WWW.PERSECUTION.ORG August 2018

PERSECU ION

Life After ISIS ICC helps believers restart their lives as they return to their homes in the Nineveh Plains.

2017 2018 PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN In This Issue

FEATURE 14 | ICC Donors Sow Life for Survivors of Fulani Violence Christians in Nigeria are suffering, but with the help of donors, ICC is able to serve many families by providing communal farms. FEATURE 16 | The Nineveh Plains Blossom Again From the heart of ISIS’ caliphate to the return of Iraq’s Christians, the Nineveh Plains has undergone much transformation within the last four years. FEATURE 20 | ISIS Sinks Its Teeth into Indonesia An ISIS-affiliated family bombs three churches in Indonesia; ICC follows up with the affected communities. 14 16 FEATURE 24 | The Secret Fate of Christians in Evin Prison Iran’s Christians often disappear within the secret institutions of Evin Prison. FEATURE 26 | ICC’s Policy Day A glimpse of ICC’s 2018 Policy Day. FEATURE 28 | Living in Fear in Uttar Pradesh ICC reports back on travels to one of India’s most persecuted states, Uttar Pradesh. Regular Features 20 24 3 Letter from the President A few words from ICC’s president, Jeff King, on our current work to bandage and build the persecuted Church. 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, Bibles, education and vocational training to the persecuted. 12 Fund Spotlight The Bible brings life wherever it goes. When governments shut down access to 26 28 the Bible, we get to work.

2 PERSECU ION.org AUGUST 2018 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN In This Issue

“The greatest moments are those when you see the result pop up in a graph or in your statistics analysis - that moment you realize you know something no one else does and you get the pleasure of thinking about how to tell them.” - Emily Oster, economist

Jeff King,President “It is the mark of a truly intelligent person International Christian Concern to be moved by statistics.” - George Bernard Shaw

arly last month we held our Bridge Policy Day event on Bibles into the toughest places on earth always yields fruit, ECapitol Hill. It was an honor to have Senators, Congressmen, for God’s word is a two-edged sword and will always convert policy experts, and a victim of Boko Haram come and share hearts over time. their concerns and recommendations on ending the horrific bloodshed in Nigeria. We build and we bandage the persecuted Church. This is the core of what we do. I feel blessed every day to be able to serve I must say that it was very fulfilling to have figures of stature my brothers and sisters in this way and to do so in partnership and influence attend and speak up for the persecuted. with you.

What’s even more fulfilling for me, though, is seeing I think the reason it’s so fulfilling is that we are carrying out ICC donors connect with the plight of the persecuted and the the Lord’s commands and fulfilling what’s on God’s own heart. fruit that results as the broken and wounded are restored out in the field. His desire is to touch the despised, heal the broken, and take His word into the corners of the world where Satan works It’s a day-to-day process, but you can see an example on tirelessly to keep it out. page 14. Our donors have really gotten behind our Nigeria communal farming project, and we expect to care for up to Please join us as we bandage and build the persecuted Church. 7,500 Nigerian Christians in the coming year. As always, your donations will be used efficiently, effectively, and ethically. Or, turn to page 10 to read about our work getting Scripture into places where it’s banned or restricted. The work of getting Jeff King

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

“Many Christians believe that the attacks were carried out by a well- connected radical group.”

Christians in Nepal Alarmed by Series of Attacks on Churches

2 | NEPAL Nepal’s Christian community suffered a string of several church attacks in May that left many alarmed. On May 9, the Hebron Church in eastern Nepal was set ablaze. On May 10, Emmanuel Church Remains of 20 Egyptian Martyrs in western Nepal was burned, followed shortly by the Returned Home After Three-Year Wait burning of Kanchanpur Emmanuel Church in midwest- ern Nepal on May 11. Lastly, Mahima Church in west- 1 | EGYPT On February 15, 2015, ISIS released a grue- the martyrs’ faith, but ern Nepal was bombed on May 12. While the churches some video depicting the beheading of 21 believers along without the expecta- experienced severe property damage, thankfully no one the shores of Libya. All but one of these men were Copts tion that the remains was killed in the attacks. who had travelled to Libya due to the lack of economic would ever be discov- At the time of writing, authorities have made no opportunities for Christians in Egypt. Though they knew ered. Yet, the congre- arrests in relation to these attacks. Although they have of the terrorist activity in Libya, these men risked their gation built a burial not released an official statement, police have attrib- safety in hopes of providing a better life for their families. place for their loved uted the incidents to the Nepal Communist Party, also For the affected families, the devastation of losing their ones just in case they known as the Biplab Group. However, many Christian loved ones was only deepened by not knowing what hap- were ever found. The leaders throughout Nepal believe that the attacks were pened to their loved ones’ remains. Last October, Libyan internment of the a coordinated effort by Hindu extremists across the authorities made the shocking announcement that the bod- bodies proved to be country. Due to the similarity of the attacks, yet the ies were discovered in a mass grave. While the families a surreal moment for geographic distance between them, many Christians hoped to bury their loved ones by the three-year anniver- many of the families believe that the attacks were carried out by a well- sary of the murders in February, they instead marked this who expressed a mix- connected radical group. occasion with the opening of a church built in their honor. ture of grief, joy, and The affected churches have also been underwhelmed On May 14, after more than three long years of waiting, the relief. One mother by the response from authorities. Although police prom- remains of the 20 Egyptian martyrs were finally returned to shared, “I will visit ised to investigate, the church leaders reported that they their families. them every day at the never received a response about their cases. The sud- The next day, the families congregated at Church church. We thank all den influx of violence and laidback response from the of the Martyrs of Faith and Homeland to lay the mar- people who stood up authorities have left many Christians fearful that attacks tyrs to rest. The church was initially built to honor with us.” of this nature will only increase.

4 PERSECU ION.org AUGUST 2018 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN Blasphemy Charges Against Pakistani Christian Man Dropped After Two Years 3 | PAKISTAN Following two years of imprisonment, a Christian man named Usman Liaquat was cleared of blasphemy charges. Liaquat was arrested on May 23, 2016, after reporting an attack that left him with severe head injuries. One of the assailants’ cousin accused Liaquat of blasphemy, shift- ing authorities’ attention away from the assault. Liaquat was eventually acquitted due to a lack of evidence, yet he received no compensation for the unjust imprisonment. Following his release, Liaquat began working for the British Pakistani Christian Association. False accusations are common in Pakistan as radical Muslims often manipulate blasphemy laws to settle personal scores and discriminate against religious minorities.

Interior Ministry Tightens Ramadan Restrictions Evin Prison in Iran Sanctioned by U.S. Treasury 4 | IRAQ On May 24, the Interior Ministry of Iraq’s Central 5 | IRAN As previously reported, Iran’s notorious Evin Prison has Government issued a statement saying that it was “taking legal long been condemned by organizations around the world for its measures against people publicly breaking their Fast (during the egregious human rights violations. On May 30, the United States day time) and referring them to the judiciary,” in reference to the Treasury joined the international outcry by imposing sanctions on Islamic holy month of Ramadan. If found in violation of the new Evin Prison. At least 10 Christian converts are currently being held restrictions, citizens could face up to six months in prison. Locals in Evin Prison where they suffer inhumane living conditions and have reported that Muslim groups have begun implementing tighter often lengthy prison terms. According to a statement issued by the restrictions even in neighborhoods that are primarily Christian. Treasury Department, “Prisoners held at Evin Prison are subject Such regulations can lead to business closures and often make it to brutal tactics inflicted by prison authorities, including sexual more difficult for displaced Christians to meet their basic needs. assaults, physical assaults, and electric shock.”

On Tiananmen Anniversary, Chinese Government Detains Several Christians 6 | CHINA On June 4, the 29th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square crack- down in China, local authorities raided Autumn Rain Covenant Church in Sichuan, China. During the raid, authorities took Pastor Wang Yi, his wife, four other preachers, and 11 other members of the church into custody. At the time of writing, the entire group is still being held and Pastor Wang Yi and his wife could not be contacted. Pastor Wang Yi has been harassed by the government several times prior to this incident. On May 12, he and several members of his congregation were detained leading up to a memorial service for those affected by the 2008 Sichuan earthquake. The pastor, who is widely recognized for speaking out against the government’s crackdown on Christianity, has also been banned from participating in international Christian conferences on multiple occasions. PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 5 3 5 News 2 6 1 4

Church Attack in Bangui Leaves the Fifteen Two Men Assault Clergyman in Central African Republic in Turmoil Christians Bethlehem Falsely Accused 1 | CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC On May 1, an attack of Forced 3 | ISRAEL On June 1, a Franciscan friar was on a Catholic church in the Central African Republic stabbed after he attempted to protect a group of (CAR) left at least 16 people dead. The ambush took place Conversion in pilgrim women from two men harassing them around 10:00 in the morning as the sound of gunshots and India as they attempted to enter a church. Camera grenades rang in the church, creating a panic among the footage (as pictured) captured the men stabbing congregation. In addition to the 16 killed, approximately 2 | INDIA In May, at Father Fadi Shallufi through a closed gate as he 100 more were injured. least 15 Christians attempted to calm the situation and prevent the Among the dead was Father Albert Toungoumalé-Baba were falsely charged men from entering the premises. The two assail- (pictured) who was serving as the guest priest during the with forced con- ants have confessed to the crime, but police have service that was attacked. World Watch Monitor (WWM) version in India’s not released any additional information at the reports that the 71-year-old priest was well known for his northeastern state of time of writing. commitment to bringing peace to CAR. He also served as Jharkhand. Eleven Bishop Atallah Hannah published a state- the secretary of the Commission for Justice and Peace of of the 15 were ment shortly after the incident which read, the Archdiocese of Bangui. charged after gath- “We thank God that the injury was minor, but Another local priest recalled the shock of the violent ering for prayer in this action is a criminal act that is far from our attack. He told WWM, “We are all shocked, everybody a private Christian human, moral and national values. We reject is shocked. We don’t understand why. Why to kill people home. Later that attacks against clerics.” who are praying, just innocent people who are praying?” month, four more Another source within the church noted that, Although security forces confronted the attackers, they were charged, although attacks on clergy are rare, there is gen- were outnumbered and unable to prevent the assault. including a young erally more tension and harassment on religious For many, the recent attack evoked memories of an attack Christian couple holidays and during times of political crisis. The in May 2014 when rebels attacked the parish of Notre that was engaged stabbing took place during the Islamic holy month Dame de Fatima, killing 18, including the priest. Various to be married. The of Ramadan. Throughout the Muslim world, there religious and political leaders throughout the country have couple reached out is consistently an uptick in religiously motivated since spoken out to condemn the violent incident. to police after a violence during the month of Ramadan. local tribe opposed the wedding, but the police arrested the couple and two other Christians instead. Due to the vague terms laid out in India’s forced con- version laws, many Hindu radicals manipulate them to harass and intimi- date Christians. Seven states in India have similar laws, which gen- erally only lead to greater violence and discrimination.

6 PERSECU ION.org AUGUST 2018 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN Suicide Bombings at Three Churches in Japanese Christians Detained in China Safely Indonesia Kill Thirteen Return Home 4 | INDONESIA On May 13, suicide bombers attacked three churches 5 | JAPAN Between May 5 and May 15, 21 members of a Christian in Indonesia: Saint Mary Immaculate Catholic Church, Surabaya group from Japan were detained in China for missionary activities. Pentecostal Church, and Diponegoro Indonesian Christian Church. According to Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, all 21 have since When the dust settled, 13 people were killed and more than 40 others returned home to Japan safely. Last November, in a similar case, the were injured. The attackers, who were all related to one another, also Chinese government deported 19 Japanese nationals who were affili- reportedly tried to attack two other churches, but the bombs failed to ated with a Christian group. Such deportations are part of an ongoing detonate. This string of bombings marks the deadliest in Indonesia attempt by Chinese authorities to eliminate evangelism efforts within since the 2002 Bali bombings which killed more than 200. the country.

Suspected Fulani Militants Attack Seminary in Nigeria

6 | NIGERIA Suspected Fulani militants recently attacked Sacred Heart Minor Seminary in Nigeria’s Taraba State. Thankfully, there were no reported deaths, but several were injured. During the attack, the militants beat two priests and shot another in the leg. Multiple students were also injured and property was destroyed, including several vehicles. Following the attack, those with injuries were taken to a medical center for treatment and the seminary issued a one-week break to provide the community time to cope with the trauma. The attack on this Catholic seminary took place only a few days after a mass burial of 19 Catholics who were killed in a church attack in April in Benue State. On the day of the burial, Catholics throughout Nigeria participated in protests to pressure the Nigerian president, Muhammadu Buhari, to take greater action to protect Christians. PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 7 Your Dollars at Work

ICC Helps a School Laid Waste by ISIS

Community Rebuild ar Aphram Syriac School, located in Mthe heart of the Nineveh Plains in the largest primarily Christian village, was left in ruins after ISIS militants stole all of the school’s supplies and vandalized the property. ISIS destroyed the school as part of a campaign to erase the presence of Christianity in the Nineveh Plains along with all reminders of the region’s rich Christian history. Before ISIS invaded, more than 160 students attended the school, but enrollment has gradually fallen to only 86 students. The dwindling of staff, stu- dents, and supplies has lead to many chal- lenges so far in the 2018 school year. When ICC learned of the obstacles that Mar Aphram Syriac School was facing, we were excited to offer our support. With monies from ICC’s Community Rebuild Fund, we purchased supplies including computers, printers, school and office fur- niture, and stationery. The staff and students were thrilled to receive these supplies and quick to express their gratitude. Evan Baba, a secondary school teacher, shared, “I’m a teacher. I teach the Syriac Language. [ICC’s] role is very good in helping our school by provid- ing some needed items... Although we are still in need for the explanatory laboratories that help the students, I would like to extend my thankfulness for providing these items to our school.” “On behalf of our school management, we would like to thank you, and we pray that God gives you help, strength, capability in help- ing our people’s need,” said Noel Polus, the school manager. Please pray for protection for the staff, students, and parents at Mar Aphram Syriac School. Ask the Lord to provide for all of their needs. Pray that the students will obtain a quality education and become both productive citizens and faithful disciples of Jesus Christ.

8 PERSECU ION.org AUGUST 2018 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN Your Dollars at Work

Food and Assistance for Small Business Medical Aid for Evicted Pastors for Phoebo

Attack Victims Underground Pastors Suffering Wives and Children Suffering Wives and Children n August of 2017, two pastors, Abdelrahim n October 1, 2017, Pheobo Nabil lost her INalu and Siddique Abdallah, of the Sudanese Ohusband in a tragic car accident, leaving n January 7, 2018, a group of Hindu radi- Presbyterian Evangelical Church were evicted her to care for their large family singlehanded- Ocals attacked a group of Christians who from their homes. A Muslim investor in the ly. Pheobo’s family now consists of her elderly had gathered for worship in Ganjam District, area claimed ownership of their property and parents-in-law, two infants, and her disabled India. The attackers snatched the victims from a judge upheld the order of eviction in the sister-in-law. She had no means to provide for the home and beat them, leaving several with Supreme Court. them and, as a Christian woman in Egypt, job severe injuries. The attack also created a sig- Until March of 2018, the two families were opportunities were severely limited. nificant financial burden due to costly medical living under trees in the streets of Khartoum. ICC has come alongside her in her suf- bills and unpaid time off of work during their ICC stepped in to provide them with rent fering and made her dream of running a hospital stays. as well as food staples to alleviate some of small fodder shop into a reality. Part of the With the help of generous donors, ICC their day-to-day expenses. The two pastors lower level of her home was converted into provided the affected families with food have settled into their new homes, but their a shop and we purchased fodder for her to packages and financial assistance to ease the churches are not yet stable. Therefore, we con- sell. With the start-up costs covered, she burden of their medical expenses. Four of the tinue to provide monthly support for medical has been able to earn money to provide for victims received medical aid, seven families care, rent, and food among the church lead- her family and expand her shop. Pheobo received food packages, and 29 individuals ers. The pastors’ families expressed that the shared, “When my project was carried out, I received clothing. The aid has helped these project “has shown us that we are not alone; thanked God so much for standing with me families get back on their feet, alleviate debt, we have brothers and sisters who can stand by and my children and I felt that God hasn’t and provide basic necessities in the aftermath our side!” Please continue to pray for safety, forgotten us, He always takes cares of us, He of the attack. endurance, and the success of their ministries. loves us so much.” PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 9 Your Dollars at Work

Balloons Carry the Gospel to North Korea

Bibles for the Persecuted t the hands of the ruling Kim dynasty, the ANorth Korean government has stripped its citizens of their most basic freedoms. The regime prevents Christians from exercising their religion and imposes cruel forms of pun- ishment for those who openly practice their faith. The North Korean government considers Christians a threat to their power, portraying them as traitors for not being “loyal” to their leader. The regime has indoctrinated over 20 million people in North Korea, including children, into worshipping their dictator and revering him as their god. This strategy to manipulate the populace includes bombarding citizens with propagan- da, brainwashing children at a young age via a corrupt school system, and walling off the people from contact with the outside world. One defector confessed, “I always thought that God was a hypocrite, not real. I was taught God was bad and evil. Now I know that the bad guy hypocrite is Kim Jong Un.” With the serious risks for Christians in North Korea, some have escaped to South

Korea and are eager to share the truth with and we plan to continue these efforts. those still trapped. Following his escape to South Korea, one ICC’s Bible Fund made it possible to team defector shared, “We began to doubt Kim up with a group of Christian defectors to Jong Un. We wanted to believe in God. We float balloons carrying Gospel materials over wanted to come to the free South Korea. the border into North Korea. The materials We risked our lives to escape to South are packed into plastic bags with timers and Korea. The balloons and leaflets showed filled with Gospel pamphlets, USB drives, us the truth.” DVDs, pocket radios, and more. When the The balloon project has proven successful, timing and the wind are favorable from the but there is still much to be done to reach south to the north, the balloons are sent as those suffering under the brutal regime in often as possible. North Korea. Please continue to pray for As of this writing, we have sent two sets God’s provision so that we can continue to of balloons with Gospel materials and other spread the Gospel in North Korea. Pray that information from South Korea to North the Lord will open the hearts of thousands of Korea. The balloon shipments have already North Koreans to receive the gift of salvation encouraged several people to seek the truth, and come to know the true God.

10 PERSECU ION.org AUGUST 2018 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN Your Dollars at Work Iraqi Family Gets Back Home and Back on Their Feet Post-ISIS

Community Rebuild their displacement. After ISIS’ military defeat in 2017, the fam- t the beginning of June, ICC helped a ily returned to Qaraqosh where the husband Adisplaced Iraqi Christian re-establish his had run a copy shop, a very successful type of copy shop business. Like thousands of other business in Iraq since government paperwork Christians, he and his family were forced to is not completed electronically. flee Qaraqosh during the 2014 invasion by Assistance from ICC enabled him to restart ISIS. His wife was nine months pregnant his business in the city he calls home, and to at the time and gave birth to their first son provide for his family. Happily, the day after shortly after they fled the city. The family ICC helped him re-establish the copy shop, lived sparingly off of their savings throughout his wife gave birth to their second son.

Transportation Assistance for Targeted Church Community

Hand of Hope astor Bernard, the founder of a church in PWest Java, Indonesia was imprisoned when a local group of radical Muslims reported him to the police for not having the proper permits to use his church’s building. To gain the sup- port of the Muslim community, the authorities responded by shutting down the church and banning them from operating there indefinitely. Pastor Bernard has since found a new loca- tion for the church to operate on a school compound. Unfortunately, the new location is far away from the community that he has been leading. ICC was able to help ease the financial strain on this church congregation by providing three rental cars each Sunday to transport them to their new meeting place. PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 11 Fund Spotlight: Bibles for the Persecuted

ICC partners donate to bring God’s Word to where it’s scarce or even illegal

n many persecuted countries, Christians are unable to obtain a Bible, either due to government restrictions or discrimi- nation that leaves believers impover- ished. Many new believers and life- long Christians in such countries have never had a Bible to call their own. To help address the need, ICC developed its Bible Fund to make the Word of God more Iaccessible all over the world. Commonly referred to as the “North Korea of Africa,” the nation of Eritrea has one of the most restrictive governments in the world. Believers must practice their faith in secrecy and are restricted in their access to Christian literature. If found in violation of the government’s strict religious restrictions, believers may be sent to one of Eritrea’s underground prisons or shipping container jail cells, where prisoners experi- ence inhumane, torturous living conditions. While written Bibles are difficult to smuggle into a country like Eritrea, ICC has found an alternative through audio Bibles.

12 PERSECU ION.org AUGUST 2018 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN Fund Spotlight: Bibles for the Persecuted

Left: Government restrictions and the Above: Believers in Bangladesh receive imprisonment of Christian leaders cause the first Bibles they’ve ever owned. many Eritrean believers to go underground.

In February, ICC provided a local partner preach. Because he lacked a Bible of his with 75 audio Bibles to distribute among own, he was unable to study God’s Word local pastors and Christian families. These between the evangelist’s visits. When he digital resources are easy to conceal and can received a Bible from ICC, he said, “Now I be erased if necessary. Audio Bibles have pro- can read the Bible every day to learn more vided many believers with a safe method of about Christ and will share the Good News owning and sharing the Word of God. with my neighbors also.” One of the main obstacles that believers in ICC has joined hands with Christian com- Bangladesh encounter is poverty due to severe munities all over the world, from Laos to India discrimination. Constantly harassed, many are to North Korea, to share the Good News. This forced to practice their faith in rural, private work would not be possible without the gener- homes and are unable to purchase a Bible of ous support of donors. their own. In response, ICC purchased 50 new Bibles to distribute among new believers in If you would like to donate to help share Sathkira District and Bagherhat District. For the Gospel or learn more about ICC’s many of the recipients, this was their first Bible. Bible Fund, please visit One believer shared with ICC that, once www.persecution.org or give a week, an evangelist visited his village to us a call at 1-800-ICC-5441. PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 13 ICC Donors Sow Life for Survivors of Deadly Fulani Violence

Christians in Nigeria are suffering, but with your help, communal farms are under way to restore villagers’ livelihoods.

By Nathan Johnson

t the start Our previous aid projects that of 2018, focused on getting the farmer-vic- I began tims back to work had worked well writing and were all very low cost. That’s monthly when we decided to launch our reports Nigerian farming project (see box). on the When the word went out to ICC escalat- donors, the response was immedi- ing num- ate and generous. Our donors have ber of given 60% of the needed funding Christians murdered by Fulani for the 10 farms we will build out. Muslim militants in Nigeria. I saw All we need is $40,000 more to Aevents spiraling out of control, and provide food and a livelihood for now six months later, the staggering as many as 7,000 believers! We’ve death toll confirms the desperate sit- already started work on the first two uation: More than 1300 Christians farms and are making arrangements have been slain so far this year. to build out the rest. Just last week Fulani militants Samuel Kila, a victim who will killed 86 unarmed Christians in benefit from the first communal attacks in the Barikin Ladi area of farm, told ICC, “…the Fulani Plateau State. came, and three of my brothers As I traveled to Nigeria’s Middle were killed. They left their families Belt region and worked with the behind, which we are suffering to massive number of victims on the take care of. I appreciate very much ground, it became increasingly clear what ICC has brought for us.” that we could do more to serve Through the prayers, commit- them. When I discussed the picture ment and financial giving of ICC with Jeff King, ICC’s president, we partners, Samuel’s family and were both struck by a simple solu- many others like them will now tion that was staring us in the face. have the means to provide for

14 PERSECU ION.org AUGUST 2018 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN Communal Farms for Attack Survivors One farm serves between 50 and 75 families, providing work, food, and income for a year. The total cost for one farm is $12,500.

• $ 5 | Plantlings for 1/5 acre • $ 1,250 | Clear 100 acres • $ 20 | One herbicide sprayer • $ 5,000 | Plow and harrow 100 acres • $ 30 | Food and farming for one person for a year • $ 12,500 | Sponsor an entire farm (Serve up to • $ 100 | Four 50 kg bags of 750 Christians) fertilizer Giving Options Check: Use the enclosed envelope. Write “Nigeria Crisis” in the memo line. Phone: Call ICC at 800-422-5441 Online: Visit persecution.org/nigeria-crisis

those they love. When I asked Jeff to comment further, he replied: “I can’t tell you how much I appreci- ate your practical care for your brothers and sisters in Nigeria. We have been building and bandaging Christians victims and communi- ties in Nigeria for years, but this project is the most efficient and life-sustaining project we’ve ever done. The only reason we can do it is because of you. ICC has nothing on its own. We work with you as partners. You have the desire and funds to help but lack the hands and feet on the ground. Together, we work as the body of Christ and fulfill His mandate to serve and rebuild the lives of thousands and thousands of Christians that have been absolutely decimated. Early in my ICC career, I provided funds to help the family of an assassinated believer in Pakistan rebuild their lives. After I handed her the gift, Mrs. Muhktar and I stood face to face. I held her hands as she stared into my eyes and thanked me in the most sincere and profound way. I will never forget it. I wish I could transport you to Nigeria so you could experience first-hand this same gratitude that your brother and sister would express to you. They have lost their earthly Top: Two sons of a man killed in the first Above: Many Christian farmers have wealth and more importantly their loved ones. village ICC is helping. been pushed off their family lands by the We can’t bring back their family members, but Left: Tractors prepares land for two of Fulani violence; ICC is helping them set we can partially rebuild their lives. For that, the communal farms. up new farms in safer areas in Nigeria. they are immensely grateful.” PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 15 THE NINEVEH PLAINS BLOSSOM AGAIN An area rich in Christian history became the heart of ISIS’ caliphate, but as Iraq’s displaced Christians return, a radical transformation is underway.

By Claire Evans

2017

16 PERSECU ION.org AUGUST 2018 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN he Christians of Iraq are like the rose in the orchard… This land is a Christian history,” “ said Anwar. He is from Qaraqosh, the largest Christian city in Iraq’s Nineveh Plains. The Christian history of Iraq is evident throughout the Nineveh Plains. The tombs of proph- ets such as Jonah and Nahum are easily Tfound. Centuries-old monasteries such as St. Hormozd and Mar Matta stand boldly on mountaintops overlooking the Plains. Large crosses dot the landscape in many villages. In contrast to Iraq’s barren desert in the south, the Nineveh Plains is lush with greenery. Some describe the area as the place where “Heaven and earth meet.” As ISIS Advances Christians Flee by the Thousands Life in the Nineveh Plains radically changed in 2014, when ISIS swept through the coun- tryside. Mosul, the de facto capital of the gov- ernorate, was captured in June 2014. Less than five kilometers away, residents of Qaraqosh looked on with fear as Christians began flee- ing Mosul. Everyone from Qaraqosh vividly remembers the day in August when they also were displaced by ISIS. “My father died just two days before ISIS attacked,” recalled Noora. “We were at the funeral for the third day when ISIS attacked… [I told the kids] we were leaving to have a picnic. But day after day they were asking about their bedrooms, and [then] they realized this was ISIS.” “The day we ran from Qaraqosh, my wife was at the last month of pregnancy and I didn’t own a car… My wife gave birth on the 4th day of displacement. I didn’t have a place, neither money to buy clothes for our baby nor milk and diapers. That was the worst feeling someone can ever feel. Although I used to sell milk and diapers for many years, I couldn’t maintain its availability for my child because of this evil,” remembered Akrum. Zain had an experience similar to Akrum. He shared, “My wife was pregnant at the ninth month when ISIS attacked our city in 2014. It was hard to flee with that situation.” Milad recalled, “The day ISIS attacked Qaraqosh, I was attending a mass and the

Left: From a desolate street to a thriving block, this region in 2018 Qaraqosh is an example of how the area is continuously rebuilding itself after ISIS control. PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 17 Below: Although some of the buildings in Qaraqosh have new walls and progress is being made, the visible aftermath of ISIS destruction remains evident. Right: Qaraqosh residents get drinking water from a well provided by ICC. Opposite: ICC paid for heavy equipment to refill a tunnel that ISIS had dug on the property of one Christian farmer. The tunnel prevented the farmer from irrigating his land.

priest advised people within the ceremony not faith as an inspiration to document the crimes but were overwhelmed at the destruction left to leave. After the mass finished, the shelling of ISIS. “I felt like ISIS was trying to remove behind. “Before ISIS, Qaraqosh was heaven.” increased. So we left.” our history, and that’s why I worked on the When asked why she chose to live there, More than 100,000 Christians would flee documentation… This documentation was a Noora said, “We were looking for kindness, the Nineveh Plains, with most finding shelter result of my faith… They cannot remove that because that is hard to find [in Iraq]. It was wherever possible in Kurdistan. A handful of history because we feel that history is on our something that had encouraged me to live in Christians, however, chose to stay behind. hearts, not just on any of the buildings.” Qaraqosh [before ISIS].” Located in the heart of the Nineveh Plains, It is for the continued preservation of this But all of this was missing when Noora the monks at Mar Matta Monastery bravely history of faith that many Christians have returned to Qaraqosh last year. The city was gave shelter to those who couldn’t flee all decided to rebuild—even while thousands of largely deserted, buildings destroyed, the the way north. Although the monastery is a other believers have permanently fled Iraq. streets desolate. “It was dusty, and there are geographical fortress, there was concern that Such was the case with Milad. He said, “On no services. If a human wants to do something ISIS’s destructive ideology would reach those November 13, 2014, we left to Jordan. [But] there, he can’t do it. Unless he has the support, seeking shelter there. alienation was too hard for me and to my wife it cannot be achieved, so Qaraqosh needs a lot “We felt that they would reach the monastery, from the first day. My wife told me that she of different parts to come together and make and that they would explode the monastery,” would rather have just water and bread in Iraq it great again.” said Fr. Youssif, a monk at Mar Matta. “They than immigrating. Also, there was a school Noora left Qaraqosh a month after returning, shot at us with three mortar bombs, and they fell allocated for Iraqi students in Jordan where we and will return after more progress is made on near the village. At that time, it was so crowded. lived for three months and whenever students reconstruction. Many others, like Milad, have People were attending with us the Stations of the sang the Iraqi anthem in that school my wife committed to returning and rebuilding. He Holy Cross in the monastery. But no one cared. started crying. So we went back to Iraq [in] returned home to Qaraqosh in early 2017, Faith prevented them from being frightened.” February 2015.” determined that he “would be in Qaraqosh Faith would carry Iraq’s Christians through again, just if there was water and electricity. the times of crisis during ISIS’s reign. Many Gradual Return to a City We will build the city again.” saw ISIS as waging a war against the Christian Decimated, Deserted An agricultural engineer by trade, Milad history of the Nineveh Plains, which in turn By 2017, it was apparent that ISIS was only reopened his store on main street with ICC’s motivated them to keep their faith alive. One months away from its eventual military defeat. help. “It was great starting. I became famous journalist, Samer, hid in Mosul and used his A small number of Christians began returning, since I was the first shop starting again in

18 PERSECU ION.org AUGUST 2018 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN Qaraqosh, and that encouraged people to come back… The day when we left to Jordan, I never thought that I will see Qaraqosh again… “We will I am so excited to be back.” ICC Projects Hope Rises as Residents build the Flow Back to Qaraqosh in the Region A year later, the Nineveh Plains has under- city again.” gone a radical transformation. Although public services are still lacking and several buildings – MILAD remain uninhabitable, life has returned. When Although many Christians Milad first opened his store, main street was grocery for the 300 people who live nearby. have returned to the deserted. Today, it bustles with activity. Zain, whose wife gave birth shortly after dis- Nineveh Plains, there is “Qaraqosh is back, but still it needs a lot placement, has also returned to Qaraqosh along still a significant need of development in regards to infrastructure with his now four-year-old son. ICC helped for stable public utility and public services. At least we can gather Zain restart his copy shop, a small business that services and economic evenings with our relatives in the homeland,” helps customers make duplicates of important revitalization. ICC has said Milad. paperwork. The implementation of this project contributed to these Father Youssif from Mar Matta has also coincided with unexpected joy. Zain said, “My needs by creating seven stayed in Iraq, although for different reasons. wife gave birth yesterday. We had Smith, our small businesses and He said, “I have stayed because the shepherd second son, and I started the shop today after digging six water wells, should stay with the sheep. It is our faith that closure of three years. We as Qaraqosh citizens all in the first half of 2018. keeps us with them. We are always looking believe it is message from God that the work Many residents still lack for a hope for our future. We know it is so dif- and income is because of the newborn.” sustainable sources of ficult… but we should try.” ISIS sought the death of Christianity in income and consistent, At the time of writing in June, it is estimated the Nineveh Plains, but new life is blooming clean water. You can that nearly half of Qaraqosh’s residents have there every day. True, there is much work to join ICC in helping these returned home. be done if the region is ever to fully recover. families rebuild Qaraqosh: Akrum, whose wife gave birth just days Residents remain concerned about security. • $100 will provide after their displacement, is among those who Many Christians have permanently left Iraq, shelving for local have come home to Qaraqosh. When ICC and others are hesitant to return home unless markets to sell their first met Akrum, he talked about how he more is rebuilt. Yet, as so many have dem- goods “would love to start working in Qaraqosh onstrated through the history of the Nineveh again and restart [his] market there.” He was Plains, much hope is to be found in the resil- • $140 will provide a shocked when ICC offered to help him. He ience of Iraq’s Christians. Said one Christian, small welding machine said, “When I got the call, I couldn’t believe “Even with the difficulties we are experienc- for plumbing or myself, I was so excited.” Today, Akrum’s ing, we feel like there is a psychological part smithing businesses shop is filled with customers. He serves an that can motivate us to live… I feel like my average of 100 customers daily, and is the sole soul is in Iraq.” • $400 will provide one printer for a copy shop business • $1,300 will build one well, providing a reliable source of water to at least 10 families

To learn more about how you can make a difference through ICC’s work in Iraq, give us a call at 800-ICC-5441 or visit persecution.org and consider donating today.

PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 19 ISISISIS Sinks Its Teeth into Indonesia

An ISIS-affiliated family bombs three churches in Indonesia; ICC offers encouragement and medical help to traumatized children and families.

By Meg McEwan

hrapnel, flames, and screams Surabaya Pentecostal Church. The first explosion cut across three church sanctu- took place at Saint Mary Immaculate Catholic aries in Surabaya, East Java on Church, initiated by his two sons (ages 16 and 18) May 13, the result of a family- carrying a lap-bomb on a motorcycle. The other two led suicide bomb mission that followed soon after. The attackers also planted bombs rocked the Christian community at Saint Jacob’s Church in West Surabaya and Sacred in Indonesia. Heart of Jesus Cathedral, but they failed to explode. The Sunday morning began The Islamic State later claimed official responsibility like any other for the families for these attacks. that gathered together in their When the dust settled, the death count rose to 13 tranquil places of worship. The daily plight of deaths and more than 50 wounded. The Surabaya these Christians in Indonesia melted away as they bombings are the deadliest in Indonesia since the Sjoined together with tender hugs, heartfelt prayers, 2002 Bali bombings, and they signal a mounting rise and warm smiles. While they greeted each other in hostility toward Christians in Indonesia. and found their seats, a family of six belonging “I am really sad about this,” shared Pastor to the Jamaah Ansharut Daulah (JAD), a radical Yonathan Biantoro, a pastor at Surabaya Pentecostal group linked to the Islamic State, gathered for a Church, in an interview with ICC, “We as members different reason. of this church really hope that we would have a According to the National Police Chief General, peaceful environment when we are in our devotion. Tito Karnavian, a father dropped off his wife and two We want the government to protect us with our young daughters (ages 9 and 12) at the Diponegoro constitutional rights and we are concerned about our Indonesian Christian Church before heading toward religious freedom.” Yonathan is heartbroken over

20 PERSECU ION.org AUGUST 2018 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN Above: May 13: Indonesian President Joko Widodo surveys the aftermath of multiple suicide bombings in Surabaya. Photo: Press Bureau of the Secretariat of the President of Indonesia Below: May 14: The Mayor of Surabaya, Tri Rismaharini, meets with relatives of the victims of the Surabaya bombings. Photo: Surabaya Municipal Police

PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 21 Top Right: Alvaro undergoes skin grafting and skin-regrowing procedures to treat his burns after the Samarinda bombing. Bottom Right: Children celebrate forgiveness during Easter celebration. Opposite: Trinity, one of the children injured in the Samarinda bombing. the deaths of three church staff members who were severely burned. “They try to create fear in us; instead we grow, trust, and hope in Him. God is still in control; our churches united in prayers and believe God’s will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. The gates of hell and its power can- not conquer His church,” Budi Setiawan, the National Superintendent of the Assembly of God in Indonesia, shared with ICC. Indonesia continues to be a hotbed of ter- rorism, spelling danger for Christians. The Surabaya attack followed another large-scale bombing on November 13, 2016 in Samarinda. There four terrorists bombed the Ouikumene building housing five churches. Tragically, the children at Ouikumene were the most affected because they were playing outside when the bomb detonated. Three chil- dren received extensive tissue damage from the heat: Alvaro, Trinity, and Anita. One child, Intan, died the day after the attack. ICC Provides for Ministry to Kids at Bombed Church ICC visited the site in Samarinda in April 2018 to assess the damage and learn how ICC could help. We found that the Ouikumene children continue to struggle with psychologi- cal fallout from the bombing in 2016. In the aftermath of the bombing, the children were too afraid to attend Sunday School. ICC threw an Easter celebration for the children to encourage them in the love of Jesus He is faithful. Through an accident, I encoun- and lifing up prayers for the bombers. ICC ter God. I have a personal experience with provided supplies and gifts for the celebration God and it strengthens me in all my ways. He and the children’s Sunday School. During the “They try to is good all the time.” event, the Sunday School teacher shared how Jesus taught Peter to forgive 70 times seven create fear in Children Endure Ongoing times and how Jesus forgave the men who Medical Treatments unjustly nailed him to a cross. us; instead we Alvaro, Trinity, and Anita embarked on “I’m glad to know that so many people are a different journey after the bombing. They praying for us and giving their love. These struggled through complex surgeries, many children need some consoling in their lives, grow, trust, of which were beyond their parents’ means. and your organization answers their needs. The explosion melted Alfaro’s ears and Thank you so much ICC!” said Marsyana, and hope in severely burned the skin on his head. He is in Alvaro’s mother. the process of receiving balloon treatments Sarina, Trinity’s mother, said, “We thank Him.” (a medical treatment for growing new skin) ICC for this present that you gave to the kids. and will be receiving hand surgery. Anita is We pray that your ministry will continue to receiving treatment for minor burns on her exist and help people who are in need. Pray – BUDI SETIAWAN hands and head. for us so we can face the day ahead. We Trinity’s injuries were the most severe. believe that God will never leave us alone. She has burns on her arms, fingers, and

22 PERSECU ION.org AUGUST 2018 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN upper torso. Approximately 60% of her skin ney failure who frequently came to the hos- The radicalization in Indonesia and other was mutilated by the burns. A businessman pital for dialysis. Every time she came to the countries did not hit the Western radar and friend in Jakarta connected Trinity hospital, she visited Trinity. She said that, in until 1998 when a Muslim imam esca- with a skilled doctor in China, but the her condition, Trinity was very cheering.” lated a localized fight between Muslim and doctor informed her mom that the surger- Trinity’s progress continues to bode well Christian teenagers and called his followers ies would cost one billion rupiahs (almost for her recovery, but she will be receiv- to wage war on Christians. The Muslims $80,000 USD). She was able to travel to ing ongoing treatments. Many individuals, murdered 10,000 Christians and burned China in September and November and including ICC, have stepped in to alleviate 1,200 churches. received a balloon injection in Jakarta. the costs of her surgeries. Today, factions linked to ISIS thrive in Even in the midst of her pain, Trinity’s Indonesia. The family responsible for the spirit and smile shines Jesus’s love on oth- Roots of Jihadism and attacks in Surabaya claimed to be a part of ers in every place that she visits. Violence in Indonesia the Jamaah Ansharut Daulah (JAD), an ISIS “We really see how God helps us. Every These two tragedies in Southeast Asia sub-faction formed in 2015. The presence of time Trinity is in the hospital she finds a lot stem from the larger ideological conflict in this group and others means that Christians are of friends. I even don’t understand,” said the Middle East. Religious persecution in under constant threat. Sarina, “Once, she had a friend next to her Indonesia sprang out of Saudi Arabia’s cam- As ICC continues to connect with victims bed in the hospital. They were both laugh- paign to radicalize Islamist powers surround- and families in Surabaya and assist with medi- ing with each other and watching a movie, ing the Persian Gulf in the late 20th century. cal expenses and other needs, we invite you to even when they [spoke] different languages. Saudi Arabia poured approximately $100 pray for recovering victims and the Church at Another time, there was a patient with kid- billion into the spread of jihadism. large in Indonesia. PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 23 Feature Article The Secret Fate of Christians in Iran’s Evin Prison

estled within the hills of Evin Prison is not just a place. It is a con- northern Tehran, Evin cept built around Iran’s underground prison Prison is a visible reminder system. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard of old and new wounds. Corps and the Ministry of Intelligence and The prison rose to promi- Security have a number of unofficial wards Christians nence after Iran’s 1979 located within Evin. The prison is known by Revolution, when the new many names: the regime’s torture factory, hell government began detain- on earth, and a prison within a prison. often disappear ing individuals associated with the monarchy. As Believers who are imprisoned at Evin can Ntime passed, it became evident that Evin Prison expect to receive the worst treatment of all within the secret would remain the primary jail for perceived the inmates. “Christians held in Evin are threats to the regime, including Christians. subjected to physical and verbal abuse by not Although Iran’s constitution recognizes the only the authorities but also by some other wards of Evin freedom of religion, the regime does not rec- Muslim inmates. They are denied access to ognize any Christian who came to faith after Bibles, phone calls and family visits. Evin Prison. the revolution. As a country that characterizes Prison is run by the intelligence who behave itself as Shia Islamic, all other religions are in complete impunity. It is one of the worst viewed as threats towards Iran. For this rea- places of detention in Iran, especially for son, many Christians are charged with “acting those who converted from Islam,” said Mena against national security” and are thus incar- of Christian Solidarity Worldwide. By incar- By Claire Evans cerated in Evin Prison. cerating Christians within the secret parallel

24 PERSECU ION.org AUGUST 2018 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN Feature Article

“Christians held in Evin are subjected to physical and verbal abuse by not only the authorities but also by some other Muslim inmates.” – MENA, CHRISTIAN SOLIDARITY WORLDWIDE institutions of Evin Prison, the Pastor Victor Bet-Tamraz is Iranian regime is attempting to another victim of Evin Prison. He remove the face and personhood has been arrested multiple times of believers. and recently lost his appeal of a However, there is power in 10-year prison sentence. He was speaking on behalf of those previously released from Evin on imprisoned. “If a prisoner’s case bail, but now he awaits a phone got attention, they stopped tor- call that will tell him when and turing or raping them because what prison to report to. It is they knew the world was watch- unclear when he will begin serv- ing. We heard of many cases ing his sentence. However, given of prisoners who had no voice the authorities’ history of sending outside, and many things hap- Pastor Bet-Tamraz to Evin Prison, pened to them,” a former pris- it is possible that he will return. oner, Marziyeh Amirizadeh, told It is known that at least ten World Watch Monitor. Christian converts are serving While there are so many cases their sentences in Evin Prison. of Christians entrapped in Evin The actual number is most likely Prison, three prisoners in particu- much higher. Six Christians have lar stand out as needing prayer. been either temporarily released At the time of this writing in from Evin on bail or their judicial June, Mehrdad Houshmad and status is unclear. Most of these his wife have been detained in prisoners will serve an average Evin Prison for ten months. They sentence length of nine years – a attended a funeral service and time of extreme hardship. were filmed at the service say- “Most of the arrested individu- ing “prayers based on Christian als are coerced to divulge infor- teachings.” Their IDs were con- mation about their house-church fiscated, and a few days later the activities and those of their couple was arrested, interrogat- friends, under threat of criminal ed, and imprisoned within one of prosecution or arrest of family Evin’s secret wards. They have members… Therefore, the case disappeared within the system, of every arrested Iranian believer their fate unclear. is of utmost importance,” said Dr. A more recent addition to Mike Ansari from Heart4Iran. Evin Prison is Naser Navard Evin Prison exists to erase Goltapeh. He was arrested last anything the regime perceives summer and convicted based as a threat. By incarcerating on secret evidence produced Christians here, Iran hopes to by the Intelligence Ministry. abolish Christianity through bru- He will serve a 10-year sen- tality and fear. However, it is tence in Evin Prison. Shortly through the testimonies of those after beginning his sentence who have kept the faith that so in January, his health began many Iranians are converting to deteriorating; unfortunately, Christianity. We must pray for this is not unusual. Dr. Hormoz Opposite: The regime regularly imprisons believers as part of the safety of those in Evin Prison, Shariat, president and found- its attempt to eradicate Christianity from Iran. that their hardship may be eased. er of Iran Alive Ministries, But we must also publicly name explained, “Usually, the first Top: Many of Iran’s Christians end up in the notorious Evin those imprisoned there. For nam- month or two, there is torture to Prison, ‘the regime’s torture factory.’ ing them introduces international get all the information they can accountability, and Iran’s regime from the prisoner. If the prison- Bottom: Iran views Christians as cultural dissidents and will realize that they cannot er dies under torture, they claim imprisonment and inhumane treatment as their due. use secret prisons to extinguish that he committed suicide.” Christianity from the country. PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 25 ICC’s Policy Day Sheds Light on Brutal Attacks on Christian Villagers in Nigeria

By Matias Perttula

uslim Fulani militants are attack- ing and massacring Christian farm- ers in the Nigerian Middle belt with increasing vehemence and near impu- nity. International Christian Concern addressed the situation at its annual Policy Day on June 5, opening dia- logue between speakers and pan- elists at the U.S. Capitol building. Policymakers, experts, NGO leaders, and Nigerians spoke with unanimous concession, calling for immediate action from the Nigerian government. MThe carnage exceeds 1300 deaths in 2018 as the uninhibited wave of violence advances across the region. The Nigerian government has the means to end the killing spree, yet internal conflicts of interest have so far stalled action. Only recently, with pressure from President Trump, did President Buhari of Nigeria finally acknowledge and condemn one terrorist organization kidnapped 276 girls in the middle of the night of the attacks that resulted in the deaths of two priests and nearly 20 from a school in Chibok, Nigeria. Joy, along with some of her Christian worshipers in Benue state. schoolmates, escaped later and hid in the jungles of Nigeria before making their way back home. Her riveting story captured the true Speakers: Members of Congress, Nigeria horrors of what the persecuted church is experiencing at the hands of Experts, and a Victim of Boko Haram violent Islamic terror groups like Boko Haram. Nearly every speaker at Policy Day highlighted the need for security Terwase Orbunde, the second speaker, serves as the Chief of Staff guarantees in Nigeria to counter the threat that increased radicalization to the Governor of Benue State in Nigeria. He personally handled the poses on the stability of its democracy. While many factors contribute aftermath of a Fulani militant attack in his state. Terwase revealed the to the conflict—population growth, ethnic differences, grazing rights, struggles of leading the Benue state in a time when the federal gov- lack of security infrastructure, and more —it is clear that Fulani mili- ernment largely ignores the killings of its citizens and virtually does tants have been the aggressors, wiping out and sometimes occupying nothing to eliminate the threat of violence. The Fulani militants enjoy entire villages to access a few limited resources. The conflict stands to near-perfect impunity and continue to heavily target Benue and sur- threaten the geopolitical stability of the region. rounding states. Policy Day kicked off with Joy Bishara, a Nigerian native who Several members of the United States Congress, including Senator shared her terrifying encounter with Boko Haram in April 2014. The Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Congressman Randy Hultgren (R-Illinois), and a

26 PERSECU ION.org AUGUST 2018 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN “ICC’s Policy Day brought a clear call for international pressure on Nigeria’s government by the United States and her allies. “

Left Top: Congressman Randy Hultgren speaks at Policy Day. Above Left: Senator Ted Cruz with ICC President Jeff King. Left Bottom: Senator Ted Cruz greets Joy Bishara. Above: Joy Bishara describes her escape from Boko Haram. representative of Congressman Chris Smith first of a nation-wide push to launch campus to drop off literature informing US policy (R-New Jersey), shared their support for the clubs all around the country. This is a critical makers about the situation in Nigeria. The plight of Christians in Nigeria. All expressed effort to get students involved in ICC’s work literature highlighted pending legislation that explicit support for the advancement of human with international religious freedom.* would direct a wave of international pressure rights and the continued containment of Boko at the Buhari government. ICC also encour- Haram. They called on the Nigerian govern- Six-Member Panel of aged policy makers to raise their concerns by ment to implement safety guarantees for com- Experts from NGOs and reaching out directly to the Nigerian Embassy munities in danger. Senator Ted Cruz cited Advocacy Groups in Washington and President Buhari. the reality that Christians are the most perse- A panel of six experts weighed in on the dis- Though much work remains in advocating cuted religious group in the world, especially cussion. The panel included Nathan Wineinger, for Christians in Nigeria, ICC’s Policy Day in Nigeria. International Christian Concern director of Policy and Coalitions from the helped focus attention on the true nature of continues to be grateful for the champions 21st century Wilberforce Initiative, Stephen S. the attacks and brought a clear call for inter- on Capitol Hill who understand the plight Enada, Executive President and Co-Founder of national pressure on Nigeria’s government by of Christians around the world and who are ICON (International Committee on Nigeria), the United States and her allies. willing to stand up for their God-given human Joshua Meservey, Senior Policy Analyst at rights and religious freedom. the Heritage Foundation, Matias Perttula, *Interested in leading an Advocacy club President Kent Ingle from Southeastern ICC’s Advocacy Director, and Chris Meserole, on your college campus? Please contact University shared about ICC’s recent partner- Fellow at The Brookings Institute. ICC’s Advocacy Director, Matias Perttula ship with the University to launch a student- After the morning sessions, ICC led its at [email protected] for more led ICC campus club. This club will be the volunteers through the halls of Capitol Hill information. PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 27 Feature Article Living in Fear in Uttar Pradesh

ICC reports back on travels to one of India’s most persecuted states, Uttar Pradesh.

By William Stark

ear. Anxiety. Uncertainty. Uttar Pradesh’s religious significance their stories of persecution. For some, the per- These were my constant attracts Hindu radicals, making Uttar Pradesh secution that they’re experiencing now is the companions on a recent trip a difficult state for Christians. Each year, Uttar worst they have ever experienced. Some even to Uttar Pradesh. Located in Pradesh reports some of the highest number feared for the survival of their communities. northern India, Uttar Pradesh of attacks on Christians, compared to other Pastor D. K. Sagar was one of the first is the largest and most popu- states in India. In 2017 alone, the Evangelical Christian leaders who I interviewed in Uttar lous state in India. It’s also Fellowship of India recorded 50 incidents of Pradesh. A house church leader, Pastor Sagar a cultural and spiritual epi- persecution in Uttar Pradesh out of the 351 led worship every Sunday for more than 50 center for Hinduism, because millions of recorded across the rest of India’s 29 states. Christians who gathered in a believer’s house FHindus flock each year to ceremonially I traveled for six days across Uttar Pradesh, in Unnao. In April 2018, Pastor Sagar and his bathe in the river Ganges. meeting with Christian leaders and hearing congregation were brutally attacked.

28 PERSECU ION.org AUGUST 2018 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN Feature Article

follow Jesus openly, but cannot because they fear for their lives.” After meeting with Pastor Sagar and his congregation, I traveled another 60 miles to Bacharaya, where a house church was attacked in April. There, Ram Prasad, a 55-year-old church member, was beaten so badly that he had to be rushed to a nearby hospital. “I remember the angry mob entering the house when worship was going on,” said Shashikala, the wife of Pastor Kamlesh Kumar, “I was very frightened.” “I sensed that the target of the attack was my husband,” Shashikala continued. “Immediately, I locked my husband in anoth- er room. If they found my husband, they would have killed him.” When Ram con- fronted the mob, it immediately turned on him. Shashikala tried to protect Ram, but she was met with blows on her legs and back with wooden clubs. Following the attack, Pastor Kumar decided to shut down the house church and go into hiding. When we met, Pastor Kumar refused to leave his house altogether and was actively looking for a new, safer, place to live. “Me, my wife, and our three children have had many sleepless nights fearing attack,” Pastor Kumar told me. “My wife and I are most concerned for our children’s safety.” While fear was the dominant sentiment I observed on my trip, I also met brave Christian leaders successfully spreading the Gospel – despite the increased persecution. Dr. Sharma, a Christian leader for Lucknow said, “The church is being multiplied even as persecution reaches new heights in India.” This was reinforced when I met Pastor Left: ICC travels across Uttar Pradesh by motorbike interviewing victims of persecution. Pappu on the outskirts of Lucknow. According to Pastor Pappu, he has baptized over 200 Top: ICC prays with a persecuted pastor from Uttar Pradesh. people in the past few years as persecution Bottom: The Ganges river, sacred to Hindus, flows through the heart of Uttar Pradesh. was increasing around him. “The majority of my congregations are new converts,” Pastor “I was dragged for more than a kilometer,” There, the radicals filed trumped-up charg- Pappu said, “They face social boycotts, are Pastor Sagar told me, describing the attack. es against Pastor Sagar and made further denied work, water, and welfare schemes from A mob of 60 Hindu radicals barged into the threats against him and his congregation. the government, yet they still attend church.” house during a worship service. “The radicals said they will kill me if I con- Fear, anxiety, and risk are all appropriate “The radicals pulled me out of the house tinue to lead worship in that house,” Pastor words to describe what is like to be a Christian and started to hit me,” Pastor Sagar continued. Sagar said. “The entire congregation was living in Uttar Pradesh. Yet, this persecution “There was no way to escape because the mob frightened by what happened, but what was has not stopped the power of the Gospel to had encircled me. Other believers fled to save most painful was that those Christians who reach the unreached. their lives, but they kept torturing me.” returned to the church were also threatened When asked what was needed by Christians A blow to Pastor Sagar’s right ear decimat- with dire consequences.” in Uttar Pradesh, Dr. Sharma said, “There is a ed the hearing in his ear. Radicals paraded him “The lives of these Christians are at risk,” great need for the free Church to stand along- through the streets, continuing to beat him. Pastor Sagar explained. “I had to close down side and support Christian suffering for their His identity as the pastor of the congregation the church after I it had been running for faith.” May we heed Dr. Sharma’s guidance was evident to the Radicals, so they eventu- nearly ten years. It is heartbreaking to live and stand with those willing to suffer for their ally took him to the police station. with more than 50 Christians who want to faith in places like Uttar Pradesh. PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 29 Nigeria: Epicenter of Christian Persecution

30 PERSECU ION.org AUGUST 2018 INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN Did you know that Nigeria is the epicenter That’s why with your partnership we of today’s world for violent attacks on want to build 10 communal farms to feed Christians? Few are aware because the up to 7,000 of these victims. press has largely ignored this mass murder and displacement of believers. We rent the land, clear, and till it. Next, we provide seed, fertilizer, and irrigation. The Islamist militants have killed up to 70,000 victims are Nigerian farmers so they then Christians there in the last 20 years. June take over and feed themselves. saw a series of attacks over a weekend that left more than 200 Christians killed. Amazingly, we can feed a Militants have pushed millions of farmers Christian through this program off their lands, and they now live as refugees in their own country. for only $30 a year, but we need to raise $125,000. These farmers don’t want a handout. They just want to get back to farming. PLEASE GIVE TODAY!

Check: Use the enclosed envelope: Write “Nigeria Crisis” on your check Phone: Call us at 800-422-5441 Online: Visit persecution.org/nigeria-crisis

Nigeria: Epicenter of Christian Persecution

A Christian widow and her son stand by the grave of their husband/father who was killed by Fulani militants. PERSECU ION.org INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN CONCERN 31 You Can Help Today!

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Members of the Nigerian diaspora attended ICC’s Policy Day to show their support for efforts to stop the violence by Fulani militants in their home country.

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