamid Karzai to arrest and execute the converts and the deputy secretary of the Afghan Parliament’s Lower House, Abdul Sattar Khawasi, then called for the execution of Christian converts from Islam. The group say in their letter that they have received reports of Afghan Christians being arrested, their homes and businesses being searched, and death threats being issued. They urge Christians around the world to speak out against the “egregious injustices” and “blatant human rights violations” taking place against Christians in Afghanistan.
A Burmese birthday
As new reports come in of a military crackdown against ethnic minorities in Burma, Christian human rights activists marked the 65th birthday of Aung San Suu Kyi (left), the detained Burmese opposition leader with gatherings in Rangoon. About 400 of her supporters gathered at one of their houses in Rangoon where they symbolically freed caged birds and lit candles on a birthday cake. Rallies for the Nobel Laureate's release were held in cities around the world, whilst President Barack Obama and British Foreign Secretary William Hague also called on the military rulers of Burma to free her. The Karen peoples of Burma, many of whom are Christians, continue to suffer under the current regime. In March, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Burma, Tomás Ojea Quintana, concluded that human rights violations perpetrated by the military regime against ethnic minorities may “amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity."
President calls National Day of Repentance
The President of Uganda, Yoweri Museveni, has declared Sunday 20 June a national day of prayer and repentance. In a statement announcing the day of repentance he said that while God has blessed the country with peace, security, democracy and economic growth, Ugandans are indulging in immoral acts that might lead to God's furry. He cited corruption, sexual perversion, human sacrifice and witchcraft as some of the immoral acts rampant these days. "These and other acts, which have been or are being committed, have not pleased God. We risk losing out on God's blessings for this nation if we choose to disobey Him," he warned. The national day of prayer and repentance will be inter-denominational. It will not be an annual event.
WCC seeks new understanding of mission
In a rapidly changing world the World Council of Churches (WCC) feels it needs to revise its understanding of mission. Speaking in Edinburgh Rev. Dr Jooseop Keum, secretary to the WCC Commission on World Mission and Evangelism, said, "The 1982 Ecumenical Affirmation has been one of the most influential ecumenical mission texts of the last century. However, the context in which mission and evangelism take place has changed dramatically over the last three decades. The new mission statement will take this changed context into account and provide new concepts and directions for the WCC member churches." Two key steps in the revision process will be a mission event scheduled for March 2012 and a new affirmation on mission and evangelism to be submitted to the 10th WCC Assembly, which is due to take place in Busan, South Korea in 2013. For the full WCC press release click here.
Bishop evangelists grow the church
The former archbishop of Nigeria, Rt Rev Peter Akinola, has suggested that the world’s largest Anglican Church, the Church of Nigeria, began to grow when its bishops became evangelists. He suggested that in the past the bishop was addressed as "His Lordship", occupied the position of the office, had everything done for him, attended meetings, decided mission strategies, and graced ceremonies. “Today, every bishop (in the Church of Nigeria) is first and foremost an evangelist,” he said “And from that, other things follow.” From 24 dioceses in 1988, the church has now grown to 156 dioceses and each Sunday 20 million people gather to worship Jesus Christ. A policy of “missionary dioceses” has seen missionary bishops sent to areas with a weak Anglican presence. These bishops are tasked with forming full-fledged dioceses within a five-year period. The new archbishop, The Most Rt Revd Nicholas Okoh, has committed to continuing this policy of bishop evangelists.
Churches rebuild in Haiti
In Port-au-Prince the capital of Haiti, churches are now rebuilding out of the rumble of January’s earthquake. Holy Trinity Cathedral, known for its beautiful murals painted by Haitian artists, was among the churches that collapsed during the earthquake. More important that bricks and murals however are the lives of individuals and the community. In a meeting this week with representative of the World Council of Churches (WCC), local Christian leaders stressed that the church must respond on all levels of reconstruction and remain in the community long-term. ”Without churches the progress is not long-term,” observed the Rev. Nilton Giese, General Secretary of the Latin American Council of Churches. Visiting the Church of God, the WCC team saw members clearing rubble in the blazing sunshine during the hottest time of the day and were told by Brother Saül Raphaël that in two days the congregation will have its first service in the roofless space.
Vegetarian theology
Intensive industrial cattle breeding and mass deforestation for large soy plantations providing cattle feed are the main causes of global climate change according to experts meeting in Prague last week. The 80 participants from 23 countries at the European Christian Environmental Network (ECEN) Assembly concluded that bringing down meat consumption is an important tool in caring for God’s creation. Scottish theologian, Alastair McIntosh, addressed the need for spirituality to bring about lasting change and Metropolitan Krystof, of the Orthodox Church in the Czech Lands and Slovakia pointed out the need for strong links between theology and care for creation. The plea of keynote speakers to include depth-psychology and spirituality in creation theology was taken up by ECEN's working group on theology. It will continue its work focusing on education of clergy, seminarians, teachers and pastoral workers.
South African goals
As thousands of football fans arrive in South Africa for the World Cup so have an equally large number of young Christians who wish to take advantage of South Africa’s religious freedom to share the gospel with the fans. Operation Mobilisation (OM) and others are aware that many of the fans will come from nations where they have little opportunity to hear the gospel and this month could be life changing for them. ‘The Ultimate Goal Campaign’, which runs from 4 June to 12 July includes evangelistic soccer camps, prison ministry and outreach work in some of South Africa’s most deprived areas. All those joining the Ultimate Goal Campaign are receiving Biblical teaching about the Great Commission and practical training in how to share their faith.
Bloodshed continues in Kyrgyzstan
Church leaders in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, today led prayers for their nation as fighting continued on the streets of the southern city of Osh. News agencies reported that “more than 75,000 Uzbeks fled across the border into Uzbekistan, trying to dodge bullets in a frantic dash to safety.” Inter-ethnic fighting which began earlier this week appears aimed at undermining Kyrgyzstan's interim government, which came to power after former President Kurmanbek Bakiyev was ousted in a bloody uprising in April. Most Uzbeks back the interim government, while many Kyrgyz in the south support the deposed president. Youth groups in Osh made a brave attempt to bring Uzbek and Kyrgyz youth together on Friday to restore peace but this effort seems to have failed. Russia has refused to send peace keeping forces and the Kyrgyz military appear to have remained in their barracks. The Christian presence in Kyrgyzstan is very small.
Bishops seek "compassionate and accountable leadership".
Anglican bishops in Africa are in the final stages of planning a major meeting in August. The meeting, AABCII, will seek to mobilize bishops to tackle the obstacle that continue to "keep the continent in perpetual nominal Christianity, conflict, poverty, diseases, corruption, poor leadership, restlessness and hopelessness". It is also hoped that AABCII will create a platform for interaction, sharing, networking and partnership development that will expose church leaders to various models for resources mapping, investment, management and global technology. The planning team says, “After close to 160 years of planting the Anglican Church in Africa, African problems and issues were still being treated as an appendix to other issues at the church’s international fora. The Council of Anglican Provinces of Africa meeting in Pretoria, South Africa in August 2001 resolved to hold an African Anglican Bishop Conference on the African soil to focus essentially on African problems and needs". The vision is to restore “compassionate and accountable leadership in the continent”.
Christian relief work suspended in Afghanistan
Workers from two Christian aid organizations active in Afghanistan are facing legal challenges after authorities this week ordered them to stop their activities amid suspicions they were converting Muslims to Christianity, an offense that carries the death penalty under Afghan law. The two agencies, Norwegian Church Aid (NCA) and the U.S. based Church World Service (CWS), have both denied involvement in evangelism or proselytism. "If proven after the investigation that they were involved in conversion activities, they will be introduced to the judicial authorities," said a spokesman for the Ministry of Economy. NCA Secretary-General Atle Sommerfeldt said in a statement that his organization has a firm policy of not attempting "to convert people to another religion" in all countries where it operates. "Our work is entirely humanitarian - meaning we are impartial, neutral, and independent," added CWS Deputy Director and Head of Programs Maurice A. Bloem. "We fully adhere to and support the Red Cross/Red Crescent Code of Conduct, which mandates that NGOs do nothing to further a religious agenda."
Call for collaboration in mission
Church leaders meeting at the Edinburgh 2010 mission conference have heard several calls for humble dialogue and collaboration in mission. Viorel Ionita (left), a priest of the Romanian Orthodox Church and acting general secretary of the Conference of European Churches, cited the Apostle Paul who spoke of coming to know one another “face to face”. It is essential, he said, to meet one another in a personal context, to listen to one another, to learn of the other’s needs and longings. At the same time, it is the Christian’s duty to bear authentic witness to the good news of salvation in Jesus Christ. This is not encouraged when churches and mission agencies are seen to be in competition with each other, so spaces must be identified where Christians themselves can engage in dialogue and seek means of cooperation. In sessions focused on ‘forms of missionary engagement’ the Faith2Share network was cited as one example of positive collaboration in mission.
Edinburgh 2010 speaker warns Lausanne movement
Addressing this morning's plenary session of the Edinburgh 2010 conference "Witnessing to Christ Today", Dr. Tony Kireopoulos (left), a Greek Orthodox representative of the National Council of Churches in the USA, has warned that the Lausanne III Congress in October this year should not endorse proselytism. Speaking about the activities of American tele-evangelists and their criticism of traditional Christians in places such as Iraq, Dr. Kireopoulos suggested that the Lausanne movement continues to encourage evangelical Christians in 'evangelistic' activities that are detrimental to the life and witness of the ancient Churches of the Middle East. The Edinburgh 2010 conference has brought together almost 300 delegates from a very wide range of Christian traditions around the world. Further reports can be found as www.edinburgh2010.org
Missionary bishop murdered in Turkey
The senior Roman Catholic bishop in Turkey, Bishop Luigi Padovese (let), has been attacked and killed in the garden of his summer house in Iskenderun, Turkey. Following the murder police have arrested the bishop's driver, a man identified only as Murat A. who has worked for the bishop for four years. He is believed to be suffering from psychological problems. Bishop Padovese, the Pope's apostolic vicar in Anatolia was an Italian national who felt called to mission work in Turkey. He was a leading figure in Christian communities in the Middle East and his death raises concern for the welfare of minorities in Turkey, where Christians have been targeted in recent years.
All nations and languages meet in Edinburgh
Opening the Edinburgh 2010 mission conference “Witnessing to Christ Today”, Dr. Dana Robert reminded the 280 delegates that within the lifetime of many of them, “Christianity has undergone one of the biggest changes in its two thousand year history. It is now a multi-cultural faith, with believers drawn from every inhabited continent.” It has begun to reflect the vision of Revelation 7:9 in which the faithful constitute “a great multitude” of believers “from all tribes and peoples and languages”. She continued: “Participants in the World Missionary Conference a century ago attempted to evangelise the world in their own generation. We who are alive in 2010 must bear witness to our own generation.” During the conference participants will address many challenges in mission including inter-faith witness, ‘mission and power’ and the role of children in mission. Worship, in many languages, is being led by John Bell of Iona and others.
Children at risk
Churches around the world are preparing to mark this year's weekend of prayer for Children at Risk on 6-7 June. Sponsored by a wide range of Christian agencies and networks led by Viva, who began the venture in 1995, the weekend brings together millions of people who are concerned to see the next generation growing up knowing the love of Jesus and equipped to face the challenges of a world full of opportunities and risks. The particular focus for prayer will be on vulnerable children. Resources for use in local chureches are available from the Viva website here.
Christians protest Israeli attack on aid in Gaza
Following yesterday’s attack by Israeli forces on a convoy bringing humanitarian aid to Gaza, Palestinian Christians have urged churches around the world to organise protests. At least ten human rights activists were killed during the attack by Israeli commandos. Christian groups in Palestine condemned the attack saying, “[We] strongly condemn this massacre against unarmed civilians which visibly violates international law and human rights.” The ACT Alliance, an international group organising church-based emergency operations in Gaza, said Israel must be held accountable for its actions. Bernard Sabella, head of the ACT Forum in Jerusalem, said Israel’s actions were “a crime by any standard.” YMCA groups around the world have already organised protests outside many Israeli embassies.
Football World Cup prayer guide published
Christians are being invited to use the occasion of the world cup in South Africa to focus prayer for some of the people groups that have least opportunity to hear the Christian gospel. This summer's tournament will see 32 nations battle it out to win the coveted title of World Champions and lift the infamous gold trophy. James Price who has put together the prayer guide writes, "The coming together of nations provides a great opportunity to pray for the least reached people groups living in those countries." To download the guide click here. Later in the year South Africa will host the Lausanne III Congress for church and mission leaders.
Christians pray daily for peace in Kyrgystan
One church in the capital city of Bishkek now has prayer meetings every morning at 7:30 to pray for the nation as Kyrgystan slips ever closer to civil war. A mission worker at this church says, ”It has been amazing to see these people pouring out their hearts to God for their country, their leaders, for revival, and for unity in our body and among the churches.” Although large numbers are attempting to leave the country for fear of what is about to happen, many Christians have seen this as an opportunity for ministry rather than as a reason to flee the country or hide out in their homes. Tension has risen in the Central Asian state as secret recordings were made public on the internet of former leaders discussing plans to destabilize the country by means of random acts of terror, just as a new government is being formed.
Bishop requests prayer for healing in Jamaica
The Bishop of Jamaica has appealed for international prayer support for his nation as battles between police and drug lords continue. Jamaican police say at least 73 people are now known to have been killed in four days of street fighting. Most of the dead are young men, some suspected of being armed, but at least three police and soldiers have also died. Bishop Harold writes, “The events in Jamaica over this past week have caused much sadness and great distress, and there is no question that our nation needs healing. Our Annual Healing Conference is being held this weekend, May 28-30 and we will grasp the opportunity to make it a special time of prayer for Jamaica. Well over three hundred persons will be in residence. … Remember us in your prayers throughout the conference, and also join with us in praying for our country.” It is not clear if Christopher "Dudus" Coke, the drug lord who is wanted by the US, is still in Jamaica but his supporters are vowed to protect him “at any cost”.
UN accused of complicity in Sri Lankan violence
Louise Arbour (left with the Bishop of Jaffna), president of the NGO International Crisis Group (ICG) and former United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, has "called for an internal review of the U.N.'s conduct during Sri Lanka's bloody 2009 civil war." Arbour claims in a Foreign Policy magaine article that, the United Nation's "abandonment of national staff in a conflict zone and its failure to speak up more forcefully about abuses made it "close to complicit" in [Sri Lankan] government atrocities." Arbour's remarks follow the release last week of a report by her organization alleging that the Sri Lankan military may have killed more than 30,000 civilians during its 2009 military conquest of the country's Tamil rebels. The report also alleges that the Tamil Tigers, one of the world's most brutal insurgent movements, also committed massive war crimes, forcing hundreds of thousands of civilians to serve as human shields, and murdering those who sought to flee to safety.
Russian church leader beaten to death
A well-known pastor of the Central Baptist Church in St. Petersburg, Russia has been beaten to death on the street outside the home of an elderly church member he was going to visit. Yuri Golovin (76-year-old) was able to get the attention of the church member, who called an ambulance, but he later died at the hospital from his injuries. His attackers have yet to be identified and the motive for the attack is unknown, although the International Christian Newspaper has suggested that the assailants might have been drug addicts. In addition to his pastoral ministry, Golovin was head of The Gideons chapter in St. Petersburg and Leningrad Oblast state. Youth pastor Anton Tretyak said Golovin was "an example of a living Christian, who was not ashamed of witnessing about Christ and living for Christ."
Jews for Jesus founder dies
The founder of Jews for Jesus, Moishe Rosen (left), who died on Wednesday, left a pre-written message to members of the ministry predicting a breakthrough in evangelism amongst Jewish people. The letter, posted on the Jews for Jesus website after his death, says, “Just a little more. Just another push. Just another soul - and we will have reached critical mass where we begin generating that energy that the whole world might know the Lord.” The son of Jewish immigrants from Eastern Europe, Rosen came to believe in Jesus at the age of 21 and felt a call to ministry shortly thereafter. He founded Jews for Jesus in 1973 and served as the organization’s first executive director until 1996. “Moishe Rosen championed the refreshing realization that one can be a Jew for Jesus while retaining one’s cultural heritage,” commented Mark Bailey, president of Dallas Theological Seminary. Often controversial in its high profile proclamation of the gospel, Jews for Jesus has provided leadership amongst agencies ministering to Jewish communities.
Christians pray while battle rages in Somalia
Reports from Somalia say that on Pentecost Sunday fighters from the insurgent group al-Shabab tried to advance on the presidential palace overnight but were stopped by government troops and African Union peace keepers. This latest battle came after Christians confirmed that al-Shabab shot and killed another leader of the underground church movement in the town of Xarardheere, about 60 kilometers from the regional capital Jowhar. Yusuf Ali Nur, 57, had reportedly been on a list of people al-Shabab suspected of being Christian. Nur is survived by his wife and three children, ages 11, 9 and 7. Despite the fighting in the area Christians managed to gather on Sunday to celebrate Pentecost and pray for bereaved families.
Mission centre damaged as Cyclone Laila kills 23
As the death toll from Cyclone Laila climbs to 23, with many more missing, the Indian Missions Association (IMA) has reported serious damage to its “Vision City” leadership development centre near Hyderabad. The powerful cyclone hit the south eastern states of India last Thursday toppling power lines and triggering landslides. A large swath of coastal Andhra Pradesh state was plunged into darkness with winds of 60 mph. The storm made landfall near Bapatla, about 250 miles southeast of Hyderabad, and waves as high as 9 feet lashed the coast. Even before the cyclone hit, some parts of the state had received up to 30cm. of rain. At least 55 fishermen are reported missing, although authorities had ordered fishing vessels to stay in port. At the IMA facility damage is estimated at Rs200,000 with roof and power line damage.
Followers of Jesus leave Iran acquitted of all charges
Two Iranian women from a Muslim background who later became followers of Jesus have been forced to leave Iran. Middle East Concern report that Maryam and Marzieh were arrested on 5 March last year and detained until 18 November when they were released pending trial. A court hearing eventally took place on 13 April and both women have now heard that they have been acquitted of all charges against them. However, Maryam and Marzieh were warned that if they engaged in any further Christian activity in Iran there would be severe consequences. They therefore left Iran on Saturday 22 May and arrived safely in another country.
United missions anticipate Pentecost
The former Church Mission Society (CMS) and South American Missionary Society (in Britain), who came together as CMS in March of this year, have just marked the eve of Pentecost with a major celebration in Oxford, UK. Attracting around 900 participants, the Day 50 celebration featured partners from around the world in a presentation of the challenges facing European mission movements today. The focal point of the day was the launch of the Community of CMS, a community of people commited to living and working together in mission wherever God calls them - with their own website We are saying YES. Speaking at the final service, the Archbishop of York, Archbishop John Sentamu, reminded participants that the Holy Spirit is a community creating God who comes amongst us to envision and empower God's people.
South African Christians prepare for World Cup
With World Cup fever rising in South Africa the nation is preparing for 400,000 fans and athletes who will pour into the city of Johannesburg next month. The Evangelical Alliance Mission (TEAM) has seen this, one of the world's largest sporting events, as a unique opportunity to share Christ with a variety of people who may never be exposed to the Gospel otherwise. Building a partnership with other missions they plan to conduct street ministry, hold prayer walks, distribute booklets to share the Gospel in various languages, give soccer training, and have health screenings, including advice on HIV/AIDS prevention. Many local churches in South African cities are also planning their own outreach programmes and inviting visiting Christians to join them.
American 'mercy mission' leader released in Haiti
Laura Silsby (left), the last of the ten Americans detained whilst trying to take 33 children out of Haiti has now been released. Yesterday Laura was convicted in Port au Prince of illegally seeking to take children out of the country after the recent earthquake but the judge sentenced her to time already served and released here immediately. She said she's "praising God." During the trial Laura told the court she and her team had thought the children were orphans whose homes were destroyed. An investigation later showed that all of the children had at least one living parent, who had turned the children over to the group in the hope that they would have better lives in America. This incident has provoked considerable discussion about church backed interventions by ‘amateur do-gooders’ in disaster situations and the need for more coordination and control by professional church agencies.
Memorial events disrupted in Jaffna, Sri Lanka
Events to mark the anniversary of the ending of hostilities in northern Sri Lanka have taken place peacefully despite hindrances and intimidation including death threats to the organizing clergy. The events organized by Jaffna University Student Union (JUSU) and the All Ceylon Tamil Congress (ACTC) were planned specifically as a memorial for the people killed in the war on Vanni last year. The RC bishop of Jaffna, Rt. Rev. Thomas Saundaranayagam, commenting on the behaviour of the Sri Lanka Army (SLA) officials, said that their activities revealed their true face. It is alleged that SLA officers from Jaffna Fort personally threatened clergy with death for organizing a memorial event in Trimer Hall, which was eventually cancelled because of the threats. Hundreds of parents of youths killed in the war on Vanni who had come to participate in the event had to go away in distress as no one was present in Trimer Hall.
God gave Nigerian governor the mandate
“I am a committed Christian” Jonah David Jang (left), Governor of Plateau State, Nigeria, told WCC visitors, “As governor of this state, I am elected by the people and God gave me the mandate to direct the people in the righteous way”. He went on to tell the Living Letters team visiting Jos, the site of recent violence, that “religion is used to cover up all conflicts, although other factors also exist”. Jang, who is a minister of the Church of Christ in Nigeria, has been governor of Plateau State for the past four years. Jos, the capital city of the state has seen one of the worst ethnic conflicts in recent years. In March, violence claimed more than hundred lives in the region of Jos. The visiting team includes representatives of churches and WCC staff from Ghana, Kenya, Germany, Norway, Switzerland, Finland, India and Ethiopia. Full report at WCC.
Child hostages released, but parents still missing
Middle East Concern have announced today that following a Saudi Arabian military operation in a disputed border region between Yemen and Saudi Arabia two kidnapped German children have been released. Lydia and Anna (aged 5 and 4 respectively - bottom of picture) were kidnapped almost a year ago on 12 June 2009 in Saada, north-west Yemen. There is still no news of their parents, Johannes and Sabine, or their two year old brother, Simon, taken at the same time. In total nine people were kidnapped in this incident but three were murdered shortly afterwards. The ninth person, still missing, is Tony a British man. Lydia and Anna were freed on 17 May and after an initial medical check in a Saudi hospital have been flown to Germany. The psychological impact of a year’s captivity on such young children is yet to be assessed. The peace agreement signed in February between the Yemeni government and the Houthi militia operating in Saada province continues to prove delicate but is broadly being adhered to.
Thai churches unveil evangelism plan
Amidst the current political struggles and violence in Thailand's cities there is growing evidence of an increased interest in the Christian faith. In a nation where 94% of the population are Buddhist the churches are small and scattered but have seen a growth rate seven times that of population growth in recent years. Now a coalition of three major Protestant groups in Thailand, representing almost 80% of the 4,000 Protestant churches and other ministries, has proposed a national plan to reach their country for Christ. The key factors in the plan are prayer, unity, research and evangelism. Reporting on this planDr. Randy Wollf suggests, in a WEA article, that they will also need strategic focus and accountability. Read Dr. Wollf's article here.
Missions merge to serve the Arab world
Pioneers USA and Arab World Ministries (AWM) U.S. announced today that they intend to merge their two organizations by 30 September this year. Together their combined ministry will be at the forefront of reaching Muslims for Christ in the heartland of Islam. "AWM has a 130 year legacy of ministry, so this was not a decision we made lightly," said Bob Sayer, AWM U.S. Director. "In 2008 we made a strategic decision to explore opportunities for mergers or partnerships to ensure a strong future for our ministry. Pioneers has not only been able to recruit teams at an unparalleled rate, they've engaged a new generation of people willing to serve in some of the most difficult environments around the world. We viewed this as an answer to prayer as slowing mobilization rates were probably the biggest challenge we were facing for the future." Pioneers, founded in 1979, is an evangelical, interdenominational mission with 2,000 members serving on 191 teams in 92 countries.
Repentance, Respect and Coperation in Tokyo
As four days of intensive discussions between 2,000 mission leaders drew to a close in Tokyo last week, a surprise move by one of the senior Japanese delegates brought an appeal for forgiveness. Pastor Reiji Oyama, one of the founders of Japan Evangelical Association, requested time on the closing day of the Tokyo 2010 Global Missions Consultation to reconcile with fellow believers in countries that Japan previously occupied. “Japan repeatedly killed, murdered, stole, robbed, raped – just humiliated her neighbors,” Oyama said. “Therefore, as a Japanese, I really want to express my feelings of repentance. The theme of repentance and reconciliation was carried forward into the Tokyo 2010 Declaration in which mission leaders confessed to not valuing each other’s work and competing against one another. Repenting for this history of division they stated, “We will respect all mission-engaging individuals and groups as special vessels for God’s glory, each endowed with abilities that extend His Kingdom in multiple ways …Finally, we recognize that finishing the task will demand effective cooperative efforts of the entire global body of believers.”
Millions prepare to pray
We are now just six days away frm the 2010 Global Day of Prayer which will be marked in almost every nation on earth this coming Pentecost Sunday. The event, which began in March 2001 with a Day of Repentance and Prayer at Newlands Rugby Stadium in Cape Town, South Africa, first became a global event in 2005. Held annually since, on Pentecost Sunday, the desire to pray for the nations now draws together Christians from every tradition in events which range from major statium gatherings to small gatherings in homes. It is still not too late to register or download resource materials from Global Day of Prayer.
Ethiopian children bring hope to the nation
Ethiopia has just hosted the latest of a series of consultations focusing on the role of children in the mission of the church. Under the banner of the 4/14 Window initiative 160 senior church and Christian agency leaders met in Debre Zeit (south of Addis Ababa) from 27-29 April. They were joined by Dr. Luis Bush, the chairman of the Global Steering Committee, Dr. Bambang Budijanto and several Steering Committee members. Participants at the consultation made a commitment to “equip and mobilize [the Ethiopian church] so that it is positioned to invest in reaching, equipping, and empowering 4/14ners”. They also recognised that Ethiopia is a country in which “the biggest majority of people fall within the 4/14 window and that focusing on and unleashing their resourcefulness and energy will make a significant contribution to tackle the pervasive and mammoth issues we face as a nation”. A similar consultation took place in Lahore, Pakistan in March.
'Stop violence' call from Iraqi church leaders
Recent violence in Iraq has led Iraqi church leaders to issue a statement calling on “all government officials and political parties in order to give priority to the public interest and the security of citizens.” The statement was released after an emergency meeting of the Council of the Christian Church Leaders of Iraq (CCCLI) last week. This is partly a response to the 2 May attack in the northern city of Mosul, where buses carrying Christian university students were bombed. One person was killed and 188 men and women were injured, some seriously. Since then more attacks have taken place throughout Iraq according to news reports, although not all were against Christians. Attacks during the past few days have killed more than 100 people and injured hundreds of others. The wave of violence comes after contentious national elections. The church leaders of Iraq closed their statement saying, “We pray to God to give comfort to the martyrs and a quick recovery to the wounded and to protect our country from all harm, and to restore to us the gift of peace and stability.”
1,200 mission leaders gather in Tokyo
Yesterday saw the start, in Tokyo, of the first major “Edinburgh centenary” mission conference this year. Two-thirds of the 1200 representatives gathered in Tokyo this week are from non-Western mission agencies. The event began with a celebration of mission as Japanese church leaders gave thanks to God for the coming of the gospel to their own land and Japanese choirs led worship which brought together the Japanese language and international evangelical spiritualities. Inspired by Ralph Winter, who died last year, this consultation will focus on the building of networks and structures for global cooperation in mission. Today Paul Eshleman (left), founder of the Jesus Film project, will give the key note address on the “State of the Unfinished Task”.
125 Indian Christians arrested
News is just breaking of the arrest of 125 Christians in the Indian state of Karnataka accused of the conversion of Hindu residents. News is sketchy at this time but Indian Christians are requesting prayer for all those in custody. Those arrested on this occasion represent just a small sample of the hundreds of Indian Christians who continue to suffer for their faith. Meantime, at the village of Laksmanpur in Jamalpur, in the northern state of Bihar an evangelist was killed during the showing of the Jesus film. When the generator failed Pastor Ravi Murmu was one of the team members who went out to fix it. He never returned and his body was recovered the following day. Police are investigating.
African Muslims and Christian respect each other
Contrary to much popular media presentation, recent research by the Pew Research Centre, and reported in the Church Times, UK, has suggested that Christians and Muslims in sub-Saharan Africa respect and tolerate each other. Despite the huge growth in both faiths over the past century, Christians and Muslims told researchers that they found each other honest and devout. Overall, Christians polled are less positive about Muslims with an average of 43 per cent believing that Muslims are violent, compared with 20 per cent of Muslims who agree that Christians are violent. However in Nigeria and Rwanda, which have both suffered ethnic violence, more than half of those polled say that religious conflict is a big problem in the region. Muslims are more concerned about Islamic extremism than they are about Christian extremism and in overwhelmingly Christian countries, Christians are more concerned about Christian extremism than Muslim extremism.
Nigeria's new president faces call for peace and security
Whilst Nigeria mourns the death of its president, Umaru Yar'Adua, who died in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday after a long illness, a new president has already been sworn in. The new president, Goodluck Jonathan (left), is a Christian from the south of the country and as such is likely to continue to face opposition from Muslim northerners, who have previously provided a political base for President Yar'Adua. This again raises fears of inter-community tension and violence. On April 13 suspected Islamic extremists abducted and killed Church of Christ in Nigeria pastor Ishaku Kadah and his wife Selina in a village in Bauchi state in northern Nigeria. This follows the death of 500 people and the burning of 75 homes in early March. Christian leaders are already calling on the new president to work for peace and security.
Maoists cause chaos in Nepal
With continuing political tensions in Nepal the country’s Maoist party has effectively shut down the capital city of Kathmandu with a bandh, a strike enforced by threats of violence. The bandh started on 1 May and as a result the city's streets are empty and shops, businesses and schools are closed. The Maoists vow to continue enforcing the strike until they can take complete control of the government. Restrictions on travel has closed churches and disrupted many of the activities of the growing Christian community. Several mission agencies have planned a major gathering for Christian youth in Nepal this month and still hope this can go ahead. Nepali church leaders have requested prayer for their nation. In recent years Nepal has seen one of the highest rates of church growth in the world.
Gujarati Christian offer for mission service
Plans are now well in hand for the second Gujurat Missionary Youth Conference. When this event was held in Baroda last year, as well as many young people coming to faith in Christ, 13 young people commited themselves to full-time mission service. One of these is already working in Australia. Those planning this year's event are asking for prayer that a further 15 people will come forward for full-time service. They say they need Gujarati evangelists, church planters, Bible translators, literacy workers and medical workers for a number of mission fields in India and elsewhere.
African conversations about Creation
Christian leaders from across Africa are joined by guests from many other nations this week for the Amahoro Gathering. Meting from 3-10 May in Mombasa under the theme of “Christ, creation and community”, the Gathering seeks to create a community where conversations can take place around Biblical themes. The organizers write, “This year when we gather together we will reflect on the theology of Creation, on the nature of Christ’s relationship with Creation and what that means for His followers and explore together how we can better care for our communities as we take a more holistic approach and care for local landscapes as well.” The director of CMS Africa will be attending with one of his staff colleagues.
Christian students bombed in Iraq
Christian university students have come under attack in Iraq. On Sunday morning, 2 May, two bombs exploded near three buses carrying students near Mosul. One appears to have been a roadside bomb, the second a suicide car bomb attack. One student was killed, and more than eighty injured, three of whom are reported to be in a critical condition. Of more than 20 buses travelling to Mosul on Sunday, the three carrying students from Christian areas were targetted. Many of the students' families have left Mosul due to violence against Christians earlier in the year but the students have remained at university in Mosul to complete their studies. Sectarian tensions have risen in several parts of the country due to the delays in forming a new Iraqi government after the parliamentary election held on 7 March.
Pakistani Christian TV aims to reach Taliban
As Pakistan continues to experience Taliban violence in its Swat Valley a Pakistani pastor has said that he has plans to broadcast the reconciling message of Jesus right into war-torn Afghanistan. Using satellite broadcast and his Isaac TV station Pastor Anwar Fazal Masih, founder of Eternal Life Ministries International and Isaac TV ministries, believes he can reach the minds and hearts of the Taliban people. In an exclusive interview given to an ANS correspondent, Pastor Fazal said, “The setting up of Isaac TV in Pakistan, a 170 million nuclear-armed nation in South Asia, has been commended, not only by the Christians of Pakistan, but also by many Christian brothers and sisters abroad”. Asked why his station is called Isaac TV, he explained: “I thought since both Christians and Muslims believe in the Prophet Isaac therefore I would name the TV channel after the Prophet Isaac.”
European churches debate human rights
European churches are this week considering their role in the protection of human rights. Hosted by the Serbian Orthodox Church from 3-5 May, thirty church leaders from different traditions will discuss some of the practical concepts contained in a Human Rights Manual for European Churches, including Human Dignity – Security of the Person, Religion and Public Life, Discrimination and Equality, the movement of people, and the needs of Roma people. Participants will help to develop and set the agenda for the Churches’ Human Rights Experts Network, which has been tasked with the implementation of the Human Rights Manual for European Churches. The meeting is organised by The Church and Society Commission of the Conference of European Churches.
Kenyan Christians oppose new constitution
Most church leaders in Kenya have indicated that they have major concerns about the proposed new constitution. Announcing the official launch of a campaign for a “no” vote, to be held at Uhuru Park, Nairobi, next Saturday, several Christian leaders indicated that they will use church resources, collections and the gifts of wealthier members, to fund their campaign against the new constitution. Christian groups are demanding that the draft constitution be amended to reflect the separation of state and religion, to outlaw abortion, and to remove Kadhi (Islamic) Courts from the constitution. "There are many Christians and Kenyans who feel strongly about this matter.” said the Rev Peter Karanja (left), the General Secretary of the National Council of Churches of Kenya. However in Southern Nyanza diocese Church of Kenya Bishop James Kenneth Ochiel declared that he would push for a 'Yes' vote.
Russians commit to church planting in Africa
Meeting in Alexandria, Egypt, the head of the Russian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Kirill, has congratulated Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria and All Africa (left) on his church's missionary activity in Africia. Working in a number of African countries the Patriarchate of Alexandria now cares for citizens of more than fifty nations with a significant number of these being migrants or temporary residents from Russia and the former Soviet Union. Recognising the significance of this Orthodox mission in Russia, Patriarch Kirill has agreed to help build churches, plant congregations and support mission in Africa as well as training theological students from Africa in Russian theological schools.
African 'Great Lakes' church leaders excited about human rights
Church leaders from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Burundi and Rwanda have made a "firm commitment to work together in promoting human dignity and fundamental human rights". This commitment is one of the main outcomes of a five-day workshop on human rights that took place in the DRC capital city Kinshasa, from 13-17 April. The 45 participants at the workshop, organised by the World Council of Churches, issued a Declaration of Commitment pledging to work together with human rights NGOs and to accompany their respective states "in the fight against corruption, impunity and poverty". Workshop participants requested the support of the organizers to strengthen the capacity of churches with regard to human rights as well as in the areas of education for environmental protection, prevention of HIV and AIDS, advocacy and lobby.
Anglicans called to holiness for mission
The "Fourth Trumpet" statement from the Anglican Global South to South Encounter has called for greater holiness, purpose and discipline after acknowledging that two decades of conflict and controversy have affected their ability to fulfil the Great Commission. The 130 delegates, meeting in Singapore last week and representing 20 ‘Global South’ Anglican Provinces, speak of a "renewed determination" to assist each other "...to make disciples of all nations and to do all that Christ has commanded." Delegates also encouraged Provinces to both develop plans and structures for Church growth in today's post-Christendom context and to find ways to better understand and reach out to young people. Underscoring the group's "grief" regarding decisions made by The Episcopal Church USA, and the Anglican Church of Canada they call for a review of the entire Anglican Communion structure, in order to achieve what they believed would be, "an authentic expression of the current reality of our Anglican Communion." Full report here.
Christians under pressure in Uzbekistan
Uzbek Police raided a Protestant youth conference this month, claiming to check identity documents. Many of the about 70 young people were playing football and basketball, and 43 were taken to a police station where they were fingerprinted and photographed. Two leaders are under investigation for "violation of the procedure for holding mass events" and "violation of the law on religious organisations". Two days after that raid, police, tax inspectors and local officials raided Eternal Life Protestant Church in the capital Tashkent. At the time of the raid, church members were feeding homeless people. Officials complained this was "not according to their registered charter" and police detained several church members.
European churches need revival
The new General Secretary of the European Evangelical Alliance has called for a revival of the churches in Europe and closer cooperation between church and mission structures. Rev Niek M. Tramper (left), pastor of the Evangelical Protestant Church in Vlaardingen (near Rotterdam), was appointed General Secretary of the EEA at its annual conference on 22 April. He succeeds Gordon Showell-Rogers, who is now Associate Director with the World Evangelical Alliance, after serving eleven years with the EEA. On his appointment Rev Tramper said, “The Church and Christian movements need each other in advancing the Kingdom of God …Traditional churches cannot continue without revival. Profound theology and missionary zeal are complementary. … The EEA tries to bring together both in Europe, in the light of the many challenges shared by the church in Europe – the need for cooperation between old and new churches, multi-ethnic cities, a growing number of Muslims, tensions between poor and rich, and human rights violations.”
Christians respond to China earthquake
The major earthquake (measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale) which devastated China's Yushu County in the Qinghai Province on 14 April has left thousands homeless. Brian Rushton, serving with WorldServe Ministries, says "They first thought it was going to be around 2,000, and now it's up to 4000 who are dead." Many are still missing as 90-percent of the buildings in this predominately-Tibetan region were destroyed. While church buildings have been destroyed the church itself is doing great work. WorldServe and other agencies have come alongside the church in China to help with the earthquake victims, using experience gained in last year’s earthquake relief. The churches in this region of China continue to grow as Chinese Christians grow in confidence, serving those in need at this time.
Faith2Share Leadership meets in Brazil
The leadership of the 18 international mission agencies that constitute the Faith2Share network met in Recife in north east Brazil from 12-19 April to consider current mission issues and strengthen their collaboration in mission. Faith2Share leaders came from New Zealand, India, Kenya, Nigeria, UK, USA and elsewhere and also met with local mission leaders from a number of Latin American countries. With the recent addition of Friends Missionary Prayer Band (India) and SOMA (UK), this network of agencies currently supports just of 5,000 mission workers in over 120 countries internationally. Two particular focii for discussion were the mentoring of younger leaders and 'Business as Mission'.
SAMS-USA goes global
Following a three year consultation period the South American Missionary Society in the USA has announced a change of name which expresses a significant change in focus. Now known as the Society of Anglican Missionaries and Senders, the organization has expanded its vision to offer more opportunities for individuals and parishes to share the good news of Jesus Christ in word and deed across cultures globally. Board chair Richard Englander, said “At first we resisted this global calling, but God opened doors that we never expected and provided key ministry partners to allow us to move into these areas.” Now the SAMS ministry’s scope reaches beyond Latin America into Africa, Europe and Asia. During this process, SAMS also reaffirmed its identity as a community in Christ. SAMS President Stewart Wicker said, “As the board considered our identity as a community, it became increasingly clear that we should become known more by who we are than by what we do. We are a society of missionaries, serving in partnership with the Anglican Church globally. We are also, vitally, a society of senders of these missionaries through giving, praying, and supporting.”
Kyrgystan coup could bring hope for Christians
Churches and ministries in Kyrgystan are assessing the impact of this week’s coup. While the country’s President Bakiyev has refused to resign, an interim government has been established, headed by Former Foreign Minister Roza Otunbayeva. Sergey Rakhuba of Russian Ministries says that the coup “has left many in the country in fear. Families are staying inside. They don't allow their children to go outside because they simply can get killed. There's lots of looting in the city." Whilst most are concerned about the immediate chaos Rakhuba is hoping the coup might also mean a repeal of restrictive laws on religion. "We really hope that this uprising will lead to more freedom for people there, more freedom for evangelical church ministry [and] for Christianity overall." Commentators suggest that this could happen as Otunabayeva wants the new government to draft a new constitution and hold new elections in the next six months.
British Muslim defends Christianity against secularism
Dr. Taj Hargey (left), a Muslim leader based in Oxford, UK, has condemned Britain’s public sector for ‘sidelining Christianity’ and urged Muslims to "defend Christianity when it comes under assault". Dr Hargey was writing in the British newspaper, the Daily Mail, after an employment tribunal ruled that Christian nurse Shirley Chaplin was not discriminated against when her employer ordered her to remove her cross at work. Dr Hargey attacked aggressive secularism for undermining society itself and said "grotesque inconsistencies" that offer more protection for minority faiths "do nothing to promote harmony". He said, "Misguided efforts to emphasise cultural differences have been ‘exploited by Islamic hard-liners".
Business is Mission in Pakistan
Three mission agencies with work in Pakistan are convinced that business people and entrepreneurs can take a leading role in mission as they express God's concerns for human dignity, creativity and a sharing of wealth which transforms communities and individuals. People International, CMS and Pak Mission Society will hold a one-day consultation on 15 April in Rawalpindi to clarify the concept of Business and Mission and share their vision with the Pakistani Christian business community. They also hope to build networks of practitioners and link up with those in other countries already active in Business as Mission. More information is available from Aamir Shahzad.
Australian mission agency seeks new leader
Following the recent announcement that John Thew (left) is to step down as Federal Secretary (CEO) of CMS Australia in 2011 and move into retirement, the Anglican mission has begun a search for his replacement. The board of CMS Australia have said they are looking for a "mission-minded, experienced Christian leader" who will "lead the international ministry of CMS-A by growing partnerships with churches and Christian orgamisations around the world." The Federal Secretary provides a focus for the six state-based Branches of CMS-A which currently supports around 130 missionaries in many different countries. For information about this job click here and to make further enquiries write to CMS-A. The current Federal Secretary, John Thew, brought to this role a deep experience of Christian mission in Pakistan.
Dalits win victory in British House of Lords
The Indian government has long maintained that "caste" is different from "race" and so treating members of each caste differently is not a contravention of international law on racial discrimination. However, much to the embarrassment of Indian authorities, the campaign to outlaw discrimination on the grounds of caste took a step forward recently when the British House of Lords has passed a law that treats caste as "an aspect of race". On March 24, the House of Lords passed the Equality Bill empowering the British government to include "caste" within the definition of "race". This threatens India's much-touted success in keeping caste out of the resolution adopted at the 2001 Durban conference on racism. The provision to outlaw caste discrimination in Britain came in the form of an amendment made by the Lords as a result of intensive lobbying by dalit groups, including followers of the Ravidass sect who suffered a violent attack last year in Austria.
Church of Pakistan welcomes peace initiative
Just 36 hours before the bombing of the US High Commission in Islamabad, the Church of Pakistan hailed the joint initiative of two leading media groups in India and Pakistan to promote peace amidst strained diplomatic relations and rising tension. Bishop Samuel Azariah, the Moderator of the Church of Pakistan, welcomed the joint peace initiative of the Times of India and Jang group in Pakistan, to bring together people of both the nations and foster Indo-Pak dialogue. The initiative, titled Aman Ki Asha, promises to be a revolutionary collaboration, which through "debates, discussions and the telling of stories" seeks to find "commonalities and space, for compromise and adjustment, on matters that have bedevilled relations for over 60 years." Praising the initiative, Bishop Azariah said it reflected the desire of over 1.5 billion human beings living in Pakistan and India. He called it the biggest gift of 2010 to the people of both the nations.
Easter in prison - in Eritrea
Over 2,000 Christians will celebrate Easter in prison this year in Eritrea. The 17 young soldiers arrested in the south of the country after they had gathered for a prayer meeting last Saturday are the latest to find themselves in prison for their faith. Open Doors reports that 28 were arrested in March and approximately 2,200 Christians remain in prison for their refusal to stop practicing their faith outside of the government-sanctioned religious groups. At least 12 are known to have died in prison camps where conditions are often harsh. However, the effort to stop evangelism often backfires as prisoners become prison evangelists. One pastor writes to his wife from prison, “The moment I entered my cell, one of the prisoners called me and said, ‘Pastor, come over here. Everyone in this cell is unsaved. You are very much needed here.' So, on the same day I was put in prison, I carried on my spiritual work. My dear, the longer I stay in here, the more I love my Savior and tell the people here about His goodness.”
Kenyan Christians face mission challenge
Faith2Share member agency, Church Army Africa, has just completed a one day workshop for Anglican Archdeacons and Rural Deans in the Diocese of Nakuru, Kenya. Participants explored 'Challenges facing Anglican mission in Africa' and examined traditional and contemporary approaches to mission amd church development. Challenges such as rural/urban migration, lack of connectivity with youth, untrained leaders, and the growth of nominal Christianity were addressed. By learning how best to empower lay people in the churches, the leaders were encouraged to address each of these challenges in their own context.
Evangelicals identify 'idol of consumerism'
The Theology Working Group of the Lausanne movement met recently in Lebanon to consider what it means to take the gospel to the 'whole world'. Reporting on their meeting in Lausanne World Pulse Dr. Chris Wright (left) highlights four significant issues. He notes (a) a commitment to proclaiming in word and deed that care for creation is a gospel issue; (b) a new awareness of consumerism as an idolatry, especially in the Western world; (c) a commitment to share and participate in grassroots efforts of peace and reconciliation in a world of so many types of violence, and (d) an understanding that poverty is not a lack of resources but a product of personal and institutional injustice and greed, ethnic prejudice, and consumerism.
Healing through story telling
Story telling has the power to heal relationships. This is the conviction of two mission agencies, one Sudanese and one British, who are planning workshops for trauma healing through story telling and literacy in Sudan. Sudan Evangelical Mission (SEM) was established in 1998 as a South Sudanese NGO with considerable expertise in post-conflict adult literacy using the REFLECT approach. It has influential links with the Government of Southern Sudan and has previously influenced the Sudan Basic Education Policy through the integration of literacy and peacebuilding. In May they will work with Feed the Minds, a literacy and education focused mission in the UK to run workshops in Mundri, Southern Sudan. Also involved in this programme is PHARP, Peacebuilding, Healing and Reconciliation Programme an interdenominational NGO based in Kenya with offices in Rwanda, South Sudan, DRC and Burundi.
"Arms down!" say African religious leaders
African religious leaders meeting in Kigali, Rwanda, have asked their governments to support calls for a strong and comprehensive treaty against arms trading so that funds can be redirected into development. After their 23-25 March meeting, Christian, Hindu and Muslim leaders said such an agreement would reduce the human cost associated with the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, and control illegal dealing. Anglican Archbishop Emmanuel Kolini of Rwanda said, “When you manufacture guns, you have to find a market. When you find a market, you cause trouble, you cause conflict, so it becomes an endless cycle. We shall never stop it until we say enough is enough of killing ourselves," At the opening of the meeting, the religious leaders launched the ArmsDown! campaign in Africa, which calls on religious young people to work together towards a safer world.
Northern Nigeria seeks peace
After renewed violence resulting in the deaths of many Muslims and Christians, a three-day inter-faith conference on peace in Plateau State, Nigeria, came to a close with participants drawing up a 12-point communiqué on how lasting peace can be achieved in the state. According to the deputy governor of the state, Mrs. Pauline Tallen, the time has come for youths in the state and across the country, to learn to say no to violence and be tolerant of each other no matter what it may entail. One participant, Mr. Daniel Choji said the conference had assisted in no small measure in identifying the causes of the problems, and the frank discussions had enabled all participants an opportunity to take the messages back to the grassroots as that would be the only way to mend fences properly.
Anglican Primate in assassination attempt
The Anglican Primate of Central America, the Most Revd. Martin Barahona (left), narrowly survived an assassination attempt yesterday amidst a climate of rising violence in El Salvador. Reports suggest that an unknown gunman, without saying anything, shot at the bishop and two of his co-workers. The bullets hit the bishop’s driver, Francis Martínez, who is now recovering in hospital but the others in the car were unharmed. A witness said, “What is odd about these events is that the police was just a couple of meters away”. A church spokesman said, “We are dismayed by this inexplicable fact. The bishop is a pastor whose principle function is to accompany spiritually the faithful who seek his advice and solace.” Bishop Martín (67) has been Bishop of the Anglican Church of El Salvador since 1992 and now serves as the Primate of the Anglican Communion in Central America (IARCA).
Churches launch major humanitarian alliance
A new alliance that brings together over 100 church-backed relief and development organizations worldwide, was been formally launched on 24 March with celebrations in Geneva and around the world. The new ACT Alliance is one of the world’s largest humanitarian bodies working in 125 countries with a combined budget of 1.5 billion US dollars. It provides emergency food aid, shelter, water and sanitation facilities, and poverty reduction programmes in the world's poorest countries. The new body is a merger of the disaster relief network ACT International and its sister organization ACT Development. Both ACT International, established in 1995, and ACT Development (2007) were created through the leadership of the World Council of Churches (WCC). The alliance works for the world’s poorest people, fighting the causes of human suffering and injustice.
Don't forget Haiti
“The Anglican Communion needs to be actively involved in helping the rebuilding and healing of Haiti, working with the Église Épiscopale d’Haïti (the Anglican church of Haiti) and its bishop the Rt Revd Zaché Duracin.” This was the message that Archbishop Thabo Makgoba of the Anglican Church of Southern Africa wanted to share with the wider church after a visit to Haiti on 4-7 March. Archbishop Makgoba was present in Haiti on a solidarity visit and in support of the work of The Gift of the Givers, the largest disaster relief organisation based on the African continent, which is currently delivering its first shipment of relief supplies to meet urgent needs in Haiti following the January earthquake. The organization sent medical teams to Haiti immediately after the catastrophe. The latest death toll estimate for Haiti is 400,000 making it probably the greatest natural disaster in modern history.
African 'giant of a leader' dies
The death has been announced of the long serving General Secretary of the Association for Evangelicals in Africa. Serving in this role for 22 years Dr. Tokunboh Adeyemo (left) has been a mentor and inspiration for many of today’s Christian leaders in Africa. He once said, “Africa’s problem can be summarized in one word: ‘leadership’ – inept leadership, corrupt leadership, selfish leadership. We need leaders who do not focus on greed, but see themselves as servants of the people. If we could use properly the wealth with which God has endowed this continent, Africa would be a super-power!” Having studied himself in some of the best schools in Africa and beyond, holding doctorates from Dallas Theological Seminary and the University of Aberdeen, Dr. Adeyemo encouraged African churches to invest in the training of leaders both for church and community life. More recently he served as editor of the African Bible Commentary. Nigerian by birth Dr. Adeyemo died in hospital in Nairobi, Kenya, his adopted home, on 17 March.
Tokyo 2010 calls for 'final push' in mission
As plans are finalised for one of several large mission conferences this year, David Taylor has spent out the objectives for Tokyo 2010. He writes, “As a frontier mission consultation, Tokyo 2010 comes at a very auspicious time in both world and mission history. Opportunities abound to hasten the engagement of all peoples with missionary teams, but at the same time, very real challenges present themselves as the entire Church mobilizes for this final push. The world is quickly becoming a global village, and while this holds great promise for the rapid spread of the gospel, it also means that missionary work in restricted areas is more vulnerable than ever to misguided efforts. The purpose of Tokyo 2010 is to bring together the sending structures of the world to take an in-depth look at how we can more effectively cooperate in this new environment and encourage best practices in frontier missionary work” To register for Tokyo 2010 click here.
Andrew Palau and Pope Benedict to visit Britain
Plans have been announced for two major Christian events in Britain. This year in April Andrew Palau, son of the well known international evangelist Luis Palau, will lead a ten-day mission to southern England. Andrew Palau and other speakers will take the Gospel to city halls, an immigration removal centre, and schools, with a skateboard and bicycle stunt team giving displays and sharing their faith. This week has also seen the announcement of plans for Pope Benedict XVI to address 500,000 Catholics at a Mass in Glasgow, Scotland, and a prayer vigil in London in September. The Pope will meet the Queen in Edinburgh and the Archbishop of Canterbury in London. There are some fears that the current child abuse scandal could overshadow his visit.
Toilet queues
Monday 22 March is World Water Day. With 4,000 children still dying every day because of a lack of sanitation, campaigners around the world plan to draw attention to this crisis by forming record breaking toilet queues. Many churches have registered to take part in this high profile campaign. This global crisis affects 2.5 billion people, killing more children than malaria, HIV/AIDS and TB combined. The rights of access to clean water and basic sanitation are being refused to people across the world leading to horrific consequences. 4000 children under the age of five dying every day from preventable water related illnesses such as diarrhoea, typhoid, cholera and dysentery. Over half of hospital beds in developing countries are taken by those suffering with diarrhoeal illnesses. The UN estimates that half of girls who stop attending primary school in Africa do so because of the lack of safe and private toilets.
Religious leaders focus on HIV/AIDS
The first-ever summit of senior religious leaders on HIV and AIDS will be held in Den Dolder, Netherlands, from 22-23 March 2010. It aims to generate greater involvement from religious leaders of many of the world’s faiths in the global response to the pandemic. One of the participants, Rev. Dr Olav Fykse Tveit, General Secretary of the World Council of Churches said, "As religious leaders we have to be just and honest and address the fact that a vast majority of those among us affected by HIV and AIDS belong to a faith community. We have to provide leadership to uphold the inherent human dignity of all. This meeting should bring us one step further in our ability as peoples of faith to address how we relate to one another as men and women in a just and compassionate way." Over 40 Baha’í, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Jewish, Muslim and Sikh religious leaders will participate at the summit.
Christians expelled from village in Laos
The advocacy organization Human Rights Watch for Lao Religious Freedom (HRWLRF) are reporting that in southern Laos officials plan to burn temporary shelters built by expelled Christians, within the next 36 hours, unless they recant their faith. Prior to this expulsion of 48 Christians at gunpoint, officials raided a worship service, and destroyed homes and belongings. Left to survive in the open, the Christians began to build temporary shelters, and then more permanent homes, on the edge of the jungle. On Monday (March 15) district head Bounma summoned seven of the believers to his office and declared that although the republic’s law and constitution allowed for freedom of religious belief, he would not allow Christian beliefs and practices in areas under his control. If the Katin believers would not give up their faith, he said, they must relocate to a district where Christianity was tolerated. A communist country, Laos is 1.5% Christian and 67% Buddhist.
Chilean mission candidates aid earthquake victims
Young Christians from a missionary training centre have been some of the first in Chile to bring relief to outlying areas hit by the recent earthquake. In the village of Los Lizamas, about 10 miles outside the city of Molina, at least 60 survivors were left without aid. Youth from the Center for Young Missionaries (Centro Misionero Jovenel) have been sending teams to Los Lizamas regularly to distribute food, water and other essentials. Charles Clark, a member of the IMB's quake-relief assessment team, says, "These Chilean Baptist youth are pretty well known and build a relationship with the people there." The center trains Chilean Christians in their late teens and early 20s with a focus on “living the Gospel”. As a relatively new mission education program they send missionaries to other parts of Chile and into the 10/40 Window.
Adoptive parents deported from Morocco
On 8 March all 16 overseas workers, including 10 parents, and 13 natural-born dependents were informed that they were to be evicted from the Village of Hope, where some have lived with their adopted children for ten years, and deported from Morocco. The reason given was that the parents had been proselytizing, but with no explanation of who, when, where or how this was alleged to have occurred. No charges concerning the welfare and care of the children have ever been made. Village of Hope places children in family units rather than the traditional dormitory orphanages and each child has a ‘mother’ and ‘father’ with whom they live. The deportees have appealed to the king of Morocco. This action against VOH appears to be part of a nationwide crackdown against Christians living in Morocco. For more information and to offer support click here.
49 charged with murder in Jos, Nigeria
The Nigerian authorities have reported that 200 people have now been arrested as a result of the violence in the city of Jos last Sunday and 49 of these have been charged with murder. Official sources put the death toll at 109, although unofficial sources earlier claimed that more than 500 died. Most of the dead are Christians whilst most of those facing charges are Muslims from the Fulani group, according to police spokesman Mohammed Lerama. The violence followed sectarian killings near Jos in January that left more than 300 dead, most of them believed to be Muslims. Although on the surface this appears as a religious conflict, local commentators are pointing to serious underlying tensions which are more to do with land settlement and cultural factors. On Wednesday Pope Benedict XVI denounced the bloodshed as "atrocious". He urged civil and religious leaders "to work towards security and peaceful co-existence".
World Vision staff killed in Pakistan
World Vision today reported an attack on its offices in Pakistan which led to the “brutal and senseless deaths of six members of staff in the Mansehra District of Pakistan, killed in an unprovoked attack by gunmen.” Unconfirmed reports say that gunmen first set off bombs or grenades, then opened fire on the office, located 65 kilometres north of the capital, Islamabad, at 9.20am local time today. In addition to the four men and two women killed, seven employees have been hospitalised with injuries. No threatening letters were received prior to the attack. All of World Vision’s operations in the country have been suspended indefinitely. World Vision work in Pakistan is focused on relief interventions and community development initiatives. After the devastating October 2005 earthquake, World Vision expanded its operations in Pakistan.
Attacks on Christians continue in India
The Global Council of Indian Christians (GCIC) has expressed concern at the continuation of attacks on Christian ministers in India, particularly in Karnataka State. In the most recent incident on Monday of this week a pastor was brutally attacked by a group of Hindu radicals at Mysore. According to GCIC, the incident took place at around 11:30am as Pastor Ravi Chandran, of the Gospel in Action Fellowship, was conducting a prayer meeting at a nearby believer’s house. A group of about 10-15 Hindu radicals are reported to have forcefully entered the house and begun to abuse the pastor and the believers gathered there. Pastor Ravi was hit with glass bottles, kicked and punched sustaining a severe leg injury and head swelling during the attack. Believers took him to a nearby government hospital where he was admitted.
Mission on the agenda as WEA meets WCC
Mission and Evangelism were near the top of the agenda when the leaders of the World Evangelical Alliance (WEA) and the World Council of Churches (WCC) met in Geneva on 3 March. Rev. Dr Geoff Tunnicliffe (left of picture), International Director of the WEA, had previously met Rev. Dr. Olav Fykse Tveit (right of picture), General Secretary of the WCC, in 2007 at the Global Christian Forum. Tunnicliffe said: "This important meeting was helpful in building bridges of understanding in regards to evangelism, religious liberty and caring for the vulnerable. We look forward to ongoing conversations with the WCC." The two leaders also affirmed the continued support of the WCC and WEA for the Global Christian Forum as a platform providing opportunities for encounters and dialogue between Orthodox, Catholic, Anglican, Protestant, Evangelical, Pentecostal and the African Instituted Churches.
Mudslides still threaten 500,000 in Uganda
One young survivor of mudslides in eastern Uganda was sitting in church when a wall of mud hit the building. "All of a sudden the church collapsed. Mud covered the whole place. Five people seated next to me died. I only survived because my head was above the mud," said James Kasawi now in hospital in Bududa recovering from a broken leg and arm. So far, a total of 83 bodies have been recovered though it is feared as many as 300 may have died when their homes, schools and villages on the slopes of Mt. Elgon, near the Kenyan border, were swallowed by fast-moving walls of mud. Catholic Relief Services and other Christian agencies already have teams in the area bringing relief but the government now plans to move up to half a million residents who are still considered to be at risk. A spokesman for the Uganda Land Alliance, however, claimed the plans were not very realistic, saying, "In the Uganda of today it is very difficult to find land that is not owned, so this is going to pose a challenge for government."
Hundeds die as more violence hits Jos, Nigeria
Bishop Ben Kwashi, Anglican Archbishop of Jos, has reported further bloodshed in northern Nigeria. He writes, “News broke on Sunday 7 March that two other villages plus Dogo na Hauwa had been attacked by Muslim Fulani from about 3a.m. to 5a.m.. Some of these communities may never again be recognised in history because generations have been wiped out. Hundreds of corpses of men, women, children and grandchildren littered the burnt houses, roads, bush paths, farm areas and hiding places. Tears and endless wailings until voices croaked and words are no more.” Following similar violence in January this year reconciliation forums have been held in Jos for Christian and Muslim community members. The bishop concludes his letter by saying, “I urge believers to clean and clear their minds of any form of bitterness, resentment or even any thought of vengeance against one another from within the fellowship, and then we can see clearly how to respond in times of difficulty such as this one.”
International Women's Day
Church World Service, the Christian relief and development agency, has joined many other Christian groups around the world in celebrating International Women's Day, March 8, by renewing the call for increased efforts to achieve gender equality and empowerment of women. They claim that, “Substantial progress has been made in decreasing the marginalization of women throughout the world as recognition is taking hold that investment in women is investment in the well-being of families, communities and society as a whole.” The agency supports programs such as the one in Pakistan that has made it possible for young widowed mothers to go from wondering how they can feed their children to generating enough income to care for them all, and still have money to save. International Women’s Day follows a few days after the Women’s World Day of Prayer which this year used materials prepared by women in Cameroon.
Children the focus of mission in India
The international 4/14 Window movement, which focuses on the place of children in the mission of God is growing fast. The next Global Summit takes place in New York in August but in the meantime major gatherings have taken place around the world, in Argentina, Cameroon and most recently in India. The recently concluded Festival of Hope Crusade hosted by Kids' Kingdom Ministries in Chennai, India, focused on reaching out to young children. Organiser Charles Chandran said over 20,000 children gathered at this special program during the Crusade week where the Gospel was preached and several hundred children came to Christ. The day-long event had several programs exclusively for the children of Chennai. Franklin Graham of Samaritan's Purse was a special guest speaker.
Morality review welcomed by South African churches
At the recent National Church Leaders’ Consultation, South African churches gave a cautious welcome to President Zuma’s call for a national dialogue on morality. In a statement they said President Zuma’s proposal to examine the soul of South Africa was ‘timely’. The ‘common values and principles’ that formed the country under the leadership of President Mandela had been ‘substantially squandered’, the leaders said. The president’s recent fathering of an illegitimate child provoked strong criticism and was seen as a sign of the country’s declining moral standards. President Zuma told South Africa’s Sunday Times there was a need to agree the ‘values that define a common South African identity’. South Africa’s church leaders are keen to clarify this and establish the ‘sacred’ and ‘inviolable’ value of all human life, regardless of ‘race, class, nationality, religion and political persuasion’
Muslim terrorists are "enemies of Islam" says scholar
A leading Islamic scholar has issued a fatwa in Britain condemning "terrorists" as the enemies of Islam, in a bid to deter young Muslims from extremism. Muhammad Tahir ul-Qadri (left), head of the Minhaj ul-Quran religious and educational organisation, said suicide bombers were destined for hell as he released his 600-page edict in London this week. "They can't claim that their suicide bombings are martyrdom operations and that they become the heroes of the Muslim Umma, no, they become heroes of hellfire, and they are leading towards hellfire," he said. "There is no place for any martyrdom and their act is never, ever to be considered Jihad," he said. Ul-Qadri claims that this is the first and most comprehensive fatwa on the subject of terrorism ever written. The Minhaj-ul-Quran movement, founded in Pakistan in 1980, works around the globe to promote peace and interfaith dialogue.
Indian novelist acknowledged by mission leader
Best selling Indian novelist Chetan Bagat (left), recently crowned ‘Paperback king of India’ by The Guardian, provided the illustrations for two talks delivered recently by Church Mission Society (CMS) General Secretary, Tim Dakin, at the Maramon Convention of the Mar Thoma Church in Kerala, India. Addressing the theme, ‘Live the Gospel’, Canon Dakin won over the crowd of tens of thousands, not only by quoting Bagat, but also by contrasting Indian cricketing success with England's mediocre performances. CMS missionaries had a catalytic effect in the "reformation" that led to formation of the Mar Thoma church out of the traditional Syrian Orthodox church in the 19th century. The Mar Thoma Evangelistic Association is also the oldest established indigenous mission movement in India, a partner in mission with CMS and a member of Faith2Share. The General Secretary of the Mar Thoma Evangelistic Association will next month attend the Faith2Share Leadership Consultation in Brazil.
40,000 new Christians in Haiti
he Confraternite Missionaire Baptiste d'Haiti (CMBH) has reported that since the January earthquake in Haiti more than 40,000 new people have confessed faith in Jesus Christ. The Baptist Press reports that "During a Feb. 16-17 citywide holiday observance in Cap Haitien, Haiti's second largest city, Craig Culbreth [director of the Florida Baptist Convention's partnership missions department] saw 'thousands upon thousands filling the streets where people are seeking God and asking Him to spare them from what happened in Port-au-Prince.'" The government of Haiti, the poorest country in the western hemisphere called for three days of prayer and fasting from 12-14 February and it appears that many conversions followed. The challenge for churches in Haiti now is how to effectively disciple these new Christians.
Christians in Chile respond to earthquake
The Anglican bishop of Chile, Rt Revd Hector (Tito) Zavala, has reported that “the city of Concepción is still isolated; electricity supply has not been established, and due to lack of transport no food, water or petrol is getting through. Around seventy families from our church have been affected. Our brethren are sleeping in tents in three different parts of the city: Manqimavida, San Pedro de la Paz and Las Lomas. As the families are grouped together they can share cooking pots and maximise the few provisions they have between them. At an emergency meeting, the Diocese decided to take help to the area. We called upon our churches, both in Chile and abroad to help.” The church plans to support those effected “in an integrated way (body, mind and spirit)", and has arranged for trucks to go to Concepcion and the coastal area of Region VII which was most effected by the local tsunami as well as the earthquake.
European migrants in the spotlight
With migration at record levels in Europe the Churches’ Commission for Migrants in Europe (CCME) has just completed a series of consultations with governments across Europe. The final ‘conversation’ was held on 1 March in Hungary where church leaders met with representatives of the Hungarian government, the UN refugee agency UNHCR, civil society organisations and other EU member states. The round table debate in particular looked at the interplay of national policies and EU cooperation in selection, reception and integration of resettled refugees. Considerable attention was devoted to taking stock of the particular situation of newer EU member states engaging in resettlement. Representatives of the Czech and the Romanian government reported about the resettlement programmes, which their countries have started in the last two years.
World Bank sponsors 'Christian tourism' in Nigeria
With an eye on developing tourism in Nigeria the Cross River Quality Initiative of the World Bank has just sponsored two tours to Calabar. The first, last month, was a ‘Valentine holiday getaway’, but the second was its 'Gospel Encounter' tour. This two-night holiday tour had a clear Christian theme. According to marketing executive Rita Akpanette, of Rimallis Internationational Services, the tour between February 26 and 28 aimed to “give greater exposure to the rich Christian heritage of Calabar, as one of the earliest Nigerian cities to receive European missionaries.” Nigeria has a great potential for tourism but also a number of ‘reputational issues’ to deal with as well as the need for tourism industry training. Nigerian Christians are already seeing possibilities for bringing together tourism and ministry in a creative mix.
New director for Micah Network
The Micah Network has announced the appointment of Sheryl Haw (left) as their new International Director to succeed Jane Furniss who left in 2009 after serving the network for five years. Sheryl, who will take up the post on the first of April 2010, was born in Zimbabwe and has worked with Medair in Iraq, Somalia, Sudan, Kenya, Mozambique, Sri Lanka, Uganda, DRC, Zimbabwe, India, Bangladesh and Angola. Following 13 years with Medair she became a self employed Consultant/ Trainer and worked on a BA in theology. Over the last 2 years she started as the Integral Mission coordinator / lecturer at All Nations Christian College in England, where she helped develop the module in development studies and development management. Sheryl says “I am desperate to walk a life of integrity and vitality before God and people – this is for me when change will flow …..”
China supports Christianity says seminary leader
Rev Dr Gao Ying (left), vice president of Nanjing Union Theological Seminary in China, speaking to the United Bible Societies this week, has claims that Christianity now enjoys official support in China. Acknowledging that unregistered churches in some regions continue to be subject to harsh restrictions and closure, Dr. Ying said, ‘China doesn’t resist Christianity any more. We no longer call Christianity a foreign religion because it has been moulded into our blood.” Dr. Ying is herself from a non-Christian family but confessed that “My mind was always preoccupied with a growing curiosity in Christianity”. Nanjing Seminary is the national seminary of the Church in China, established in 1952 by the Chinese Three-Self Patriotic Movement (TSPM) in the cultural and historic city of Nanjing. Students come from almost every part of China, from Sichuan, Gansu, Yunnan, Inner Mongolia, Ningxia and beyond. Currently there are 220 registered students although each year more than 800 apply for places and growing churches are desperately short of trained leaders.
Churches respond to Chile earthquake
As fears grew for isolated communities across the Pacific whose sea level homes lie in the path of the tsunami created by the earthquake in Chile, in Chile itself churches have been some of the first to offer aid to those affected. The quake which struck Chile at 3.34am. today (Saturday) was one of the strongest ever recorded. Churches in Santiago (left) have been amongst the many buildings destroyed., President-elect Sebastian Pinera has said more than 120 people died but that number is likely to rise. The quake shook buildings in Argentina's capital, Buenos Aires, and was felt as far away as Sao Paulo, Brazil, 1,800 miles to the east. The quake initiated a tsunami that ran across the Pacific, setting off alarm sirens in Hawaii, Polynesia and Tonga. People in low-lying island nations were urged to find high ground.
UPDATE : With more than 600 people now reported dead most mission personnel have now reported that they are safe, but shaken.
Religious freedom denied in Uzbekistan
Reports of attacks against Christians in Uzbekistan continue. One member of the registered Baptist Union, Valery Konovalov, has to pay a fine imposed in his absence, after he was forced to appear as a witness in the trial of three leaders of the Baptist Union. The three have themselves been forced to pay what the same court claimed was unpaid tax and two were removed from their posts. Uzbek state TV broadcast a programme focussing on the Baptist trial. After the programme parents whose children attended Protestant churches were summoned to schools and warned not to take their children to church. In an unrelated incident three members of the unregistered Greater Grace Protestant Church in Samarkand have also been given heavy fines followeing a police raid on a private home where children and teenagers were illegally interrogated without their parents being present. This church has been unsuccessfully seeking state registration since 2000.
Ecological care a task for the church claims Mar Thoma leader
Two million people attended the eight-day Maramon Convention in the state of Kerala, south India, last week. Billed as the largest gathering of Christians in Asia, the Maramon Convention is organized by the Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church. Metropolitan Joseph Mar Thoma, supreme head of this reformed Orthodox Church, claimed the convention was a great success, saying, “More than 2 million people attended the convention most days and the venue was always crowded.” In his final address he urged people to witness to Christ’s teachings on love, compassion and reconciliation and stressed the need to protect the environment. Christians should not forget that protecting the environment “is part of our spirituality,” he said and added that eco disasters challenge Churches as much as poverty does.The Maramon convention began 115 years ago and this year it began with a campaign to plant 100,000 saplings near homes and in parishes. One of the speakers this year was Rev. Canon Tim Dakin of CMS.
South African missiologist missing
It has been reported that Professor Steve De Gruchy (left), the head of the School of Religion and Theology at the University of Kwa Zulu Natal, South Africa, has died after a rafting accident. Steve was rafting with his son when their raft disintegrated. His son was soon rescued but Steve's body was not recovered until two days later. An ordained minister in the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa (UCCSA) he was appointed as Professor of Theology and Development at the University of KwaZulu-Natal and has been Editor of the Journal of Theology for Southern Africa. He has always had a lively academic and practical interest in the interface between the Christian faith and social ethics and has published in these areas.
Christian in Orissa still living in the forests
The situation in Orissa's Kandhamal district, India, where at least 38 people were killed during communal violence in 2008, is still critical according to local church leaders. The archbishop of Cuttack-Bhubaneswar has today claimed that “At east 4,400 families continue to live in tents, makeshift shelters or the remnants of their damaged houses”. “Fifteen months after they were uprooted, thousands still live in makeshift shanties along the road and in the forest,” Archbishop Raphael Cheenath told reporters. “Some of them just do not want to go back as they are being threatened,” he claimed. Local officials in Kandhamal, however, denied riot victims were still living outside the district. In 2008 more than 25,000 Christians were forced to flee their homes after their houses were attacked by rampaging mobs, which held Christians responsible for the death of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader Swami Laxmanananda, although police blamed the Maoists.
Mission faces serious cuts as financial downturn bites
The Church Mission Society, Britain’s largest Anglican-based international mission agency has announced staff cuts of up to 22 posts (out of a total of 77.5 posts) over two years with 14 going in the next few months. They say “Outside forces – the recession and a sizeable pensions deficit – have hit CMS hard. The Society’s trustees believe there is no alternative but to make these painful staff reductions. Other overhead costs are also being significantly reduced.” CMS General Secretary, Tim Dakin, added, ““The recession is biting and we have to take action so that our core mission is safeguarded for the future,” As the CMS People in Mission programme is now largely self-sustaining this means that the vast majority of the Society’s mission partners will be able to continue their work.
Christian journalists released in Madagascar
The president of the Madagascar's largest Protestant church has welcomed the release of two imprisoned church radio journalists, but has warned they are still facing trial for allegedly colluding in an army mutiny after reporting on the action. Lala Rasendrahasina (left), who heads the Church of Jesus Christ in Madagascar (FJKM) warned of threats to the media and churches. He said he believes that pressure from organizations such as Reporters Without Borders and the Malagasy Journalists' Association, as well as other international groups, helped ensure the release of the journalists. The two were arrested on 8 January after the FJKM radio station reported on a plan by a group of solider to overthrow President Andry Rajoelina. Ratsimba had been invited to cover the event in one of the military camps on 28 December 2009.
Camels, Christians and Isa
An article in Christianity Today has resurrected the debate about the so called ‘Camel method’ for evangelism amongst Muslims, first developed by Kevin Greeson of the Baptist International Mission Board. Based on the ancient legend that every Muslim knows 99 names for God but the 100th. name is known only to the camel, this method maintains that the final name of God is Isa, Jesus. Evangelists then use verses from the Qu’ran to show that Isa is holy, has power over death, and knows the path to heaven, before the connecting the Islamic feast of sacrifice, Eid al-Adha, with God’s plan of salvation for mankind. The debate has been rekindled by a mission strategist who claims to have used this method to great effect in the Philippines for ten years. Conservative missionaries question whether teaching based on the Qu’ran and an Islamic feast should be used by Christian evangelists.
Transforming South East Asia
At the recent summit of south east Asian mission leaders Rev. Wong Kim Kong from Malaysia suggested that Nehemiah can provide an effective model for contemporary mission engagement which starts with prayer and situational analysis and then moves on to the identification and mobilisation of key people and the formation of strategy and implementation plans. The key resources for mission in south east Asia identified at the meeting were prayer, people, finances and intellectual capital. The 20 leaders attending came from seven countries, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Myanmar, and Brunei Darussalam. The rationale for this summit, organised by Transform World, was to “catalyse and actualise the vision of transforming South East Asia through the united effort and initiative of Christian partnership and networking among the Southeast Asian churches”.
"Truth does not fear dialogue"
"It is not possible for the Lord to agonize over the unity of His disciples and for us to remain indifferent about the unity of all Christians," writes Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew (left) in an encyclical issued for the Sunday of Orthodoxy (21 February). The encyclical refutes "fanatical" challenges brought against theological dialogues among different Orthodox churches and against ecumenical contacts with the wider community of Christians by "certain circles that exclusively claim for themselves the title of zealot and defender of Orthodoxy." He goes on to say, "The truth does not fear dialogue, because truth has never been endangered by dialogue." The Ecumenical Patriarch is based in Istanbul and acts as a focus for unity within the Orthodox family of churches.
Iraqi Christians killed in Mosul
A spate of attacks on Christians in the northern Iraqi city of Mosul is causing great concern to churches within Iraq and has already led to Christians seeking to flee the city. On 16 February two Christians students were shot in a drive by shooting, killing one and injuring the other. Later that day two more Christian students were kidnapped, though it is unknown if a ransom has been demanded. On 15th a Christian man was killed in front of his shop in a drive by shooting and on 14th another Christian man was killed in his home by an armed man who forced his way into the house. On 13th a Christian man was abducted and his family have received a large ransom demand. There are unconfirmed reports that three other Christians have been killed whilst attempting to leave Mosul. Church leaders have appealed for prayer for the community in Mosul.
Middle East churches face marginalisation
The marginalisation of ancient Christian communities in the Middle East was highlighted last week during a visit by Thomas Wipf, President, and Michael Bünker, General Secretary, of the Community of Protestant Churches in Europe (CPCE) to the General Assembly of the Federation of Middle East Evangelical Churches (FMCEE) in Beirut, Lenanon. Conversations took place with with church delegations from Iraq, Iran, Sudan and Egypt as well as visits to ancient communities in places such as Tarik Mitri. They report that everyday marginalisation, eruptions of violence and especially the lack of economic opportunity lead to the emigration of young people and the weakening of the churches. There were also conversations with Muslim leaders in the region. “We have lived together in peace for centuries and we want to hold firmly to that in spite of all political difficulties”, said Abbas El Halabi, who chaired this dialogue.
More bishops injured in Uganda
Yesterday Faith2Share reported on the death in a road accident of Bishop Patrick Kyaligonza of Rwenzori diocese (see below). Sadly we have now heard of a further road accident as bishops were travelling to his funeral service. Bishop Daniel Gimadu of North Mbale Diocese and Bishop Augustine Salimo of Sebei Diocese were both injured and Bishop Gimadu’s wife Perepetua died. This is a real tragedy for the Anglican Church in Uganda,
Maramon Convention opens
The 115th. Maramon convention in Kerela, south India, was opened on Sunday by Rt. Rev. Dr. Zacharias Mar Theophilus the Suffragan Metropolitan of the Mar Thoma Church of India. This gathering of hundreds of thousands of Indian Christians and those enquiring into Christian faith was launched in 1895 and still claims to be the largest Christian evangelistic gathering on earth. Discussions at the convention are mainly aimed at self-purification, dedication, commitment and cultural uplift. Emphasis is also laid on communal harmony, unity and peace. The need for inter-religious dialogue is also promoted with a view to forging greater understanding and co-operation between different religious groups in the secular context of modern India. Speakers this year include Rev.Vinod Victor from Trivandrum, Canon Tim Dakin from CMS, UK, and Bishop Robert Solomon from Singapore.
Ugandan bishop killed in road accident
Less than a year after his consecration as Anglican bishop of the diocese of Rwenzori in Uganda, Bishop Patrick Kyaligonza (left) has been killed in a road accident on Fort Portal road opposite St. Simeon Catholic Church Miranga at Kayihura near Kyenjojo town. The bishop was travelling with his wife Rose Kabahita Mujungu, the chaplain, Moses Tembo and their driver, Patrick Isingoma. Mourning his death the former Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Livingstone Nkoyoyo , said, “we thank God for his life. He was a committed bishop gifted with preaching," The vice-chancellor of Uganda Christian University, Prof, Stephen Noll, described Kyaligonza as a brilliant student who was inspirational to others. The late bishop studied theology at the university. The Archbishop of Uganda, Henry Orombi, led prayers for the family and diocese of bishop Patrick.
Evangelical Orthodox Church leader dies
The death has been announced of Archpriest Jack Sparks (left) of St. John Orthodox Cathedral in Eagle River, Alaska. He was 81. Born in Lebanon Jack began his ministry as a director coordinator with Campus Crusade for Christ in San Bernardino, California and then, in 1968, as director of the Christian World Liberation Front (an evangelical movement amongst hippies and students). With some of his colleagues in Campus Crusade for Christ, Jack began to question their method of evangelism which introduced people to Jesus, but not to the Church. They therefore set out to point people to the New Testament Church, or the nearest modern equivalent, and through a study of church history came to embrace Orthodoxy. In 1977, he was one of the founders and dean of St. Athanasius Academy of Orthodox Theology and was ordained into the Orthodox priesthood in 1987. He moved to the Orthodox community in Alaska in 2004 and for the past decade has worked as project director of the Orthodox Study Bible.
Robin Hood Tax idea launched
The Evangelical development agency TearFund has joined over 50 agencies involved in tackling global poverty to campaign for a tax on financial transactions. In the UK this is being called a ‘Robin Hood’ tax. Initial calculations suggest that a tax of just 0.05% on each financial transaction could raise £250 billion to help the world’s poorest people. The idea already has the support of politicians such as Gordon Brown (UK prime minister), Angela Merkel (German Chancellor) and Nicolas Sarkozy (French President) and those in the business world such as Lord Turner (from the Financial Services Authority), George Soros (the philanthropist) and Warren Buffet (US businessman extraordinaire). TearFund are now seeking to raise grassroots support for the scheme. Faith2Share has signed up and other agencies are invited to do so here.
US missionaries to be freed in Haiti
A Haitian judge said on Thursday he had ruled in favour of the release of ten U.S. missionaries accused of kidnapping 33 children and trying to take them out of the earthquake-stricken country. The prosecutor, Joseph Manes Louis, however, said he would not work on the judge's decision until after the weekend which means the Americans will not be released until Monday at the earliest. The missionaries, most of whom belong to an Idaho-based Baptist church, were arrested trying to take the children across the border to the Dominican Republic 17 days after the earthquake that killed more than 200,000 people in the impoverished Caribbean nation. The five men and five women have denied any intentional wrongdoing and said they were only trying to help orphans left destitute by the quake, which shattered the Haitian capital and left more than 1 million people homeless. But evidence showed that most of the children still had living parents.
Church reopens vocational training centre
The Anglican Church of Melanesia on Friday last week re-launched its Life Raft Service Centre at Taroaniara Shipyard on Gela in the Central Province. The Centre provides employment training for young people in the context of the Taroaniara shipyard which has provided services to many mission vessels as well as other government and private vessels. Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Melanesia The Most Rev. David Vunagi was the guest of honour at the launching programme. He said, “The Church of Melanesia as a stakeholder in the provision of education in this country needs to look at the development of her Vocational Training Centres. They need to be properly equipped and adequately staffed.”
Kenya deports radical Muslim leader for Sh40 million
Church leaders in Kenya have defended the government’s decision to spent more than Sh40 million to deport radical Jamaican Islamic preacher Sheikh Abdullah al Faisal (left). Concerns have been growing that the radicalisation of the Kenyan Muslim community will undermine much good work done by bodies such as PROCMURA. The government minister responsible for the deportation, Otieno Kajwang, defended the cost saying, ”It is the responsibility of the State to ship back the likes of al Faisal and this was necessitated by the fact that some deportees turn violent. This makes commercial airlines uncomfortable with such travellers," Sheikh al Faisal, whose arrest and subsequent deportation triggered fatal demonstrations by Muslim youths in Nairobi, entered Kenya on December 24, last year, from Tanzania. He served four years in a UK prison after being convicted of calling for the murder of Jews and Hindus.
Church pleads for peace in Sudan
Meeting in Rumbek in the run up to Sudan’s elections, the leadership of the Episcopal Church in Sudan has called for peace. In a statement issued after thew meeting they say, “We reaffirm our commitment to doubling the efforts of the Church in bringing peace and reconciliation to our people, working together with the government as a force for unity and love amongst our people who have suffered for so long. … Tribal differences must be put aside at this crucial time in history and the government must fulfill their duty to provide security for their citizens. … ‘This violence is intended to negatively affect the elections and referendum. The Church must act now to counter these effects for the sake of the rights of the people of Sudan.” The people of southern Sudan have been badly affected by insecurity linked to the build-up to the elections.
Ukrainians assess election results
After elections in Ukraine last Sunday were won by opposition leader Viktor Yanukovych (left) there are growing fears that he may begin to restrict some of the activities of non-Orthodox religious groups. External observers have described the elections as “an impressive display of democracy” and it is unlikely that western-leaning Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko will contest the results. Speaking on behalf of evangelicals in Ukraine the Vice President of Russian Ministries, Sergey Rakhuba said that president-elect Yanukovych had attempted to bring a bill restricting religious groups to parliament two weeks ago but this had been resisted by pro-freedom groups and withdrawn. Compared with Russia and some other ex-Soviet Union countries, Christians in Ukraine have enjoyed considerable freedoms in recent years.
Indians consult on 'Tentmaking' ministry
Two significant consultations took place in India last month for those who want to follow in the footsteps of St. Paul, sharing the gospel whilst engaged in commerce or business, "making tents". In Hyderabad Tentmakiers International brought together 100 mission and church leaders from Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Europe and the Americas for three days to share experiences, dream together and plan join strategies for tentmaker ministries. Shortly before this consultation Global Advance gathered together 200 Indian Christian business owners and entrepeneurs in Mumbai to share how they are using their God-given skills in business to become agents of the gospel within India and beyond. In the coming months Marketplace Missions is sponsoring similar consultations in Sierra Leone and Nicaragua.
Missionary to be freed by North Korea
An American missionary who walked into North Korea on Christmas Day proclaiming Christian salvation and demanding the resignation of the country's dictator, Kim Jong Il, will be released after "repenting" of his crime, according to the country's official media. The state-run Korean Central News Agency has reported that Robert Park (left), a 28-year-old US citizen of Korean descent, will soon be released six weeks after crossing into North Korea from China. Before his departure Mr Park had spoken of his wish to free the occupants of North Korea's gulags and his willingness to die in the attempt. Foreign governments and human rights organisations have repeatedly accused North Korea of suppressing freedom of religion in a country where the only tolerated faith is the personality cult of Kim Jong Il and his late father, the founding "Great Leader" Kim Il Sung.
Peace for Palestinians and Israelis?
The World Council of Churches (WCC) has just launched the "Palestine Israel Ecumenical Forum" (PIEF) as a platform that rallies churches together enabling them to coordinate their efforts and initiatives for a just peace in Palestine-Israel. Their website says "the aim is to bring an end to the illegal occupation of Palestine in accordance with UN resolutions, and demonstrate commitment for inter-religious action for peace and justice that serves all the peoples of the region. The PIEF believes that non-violence and rigorous dialogue between people, regardless of religious affiliation, are the pillars around which peace, justice, and reconciliation can originate in the region."
Baptists jailed in Haiti
Ten members of a Baptist church in Idaho, USA, are now in jail in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, after being charged today with child kidnapping and criminal association. The group had tried to take 33 child victims of the Haiti earthquake out of the country last month. The group’s lawyer, Edwin Coq, said that under the Haiti legal system, there will not be a public trial, rather a judge will consider the evidence. It could take the judge three months to deliver a verdict. The maximum sentence for child kidnap in Haiti is 15 years imprisonment. The leader of the group, Laura Silsby, said earlier that they were trying to take orphans and abandoned children to an orphanage in the neighboring Dominican Republic. She acknowledged they had not sought permission from Haitian officials, but said they just meant to help victims of the earthquake.
The deaf hear
In what may be an international first, the Seed Company have just unveiled a new Bible translation for the deaf community in Kenya. Until now this community of 200,000 plus have been largely unreached by the gospel. “Now they have a sign language Bible recorded as a DVD so that those who are deaf or hearing impaired can see in sign language someone signing out the Scriptures in their heart language," explains Mike Toupin of Seed Company. In common with other disabled groups, deaf people are often marginalised and have less access to the gospel than hearing people in almost every country. The Kenyan translation is not the full Bible, but it takes on the major points of the Scriptures from Genesis to Revelation with a special focus on the life of Christ. Before each new topic, there is an introduction about the background of the book; at the end of each segment, questions are asked to ensure comprehension and application of the Word. The Seed Company has just introduced a similar project in India and hopes to continue these projects across the globe.
Keeping faith in Bangladesh
Cyclone Aila which ravaged Bangladesh more than eight months ago and destroyed hundreds of thousands of homes has all but been forgotten by the media. With Haiti catching the headlines today there are fears that even the aid organisations will divert their resources away from Bangladesh where thousands still live with little food and no shelter. Many families still live in the jungles. The storm claimed over 300 lives, affected two million people with 40,000 losing their homes. In the aftermath of this disaster, throughout the country, more and more individuals are turning to faith in Isa (Jesus). Several churches need new buildings because they have outgrown their current premises and there is a growing need to training leaders for new communities seeking to follow Jesus. Churches within the country are continuing to supply material and spiritual assistance where they can.
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