This latest wave of arrests of men and women from different churches aged from their late 20s to their 60s, puts paid to any prospect of a softening of policy towards Christian prisoners in Eritrea after a number were recently released.
Source: Release International
Some have already served up to 16 years behind bars while others have been imprisoned for between five and six years. They were released last year but rearrested following the discovery of a list of Christian contacts.
The believers were all taken to Mai Serwa maximum-security prison in the capital. In July, the authorities re-arrested two elderly pastors, Girmay Araia and Samuel Gebrewleldi. Both are in their 70s and leaders in the Full Gospel Church of Eritrea. No reason has been given for their arrest.
It is estimated that there are now about 160 Christian prisoners in Eritrea.
Let us pray.
- Please pray that those arrested would remain strong in their faith and that they would know God’s presence and provision while they are detained.
- Pray that God would make a way for Christian prisoners to be released.
- Pray for genuine and long-lasting change in policy by the government towards Christians.
As we read Psalm 83Vs1-4 we are reminded of the evil one’s plan and purpose against your people.
1 O God, do not keep silence;
do not hold your peace or be still, O God!
2 For behold, your enemies make an uproar;
those who hate you have raised their heads.
3 They lay crafty plans against your people;
they consult together against your treasured ones.
4 They say, “Come, let us wipe them out as a nation;
let the name of Israel be remembered no more!”
God our gracious Father, we commend to you our brothers and sisters in Eritrea especially those estimated 160 in prison and for Pastors Girmay Araia and Samuel Gebrewleldi. May your Holy Spirit sustain them and help them to be strong in faith and may they know your presence and provision while detained. Please Father, open the doors of the prison as you did for your Apostles so long ago (Acts 4 and 12)and bring about long and lasting change in the Government that there might be truth, justice, peace and a concern for people before power, greed and popularity. Thank you Blessed Lord Jesus for our enduring brothers and sisters and give them grace, joy and wisdom during this time of trial. Have mercy Lord, have mercy.