Updates on the persecuted Church – 8 August 2023

Three deacons feared dead in Chin State, Myanmar; Pastor injured in Pakistan church attack; Two Nigerian church ministers abducted in Niger State

• Three deacons from a church in Mindat Township, Chin State, Myanmar, are feared dead after being arrested by the Tatmadaw (Myanmar military). Chai Kay, Hon Chway and Hon Kay were arrested on 16 July, and are believed to have been tortured to death. The pastor of the church, Htang Kay On, was also arrested and tortured along with the three deacons. He was able to escape and is now receiving treatment. Pray that if these three men are still alive they will be released, and that if not their families and friends will be comforted by knowing that they are with the Lord. Ask that Pastor Htang will recover from his ordeal.

• A pastor in Peshawar, Pakistan, suffered injuries to his head and eye as several young men attacked a church service on 3 August. The armed attackers dragged Pastor Zulfiqar Gill out of a service at Lala Zarr Church and began beating him with the butts of their rifles. They also fired several shots inside the church, causing some damage but thankfully no fatalities. Police intervened to arrest the gunmen and prevent any further incident. The attack was condemned by the Peshawar-based National Commission for Human Rights and a spokesman for the Muslim League. Give thanks for this swift intervention and condemnation. Pray for the recovery of Pastor Zulfiqar and ask that there will be no further attacks.

• Two Nigerian church ministers were abducted from their homes in Gyeda, Paikoro Local Government Area, Niger State. Paul Sanogo and his colleague, a seminarian named Melchior, were taken by gunmen on 3 August. “We pray the Lord hears our prayers and brings them back in peace,” said a senior church leader in Niger State. Join with our Nigerian brothers and sisters in praying for the safe release of the two men.