Escapes being burned alive

When Adamu Musa Ubandoma’s community realized that he had become a Christian, they attempted to burn him alive. He escaped, but burn marks are still visible on his head. His two daughters were then taken and given in marriage to Muslim men, and his wife was also kidnapped. All his belongings were burned and his cows confiscated. But Adamu says that nothing will separate him from the love of Christ. Before he placed his faith in Christ, he was a drug addict and a member of the Islamic militant group Boko Haram. He is thankful because God delivered him from his addiction and taught him how to forgive. Adamu requests prayer that his wife and two daughters will be able to follow Christ and that his relationships with them will be restored. He also asks for prayer to be able to deeply understand the Word of God and for healing for his paralyzed father, who does not know Christ.

Families faithful, under persecution.

In the months since protests resulted in a chaotic change of government in Bangladesh, Christians have encountered mounting violence and threats, but a church in northern Bangladesh has demonstrated special resilience. Despite intense persecution, the pastor of the church has discipled 10 other families to stand strong in their faith. These families have been rejected by their community, making it difficult to obtain food and other necessities. Still, their faithfulness has led others in the community to seek them out and bring them needed supplies, creating opportunities to proclaim Christ. Pray for God’s protection over this church amid their trials and for strength and wisdom to overcome each situation in a way that glorifies the Lord’s name.

Christian Ethiopian Jews, face challenges,

Many Ethiopian Jews in Israel face discrimination based on their ethnicity. For some, this rejection causes disillusionment, leading to a life of drug addiction and crime. One Ethiopian Jew who placed his faith in Christ years ago says that while the Ethiopian community forms less than 2% of Israel’s population, it makes up about 45% of the Jewish prison population. Some, however, are turning to Christ as their Messiah. When they do, they face new forms of discrimination, usually from family members, who force them from their homes. The impact can be particularly challenging for young people who do not have established lives or incomes. Front-line workers request prayer for those young converts for secure housing, job training and ongoing discipleship so they will grow in their  faith.