Story From Gospel for Asia:
Orissa Court Orders Christian Prosecution
The High Court in the Indian state of Orissa has ordered a local government to begin prosecuting missionaries involved in "forced conversions" of Hindus. The anti-Christian forces in Indian society often bring charges of "forced conversion," even though the individuals freely choose to change
their religion.
The court order came in response to a petition filed by 269 anti-Christian activists, and also comes on the heels of the same court canceling the death sentence of one of the men convicted in the murder of missionary Graham Staines and his sons in 1999. The guilty man's sentence was commuted to life imprisonment, while 11 others charged with the crime were acquitted.
The latest order could endanger GFA native missionaries, even when Hindus seek them out to learn more about Jesus. Ironically, the law is called the "Orissa Freedom of Religion Act," but it is mainly used to deny men and women their basic human right to freely follow Christ.
Please pray that God will protect GFA missionaries and others sharing the Gospel, and for the new believers as they seek to follow Christ amid much opposition.
Note from Valerie - Our brothers and sisters at Reaching Hand Society are based in Orissa. This is just another layer on the persecution they face for declaring their faith in Jesus. Please keep Reaching Hand Society, Gospel for Asia missionaries, and all of those who believe in Jesus in prayer.
Father God, we lift up before Your throne our brothers and sisters in Orissa, India and we ask that You surround them with Your protection. We ask that Your grace and mercy be extended to Dr. Iris, Remo, Susan, and all of those who work for You through the Reaching Hand Society. Build a stronghold of protection around them, Abba, and keep them safe. We pray that You jealously guard the lives of those missionaries with Gospel for Asia and those for whom we do not have a name - but who nevertheless belong to You. We earnestly seek Your will and ask that these new laws be weak and unable to hold back the message of the Good News and eternal life of Jesus. We pray that people in India continue to seek You. Help us to support our brothers and sisters in India with our love and our prayers. In Your Name above all other names we pray - Amen
Posted by Valerie at July 7, 2005 08:03 AM