News / Thoughts

More migrants taken by IS in Libya

Islamic State (IS) have captured more Ethiopian and Eritrean Christians as they tried to make their way to Europe, according to some of our colleagues in the region. It is understood that IS fighters are deliberately taking Christians hostage while allowing Muslims to continue their journey. The number of those who remain in IS hands is not known.

This follows the recent video released by IS showing the execution of 30 Ethiopian and Eritrean Christians in Libya. Christians in Libya have asked Open Doors supporters to pray for them: “Please support us in Libya with your prayers. Especially the Arabic-speaking congregations of migrants need prayer. These churches are mainly attended by Ethiopian and Eritrean Christians.

“After the shooting and beheading of 30 Ethiopian Christians earlier this month, many of them are becoming frightened, weak, discouraged and disappointed. Pray that the Lord might strengthen us in our faith in this time of trial.”

Riots and mourning…

Meanwhile, police had to intervene when violence broke out as crowds gathered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Crowds had gathered for the second day in a three day mourning period for the IS victims.

Some demonstrators expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of the issue, and demanded that the government respond to the executions with air strikes on IS. Police arrested hundreds of demonstrators.

Some Ethiopians are now also asking the government to crack down on Quranic schools in parts of the country that are known for extremist views, a move that is likely to raise religious tension.

Please continue to pray for the Christians in Ethiopia who are trying to be salt and light in these difficult circumstances.

Source: Open Doors

Please pray…

• For the safety and protection of Christians in Libya, whether Libyan nationals or migrants from elsewhere
• That Christians in Ethiopia will be a Christ-like example at this time.