CFIE Guide: "Preaching and Combat" from AQIM

–via Facebook

“Preaching and Combat”

Note: This is the final in a series of nine emails highlighting the major Islamist groups currently persecuting Christians around the world. Read each informative email, and request your free prayer guide to learn how you can pray more specifically for persecuted Christians facing Islamic extremists.

Each morning as they eat breakfast, Jeffery Woodke’s family wonder if he has anything to eat ... or if he’s still alive. Woodke (pictured above), an American Christian aid worker, was kidnapped from his home in Abalak, Niger, last October. The kidnappers killed two security guards during the abduction, before apparently driving Jeffery across the border into Mali. The kidnappers are thought to be connected to al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), which traces its roots to “The Salafist Group for Preaching and Combat,” founded in 1999. Woodke, who had worked in the region nearly 30 years, was helping Tuareg and Fulani nomads overcome drought, disease and educational challenges. He was so respected in Abalak that the mayor said “the whole city cried” when they heard of his kidnapping. Learn How to Pray for Christians Facing AQIM

The primary source of funding for AQIM is kidnapping for ransom. They use these funds to pursue both preaching the Quran and combating “infidels” like Jeffery Woodke. AQIM made international headlines on Sept. 11, 2012, when members of the group raided the U.S. Consulate in Benghazi, Libya, killing four Americans. Christians in the region face a variety of challenges, especially in spreading the gospel. They know that they could be kidnapped or murdered at any time because of their “Christianizing activities.” Despite the risks, Christians continue to witness boldly for Christ. And an increasing number of Muslims — some of whom are repulsed by the murderous activities of groups like AQIM — are choosing to follow the Prince of Peace. Please join us in praying for Jeffery Woodke and all of the Christians in Northwest Africa. Pray also that more Muslims in the region will come to know Christ. You can use VOM’s free prayer guide, Christians Facing Islamic Extremists, to help you pray more specifically for this troubled region. Request a copy for yourself, and then forward this email to Christian friends who might also like a free copy. Request a Free Prayer Guide