WWW.PERSECUTION.ORG June 2019

PERSECU ION

PERSECU ION Leaving PERSECUIslam ION

Muslim-background believers often face violence and ostracism from friends and family PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN In This Issue

OVERVIEW 14 | A Heavy Cost The stories of two Muslim-background believers (MBBs) reflect the plight that many converts from face. FEATURE 16 | An Unshakable Faith An MBB in Morocco proclaims the message of the Gospel during his own criminal trial. FEATURE 18 | ICC’s Underground Railroad The story of a Christian convert who benefited from ICC’s MBB underground railroad and rescue operation. FEATURE 20 | Iran’s Paul A former persecutor of Christians and member of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard works to prepare churches for potential persecution. FEATURE 14 22 | Afghanistan’s Secret Church The radical story an underground MBB ministry leader in Afghanistan. FEATURE 24 | The Choice For MBB parents, their child’s education is fraught with danger. FEATURE 26 | Operation Rescue How does ICC work to aid this suffering part of the body of Christ?

Regular Features

3 Letter from the President 18 20 A few words from ICC’s president, Jeff King, on MBBs’ faith and sacrifice. 4 World News A snapshot of the persecution that impacts our brothers and sisters daily, in every corner of the world. 8 Your Dollars at Work Learn how your gifts are providing comfort, relief, , education, and vocational training to the persecuted. 12 Volunteers Learn how members of ICC’s volunteer teams are making an impact in their 24 communities for the persecuted.

2 PERSECU ION.org JUNE 2019 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN And as he was setting out on his journey, a man ran up and knelt before him and asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” And said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good except God alone. You know the commandments: ‘Do not murder, Do not commit adultery, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Do not defraud, Honor your father and mother.’” And he said to him, “Teacher, all these I have kept from my youth.” And Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “You lack one thing: go, sell all that you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Jeff King,President me.” Disheartened by the saying, he went away International Christian Concern sorrowful, for he had great possessions.

Mark 10:17-22 (ESV)

slam is more than a religion. However, those who do come to Christ are often the most I fervent and brave of believers. They stay in their countries, Western Christians rarely grasp the full force of that their communities, and their churches to be a witness for statement. was a warlord, a religious leader, Christ. They have placed all of their life’s work, time, and and the ruler of a country. Over the course of his rule, his wealth onto the middle of the table. They are betting on Jesus. teachings did not stop at the mosque; they permeated all of society, impacting family, lifestyle, culture, government, Though they typically lose all that they feared they would, war, etc. He codified harsh punishments for transgressors they win more than they could have imagined. into the fabric of Islam’s religious text. That is why the MBB (Muslim-background believer) is my Islam is more than a religion. It is an all-encompassing hero. impetus. If you understand that, you will begin to understand why it is so difficult for Muslims to convert to Christianity. Their fervency, devotion, and desire to lead their Muslim brothers and sisters to new life in Christ despite the cost You see, all too often these Christian converts lose everything: teaches me a deep lesson about true faith and devotion. their future, inheritance, education, friends, and even their families. They are beaten, raped, kidnapped, and killed for They are worthy of my time, treasure, and talent, and I find leaving Islam. it a privilege to serve them.

Most turn away when Jesus asks them to sell everything and In Christ, follow Him, especially when the cost is so high. Jeff King

PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 3 1 2 5 3 7 News 4 6

Abducted and Forcefully Converted Woman Finally Returned to Unapologetic Human Rights Abuser Family Takes Control of Iran’s Judiciary 2 | IRAN On March 8, Ebrahim Raisi was sworn in as 3 | PAKISTAN On the new Judiciary Chief of the Islamic Republic of February 25, Saima Iran. This appointment comes with a five-year term, Iqbal was kidnapped as approved by Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah and forcibly converted Ali Khamenei. In light of this new development, to Islam on the outskirts Christians throughout Iran are concerned due to of Pakistan’s capital city Raisi’s lengthy history of human rights abuses. of Islamabad. According Raisi first garnered attention in 1988 after participat- to Morning Star News, ing in Iran’s infamous death commission, which led Saima’s husband to the murder of thousands of political prisoners who Naveed immediately were deemed “apostates of Islam.” He has remained contacted the police, but unapologetic for his actions, referring to the 1988 kill- they refused to assist ings as “one of the proud achievements of the system” him. Rather, the police in a 2018 speech. contacted the kidnap- The Islamic State Declared Officially Raisi studied as an Islamic religious cleric at Qom per, Muhammad Khalid Defeated Seminary and gradually climbed the judicial ladder. Satti, and informed him Following his time in seminary, he served as a prosecu- that Naveed was filing a 1 | SYRIA On March 23, the Syrian Democratic Forces tor, deputy chief justice, and attorney general. After an report. The police also declared that the Islamic State (ISIS) was officially ter- unsuccessful bid for the presidency in 2017, he became told Naveed that Saima ritorially defeated. The announcement came after the a primary contender for the Judiciary Chief position. had married Satti, urg- extremist group lost its final stronghold in the Middle As discontent for the Iranian government’s policy of ing him to drop the case. East during the battle of Baghouz, located near the Iraqi enforced hardline Islam grows, the government contin- Ignoring the authori- border. ues to crack down harder on religious minorities. Dr. ties’ suggestion, Naveed Following the battle in Baghouz, several individu- Hormoz Shariat of Iran Alive Ministries shared, “Their continued to pursue als who had been held captive by ISIS were liberated. strategy is to arrest a few, but publicize their arrest to the case and even- While this news was cause for celebration, the situation put fear in the hearts of 1-3 million Christians and make tually reached the on the ground remains unstable. Although the threat has them isolated, fearful, and prisoners in their homes.” Superintendent of Police. lessened in recent years, ISIS remains active in pockets Shortly after Saima was of territory throughout Syria and Iraq. Thousands of found, police forced her captives remain missing and the destruction left behind to make a statement, by ISIS renders it nearly impossible for many displaced declaring that she had Christians to return home. converted and married Additionally, even though ISIS has been territorially Satti freely. Saima and defeated, the ideological impact remains. Majid, a local Naveed took to social Christian, shared, “ISIS 2.0 is something possible. ISIS media, which eventually is still [here]… the only difference is that they threw caught the attention of down their weapons, and they will pick them back up Pakistan’s federal gov- at any weak point.” ernment. Thankfully, As Christians and other religious minorities begin Satti has since been to return to their homes, they must face the reality of arrested, Saima has rebuilding their livelihoods from the ground up. Worse returned home, and sev- still, they must come face to face with the ideology of eral of the local police violence and discrimination that has embedded itself officers have been fired in their society. for criminal negligence.

4 PERSECU ION.org JUNE 2019 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN Boko Haram Attacks Christian Village, Destroys Church

4 | NIGERIA On March 14, Boko Haram militants carried out a village attack in Nigeria’s Borno State. Although most of the village’s residents were able to flee, the attackers killed one person, abducted two sisters, burned down six homes, and destroyed a church. A leader of the affected church lamented, “These frequent attacks on churches and [their] members are really weighing us down. These attacks seem to be escalating soon after the elections.” Chinese Authorities Ban Major House 10 Churches Pastor Severely Beaten by Unknown Church in Beijing Targeted in Assailants in Nepal Single Day 5 | CHINA On March 23, more than 20 police officers and 7 | NEPAL On March 15, Pastor Dhruk Kumar other authorities raided a class at Shouwang Church 6 | ETHIOPIA was abducted by a group of unknown assailants on in Beijing, China. The officials ordered the Christians On February 9, motorbikes in Nepal. Pastor Kumar reported that to cease their activities immediately, and then read an Christians from the the men brought him to a remote part of the jungle official notice that formally banned the church from meet- southern Ethiopian and accused him of receiving money to share his ing. After several hours of detainment and interrogation, town of Halaba religion. After he said that he had no money to give the churchgoers were eventually sent home. However, Kulito were horrified them, the men began to beat Pastor Kumar severely. the authorities placed new locks on the doors to prevent when 10 local church- At the time of writing, local authorities are currently members of the church from returning to their facil- es were attacked in investigating the incident. ity. Shouwang Church is one of Beijing’s largest house a single day. A mob Nepal has seen a rise in Christian persecution churches, home to over 1,000 worshippers. The congrega- of incited Muslims in recent years, which was only intensified by the tion has been targeted since 2011 for refusing to become a stormed into the enactment of a 2018 law that criminalized religious state-sanctioned church. churches, burning conversion. Many believe that this law was adopted Bibles and furniture. to target Nepal’s growing Christian population. One church was com- pletely destroyed. Thankfully, injuries were minimal, as the mob focused their attention on destroy- ing property. By the grace of God, each of the 10 congregations gathered the follow- ing day for worship. PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 5 1 News 2 6 5 4 3 “[President al-Sisi] must now take action to protect the rights of Christians to worship in other churches.”

returned to the Masih home, leading a mob 156 Churches Legalized in Egypt of enraged Muslims. The mob began beat- 2 | EGYPT In early March, the Egyptian government ing Stephen and his legalized 156 churches. Over 3,700 churches have family, following the sought official recognition since Egypt enacted a law in direction of Mudasir, 2016, which was purported to streamline the legaliza- who accused him of tion process. To date, 783 churches have been legalized. blasphemy. The police Those that have been legalized are not new buildings, have filed a First but rather churches that operated illegally prior to 2016. Information Report New congregations continue to struggle to obtain per- against Stephen and, mission to construct church buildings. at the time of writing, The enactment of the 2016 law was met with mixed he remains in police reactions. While some celebrated the fact that the law custody. removed some of the bureaucratic hurdles that prevent According to Faraz church legalization, others have complained that the Masih, Stephen’s approval of new church building projects has slowed nephew, the entire significantly since the law was passed. neighborhood knows President Sisi has faced substantial criticism for about his uncle’s men- his contradictory response to the church legalization tal status. He added process. In January, he announced the opening of Mentally Disabled Christian Accused of that Stephen has been the Middle East’s largest cathedral, albeit in a region Blasphemy in Pakistan mentally disabled where few Christians live, while Christian com- since birth and that munities throughout 1 | PAKISTAN On March 11, a 42-year-old mentally local children often Egypt languish with- disabled Christian named Stephen Masih was accused bully and beat him. out churches. of committing blasphemy. A local Muslim, Hafiz In response to the Following the Muhammad Mudasir, accused Stephen of making derog- incident, Ayub Qaiser, opening of the atory remarks about the prophet Muhammad. During Director of FGA new church, ICC’s the incident in question, Stephen was debating with his Pakistan, told ICC, “It Regional Manager for brother-in-law over fasting and prayer during the Lent is sad and shocking the Middle East stat- season. Due to his mental disability, Stephen eventually that blasphemy laws ed, “President al-Sisi began shouting as he become more worked up, attracting are being misused, has taken the sym- attention from neighbors nearby. even against special bolic step of open- Upon hearing the commotion, Mudasir approached the persons. The authori- ing a new cathedral home and began beating Stephen, without provocation. ties must look into the during this time. He Stephen’s family protested Mudasir’s unnecessary and situation and introduce must now take action illogical intrusion into the family matter. Mudasir then amendments and spe- to protect the rights of stormed out of the home, threatening that he would teach cial care of the mental- Christians to worship Stephen a lesson for insulting him. Soon after, Mudasir ly immature people.” in other churches.”

6 PERSECU ION.org JUNE 2019 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN Suspects of 2018 Indonesian Church Bombings Sentenced to Prison

3 | INDONESIA Last May, suicide bombers attacked Immaculate St. Mary Catholic Church, Indonesia Christian Church, Surabaya Center Pentecostal Church, and a police station in Surabaya, Indonesia, killing 24 people. A married couple was recently sentenced for their involvement in the bombings following accusations of hiding unused explosives that were meant to be used in the attacks. The husband was sentenced to eight years in prison, while his wife was sentenced to three years and four months.

Underground Pastor Severely Beaten in Kenya Philippine Police Offer to Protect Church Leaders 4 | KENYA In early March, an underground pastor was beaten to the 5 | PHILIPPINES After several Christian church leaders reported point of unconsciousness in Garissa, Kenya. Pastor Abdul was report- receiving death threats, often in the form of threatening text messages, edly heading home from a prayer meeting when a group of local the Philippine National Police has offered to protect these clergymen. Somali Muslims approached him. Despite the pastor’s efforts to min- In response to the offer, Father Jerome Secillano stated, “To secure the ister discreetly, the Muslim men had noticed his work and become church and the people especially at these dangerous moments is most angry about his ministry. During the attack, Pastor Abdul sustained a welcome.” He added that the decision whether or not to accept the offer broken bone in his leg and severe bruising across his body. of protection is up to the discretion of individual church leaders.

Police File False Charges Against Three Pastors After Brutal Assault 6 | INDIA On March 1, a mob of Hindu extremists attacked the Christian com- munity in Bandhan village in India’s Maharashtra State. According to Morning Star News, the radicals had been harassing the local Christians for months, urg- ing them to cease their Christian activities and convert to Hinduism. Following the attack, a group of pastors went to the local police station to complain about months of police complacency leading up to the incident. Two days later, on March 3, the three pastors learned that various criminal charges had been filed against them, including rioting, criminal intimidation, and intent to cause assault. These charges were filed in spite of the fact that none of the three pastors were present at the time of the March 1 attack. The three pastors spent one day in police custody before being released on bail. PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 7 Your Dollars at Work ICC’s Ongoing Initiatives 2019 Scripture Initiative Bibles for the Persecuted n March, ICC launched a Scripture initiative to provide persecuted communities with physi- Ical Bibles, audio-Bibles, and children’s Bibles. We are primarily focusing on providing God’s Word to communities that have had their Bibles destroyed and smuggling Bibles into nations that enforce tight restrictions on Gospel materials. Part of the campaign focuses on delivering audio-Bibles to believers who are unable to read. This will allow them to strengthen and share their faith in spite of the obstacles that illiteracy and government restrictions may present.

Initial Goal: $117,000 Nearly Half Tens of Thousands of Bibles for 2019 Learn more at: www.persecution.org/bibles Bibles & Bikes Bibles for the Persecuted n late 2018, ICC launched a campaign to equip church planters throughout rural India. The Icampaign developed when we realized that we could maximize an evangelist’s effective- ness by providing them with a bicycle and Bibles to distribute. Since the initiative launched in November, ICC has already raised more than $100,000 for the campaign. With these funds, we have been able to empower 240 rural pastors and evangelists across nine states with a bicycle and 100 Bibles each. While speaking with ICC, Pastor Samson, a recent beneficiary, said, “With this bicycle, I can visit the unreached villages anytime and with increased frequency. When I rode it for the first time, I felt like I was flying, able to freely go anywhere and do God’s ministry without any hindrance.” Initial Goal: $200,000 Over 60% 1,000 Bikes and 100,000 Bibles Learn more at: www.persecution.org/bibles-bikes Communal Farms in Nigeria Community Rebuild ast summer, ICC initiated a campaign to rescue Christians affected by violence at the hands Lof Boko Haram and Fulani militants in Nigeria. ICC sought to develop 10 communal farms to serve Christian farmers whose land has been destroyed by the militant groups. We have fully developed six farms and begun planting another two! Of these eight, three have finished the first harvest and started planting for their second season. After months of hard work, the farmers are now eating the fruits of their labor. Please continue to pray for an end to the attacks and safety for those who simply wish to worship Christ. Initial Goal: $125,000 Exceeded Initial Goal 10 Communal Farms Thank You! Learn more at: www.persecution.org/nigeria-crisis To learn more about how you can support these initiatives, visit www.persecution.org or give us a call at 800-422-5441.

8 PERSECU ION.org JUNE 2019 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN Your Dollars at Work Auto-Rickshaw for Vishal Masih

Suffering Wives & Children charges. In his case, the charge carried a ishal Masih is a Christian in Pakistan sentence of life in prison. Vwho was falsely accused of blasphemy Thankfully, Vishal was eventually cleared of in 2017. On a typical day of work as a the crime and released from prison. However, cleaner at a hospital, he emptied waste bas- his former employer refused to rehire him kets and burned the contents. A journalist and he was left without a source of income. reported him to the police, claiming that he ICC responded by purchasing him an auto- had burned pages with Quranic verses on rickshaw and he is now able to operate a small them and he was arrested under blasphemy transportation business to support himself. Livestock for Christian Farmer

Suffering Wives & Children t the age of 14, Mikhail is responsible Afor the care of his family since his father passed away. Under the supervision of his uncle, Mikhail maintains the farm and works hard to ensure that the animals are well cared for, as the livestock provide a source of income for his family. Last December, as Mikhail went to feed the animals, Islamic militants suddenly stormed onto the property and stole eight goats and four sheep, robbing Mikhail of his only source of income. The thieves tied Mikhail up, and threw him into the sugarcane fields, where Well in Qaraqosh he was eventually found by his uncle. The attackers who targeted Mikhail are Muslim Community Rebuild hardliners known for treating Christians in concerns of those returning was finding a this violent manner. A police report was filed; n the path of destruction left behind by ISIS, source of clean water once again, as the however, further action against the perpetra- IIraqi Christians are attempting to return to water they were receiving from Mosul was tors is unlikely due to Mikhail’s faith. their homes in Qaraqosh. However, they have muddy and inconsistent. ICC went to the market with Mikhail and returned to the utter devastation of their prop- To help these Christians resettle, ICC has purchased livestock and feed for his farm to erty and infrastructure. When ISIS realized drilled wells throughout Qaraqosh. Recently, replace the ones that were stolen. Thanks to that they were losing ground, they attempted we developed a well in an all-girls school of ICC’s generous donors, the family’s source to destroy as much property as possible. approximately 500 students. The well will of income will be fully restored through the The weakened infrastructure made the serve both the school and 15 families in the renewed livestock business. town nearly uninhabitable. One of the major surrounding community. PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 9 Your Dollars at Work

Livelihood Assistance in India

Save Our Sisters formed and captured her husband. Despite from health problems. her pleas to release him, they tied him up and ICC eventually learned of her situation and riyatama was widowed during a string burned him alive. Priyatama extinguished stepped in. With the help of generous donors, Pof violent anti-Christian riots in India in the flames and sought help. The neighbors we provided supplies to reopen her shop once August 2008. The violence began when a rejected her cries for help and Abhimanyu again. Her family will no longer have to live prominent Hindu leader was assassinated and succumbed to his burns the next day. hand to mouth. Priyatama is also able to take Christians were falsely blamed. This led to After facing several financially draining care of her health and rest. months of mob violence throughout Odisha situations, including her husband’s burial, Priyatama believes that she survived all State. Over 100 Christians were murdered, she was forced to close her small shop. those years because of God. He was her thousands of homes were destroyed, and The store was the family’s main source of strength through the challenging years and still 56,000 people were displaced. income. In order to feed her family, she continues to be. She was grateful and surprised On the night of her husband Abhimanyu’s began working in the fields along with her that God sent someone to help her after years of death, Priyatama woke up to the sound of son. The work was grueling and was espe- scraping by. She said, “This is nothing but the shouting outside of their house. A mob had cially challenging for Priyatama who suffers blessing of God for our faithfulness.”

10 PERSECU ION.org JUNE 2019 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN Your Dollars at Work

Assistance for Prisoner’s Family

Suffering Wives & Children only means of substantial food, as the prison deprives him of basic rights. However, Marya n the village of Minbal, a mob of hard- must pay the cost of each visit, which can be Iline Islamists gathered and attacked several very expensive. The family has already paid Christian homes due to a blasphemy accu- a substantial amount in lawyer fees, adding sation. Prior to the attack, Islamic hardlin- an additional financial burden to an already ers accused a Coptic Christian, Abd Adel stressful situation. Bebawy, of insulting Islam on Facebook. To relieve the financial stress, ICC provided He was arrested the following day, and later the family with a food package, covered some imprisoned on the conviction of blasphemy. of the children’s school expenses, and assisted His wife, Marya Hana Habib, and two with the cost of prison visits. Abd may now children live with her brother while they wait receive healthy meals and see his wife while for Abd’s case to be heard. Marya is allowed he is in prison, without financial worries to visit Abd at the prison, which is Abd’s weighing on his shoulders.

Thailand Sewing Center

Save Our Sisters efugees and asylum seekers fleeing reli- R gious persecution live in a legal limbo in Thailand. Even if they are recognized by the UNHCR as refugees, the Thai government treats them as illegal migrants, meaning that urban refugees and asylums seekers are not legally allowed to work. If they do find work, they risk imprisonment. ICC has invested in a sewing center to help develop a safe space where refugees and asylum seekers can pro- duce textiles to sell the goods commercially, while teaching others in the process. With ICC’s help, the sewing center has grown into a thriving business with the pur- pose of helping vulnerable Christian women achieve their potential. The sewing center has also developed into a brand that prides itself on its unique designs. Through ICC’s donations, the sewing center has been able to continue growing toward self-sustainability through the purchase of raw materials and software equipment. This busi- ness continues to support Christians through economic empowerment and training, by encouraging and equipping women and girls in various refugee communities. PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 11 Volunteers

Standing Up for Bringing Religious Freedom Bibles to the Persecuted

n late February, ICC launched a petition fronting countries and regimes known for n March, ICC kicked off its largest Icalling for the reauthorization of the United oppressing Christians and religious minori- IScripture initiative of the year to raise States Commission on International Religious ties…Volunteers played an important role in funds for Bible smuggling, audio-Bibles, Freedom (USCIRF). USCIRF is a critical gov- signing on to this petition and encouraging children’s Bibles, and Bibles to replace those ernment body that was created by Congress to others to do likewise so that their voices are that have been destroyed. The campaign hold foreign governments accountable for heard in halls and offices of Congress.” primarily focused on sending Scripture to persecution and to push for greater religious Thanks, in part, to the diligence and diversity persecuted communities in nations that are freedom. It also exists to remind the US gov- of ICC’s volunteers who shared this petition, hostile toward the Gospel. ernment to focus on religious freedom in its 67 countries were represented among the total In order to spread the word about this relations with other nations. list of signatures. USCIRF plays a crucial role initiative, ICC’s April challenge encouraged Following the launch of this petition, ICC’s in protecting religious freedom around the volunteers to share this ministry opportunity volunteers were challenged to reach out to their world, and it is a privilege to work with so with their communities, specifically their communities to collect signatures. Not only did many believers who sacrifice their time and churches. For those who wished to take the volunteers in the United States participate, but efforts to promote this value and in their com- challenge a step further, they were encour- also those who live overseas, reinforcing the munities. To learn more about ICC’s ongoing aged to host a fundraiser of their own to sentiment that religious freedom remains an petitions and advocacy work, visit: raise money to support the Bible initiative. important value around the world. Volunteers Thanks to the diligent efforts of volun- took to social media to share the petition as www.persecution.org/understand-advocacy/ teers and the generosity of countless donors, one of the primary ways of raising awareness. we will be able to provide Scriptures for Many also connected directly with their fami- “Whatever you did countless believers who are hungry for the lies and friends by sharing about the petition in Word of God. However, it is not too late to person, speaking about it in church, or sharing for one of the least get involved. it with their small groups. of these brothers of If you would like to partner with us to ICC’s advocacy director, Matias Perttula, send Bibles to our persecuted brothers and shared, “Through the years, [USCIRF’s] mine, you did for Me.” sisters, please visit: advocacy has had a direct impact on con- – MATTHEW 25:40 (NIV) www.persecution.org/bibles/

12 PERSECU ION.org JUNE 2019 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN Looking for a Way to Make a Difference in the World? Join Our Team of Volunteers!

For those wishing to assist the persecuted Church, many are not sure how to get started. However, volunteers all over the world are making a difference within their own backyards as members of ICC’s five different volunteer teams: Advocacy, Awareness, Office, Prayer, and Special Projects. By standing up for the persecuted in countless different ways, ICC’s volunteers have played a crucial role in connecting the global Church by bridging the gap between the persecuted and the free Church. It only takes one person to make a difference – are you willing?

Prayer Groups Social Media

As part of ICC’s volunteer program, one of the largest volunteer In our modern age of technology, one of the most useful tools teams is dedicated specifically to praying for the persecuted. for raising awareness about human rights issues is social media. Many of these volunteers choose to serve by organizing prayer Whether through Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, social media cre- groups for the persecuted. These groups, which are scattered all ates an environment where users can share news stories, petitions, over the world, meet on a regular basis, ranging from monthly prayer requests, and more on a wide platform. ICC’s awareness team to several times a week, to intercede on behalf of their brothers often uses social media to shed light on various persecution issues, and sisters in Christ. This crucial aspect of ICC’s ministry allows particularly those that do not receive attention from mainstream believers to support the suffering Church in prayer, but also raise media outlets. By bringing attention to these issues, it is our prayer awareness in their communities and bridge the gap between the that the world would open its eyes so that persecutors will no longer persecuted and the Western Church. be able to operate in secrecy.

Are You Interested Volunteer Teams in Serving?

1 Advocacy Fight for justice through petitions, congressional calls, and more. Apply online at: 2 Awareness Raise your voice by speaking in churches, writing, and social media. www.persecution.org/take-action// volunteer/ 3 Office Lighten the load of ICC’s staff by helping with administrative assignments. Or Contact: 4 Prayer Intercede for our brothers and sisters in Christ both individually and as a church. [email protected] or 5 Special Projects Volunteer on your own schedule through one-time projects. (301) 585-5915 for more information PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 13 A Heavy Cost

uslim-background if caught. But, he succeeded and eventually made his way believers (MBBs) are to Turkey. He now lives to bring others like him to Christ. among the most vibrant Jasim* is another recent convert to Christianity who lives Christians in the world. in Syria. ISIS jailed him for six months after discovering Hated by their coun- his ignorance of basic Islamic teachings. He was tortured tries, ostracized, beaten, and forced to read the daily. Thankfully, his captors and murdered by their didn’t find out that he converted to Christianity or they families and neighbors, would have probably murdered him. they persevere – serv- These men are MBBs. Whether they come from the ing, evangelizing, and frontlines of ISIS, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, or a suburb preaching. Their love for Jesus floods light into the dark- of Cairo, their journey to Christ is extremely costly. There est corners of the Arab world. are two reasons for this. MIn the words of one brave MBB, “The people you lead First, Islam is more than a religion. It is an all- to the Lord, you baptize and disciple, you are committed encompassing way of life that governs all aspects of life: to them.” from morning to night, cradle to grave. Leaving their life MBBs spend the majority of their lives in danger. and loved ones behind is usually too high of a cost for the Conversion to Christianity in these countries is illegal. A Muslim seeker to pay. horrific series of cataclysmic actions closely follows the Second, leaving Islam also means that they may be discovery of an MBB: first, they are rejected by family; raped, tortured, or murdered. Usually by their friends then, they are thrown out onto the street, imprisoned, or family. Muhammad and Allah dictate that those who raped, beaten, forced into marriage, torn from their chil- leave Islam permanently should be murdered. Conversion dren, tortured, interrogated, or executed. to Christianity is a terrible shame on the family. So, the Secret MBBs endure a more isolating pain, cut off from family takes on the responsibility to restore the family fellowship with other believers for fear of what would honor by killing the apostate. happen if they do share their faith. The faithful men and women in this issue will The Life of an MBB completely transform your perspective of living life for In this issue, we will show you the life of the MBB and the Gospel. Bashir and Jasim are two such examples of the price they pay to follow Jesus. Jamaa, Amir, Maria, and the cost and faith of MBBs. Ahmed all have stories to tell that will move and inspire you. They all paid a heavy price to find true life. They hold Bashir and Jasim up a lantern in the dark, leading those around them to find Bashir* is a recent convert to Christianity in Turkey. true life in Jesus. He was a member of the Nusra Front, an Al-Qaeda- They know it may cost them their lives; but, unlike affiliated group, who fought on the frontlines of the war the rich young ruler, they are willing to sell everything. in Syria. His conversion was a miracle. They know that Jesus, salvation, and eternal life are Bashir was involved in extreme violence in the fight worth all their treasure. to establish an Islamic kingdom. He witnessed fellow Muslims kill and torture Christians in diabolical ways. *Bashir’s story was originally published in the New York Disillusioned by the hatred around him, he decided to risk Times. everything and leave the war. He knew he would be killed *Jasim’s story was originally published by NBC.

14 PERSECU ION.org JUNE 2019 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 15 An Unshakable

FaBy Jeff King th

ears ago, while visiting perse- cuted believers in Morocco, I learned about an incredibly brave believer that had just been sen- tenced to prison for the second time for sharing his faith. He had been given a 15-year sentence “Your Honor, I have found the answer to life. by a Moroccan judge under the pretense of I cannot keep silent, for everyone is going to Y“property damage.” Jamaa had studied abroad in Europe where hell and must be rescued.” he found the Lord. When he returned to Morocco, he persisted in practicing his beliefs – JAMAA and was arrested for the first time in 1995. Authorities transferred him to a mental hospital the next year to undergo “treatment” for his that he was still on the government’s watch the goods of others.” radical Christian beliefs. The treatment was list, still living in a fundamentalist culture. He When he arrived at court for the second so harsh that he temporarily lost the use of his painted Bible verses on his business for all to time, the judge asked him, “Are you crazy? arms and legs. The judge charged Jamaa with see. He hosted French language classes, where Don’t you remember that I told you I was proselytizing; under Article 220 of Moroccan he spoke openly about his faith. Jamaa was not going to send you to prison for a long time if Criminal Law it is illegal to “shake the faith of going to be ashamed of his Savior. I ever saw you again?” a Muslim.” He told Jamaa that if he ever saw Ten years later, Jamaa burned down two Jamaa looked at the judge squarely and him again, he would throw a book at him. unused wooden posts that were blocking said, “Your Honor, I have found the answer And shake the Muslims’ faith, he did. Jamaa access to his house. The government seized to life. I cannot keep silent, for everyone is was relentless for the Gospel. He didn’t care the opportunity to arrest him for “destroying going to hell and must be rescued. Even you,

16 PERSECU ION.org JUNE 2019 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN Opposite: Many Christians continue to face cultural oppression in Morocco. Top: Among other attractions, Morocco is known for its many markets. Bottom: Casablanca’s Hassan II Mosque is the largest in Africa, with the world’s tallest minaret. Before Morocco’s independence, almost half of Casablanca’s population was Christian.

Your Honor, are going to hell – but you too stated a friend who had known Jamaa since less than 1% of the population. Their minority can turn to Jesus.” childhood. status subjects them to cultural hostility and You can imagine how the judge responded. The judge later amended the statement abridged religious rights. Jamaa would spend the next 15 years in to include a charge of proselytization in Just in the past century, God’s quiet prison for “destroying property.” Jamaa’s sentence. Church sprang up in the most unlikely of “Fifteen years for two abandoned posts? Fourteen years after Jamaa’s prison places – Iran, China, Cuba, Afghanistan, It is scandalous. Jamaa presented a serious sentence, his steadfast faith is a lesson for and elsewhere. Through the efforts of problem for the authorities. He displayed converts around the world. Though Morocco brave believers like Jamaa, the Gospel will his convictions in broad daylight and it is has become much more tolerant toward continue to spread like wildfire in the heart for this reason he underwent a crackdown,” Christianity, Christians in Morocco constitute of northern Africa. PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 17 ICC’S Underground Railroad

The story of a Christian convert from Islam who benefited from ICC’s MBB underground railroad and rescue operation

By Claire Evans

hmed grew up in to know Christ through their witness, but Ahmed knew that his life was in immediate a country where it wasn’t easy to dismiss a religion that had danger. His uncle tried to shoot him, but Christianity is captivated his life for years. Ahmed avoided the spray of bullets and prohibited. Like “It was hard to convert. My parents, escaped. Ahmed spent the next month in many teenagers, this my location, my friends, everything lived hiding, homeless and barely surviving. only intrigued him Islam. Not just as a religion, but also as a When ICC first came across Ahmed’s case, more. His Muslim culture. We have the tribes. My dad is very he needed immediate relocation assistance. peers would mock and committed to Islam. My whole life was His parents had burned down his childhood profane Christianity, Islamic,” said Ahmed. room, and their tribe had distributed a death but he couldn’t believe that 1,600,000,000 Like many MBBs, he kept his conversion a notice across the entire countryside. Christians could be that disillusioned. secret over the next decade… until last year. ICC’s team sprang into action, moving AHistory was Ahmed’s favorite subject as When his Muslim cousin fled her husband Ahmed along an underground railroad a teenager. Because of this, he knew that and three children, she turned to Ahmed for designed to assist Muslim-background the Middle East was Christian before Islam help. Her arranged marriage had fallen apart believers under immediate threat. He was spread through the region. In the midst and her life was miserable. Her family decided relocated to a safe, inaccessible location. of his studies, he found a copy of a Bible that she should be killed, according to the His family searched public transportation which showed him a world that existed shame culture of Islam. She had abandoned hubs for clues about his whereabouts, but before Islam. He took his questions to the her family and fled with a lover. Ahmed managed to stay a few steps ahead Muslim leaders. Instead of directly answer- Secretly, Ahmed witnessed to her about of them. ing his questions, they danced around him Christianity and was eager to intervene before Ahmed survived, but resettlement in his new with ideological excuses. Ahmed wasn’t his family learned that she had run away. home was no easy task. He would struggle to satisfied. When he arrived at her house to protect her, find both a job and welcoming community, He began visiting churches in order to he was too late. as many Christians were suspicious of his research history, never imagining that he Muslim background. But as a result of ICC’s would one day become a Christian. Many Fleeing an Old Life MBB ministry, Ahmed is now settling into people at the church were suspicious of him, Ahmed walked into a chaotic scene. Her his new home. He has become a major and he had difficulty getting answers to his family was beating her; even her father contribution to his new community, diligently questions. But God brought Christians into his gave up protecting her to beat her. Ahmed working to serve the church. life who were willing to sit patiently with him began crying out to Jesus for help in the “This kind of project is the most worthy; and answer his questions. midst of the confusion. That’s when his it is truly lifesaving,” said ICC’s relocation family found out that he left Islam for team. After his own life was saved, Ahmed A Difficult Conversion Christianity. His cousin also cried out to the is now devoted to saving the lives of others When he was 18, he would finally come Lord as she died. like him.

18 PERSECU ION.org JUNE 2019 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN Top: Ahmed is from a strict Islamic family, who responded with violence when they discovered that he had converted to Christianity.

Bottom Left: Ahmed had to flee from his family when they discovered that he was a Christian.

Bottom Right: Muslim-background believers are often questioned when they stop participating in Islamic activities, putting them at risk of discovery.

PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 19 Iran’s Paul:

mir began has masterminded bombings in A former persecutor his career as American and Israeli embassies and a member of elsewhere. In May, President Trump of Christians and the Iranian designated it as a Foreign Terrorist Revolutionary Group. It is no surprise that many member of the Guard (IRGC), a Iranian Christians are fearful of the vast intelligence IRGC and its 250,000 members. network tasked Like Saul, who murderously Iranian Revolutionary with protecting Iran’s Islamic identity. pursued Christians before becoming AHe adopted the harsh methods that the a believer himself, Amir’s life was Guard works to organization encouraged to enforce radically transformed by Christ. But a strict Islamic ideology, especially he was in too deep with the IRGC – prepare churches for on Christians. He participated in the they knew too much about him and beating, torture, interrogation, and his whereabouts for him to safely potential persecution. imprisonment of Christians. Little stay in the country. He fled Iran and did he know that he would eventually committed himself to ministering to become one. the very ones he once persecuted. By Claire Evans The IRGC controls much of Iran’s Amir didn’t stay out of economy and military resources. Iran for long. Today, his own Besides hunting down Christians church community is dedicated within Iran’s own borders, it to traveling throughout Iran

20 PERSECU ION.org JUNE 2019 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN From Persecutor to Proponent

Opposite: Life in Iran leaves no room for Christians, as the regime sends believers to prison as part of their attempt to eradicate Christianity from Iran.

Top: The plight of Christians imprisoned in Iran’s torture system should be of the utmost importance to all believers.

Bottom: “The persecuted Church wants to use all potential for the glory of the name of the Lord.”

and sharing the Gospel with are Christians!” They were both whomever they encounter. He put in jail, where they remained devoted himself to teaching for 20 days. The pressure was the Church how to grow and too much for Amir’s friend, survive, despite persecution. who renounced Christ. He was “Informing believers is very released from prison, leaving important,” Amir explains. Amir alone in jail. “Those who enter into this path Several months later, they (evangelism ministry) with read- were again reunited in Christian iness from the beginning will be ministry. “He [now] stands more fruitful.” amazingly for the Lord,” says He would often let others Amir. “He confessed that because choose their cities first, then he didn’t stand for Christ during volunteer for the most danger- persecution, he will feel regret ous cities. For this reason, Amir until the end of his life.” often found himself traveling to This is a pattern that he has remote areas near Afghanistan. seen many times. “Those who Amir believes that some are under these pressures are Christians, given the proper divided into two groups: those training, can avoid persecution. who stood, and those who fell One time, he was detained down. For those who stood, we for the simple fact that his say Hallelujah! And for those companion had not had this type who fell, in my opinion, we of training: eventually say Hallelujah!” “We are a group of addicts, As someone who once was part and we gather together and of Iran’s regime of persecution, receive this power of the Amir hopes that these stories will Lord in the community and it encourage other Iranian Christians helps us being rescued from about how to avoid—and stand addiction,” he recalls telling his firm during—persecution. interrogators at the time. “He participated in the beating, For ultimately, “The persecuted Their interrogators agreed to torture, interrogation, and Church wants to use all potential let them go, but Amir’s Christian for the glory of the name of the companion began shouting, “We imprisonment of Christians.” Lord,” said Amir. PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 21 Afghanistan’s Secret Church

By Meg McEwen

he Islamic Republic of of his life, a relationship that he kept hidden Afghanistan claims that for years. there are no Christians In most Muslim cultures, it is illegal to living within the borders convert from Islam to Christianity. In of the country. Jeremiah, Afghanistan, it is illegal to even be a Christian. a leader of a large, under- is incorporated into the law, and ground MBB communi- converts to Christianity are often severely ty in Afghanistan, would punished or even sentenced to death. disagree. Jeremiah lived in a small town of 20-25,000 Jeremiah’s radical residents. Over the course of his life, Jeremiah conversion to Christianity should not have witnessed an MBB mother torn from her chil- even happened. He was raised in a strict, dren and a doctor lose all of his patients after TMuslim family. He attended a madrassa being labeled an “infidel” for his faith. throughout high school, where he was fully Becoming public about his faith in an honor immersed in the Islamic teachings. He spent and shame culture would lead to the loss of long hours memorizing the Quran and praying his family, inheritance, social standing, job, to Allah – the typical activities of a good or even life. In Afghanistan, converting to Muslim son. Christianity would bring shame upon one’s But there was always that nagging feeling of entire family, destroying their image in the doubt at the back of his mind. He tried to con- eyes of society. Jeremiah didn’t have the nect with Allah, to build a relationship with the luxury of anonymity that a public believer fear compelled him to stay silent about his Al Muqit, the great Nourisher of the universe, may have in a large city. Raw, gut-wrenching faith for years. but it never happened. He couldn’t shake the One night, God sent Jeremiah a vivid, feeling that he was praying to his prayer mat. Abrahamic dream. He said, “I want you to This lingering doubt followed him to share your faith with others.” When he awoke, university, where he studied radiology and “For the first his mind swarmed with questions: How can I physiology. The complicated mechanisms of do this, God? I’ve barely had the opportunity the human body, tuned just right to life on to read the Bible. I’m the only believer in my earth, gave Jeremiah pause. Everything that he time in his life, providence. I’m alone. studied pointed to intelligent design. God proved to Jeremiah that he wasn’t Jeremiah’s life changed when Korean [Jeremiah] felt alone. Boldness to share the Gospel came Christians at the university gave him a copy of with a group of local expat believers. He the Bible. The trembling fear that he felt as he began attending house churches, evangelizing opened that illegal copy of the Bible quickly the powerful to other Muslims, and preaching the Word of vanished, overcome by encouragement, God. Surrounded by other believers for the revelation, and fulfillment. For the first time presence first time in his life, he realized that even if in his life, he felt the powerful presence of his biological family rejected him, he now God. He committed his heart to the Lord had a new family. immediately, and went from praying to a mat of God.” The first time Jeremiah was sent to prison to entering into the most intense relationship for his faith, he covered his face in shame.

22 PERSECU ION.org JUNE 2019 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN Left: Two Afghan men, dressed in traditional clothing, sit in the streets of Kabul.

Below: The burning of a cross in Afghanistan.

His father never fasted until Jeremiah went to church in Afghanistan welcomes new converts prison, but he did so to publicly wash his hands monthly, including politicians and high-ranking of his son. His mother was a nervous wreck. citizens. She sat by the telephone every day, waiting to His family still doesn’t want to talk about hear the expected news of her son’s death. She Christianity. His father says, “You have forgot- wept on the phone when she heard his voice ten your identity, your ethnicity.” say, “They let me go.” Jeremiah disagrees. Today, Jeremiah partners with ICC to lead He says, “Paul had a strong commitment to a rigorous training mission for pastors in his churches. He didn’t abandon those relation- Afghanistan. Jeremiah knows of at least 20-25 ships. The people you lead to the Lord, you bap- groups of Christians who desperately need tize and disciple, you are committed to them.” leadership. He estimates that there are at least His new relationship with God only strength- 10,000 underground believers in Afghanistan. ened his love for his family and his community. Spearheading an underground Christian min- He still considers himself to be a true Afghan istry in Afghanistan is not easy. Government citizen. His commitment to ministering to lost spies constantly try to infiltrate house churches. Muslims in Afghanistan has kept him tethered Jeremiah knows Afghan Christians who only to the country, even choosing to raise his own worship and fellowship in the safety of a family there. Resilient in his calling, Jeremiah moving vehicle. But the Lord is moving in will never leave a stone unturned for the Gospel Afghanistan, drawing many into his fold. Every in Afghanistan. PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 23 THE CHOICE For MBB parents, their child’s education is fraught with danger.

By Meg McEwen

saac*, a young father in Afghanistan, revealed his true identity to them, the shock conversion to Christianity is rarely discussed was faced with a difficult decision. resonated through his children. They had in public. In places like Egypt and Iran, As a recent convert to Christianity, been taught to disown Christians, and they some ethnic Christians are recognized, but he had come to a crossroads as the did. They viewed their father as a traitor. conversion is illegal. Citizens in Egypt, for shepherd of his family that would In countries like Afghanistan, religion is example, have the option to change their have an eternal impact on his wife inherently tied to identity. In Afghanistan, I.D. status from “Christian” to “Muslim,” and young children. but changing from Muslim to Christian Isaac, and many other MBB is considered apostasy. If discovered, parents across the Middle East, conversion could result in imprisonment, faced a devastating choice: share “At best, they face exile, loss of job, or even death. Jesus’s Gospel message with their children But the lives of MBBs become even more and ultimately put their family at risk of discrimination in complicated when they have children. If a Iexposure, or let their children grow up child admits to their teacher or friends that Muslim until they are old enough to be school and society. they have a different, non-Muslim name at discreet about their faith. home, or that they’ve read the Bible and Isaac made the conscious decision to hide At worst, the entire know Jesus, at best, they face discrimination his faith from his family until his children in school and society. At worst, the entire were older. As a result, the children grew family is put in family is put in immediate danger. up in the Muslim faith, learning the Muslim The children of converted Christians face prayers, the Muslim teaching, and the Muslim immediate danger.” harsh discrimination if their family’s faith hatred toward Christians. When Isaac finally background is discovered. They are unfairly

24 PERSECU ION.org JUNE 2019 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN Opposite: A teacher with a group of children in southern Egypt.

Top: A mother thinks about her child’s future.

Bottom: MBB children will be discriminated against if their parent’s identity is discovered.

graded, bullied on the playground, beaten, or even kicked out of their schools. And without an education, their social status sinks even lower. Pakistani citizens treat their Christian neighbors little better than street dogs. The worst jobs, like sewage cleaning or day labor, are reserved for them. Education is rarely an option for children in Pakistan. Homeschooling is not a legal option for par- ents in many of these countries, nor is taking them to church. If they can afford it, Egyptian MBBs put their children into private schools run by Catholic organizations that are less concerned about the origin of faith. The tension between wanting to raise chil- dren who love the Lord and wanting the best for their children can leave parents feeling helpless. Parents in fundamentalist Muslim countries resort to desperate measures to teach their children about Jesus. Older chil- dren learn to live double lives, responding to names like “Mohammad” or “Ali” at school or “John” and “Peter” at home. They use the name for Jesus in the Quran (‘Isa) to avoid confusion as the children learn two different at home and at school. In Egypt, parents sneak children into church through back entrances to avoid being seen. When the Afghanistan government discovered that Maria*, an MBB mother, was a Christian, they stripped her children from her and gave them to her Muslim husband to be raised “correctly” in the Islamic teaching. The loss of her family was devastating. But, she was more devastated by the loss of her children spiritually. As Christianity grows in Muslim countries, parents will be forced to make the hardest decisions about raising their children. ICC is finding ways to help MBBS in these difficult situations by providing fair, safe educational opportunities for them and relocating endangered MBB families to places where they can worship, together. PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 25 Operation RESCUE

Muslim-background believers (MBBs) are among the most persecuted Christians in the world. How does ICC work to aid this suffering part of the body of Christ?

By Will Stark

artin Moses’s were able to finance a motorcycle taxi busi- modations, food, as well as other necessary prospects ness so that he could provide for himself and items to sustain the life of the relocated MBB. collapsed when his family. At times, we refer to this emergency aid as the he converted “Thank you for the support of the motorcy- “MBB Underground Railroad.” from Islam to cle,” Martin said in response to the aid. “This Christianity has helped me in improving my welfare to get Step 2: Long-Term Needs in Uganda. food for my family and cover school fees for After securing the immediate safety of He went my children.” MBBs, we then move to the more difficult from being a But Martin’s case is just the tip of the iceberg. or significant issues faced by MBBs. This Muslim muezzin, an important figure who When an MBB converts to Christianity, includes providing for the physical, social, Mled prayer and worship in the mosque, to this action radically emaciates their social and spiritual needs that arise from the MBBs’ a lowly Christian who could barely afford and economic life. To embrace Christianity complete life-reset. food for his family. Martin’s story is just necessarily means that they risk losing respect, one of the millions of Muslim-background job prospects, family members, inheritance, Step 3: Microfinancing believers (MBBs) living in increasingly or legal rights. Many MBBs lose the ability to provide hostile Islamic countries. ICC often works with MBBs who find for themselves because they have lost their Paul says in his first letter to the Corinthians, themselves in emergency situations. Their jobs following their conversion. ICC provides “And if one member suffers, all the members new faith identity has been discovered and MBBs with skills training, microfinancing suffer with it; if one member is honored, all they are facing significant threats. Here is opportunities, and small business assistance the members rejoice with it. Now you are step-by-step guide to give you a snapshot of so that they are able to support themselves. Christ’s body, and individually members of the process that ICC uses when we hear about it.” (1 Corinthians 12:26-27). a suffering, Muslim-background brother or Step 4: Spiritual Support International Christian Concern (ICC) sister in Christ. In addition to physical aid, we also provide suffers with the members of the body of social and spiritual support to MBBs. What Christ among persecuted communities; but ICC’s Emergency many may not realize is that an MBB’s of all the groups that we serve, MBBs are Evacuation Steps for conversion to Christianity is a fundamental among the most persecuted. MBBs face Muslim-Background shift in that individual’s religious identity. persecution for their mere existence as Many MBBs have questions about their individuals who have turned their backs on Believers: newfound faith and find few places to have Islam and embraced Christianity. In more those questions answered. restrictive Muslim nations, simply being Step 1: The Evacuation discovered as a convert is enough to warrant ICC’s emergency assistance program Step 5: Spiritual Training lengthy prison sentences or even death. includes transportation to a safe, often To provide for this need, we have trained When ICC heard about Martin’s case, we Christian-majority, location, secure accom- both Christians and other MBBs to act

26 PERSECU ION.org JUNE 2019 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN Martin Moses receives a motorbike Many Christians throughout the Islamic world deal with threats from ICC in Uganda. and challenges, but converts from Islam to Christianity often face violence and ostracism from friends and family.

“In more restrictive Muslim nations, simply being discovered as a convert is enough to warrant lengthy prison sentences – or even death.”

as spiritual mentors for MBBs seeking the basis of religiously-motivated human Director, said. “These judges punish Christians discipleship. We have even provided support rights violations. and MBBs by convicting them on trumped up for special Christmas and Easter celebrations Recently, ICC began to put pressure on charges and imprisoning them in some of Iran for new MBBs. For many, these celebrations Iran’s oppressive legal system under the most notorious prisons.” are the first Christmas or Easter they have Global Magnitsky Act, a US law that allows “We believe this will be an effective tool in ever experienced, and it introduces them to an the US government to sanction international stopping some of the persecution experienced MBB community they would have otherwise human rights abusers. We have targeted indi- by MBBs,” Perttula explained. “It has been been unable to find. viduals and institutions known to openly effective in targeting Russian human rights and aggressively persecute MBBs. Abusers abusers in the past, so hopefully the same will Step 6: US Advocacy targeted by this act have their foreign assets be true for Iran.” In addition to the aid we provide to MBBs, and visas frozen and have their name appear While ICC will never be able to end International Christian Concern advocates on a list publicly naming them as a human the persecution experience facing the MBB for them in the heart of Washington, D.C. rights abuser. community, we seek to live out Scripture’s call This comes in a variety of forms, including “In Iran, we are looking to sanction three to care for the persecuted. With the generous advocating for individual victims or for judges who target Christians, including support of ICC’s donors, we hope to continue the conditions of entire communities on MBBs,” Matias Perttula, ICC’s Advocacy this important work for years to come. PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 27 You Can Help Today!

PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN SEND DONATIONS TO: ICC PO BOX 8056 SILVER SPRING, MD 20907

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Remember to pray for strength and encouragement for all of our Muslim- background believer brothers and sisters.

International Christian Concern (ICC) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) (all donations tax-deductible). ICC makes every effort to honor donor wishes in regards to gifts. Occasionally, situations arise where a project is no longer viable. ICC will then redirect those donated funds to the MEMBER fund most similar to the donor’s original wishes. ICC uses 7.5 percent of each restricted donation to carry out the mission of its segregated funds. © Copyright 2019 ICC, Washington, D.C., USA. All rights reserved. Permission to reproduce all or part of this publication is granted provided facebook.com/persecuted @persecutionnews attribution is given to ICC as the source.