10/40 Window Reporter December 2008

WINDOW INTERNATIONAL NETWORK December 2008 Edition

10/40 WindoW Prayer Focus: Genocidal attack on iraqi christiansindian christians brace For more violence aFter murder oF hindu activistmyanmar army kills Four and Forces hundreds to Flee karen statePraise rePort: Partial victory in rulinG on kidnaPPed Girls in Pakistanchristian aid Worker in somalia beheaded For convertinG From islam

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Christian groups that work in war-torn Iraq are crying out for

targeted prayer against a genocidal attack on Iraqi Christians.

Open Doors USA’s Iraq country coordinator said 10,000 Christians

have left Mosul because of the escalating terrorism specifically

targeting Christians. A local contact of Open Doors said that the

number of families fleeing Mosul has reached almost 2,000 since

mid-October 2008 due to Muslim extremist violence, which has

killed approximately 25 to 40 Christians.

On November 12, 2008, two Catholic nuns were killed in the Al

Qahira section in Mosul, Iraq, by Islamic terrorists. Their mother was

wounded in the attack, and the U.S. military said the family’s house

was destroyed by bombs planted inside, the Associated Press (AP)

reported. A police officer said the terrorists placed another bomb near

the house, which also injured three officers.

The incident came as more than 200 displaced Christian families

from Mosul started to return to their houses in Mosul following

the deploying of more Iraqi troops in the city. More than half of the

families did return, but it is believed this latest violent incident will

slow or stop the returning of these families.

U.N. special representative Staffan de Mistura “expressed his shock and

outrage at the continued targeting and killing of religious minorities,”

according to the AP. He called on Iraqi authorities at the national and

local level to protect Christians and other minorities in Iraq and to

Continued on page 14►


December 2008 The 10/40 Window Reporter �www.WIN1040.com

PRAYERPointsDay 1

India – Hindu extremist violence against the Christian community in Orissa State, India and other states, which started on August 24, 2008, has continued almost unabated since then. At least 50 Christians have been murdered, some cut to pieces and others burnt alive. About 18,000 people have been injured, many of them severely. Additionally, numerous Christian women have been raped, approximately 4,400 homes have been destroyed, 300 villages have been cleansed of all Christians.

Pray that the violence will cease and those responsible will be brought to justice. Pray for God’s protection over Christians, their churches and properties. Pray for comfort for the Christians whose families have been killed or injured, or property destroyed in this onslaught.

Mauritania – On October 20, 2008, the European Union gave the West African country a month to restore constitutional order or face unspecified “measures” in the wake of the August military coup that toppled President Sidi Ould Cheikh Abdallahi. There is no freedom for conversion to a religion other than Islam in Mauritania. Pray for a godly man to replace Abdallahi. Pray that the Lord will open the eyes of Mauritania’s leaders like Prime Minister Yahya Ould Ahmed El Waghef. Ask the Lord to change their hearts so that the country could be governed in a wise and biblical manner. Pray that Christians in Mauritania will find support and fellowship with other believers, despite their small numbers.

Day 2

Sudan – The Human Rights Watch on October 21, 2008 slammed Sudanese investigations into Darfur atrocities as “window dressing” and a flagrant attempt to derail legal cases being built by the International Criminal Court (ICC). On July 14, 2008, the ICC accused Sudanese President Omer Hassan El Bashir ordering his forces to annihilate three non-Arab groups in Darfur, masterminding murder, torture, pillage and the use of rape to commit genocide. Pray for the salvation

of El Bashir and other government leaders. Ask the Lord to raise up many pastors and evangelists to minister to the needs of the Southern Sudanese people.

Afghanistan – On October 20, 2008, Taliban “mujahideen” shot and killed a female Christian aid worker as she walked to work in Kabul. She was the 29th Christian aid worker to be murdered in Afghanistan by the Taliban this year. The Taliban claimed the Christian aid worker “came to Afghanistan to teach Christianity to the people of Afghanistan,” so the Taliban leadership “issued a decree to kill this woman.” Pray for God’s protection and wisdom for Christian aid workers. Pray for a witness to be preserved in Afghanistan that the Church may grow.

Day 3

Kuwait – Iraqi President Jalal Talabani on October 20, 2008 called for new bilateral ties between his country and Kuwait. Kuwait media were invited to Iraq for the first time since the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait in August 1990. The Christian population, comprised mostly of expatriates, is estimated at more than 400,000. Pray that God will reach Kuwait’s leaders—government, business and family—who will then open the doors for greater religious freedom and acceptance. (Proverbs

21:1) Pray that Kuwaiti believers will stand strong in their faith and share boldly the Good News of Christ with their family and friends. (Romans 1:16) Bangladesh – Christians in the Muslim-majority country of Bangladesh are concerned about possible violence during general elections in the South Asian country set for December 18, 2008 and sub-district elections on December 24 and 28, 2008. The election dates were announced in mid-October in the nation, which is under emergency rule by a caretaker government. Pray against any post-election violence. Pray for political stability in Bangladesh following months of protests and upheavals. Pray for peace and an end to corruption in government.

Day 4

Japan – Prime Minister Taro Aso, 68, was reportedly leaning toward calling an election for November 30, 2008 to try to break a political stalemate. Pray for godly leaders to rule in Japan. Pray that the Holy Spirit will soften the hearts of the Japanese toward Christians so that they will be receptive to the Gospel, casting aside their ancient traditions for the truth that is Jesus. (Ezekiel 36:26)

Guinea-Bissau – Preparations for a November 16, 2008 parliamentary election were on track in the West African nation, where narcotics trade and organized crime were at crisis levels. Pray for peace during the election and an end to the drug trade and organized crime. Pray that God will reveal Himself to people in positions of influence throughout the country, that they will in turn share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with those around them.

Day 5

Bhutan – A Gospel for Asia missionary was recently threatened by local government officials for refusing to denounce Christ and discontinue his ministry in the small country of Bhutan. Officials have banned Christianity and denied citizenship to anyone who refused to practice the state religion of Buddhism. Pray that God will continue to use missionaries effectively, in spite of the circumstances. Pray also for those who oppose their ministry. Pray that they would turn to Christ.

December 2008


Saudi Arabia – A government official in Saudi Arabia recently cut out his daughter’s tongue and burned her to death after learning she had become a follower of Jesus. The man works for the Commission for Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, a government agency that enforces religious purity, and is intolerant of Christianity and non-Muslim faiths. Pray for freedom for Saudis to choose their own religion. Pray against the spirits of domination and control, strongly associated with Islam, which permeate the culture and religious laws.

Day 6

Guinea – Guinea’s first free legislative elections since the West African nation won independence in 1958 have been postponed to March 2009 at the earliest. The vote, expected to have taken place in December, had to be postponed due to delays in its organization. Pray for peace during the election and political stability in Guinea. Pray that God will call people to Guinea to minister to those who need aid, evangelize those who have not heard the Gospel, and disciple new Believers.

(Matthew 28:18-20)

Thailand – Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra was convicted of corruption on October 21, 2008 and sentenced to two years in prison, a ruling that may embolden anti-government protesters and prolong a stalemate that has paralyzed Thailand’s government. Pray for the salvation of Shinawatra and other government leaders as well as for peace, political stability and the end to corruption in Thailand’s government. Pray that the Thai people will find true freedom in the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)

Day 7

Niger – The medical aid group Doctors Without Borders, which the government banned several months ago, recently said that thousands of children in Niger are at risk of illness and death because they’re not being treated for malnutrition. A food crisis in 2005 devastated southern Niger, killing an untold number of children and livestock. Pray for medical aid to reach the children. Pray for the Lord to do a miracle to counteract all the devastation and food

shortages in Niger.

Kyrgyzstan – Kyrgyzstan’s Parliament on October 21, 2008 passed without discussion the first reading of a restrictive draft Religion Law, which bans unregistered religious activity and proselytism among other things. Pray that the proposed law won’t be passed.

Day 8

Iran – On September 25, 2008, Iranian authorities released from prison the two Iranian converts to Christianity, who had been in prison since their May 5, 2008 arrest on suspicion of apostasy. Praise God for their release. Pray that God would protect Muslim Background Believers.

Burkina Faso – First ladies from seven West African countries met on October 13, 2008 in

Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso for a conference on ways to end female circumcision. The practice, also known as female genital mutilation,

is common in about 30 African countries despite national laws against it. Pray for the end of female circumcision Burkina Faso and the other African countries.

Day 9

Mali – Authorities in Niger recently arrested the leader of the Ganda Izo (Sons of the Land) militia from neighboring Mali after the group killed five Tuareg nomads in September. Pray that Mali would have the resources necessary to protect its borders and to monitor movement of terrorists. Pray that Mali would continue to cooperate with other nations in counterterrorism efforts.

Azerbaijan – President Ilham Aliyev of oil-rich Azerbaijan was headed for reelection on October

16, 2008 with the opposition boycotting the vote, alleging fraud. The election was the nation’s fifth since the 1991 Soviet collapse. Meanwhile, authorities in Azerbaijan have opened a new investigation into the June arrest of a pastor, who was charged with having an illegal weapon following a police raid on his house in the village of Aliabad. Church leaders insist that the charges are false and were trumped up because of opposition to evangelical churches in the town and region. Pray for the salvation of President Aliyev. Pray that Christians in Azerbaijan would be able to reach people who don’t know God.

Day 10

Benin – Up to 1,000 people die or are wounded every year in accidents caused by low-quality, high-lead smuggled gasoline from Nigeria that consumes victims in fiery accidents. Pray for Benin to have the resources, manpower and wisdom to end the smuggled gasoline trade.

Indonesia – Radical groups in Indonesia, including the Southeast Asia terrorist network of Jemaah Islamiyah, the Jundullah group and

others, have been working together in launching terrorist strikes in the country, police said on October 22, 2008. Meanwhile, residents in North Jakarta have ordered the pastor of a small congregation to cease holding services in his home, despite a letter of permission issued by the Religious Affairs department. Pray that the Indonesian government’s counterterrorism efforts would continue to prevent radical groups from carrying out attacks. Pray for the safety and persistence of Christians in strongly Islamic areas, as they face more pressure than in other regions.

Day 11

Laos – Christians in Communist-ruled Laos report escalating persecution as Christian Believers are dealing with more outright harassment and intimidation tactics. Pray for Christians who continue to face pressure and imprisonment for their faith. Pray that their faith would be strong and that God would intervene. Pray those in power in Laos to allow religious freedom.

Western Sahara – The lingering question of Western Sahara was considered on October 21, 2008 by the United Nations’ Fourth Committee. Western Sahara has been a disputed territory since Spain withdrew in 1975. Morocco controls 80% of the land, while the remaining 20% is controlled by the Polisario, an independence movement established in 1973, and the government of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic. Pray for the welfare and


safety of more than 165,000 people from Western Sahara who live in four refugee camps in the Sahara Desert.

Day 12

Egypt – Religious tensions are escalating and violence against the indigenous Coptic Christian community is becoming more intense. The government’s preference for “reconciliation sessions”—where the Copts forfeit their rights and drop all charges in exchange for peace—rather than law, justice and reparation is only fuelling the situation by emboldening belligerent Muslims. Pray for God to reveal Himself to Egyptians as promised in Isaiah 19.

Uzbekistan – Christians and political dissidents have reported persecution by the country’s authoritarian government. Uzbekistan is ranked No. 9 among nations that are the worst persecutors of Christians based on Open Doors 2008 World Watch List. Pray that God would give Uzbek Christians strength and perseverance in the face of persecution, and strategies to advance the Kingdom of God.

Day 13

Nepal – Nepal recently became a secular state, no longer maintaining Hinduism as its national religion. Since Nepalis can now stray from Hinduism, they may be searching for something more fulfilling. Pray for God to send more missionaries and disciples of Christ to spread the Gospel and reach out to those who are spiritually hungry in Nepal with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

United Arab Emirates – In the United Arab Emirates, the constitution guarantees freedom of religion in accordance with established customs, and Christians can practice their religion freely within designated Church compounds. Pray for Christians to be allowed to worship and evangelize beyond just Church compounds.

Day 14

Albania – The United States on October 17, 2008 gave Albania $15.7 million in aid to help the nation tackle corruption and bolster its judiciary. Pray for the end of corruption and human trafficking in Albania. Pray for Albanian to meet Jesus and follow Him in a way that is culturally appropriate.

Morocco – A Moroccan court on October 17, 2008 convicted 47 people and sentenced them

to up to 30 years in prison over a suicide bombing last year at a Casablanca Internet café. Pray for Morocco to remain proactive in its efforts to combat terrorism. Pray that there would be greater freedom for Christians to share their faith and protection for Muslims who want to find out more about Christianity.

Day 15

Iraq – Open Doors’ Iraq country coordinator said 10,000 Christians have left Mosul because of the escalating terrorism specifically targeting Christians. A local contact of Open Doors said that the number of families fleeing Mosul has reached almost 2,000 since mid-October 2008. Pray for the families who have lost loved ones

and those going through traumatic experiences. Pray for relief campaigns to help those who have fled Mosul. Pray for the genocide of Christians to stop.

Sri Lanka – Trauma and bitterness are among the challenges Sri Lankan churches must face in promoting peace and reconciliation as the island nation is in the middle of an intense war, a World Council of Churches delegation has learned during a October 19-23, 2008 visit to the country. More than 80,000 lives have been lost since 1983 when ethnic Tamil rebels known as Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) began an armed struggle for autonomy for the Tamil majority areas in the north and eastern regions, alleging discrimination at the hands of the Sinhala speaking Buddhist majority. Pray for the defeat of LTTE. Please pray that persecuted Sri Lankan Christians will know God’s protection, comfort, healing and encouragement in the midst of the lawlessness and isolation. (Psalm 91)

Day 16

Israel – Roughly 8,000 Evangelical Christians from 90 countries traveled to Jerusalem in October to celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles, an annual biblical pilgrimage festival. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Pray for God’s protection and peace for Messianic Believers in Israel and for the establishment of religious freedom.

Tajikistan – Authorities in the former Soviet republic of Tajikistan have begun destroying and

banning Protestant churches, forcing an increasing number of Christians to meet and worship underground, missionaries told Christian Aid Mission in October. Pray for God to uphold and protect the Believers. Pray that the underground church would have wisdom to know how and where to meet. Pray that they find creative ways—“God ideas”—to safely share their faith in a hostile environment. (Psalm 112:6-8)

Day 17

China – There has been growing pressure on Uyghur Christians in Xinjiang as authorities have stepped up a crackdown on alleged missionary activities. Several companies, including British and American firms, have been closed and foreigners reportedly lost visas for their alleged involvement in Christian conversion activities in this traditionally Muslim region. Fast, wail and cry out to God so that government officials will stop the mistreatment of Christians. Pray that

God will break the stronghold of persecution and corruption in China.

Djibouti – More than half of Djibouti’s population is food insecure and needs emergency aid due to drought and high food prices. At least 340,000 of the country’s 632,000 people are at risk, the Famine Early Warning Systems Network said in a September 12, 2008 report. Pray for emergency aid to be distribute and reach Djibouti’s citizens. Pray for Muslims in Djibouti to have visions and dreams of Jesus. Pray that they would encounter Jesus, and accept Him as Lord and Savior.

Day 18

Yemen – The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom expressed concerned in October about the status of Christian prisoners in Yemen, who have been imprisoned for months without charge and could face severe punishments. The


Christians, who are converts from Islam, could face the death penalty if charged with apostasy. The Christians were reportedly detained for sharing their faith. Pray for the release of the imprisoned Christians. Pray for strict Islamic Shari’a law to be replaced by freedom of religion for all.

Vietnam – While Catholics continue to gather for public vigils in Hanoi to pray for the return

of confiscated properties, the Communist Party-controlled media is escalating its attacks on the Church and on the Hanoi Archbishop Joseph Ngo Quang Kiet. The government has threatened to take legal action against Church leaders and remove the archbishop from his position. Please pray for truth, justice and charity. Pray for persecuted Christians—for the alleviation of their suffering and for an end to the violence carried out against them by those in authority. (Psalm 119:114)

Day 19

Taiwan – Pro-independence protesters in southern Taiwan pushed an envoy from rival China to the ground on October 21, 2008 while shouting that their island does not belong to Beijing. China continues to claim the island as part of its territory and has threatened to invade if it ever moves toward formal independence. Pray for the relationship between China and Taiwan to remain peaceful, and for ties to improve between the two countries. Pray for

religious freedom to remain strong in Taiwan. Bahrain – Bahrain hopes to enhance its position as a regional transport hub after the new Khalifa Bin Salman Port opens for business in December. Pray that the Lord would use the port to bring missionaries and the Gospel to Bahrain. Pray that Christians in Bahrain would be able to have the courage to sensitively share their faith with others.

Day 20

Brunei – Prince Haji A1-Muhtadee Billah, the Brunei senior minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, pledged full support to the United Nations in September, including establishing peace in the Middle East. Proselytizing by faiths other than the officially sanctioned branch of Islam is not permitted. There are no missionaries reported working in the country. Pray for true religious freedom in Brunei and the Gospel of Jesus Christ will be preached throughout this

land. Lebanon – Lebanon’s new electoral law could define the role of the country’s Christian electorate and directly impact the ongoing Sunni-Shia power struggle, experts said on October 13, 2008. Adoption of the new election law, which is still pending approval of parliament, is the final element of the deal between rival pro- and anti-Syrian factions in Lebanon after prolonged wrangling recently brought the country to the brink of civil war. Pray for the Christian electorate not to be marginalized. Thank God that Lebanon is a land in the Middle East where people are free to decide to change their religion. Pray that this freedom would be maintained.

Day 21

Qatar – Qatar ambassador Nassir Abdulaziz Al Nasser recently outlined efforts to clamp down on illegal arms dealers and halt the spread of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons across the Middle East during a speech at the United Nations. Meanwhile, the groundbreaking for Qatar’s second Christian church in 1,300 years took place on September 28, 2008 in Doha. The buildings will eventually serve as a church home for the Protestant and Orthodox

congregations in the Gulf State. Pray for Qatar to continue to step up its crime-busting efforts and counterterrorism cooperation. Pray for the house church movement in Qatar to grow exponentially, and for protection of Believers.

Turkmenistan – Turkmenistan celebrated its Independence Day on October 27, 2008. Festivities were held in Ashgabat, which were attended by Turkmen President Gurbanguly Berdimuhammedow, to mark the nation’s 17th anniversary of independence. Pray that Berdimuhammedow would be saved. Persecution against Christians is on the increase with leaders getting beaten up and any foreign Christians being forced to leave the country. Pray that Christians would stand firm in what they believe and speak out against injustice.

Day 22

Ethiopia – A mob of Islamic extremists recently stoned two Christians in Jijiga, a city on border with Somalia. Elsewhere, Islamic extremists recently beat another Christian, a Muslim Background Believer and Somali church leader in the capital of Addis Ababa. The attacks were the latest attack against Christians in Ethiopia where the spread of radical Islam is fueling the persecution of Christian Believers. Pray for the full recovery of body and soul for the Christians

who were attacked. Pray that God would protect Muslim Background Believers in Ethiopia.

Myanmar – Emergency relief after Cyclone Nargis has given way to rehabilitation as survivors of the May 2, 2008 tragedy try to rebuild their lives. But a Catholic leader in Myanmar has warned that rehabilitation could take years and farmers remain vulnerable as they wait for crops to grow. Pray for churches and Christians in Myanmar to continue to provide aid and show kindness, generosity and sympathy to Nargis survivors. Pray for God to restore the land in Myanmar.

Day 23

Chad – Rebels in Chad fired on European Union peacekeepers deployed to protect Darfur refugees on October 26, 2008. The incident occurred near Moudeina in eastern Chad near the border with Sudan. In March, European Union peacekeepers began a yearlong U.N. mission to protect refugees from western Sudan’s strife-torn Darfur region as well as people displaced by the rebel insurgency in Chad. Pray for the rebel insurgency in Chad to be defeated. Pray for Christian humanitarian groups

to come and minister in Chad.

Algeria – A court in northwestern Algeria on October 29, 2008 acquitted three Christians charged with blaspheming Islam and threatening a member of their congregation who re-converted to


Islam. Other trials involving Christians accused of blasphemy could set precedence for the future of religious freedom in Algeria. Pray for the men and women of faith to be acquitted, and for Algeria to become a tolerant place for Christians. The government in February 2006 passed a controversial law that requires non-Muslim congregations to seek permits from regional authorities.

Day 24

Libya – Libya on October 2008 started making payments into a nearly $2 billion fund to compensate the families of American victims of Libyan-linked terror attacks in the 1980s. Pray that Libya continue to cooperate closely with the United States and the international community on counterterrorism efforts. Open evangelism is totally impossible in Libya and there is a powerful network of secret police looking out for anyone who breaks the law. Pray for more openness to

the Gospel, despite all these challenges.

Malaysia – Malaysian Prime Minister Abdulah Ahmed Badawi and his cabinet ministers on October 27, 2008 joined the nationwide celebrations of the Indian festival of Diwali, which reportedly helped numbed the worries of the economic crisis the prosperous Southeast Asian nation has been facing. Pray for the government to stop curbing religious freedoms. Pray for the Malaysian Church to be the voice for her people and the nation.

Day 25

Oman – An Indian Muslim was stopped from boarding a flight to Muscat, Oman on October 12, 2008. The man was a suspect in alleged terrorist activities tied to a number of Muslim youths in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, who have been arrested on terrorism charges. Pray that Oman will remain proactive in developing counterterrorism programs and strategies to ensure that it does not become a terrorist safe haven. Pray that Oman’s Muslim population would have a revelation of Jesus’ sacrifice for

them, and accept Him as Lord and Savior.

Kazakhstan – Kazakhstan’s controversial amendments to various laws affecting religion or belief reached the senate on September 29, 2008 after being approved by parliament’s lower house and are now with the senate’s Committee for Social and Cultural Development. The proposed statutes will reportedly increase state controls on the activity of religious communities and individuals. Pray that various laws will not be signed by President Nursultan Nazarbayev.

Day 26

Tunisia – A Tunisian court on October 16, 2008 convicted and sentenced to prison 14 people in connection with an alleged plot to carry out terrorist attacks in the north African country. About 1,000 people reportedly have been sentenced or indicted in Tunisia under a tough new law passed in 2003 to boost anti-terrorism efforts. Pray for the Tunisian government to continue to crack down on terrorist groups. Pray for continued growth and discipleship in Tunisia’s churches.

Cambodia – A gunfight broke out on October 15, 2008 between Thai and Cambodian troops at a disputed border zone near a

landmark 11th-century temple, killing two Cambodian soldiers and escalating a conflict that has raised fears of war. Pray for a peaceful resolution over the disputed border zone. Pray for the Christians in the country to be kept safe and their voice will be heard in the government. Pray that Christians will greatly increase in numbers and be discipled in the ways of the Lord.

Day 27

Turkey – A trial began near Istanbul on October 20, 2008 of 86 alleged members of the ultra-nationalist group Ergenekon comprised of the police, army, business, politics and the media. Ergenekon members reportedly maintained a death lists of people, including Christians with a missionary background and the group opposed religious freedom. Pray for justice in the trial. Pray for God’s laborers to be sent to the harvest field of Turkey.

North Korea – South Korean intelligence reported in October that ailing North Korean leader Kim Jong Il suffered a serious setback in his recovery from a stroke and has been hospitalized. While North Korea continues to be one of the worst persecutors of Christians, the United States has removed the nation from the list of state sponsors of terrorism. Pray for the salvation of Kim Jong-Il and other North Korean leaders, and all prisoners and guards, and for all torture camps to be shut down immediately. Pray that the people will be able to consume nutritious food on a regular basis.

Day 28

Somalia – A group of Muslims recently attacked Christians while they were worshiping in house church in Tayeglow, which is 198 miles south of the Somali capital of Mogadishu. Two elders of the church suffered serious injuries. The attack was apparently in response to the conversion of the only son of a prominent Muslim religious leader in the district. In the past 12 months, five former Muslim converts to Christianity have been killed. Pray for courage

and encouragement for Christians in Somalia who face danger and threats everyday as they seek to worship Jesus. Pray against the stronghold of Islam that exists over Somalia and has gripped its people.

Pakistan – Taliban militants on October 8, 2008 bombed a Catholic-run girls’ school in Pakistan’s war-torn Swat Valley as part of a larger effort to subvert women’s status in society through Islamic law. No one was injured in the attack. Militants have threatened the school frequently becaue they offer education to females. Pray for peace for Pakistan and that the Taliban would not succeed in killing innocent people. Pray that God would protect Pakistani Christians, give them courage and help them remain strong in their faith and witness. Pray that the church will grow exponentially in the next thirty days and be discipled. Day 29

Nigeria – In response to the ceaseless destructions of churches especially in the northern part of the country, Christian organizations in Nigeria in October 2008 called on the National Assembly to come up with drastic legislations aimed at punishing undesirable elements bent on destroying places of worship across the nation. Pray that those who are responsible for the destruction will be brought to justice. In northern Nigeria, where persecution is systematic and brutal, pray for protection and peace for Believers.


Pray the Kingdom of God will be established in this land.

Maldives – The Islamic state closely monitors all forms of religious expression, and Christianity is banned. No candidate in the country’s first multi-party presidential election, for which a run-off was due on October 28, 2008, has called for improvement in this aspect of the country’s human rights record. Pray that the Maldives government would allow freedom of religion. Pray that the faith of Christians in Maldives would be strong and that their relationship with God would be blessed.

Jordan – The torture of prisoners remain widespread in Jordanian jails despite efforts to reform the system, the U.S. rights group Human Rights Watch said on October 8, 2008. Meanwhile, delegates across the Middle East and North Africa convened in Amman, Jordan on October 27, 2008 to discuss upholding human rights in countering terrorism. Pray for the government of Jordan to continue to place a high priority on its fight against extremism and terrorism. Pray for Jordan to continue to actively monitor and prosecute terrorist groups.

Senegal – Senegal officials recently stressed its total condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, noting that Africa’s most western country had ratified 13 of the 16 international conventions on terrorism. Pray for the government of Senegal to continue to enhance its ability to combat terrorism, prosecute terror suspects, and respond to emergencies. Pray for Senegal to pass specific counterterrorism legislation and current laws updated to make it easier to prosecute terror suspects. Pray for Muslims to come to know Christ as Savior and Lord.

Day 30

Eritrea – Eritrean authorities in September 2008 confiscated and burned 1,500 Bibles from new high school students who arrived at country’s main military training city, and detained eight students who protested the destruction of the Bibles. The eight male students protesting the Bible burning at the Sawa Defense Training Center, near the Eritrean border with Sudan, were locked in a metal shipping container in temperatures exceeding 100 degrees (38c), said Christian Aid Mission (CAM). Eritrean believers report that more than 4,000 Christians are currently being detained incommunicado in remote army camps, CAM said, although other reports said 2,000 Christians are in prison. Pray that the Lord

will release all the Christian prisoners who are being held because of their faith. Pray for a cool breeze to surround those being held in metal containers and that their need for nutritious food and water will be met.

Tibet – Nine people died, 18 were injured and 171 homes were destroyed in Yangyi Village during an October 6, 2008 earthquake. News reports said aid flowed to the quake survivors even as snowstorm hit Tibet. Pray for relief aid to help survivors. Pray against the spirit of Buddhism that is keeping the Tibetan people bound, and that they will accept Jesus as Savior and Lord.

Syria – Syria has been involved in wars and confrontations with surrounding states for more than 50 years. Pray that there will be true religious freedom in Syria. Pray for wisdom for Christians to know how to share their faith in this land. Pray for revival in Syria with multiple thousands of new Believers coming to the Lord and being discipled in the next 30 days.

Mongolia – The North Asian country’s local parliamentary elections were held October 12, 2008. Voters selected representatives of local parliaments in the capital city Ulan Bator, all provinces, as well as counties and districts. The election of Mongolia’s State Great Hural or parliament was held on June 29, 2008. The MPRP won a majority of the seats in the polls and established a coalition government with the Democratic Party. Pray for the salvation of President Nambaryn Enkhbayar and other government leaders.

Day 31

East Timor – Australia said on October 22, 2008 that it would reduce its troop numbers in East Timor because of improvements in security since a failed assassination attempt against the small nation’s president in February. Rebel East Timorese troops were involved in assassination attempts in February 2008 against East Timorese President Jose Ramos Horta and Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao. Ramos Horta was shot twice, but has since recovered while Gusmao managed to escape the gunmen. Pray for the salvation of Ramos Horta and other government leaders in this Southeast Asian nation. Thank

God that 99% of the population are Christian. Pray they would evangelize their neighboring countries and do their part to fulfill the Great Commission.

The Gambia – Deputies at the National Assembly on October 24, 2008 unanimously passed the new Refugee Bill, which seeks to make provision for the management and coordination of refugee matters in The Gambia. The Gambia had been a recipient country for refugees for decades and had subsequently offered sanctuary to many refugees from many parts of the African continent. Pray that refugees coming into The Gambia will have the opportunity to hear the Gospel, and accept Jesus as Lord and Savior. Pray that a revival would break out in the Muslim community with exponential numbers coming to Christ.

West Bank & Gaza Strip – A Hamas legal advisor on October 27, 2008 called on Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to decree the registration of eligible people to vote in presidential elections as Abbas’ term will end in January. But Abbas has announced several times that his term would end when the tenure of Hamas-dominated parliament ends in 2010, depending on a law amendment that has not been ratified. Pray for the salvation of Abbas as well as other leaders and members of the terrorist organization Hamas. Pray Psalm 91 protection over Christians in the West Bank and Gaza, who are targets of persecution. Pray that God would give them strategies to advance the Kingdom of God in this land.

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Pray that the $70,000 matching grant being donated to WIN by a major Foundation, will be matched before 25, December, 2008.


Algerian Christians Acquitted in Blasphemy CaseAccording to Compass Direct News, a court in northwestern Algeria recently acquitted three Christians charged with blaspheming Islam and threatening a member of their con-gregation who re-converted to Islam. The acquittal was announced in a court at Ain El-Turck, 15 kilometers (nine miles) west of the coastal city of Oran. The defendants believe the judge’s decision to acquit was due to the spurious evidence used against them. The acquittal also comes as part of a larger trend of the Algerian government bowing to nega-tive international media attention and government condemnations of such cases, they said. Defendant Youssef Ourahmane said that as a result, a recent government crack-down against evangelical Christians has eased off in recent months. “We had noticed the last four or five months the government is trying to back down a little bit,” Ourahmane said. “I think the pressure on them has been strong, such as condemnations from the U.S. and foreign ministries from France, Italy, Switzerland, Austria and Spain. This pres-sure from outside has embarrassed the Algerian government very much.” Source www.CompassDirect.org

Praise For:Thank God that governments in various countries are condemning the actions of the Algerian government’s negative treatment of Christians. The international media has been exposing the mistreatment of Christians in Alge-ria.

Pray For:The pressure from foreign governments to stay on the Algerian government to allow true religious freedom in this land.The Algerian government and other Algerians to stop persecuting Christians.Revival to break out in Algeria and in the Algerian government. Pray that multiplied thousands will come to know the Lord, and be discipled in His way in the next 30 days.

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ensure those behind the attacks “are swiftly brought to justice,” the AP reported.

The Conference of Catholic Bishops of Iraq denounced the anti-Christian violence as part of an intentional political plan that “seeks to create pain and conflict between the different components of the nation,” the Catholic News Agency stated.

According to the SIR news agency, the bishops said “Christians are an integral part of the entire Iraqi patrimony,” adding that “public officials must move quickly to prevent Christians from suffering violence and to protect them. What has happened (in Mosul) contrasts with the responsibility of the state to protect all citizens.”

The Iraqi bishops also encouraged Christians to continue working with their fellow Iraqis, “in the joy and in the sorrows, to reject living in isolation,” and to give life to Article 50 of the Iraqi Constitution which “guarantees our representation and participation in the responsibilities of the nation.”

Iraq is ranked No. 21 on Open Doors’ 2008 World Watch List of nations where Christians are persecuted for their faith. According to Window International Network’s Praying Through The Window 9 prayer calendar, the day of prayer for Iraq is on day 15.

Pray for: God to protect and sustain the hundreds of thousands of Christians displaced by genocidal religious-ethnic Muslim violence. Pray also for God’s protection and provision for the hundreds of thousands of Iraqi Christian refugees living in dire conditions scattered across the Middle East, primarily in Syria, Turkey

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and Jordan.Pray for the families who have lost loved ones and those going through traumatic experiences. Pray for relief campaigns to help those who have fled Mosul. Pray for the genocide of Christians to stop immediately.Please pray for the injured mother of the two murdered sisters, for healing of the emotional and physical damage, and for the returning families. Pray that Iraqi Christians will have a place to feel free, safe and protected.Pray for true religious freedom in Iraq. Pray also for religious tolerance. Pray especially against the work of extremists who should be labeled terrorists and dealt with by governmental authorities accordingly. (Proverbs 11:21) Pray that those who are persecuting the Christians will be brought to justice.Pray that multiplied thousands will come to know the LORD in Iraq in the next 30 days.

Sourced: Open Doors USA, Associated Press, Catholic News Agency, World Evangelical Alliance Religious Liberty Commission, SIR news agency

To order WIN’s Praying Through The Window 9: Global Terrorism and World Religions in the 10/40 Window prayer calendar, visit www.win1040.com.

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Christians ravaged by more than two months of violence in Orissa state’s Kandhamal district braced for more carnage as suspected Maoists on November 5, 2008 gunned down a local

worker of the Hindu extremist Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, Compass Direct News reported.

Dhanu Pradhan was an RSS activist said to be on the Maoists’ hit list. Modern India’s worst-ever spate of violence began in the district of Kandhamal on August 24, 2008, a day after a leader of the Hindu extremist Vishwa Hindu Parishad (World Hindu Council or VHP), Laxmanananda Saraswati, was killed.

Although a Maoist group admitted killing Saraswati and four of his aides, the VHP blamed local Christians for the assassinations. The wave of violent attacks went on without penalty from police authorities for more than two months, destroying at least 4,500 houses and churches in the district. More than 500 people, mostly Christian, might have been killed in the violence over the past few months

in Kandhamal district, according to a report by a Communist Party fact-finding team. The report also suggested that the state government downplayed and covered up evidence of unreported deaths, Compass reported.

The series of violent attacks on Christians in India calls for a “strong and urgent American response,” is what a diverse group of U.S. Christian leaders urged President Bush in a letter in November 2008, the Associated Press reported.

“What has happened recently in India, and has been happening over the past few years, is tantamount to ‘religious cleansing’ of Christians … by extremists,” said the letter signed by 24 Catholic, Orthodox, mainline Protestant and evangelical leaders.

“You should insist, in the strongest terms, that these reprehensible groups and the assenting local government agencies be brought into conformity with India’s rule of law,” the letter stated.

December 2008 The 10/40 Window Reporter 1�www.WIN1040.com

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Christians worldwide are encouraged to contact Indian leaders at the following addresses to bring an immediate halt to the violence.

Dr. Manmohan SinghPrime Minister of IndiaRoom No. 152,South Block,New Delhi, 110001(O) Tel : +91-11-23012312(O) Fax: +91-11-23016857

Pratibha PatilPresident of IndiaRashtrapati BhavanNew Delhi, 110001(O) Tel: +91-11-23017290(O) Fax: +91-11-23017824E-mail: [email protected]

Shri Navin PatnaikChief Minister of OrissaNaveen Nivas,Aerodrome Road,P.O.-Bhubaneswar,District-Khurda,Pin-751001 (Orissa)(O) Tel: +91-0674-2531100, 2535100, 2531500(O) Fax: +91-0674-2400100 (R) Tel: +91-0674-2590299, 2591099,2590844,2591100,2590833E-mail: [email protected]

Shri Amarananda Pattanayak, IPSDirector General of Police(O) Tel: +91-0671-2304451, 2306501(O) Fax: +91-0671-2304033

India is ranked No. 30 on Open Doors’ 2008 World Watch List of nations where Christians are persecuted for their faith. According to Window International Network’s Praying Through The Window 9 prayer calendar, the day of prayer for India is on day 1.

Pray for:The genocidal campaign against Christians to end immediately.That all hidden plans to persecute Christians be exposed, and not be put into action.God to judge the evil actions performed against Christians and for human rights organizations such as the U.N. to be brought in to protect innocent citizens and restore order. Pray that the police would carry out their duty to protect Christians against atrocities being committed towards Believers. The Christians living as refugees in jungles to be protected and that all of their needs will be met. (Philippians 4:19) Pray that they will be welcomed by their neighbors as they return to their homes.Protection of the women being sexually assaulted during this mayhem, and that all sexual warfare will come to an immediate and permanent halt.The Lord to give the Christians strength to stand for Him even though they might be martyred for their witness. Pray against militant Hindus who are trying to force Christians to reconvert to Hinduism, and deny Christ- or be killed.The peace that surpasses all understanding to guard the hearts, minds, actions and deeds of the Christians in India. Revival to break out in the areas of persecution, and that record numbers of new Believers will come to know our Lord as Savior and King.

Sourced: Evangelical Fellowship of India, Compass Direct News, www.CompassDirect.org, the Associated Press

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Myanmar Army kills four and forces hundreds to flee Karen State

Two hundred fifty Karen villagers in Myanmar (Burma) have been forcibly displaced and three

others have been killed along with a Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) soldier, following attacks by the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA) and the Burma Army in Dooplaya District, Southern Karen State, Assist News Service (ANS) reported.

Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) said on November 5, 2008 that this violence comes only one month before U.N. Secretary General, Ban Ki-Moon is due to visit the country for discussions over the political crisis.

According to Free Burma Rangers, the DKBA and Burma Army began targeting villagers at the beginning of October in a bid to control the population and gain access to coal, zinc mines, rubber and teak trees. These attacks spilled over from Pa-an District into the Dooplaya District of Karen State at the end of October, ANS reported.

CSW reported that families have since been forced to flee their villages and set up temporary camps in Thailand, 50 miles south of Mae Sot.

CSW said a field researcher from Karen Human Rights Group reported that the DKBA initially issued documents to villagers across the Pa-an District informing them of their intention to attack. These letters outlined plans to target KNLA after the Karen National Union (KNU) refused to agree to the construction of pagodas in Pa-an District. DKBA forbade villagers from staying in farm field huts during nighttime and warned them not to contact or support the KNU or KNLA on threat of injury.

A villager, who remains unnamed for his own safety, said: “They shot everywhere before they entered the village. If they

capture you they will kill you. We dare not stay there, so we fled. They said they will kill everyone that would like to be friends with the KNU. We do not want to live under their control because they force us to do many things for them. We do not have time to work in our farm.”

CSW explained that the DKBA burned houses in Ker Law Lu and Htee Per Kee villages and four villagers were injured by newly planted landmines. Families from these villages have fled to a hiding site for Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) in Karen State. They are now without food and in urgent need of safe drinking water, medicine, plastic sheets, blankets, mats, mosquito nets and warm clothes. There is a high risk of malaria, diarrhea, dysentery, respiratory and urinary tract infections.

CSW’s Advocacy Officer for Myanmar Benedict Rogers said: “CSW strongly condemns these killings and the forcible displacement of so many innocent Karen villagers. We once again welcome the landmark visit planned by Ban Ki-Moon this December and call on the United Nations to set out specific benchmarks for progress, such as the release of political prisoners.

“We call on the U.N. Security Council to impose a universal arms embargo on the regime in Burma and to refer a case against Burma’s Army Generals to the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity. It is now time to secure real and lasting change for the Karen people and all the peoples of Burma.”

Myanmar is ranked No. 25 on Open Doors’ 2008 World Watch List of nations where Christians are persecuted for their faith. According to Window International Network’s Praying Through The Window 9 prayer calendar, the day of prayer for Myanmar is on day 22.

Pray for:The violence against Karen villagers to stop immediately.Pray that multiple thousands of new believers will come to know the Lord in Myanmar in the next 30 days.The protection of displaced Karen villagers. Pray for the Lord to meet all their needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19)God’s Kingdom to be established in Myanmar.The salvation of Myanmar Army leaders and soldiers.

Sourced: Assist News Service, Christian Solidarity Worldwide

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Christian human rights lawyers in Pakistan saw a partial legal victory in a judge’s September 2008 ruling that one of two kidnapped girls was to be returned to her Christian parents, Compass Direct

News reported. The judge further ruled that her sister was free to choose whether to go with the Muslim man who allegedly forced her to convert and marry him.

Justice Malik Saeed Ejaz ruled on September 9, 2008 that 10-year-old Aneela Masih be returned to her parents—an unprecedented legal victory for Christian parents of a girl who supposedly converted to Islam, according to one lawyer—while leaving her sister, 13-year-old Saba Masih, free to choose whether to go with Amjad Ali, a Muslim man who married her after the June 26, 2008 kidnapping.

Saba Masih said she did not want to return to her parents and tried to keep her little sister from returning to them. Their Muslim captors have repeatedly threatened the two girls that their parents would harm them if they returned.

The older sister is not willing to meet with any of the family members or her parents, said Rashid Rehman of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan.

“It’s normal behavior,” he told Compass. “She was tutored and brainwashed by the family of her husband, Ali, and naturally they made up her mind that her parents will hurt her and treat her inhumanely. In fact that will never happen. Her family is really peaceful, and remained so peaceful the whole time the case was heard in high court.”

Raised in a Christian family in the small town of Chowk Munda, the two girls were kidnapped on June 26 while traveling to visit their uncle in Sarwar Shaheed, northwest of Multan. Saba Masih was married to Ali the next day, and the kidnappers filed for custody of the girls on June 28 based on their alleged forced conversion to Islam.

“We are pleased with the outcome,” said Joseph Francis, head of the Center for Legal Aid Assistance and Settlement. He said, however, that the verdict was not complete without the return of Saba Masih to her family.

Pakistan is ranked No. 15 on Open Doors’ 2008 World Watch List of nations where Christians are persecuted for their faith. According to Window International Network’s Praying Through The Window 9 prayer calendar, the day of prayer for Pakistan is on day 28.

Praise for:Aneela Masih being returned to her parents.The Court system ruled in favor of the 10 year old girl.

Pray for:The return of Saba Masih to her family.Persecution and intimidation try to keep Christians living in fear. Pray that they would stand firm in the authority of Jesus and have the courage to share their faith despite the troubles they face.Pray that young girls and women will no longer be kidnapped.Pray that no one will be forced to convert to Islam.Pray that the women in Pakistan will not be forced to marry Muslim men.The young girls to have their minds renewed and have the mind of Christ. (Isaiah 26:3)

Sourced: Compass Direct News, www.CompassDirect.org

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Praise Report:Partial victory in ruling on kidnapped girls in Pakistan


SOMALIA

According to Compass Direct News, among at least 24 aid workers killed in Somalia this year there was one who was beheaded last month specifically for converting from Islam to Christianity, among other charges, according to an eyewitness. Muslim extremists from the al Shabab group fighting the transitional government on Sept. 23 sliced the head off of Mansuur Mohammed, 25, a World Food Program (WFP) worker, before horrified onlookers of Manyafulka village, 10 kilometers (six miles) from Baidoa. The militants had intercepted

Mohammed and a WFP driver, who managed to escape, earlier in the morning. Sources close to Mohammed’s family said he converted from Islam to Christianity in 2005. The eyewitness, who requested anonymity for security reasons, said the militants that afternoon gathered the villagers of Manyafulka, telling them that they would prepare a feast for them. Five masked men emerged, carrying guns, wielding Somali swords and dragging the handcuffed Mohammed. One recited the Quran as he proclaimed that Mohammed was a “murtid,” an Arabic term for one who converts from Islam to Christianity. Mohammed remained calm with an expressionless face, never uttering a word, said the eyewitness.

Sourced: Compass Direct News, www.CompassDirect.org

Pray for:

the Family of the Somali Christian worker who was martyred.an end to Somali Christians being targeted, persecuted, and murdered for their Faith.True Religious Freedom to be practiced in Somalia. Protection of Somali Christians in Somalia and who are refugees in foreign countries (Psalms 91)Somali Christians to have innovative ways to reach Muslims with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.a Government in Somali to be established that is free from corruption, allows true religious freedom in its constitution, and can bring order to this land based on Biblical principles.

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Christian Aid Worker in Somalia Beheaded for Converting from Islam


CULTURE CORNER / MA’MOUNIA DESSERT

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups sugar, 1 cup semolina, 3 cups water, Whipped cream1 teaspoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon1/2 cup sweet butter

TO PREPARE:

Place sugar and water in a large saucepan and stir constantly over low heat until the sugar dissolves.Add lemon juice and bring the mixture to a boil.After the syrup boils, reduce the heat and let it simmer until the syrup thickens slightly (about 10 minutes).In another saucepan, melt butter and add semolina. Stir until the semolina is lightly fried. Pour the mixture into the syrup, stirring constantly. Let sim-mer for another 10 minutes.Remove the dessert from the heat and let it cool for 20 min-utes.Spoon the ma’mounia into individual bowls. Place a large dollop of whipped cream on top and sprinkle with cinna-mon.

Serves 8.

Iraqis love this dessert and it dates back to the ninth century!

IRAQ FACTS

Capital City: BaghdadOfficial Language: Arabic, KurdishReligious Freedom? Yes, limited.Main Religion: IslamFun Fact: Iraq is the home of the Garden of Eden and Babylon!

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PRAYER ALERT: IRAQ

Abdul and his father, along with thousands of other people made a journey to the city of Karbala to celebrate the Shiite Muslim festival called Ashura. This

was their first trip ever to the festival because the former government had not allowed it for the past 30 years. For ten days, the people crammed around the golden-domed Iman Hussein shrine. Abdul was uneasy as he watched men, women, and children beat their chests and chant prayers as part of the religious rituals. Abdul’s father said that this was to show their grief over the loss of Imam Hussein, grandson of the Muslim prophet Muhammad. Although he didn’t understand it all, Abdul wanted to be a good Muslim so he decided to do everything his father did.

The reason for the celebration is to remember the death of Imam Hussein. The people go to the city of Karbala, because that is where he is buried and they consider it a holy place. When he died, the religion of Islam split up into two different groups, the Sunni and the Shiite Muslims.

Let’s pray:

That King Jesus will reveal Himself to the Iraqi president,That Christians will truly have the religious freedom promised in their constitution,That Jesus Christ will be made known to every person in the nation.

Dear Lord,I pray that you will visit the Iraq president and that he will fear You. Please protect Christians so that they can worship in public and tell everyone in Iraq about Jesus.

In Jesus Name, Amen.

PRAYER BY AMY, AGE 5

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M E M O R Y V E R S E

“The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes.”

(Proverbs 21:1 NKJV)

December 2008 The 10/40 Window Reporter 20www.WINDOWKIDS.com

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10/40 Window Reporter December 2008