An imam has been appointed the mediator between Christians and Muslims in an area in Upper Egypt ─ where persecution is most prevalent.

Christians are persecuted by their Muslim neighbours because of their faith in Jesus Christ, enduring humiliation, assault, arson and murder in at least 37 cases over the last three years.

While the government has recently responded with amending the church construction bill, which previously allowed a maximum of two churches to be built per year, little to no legal action is being taken against Muslim perpetrators in the above mentioned crimes.

Relations are very strained and the Christian leadership is partly voicing their concern publicly while others are taking what seems like a more timid approach.

Source: International Christian Concern, New York Times

Prayer Points

• Pray for Coptic Christians to receive the encouragement and boldness they need to stand firm before their oppressors.
• Pray for Muslim background believers to share Christ’s love with their families and neighbours. Pray the Lord will unify the church.
• Pray for a strong and trustworthy government that will act in the interest of all its people.