Christians bear brunt of violence in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka -Voice of the Martyrs' Canada reports more violence against Christians in Sri Lanka.The faithfulness of believers in the face of opposition is evident in that there has been a significant growth of evangelical Christianity since 1980.Local monks, threatened by the loss of power and the growth of the church, have been stirring up increased opposition with militant Buddhists. Many churches have been burned, and Christians have been beaten and stabbed.Regular attacks come against those who are in Christian work. The National Christian Evangelical Alliance reported on two recent situations.In Middeniya, several militants opposed to an Assemblies of God church pastor's outreach began threatening him. Then, on July 3, someone burned his house down. The family managed to put out the blaze before it caused extensive damage, and no one was injured.Three days later, a mob attacked Calvary Church in Colombo after false rumors about Christians attacking a temple spread. According to Voice of the Martyrs, five Buddhist monks charged into the church building during a worship service and demanded that the service cease.The monks told the pastor that there was no need for Christians in the village and threatened to destroy all local churches. Fearing violence, the pastor sent his congregation away.The mob then attacked the building, and beat the pastor and at least five others with clubs and rods. They did survive, but with serious injuries.While the Constitution supposedly guards freedom of religion, many Christian activities are seen to violate the law. Amendments to existing laws and the introduction of a new anti-conversion law would only serve to further hinder religious freedoms within Sri Lanka.
Pray that the faithfulness of Christians in Sri Lanka will be a light that draws others to Christ. Pray that the Gospel message will continue to grow and that many will come to Christ.
Pray for protection for Christians as they are confronted by opposition

Source:MNN

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