GPN - 13/02/2015

13/02/2015

Dear Dave and church,

'God can turn winds of adversity into showers of blessing.' (Genesis 50:20)

Until tomorrow we have '4 days of Fasting & Prayer' with all The Blessing Churches. We believe and pray for breakthroughs for those who are in need and all who seek Him for an answer. Pray also for the pastors and for the ministry of the Johan Maasbach World Mission Foundation.

Tomorrow we will have the closing service of our '4 days of Fasting & Prayer' at the Immanuel Church in Utrecht. You are welcome to join us in prayer from 14.00 - 16.00 h. Do you have a need for yourself or someone close to you? E-mail us, so we can pray together for a miracle. 

Urgent: Pray for a miracle of healing for my daughter Shakira who has bonecancer and metastases in her body. According to the doctors he has only six months to live. Pray also for the evangelical tracts that we have spread at the hospital. Mrs. H.R.

Urgent: Pray for Mr. M.T. who has a severe metastatic cancer in the intestine and liver. Pray that God will do a miracle, but above all that he will come to repentance. Mr. G.d.H.

Pray for Bill, because he may have stomach cancer. He and his family are very scared. There was a lot of fluid in his stomach. Pray for God's healing. Ms. Vicky

Pray for God’s blessing, anointing and guidance during the mission trip to the USA from February 18th until March 3rd for John T.L. Maasbach and the MAP Band.

I need deliverance from watching junk on the internet. I want to repent and live a holy life. Please pray for me. Mr. F.R.

Pray for healing, comfort and new strength for Mrs. B. (94) She is cold and has recently lost her two sons. She has fallen and is now recovering from two broken ribs.

South Sudan: Please pray for God's provision, so I can pay the school fees for my children. Although we do not know how God is going to help us in paying them, yet we trust in Him. He will help us to go through, as He did in the past years. Evangelist K.F.

Pray for healing of chronic pneumonia for Mrs. E. Also for repentance and deliverance for her mother in law from witchcraft.

Pray for a breakthrough for my business with eBay in this really hard time. Pray that Mr. J.G. sr. will get the job that he applied for today and that Mr. J.G. jr. would get off drugs and go to a rehab center. Also agree in prayer for healing from God for the stomach of A.H. Mrs. D.G.

Pray for all preparations of All Kids 1st for the kids program this upcoming Easter. And for yourself, that God will put someone on your mind to invite to your church this Easter.

Mrs. G.B. asks us to pray for healing of her mom from pneumonia, COPD and arthrosis. For herself, for deliverance from a depression. She has a desire that her sons will live closer to her. And for an open door to help in her church.

Central Asia: Pray for Christians who are experiencing difficulties because of their faith, for God's protection and wisdom. Pray for Baurzhan, Nurzhamal and their families. They are afraid and tense for the possible consequences of a search of the secret service who had found a Bible with them. Pray for Sergey and his family. He is indicted for his involvement in the illegal distribution of religious literature and materials. The proof are several books and CDs with Christian content that were found in a house search. Open Doors

Mrs. v.K. (42) asks us to pray for deliverance from sleeping problems.

Pray for all those who want to follow Jesus and will be baptized at the Baptismal Service on Sunday March 22nd in The Hague. That God will bless them and keep them on His path, so they can be used in God's Kingdom.

Pray for the conversion of my son D. (32), who is an atheist. And for a partner for my daughter G.M. (40). Mrs. E.

Malawi: Pray for the land of our ministry, which we purchased on 2007. We have built a church and have plans to build a clinic and resthouse, grow maize meal, etc. Unfortunately, other people sold another part of the land illegally and some people have already erected some infrastructures. We really need God's intervention. Pray for the ministry of Aid for Trade and Savings Loan Association. Bishop T.C.

Continue to pray for Mr. L.D., for deliverance from insomnia, anxiety, restlessness and confused feelings.

Pray for open doors and open hearts during outreaches from various The Blessing Churches. Pray for each tract that will be spread, that people will accept the Lord and attend church.

PRAYER HELPS: He has answered our prayers, because I can move to a new home. Thank God that I can move on in peace and that I can close this chapter in my life. Pray that everything will go smooth, for enough help from people and the necessary finances. Ms. C.M.
NEW, MODERN AND SUPER FAST!
Listen non-stop to the faith-building messages of anointed preachers with singing, music and special prayer. Choose your own language, preacher and topic. Listen, download, like it, put in your favorites, share with others and much more! Pray and thank God that this station will reach many people in places where little or nothing of the Gospel is found and where people are on their own. Tune in at www.maasbachradio.com.

Shui of China

Shui of China The Shui are proud of their history, which dates back as far as 200 BC in Chinese records. The Shui live in villages that are arranged according to family clans. All Shui worship their ancestors. This is considered their main religion. It keeps them in bondage to the past and prevents them from receiving Christ, because to do so would be considered an insult to their ancestors. Ministry Obstacles As already noted, the Shui live in fear of insulting their ancestors. Outreach Ideas Jesus needs to be presented to the Shui people as One who came from God, giving his life for their sins, offering forgiveness and power to live this life. Pray for the followers of Christ Pray for Scripture and other resources to be made available to Shui believers, and that they will utilize them diligently. Pray they will have nothing to do with the deeds of darkness, living as children of light. Pray for the entire people group Pray the Lord will release the Shui from bondage to ancestral worship, leading to freedom in Christ. Scripture Focus "Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice; and let them say among the nations, 'The Lord reigns.'" 1 Chronicles 16:31		People Name: Shui Country: China 10/40 Window: Yes Population: 517,000 World Population: 517,000 Language: Sui Primary Religion: Ethnic Religions Bible: None Online Audio NT: No Jesus Film: Yes Audio Recordings: Yes Christ Followers: Few, less than 2% Status: Unreached Progress Level: 1.2

PRAY FOR UZBEKISTAN

 

Uzbekistan - #16

Leader: President Islam Karimov Government: Authoritarian (republic)

Main Religion: Islam Population: 28 million (208,500 Christians)

 

Dear Dave,

Lena, Ayoub and Latife faced intense persecution when the police had found Christian materials in Ayoub’s father’s house. Police arrested him and Ayoub’s brother, and then took Lena to the police station, where they were all questioned. They were also looking for Ayoub to arrest him as well.

Preparations for court cases were made: the first one being under administrative law, the second one would be more serious and under the criminal law. The tension and stress seriously affected Lena’s health.

Ayoub recently sent Open Doors a note saying:

"First of all, I would like to express our gratefulness to all those who prayed for us during this time of severe persecution. I would like to share the good news with you: God heard our prayers!

During the first court case we faced we were fined for our activities and had to pay 5 minimum monthly salaries, which amounts to approximately US $160. We worried about the second court case as this was going to be under the criminal law and would be far more severe and difficult for us.

We were totally amazed by God’s intervention when we heard that the second court case had been cancelled. God had softened the hearts of the people who were in charge of our case and for some reason or other they decided to close the case. A serious illness of one of the officers’ relatives had occurred and significantly delayed the proceedings. That is probably why the decision was taken to cancel the court case.

We believe that God was in control of each day. What happened was a real miracle to us! We have never heard about a case like ours where the investigators just asked for a traditional meal of ‘plov’ to be served and closed the case. God greatly encouraged our family and we felt your prayer support."

Ready for this week's challenge?

GPN 04-30-2013

GPN 04-30-2013

‘You can preach a better sermon with your life than with your lips.’ (1 Timothy 4:7) Pray this week that God’s presence will be seen in our life. Marga Hooglugt – GPN Please pray for the healing of my mother (85). She has a lump in her breast and the doctor recommends surgery. Mrs. J.M. Please pray for a breakthrough of God for a new visa at the embassy for Mr. and Mrs. R. They want to work in an orphanage. Our family is being attacked by disease. My grandmother has cancer in her head. My mother has problems with her kidneys and pain in her abdomen. My brother has pain in his chest. And I am being attacked spiritually. Please pray that God will heal and deliver us. Mrs. D.d.R. Burma: Persecution is increasing in Burma as more people turn to Jesus Christ. Buddhists who convert to Christianity have difficulty keeping jobs and are often driven from their homes. Two families lost their jobs and homes after coming to faith in Christ last July. One family is living in a hut used for secret worship services, while the other is living in a hut where fish feed is stored. Pray that God will grant grace and strength to believers in Burma. Please pray for my health. I have headache due to tension, sadness and my sleep is disturbed by dreams. Mr. J.M.C. Maldives: Pray for weekly radio broadcasts that bring the gospel to this very closed archipelago nation. Radio programs are one of the best ways to reach Maldivians. Kazakhstan: Seven members of a small Baptist church in Ayagoz, East Kazakhstan Province, were fined recently for holding unregistered religious services. Police raided the group’s prayer service on April 4th, and all seven were fined the equivalent of nearly two months’ average wages. Two of those fined were grandmothers in their late 70s. Although appeals for dismissal of the fines were unsuccessful, media attention has helped the case of another Baptist, Vyacheslav Cherkasov. The court has overturned a previous decision to destroy Bibles that were confiscated from Cherkasov. Under Kazakhstan’s legal code, both ‘Leadership of an unregistered or banned social or religious organization’ and ‘missionary activity without registration’ are illegal. Please pray for a miracle, that my lost wallet, drivers licence and wedding ring will be found or dropped at the police station. Mr. P.M. Mrs. S.V. (78) asks our prayer for God's healing. She has abdominal pain and blood loss. Nepal: Pastor Chedar Nhote Lhomi was arrested and imprisoned after local people accused him of killing a cow. Before his arrest, the local people destroyed his family’s home and possessions. Pastor Lhomi, a husband and father of three young children, has also been accused of spreading the gospel and making Hindus eat beef. He is now facing a prison sentence of 12 years. Help us pray for achieve of Pastor Lhomi’s release from prison and for help for his family. He will not be allowed to receive Christian visitors while in prison. Pastor Lhomi has been working in ministry since 2003 and leads an established church that meets regularly. VOM Contact I am very glad that you always pray for me and for my disabled parents. I hope for more miracles. Pray for healing of my inflamed skin. Ms. R.H. Would you pray for and like to listen to uplifting Christian music? Tune in at MAASBACHRADIO.COM

Marga Hooglugt
Global Prayer Network

Amazon Indians suffer ill effects from pollution

By Mark Ellis

Shipibo woman in her home

The Shipibo people once lived in a pristine environment in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, with clean drinking water from fresh water streams, abundant fish in their rivers, and fertile soil for planting. But recently, mysterious ailments have been plaguing their people that may be related to environmental concerns.
“Oil pipelines in their territory have broken several times, so they have oil all around,” says Dr. Dale Kietzman, founder of Latin American Indian Ministries (LAIM). “There is also mercury in the rivers from gold mining.”

LAIM has been training pastors among the Shipibo, as well as responding to requests for practical assistance. Recently LAIM sent a professor to analyze their water and design a treatment system for the Shipibo.
“There is a sickness in their community, with young children dying and the villages suffering,” Dr. Kietzman says.
The pollution problem has intensified in the last decade. “Just in the last 4 years there have been seven oil spills in the indigenous territory of Canaan, from using old, rusted pipelines which destroy the water, land, health and vegetation of the area,” Dr. Kietzman notes. “The community now has to travel up to 3 hours to find non-contaminated sources of fish, and can no longer hunt or grow food on their now contaminated land.”
Dr. Kietzman blames an unhealthy alliance between business and government. “The government has allowed it because it’s profitable for the government,” he notes.  “The people of Canaan are forced to drink out of the oil-contaminated river. As a result, there has been a huge increase in deaths in the village, from unknown illnesses that local doctors cannot treat or diagnose.”
“Many oil companies operating in the Amazon have a long history of exploiting indigenous peoples and their lands, while making unfulfilled promises of schools for their children, jobs, and money,” he adds. “Instead, they leave social and environmental destruction in their wake, believing that no one is paying attention.”

NIGERIA

Top 5 People Groups Yoruba of Nigeria: 28,226,000 Hausa: 25,391,000 Igbo of Nigeria: 24,003,000 Fulani: 7,852,000 Kanuri of Nigeria: 5,724,000 Religion Christian: 50.1% Muslim: 43.6% Evangelical: 19.6% Ethnic: 5.9% Reference: Operation World CIA Factbook Joshua Project

About Nigeria Sometimes referred to as “the Giant of Africa,” Nigeria is home to over 174 million people. It is the most populous nation in the African continent and the seventh most populous country in the world. A member of the Commonwealth of Nations, Nigeria gained independence from Britain in 1960. Today it is a federal constitutional republic comprising 36 states and the federal capital area of Abuja. Although constitutionally it is a secular country, there is a sharp divide between Muslims who live mostly in the north and Christians who live in the central and southern regions. Persecution of Christians by violent Islamist groups in the north continues to grow. Hundreds of churches have been burned and many believers killed. Since 1999, local Muslim leaders have imposed sharia law in nine northern states and parts of several others. The jihadist militant group Boko Haram is based in northeastern Nigeria and is allegedly responsible for between 3,000 to 10,000 deaths since its founding in 2001. There are 524 ethnic groups in Nigeria, of which 112 are considered relatively unreached by Christianity. The three major ethnic groups are the Hausa/Fulani, Igbo, and Yoruba. Rivalry between these groups continues to dominate Nigerian politics. Figures are difficult to confirm, but Joshua Project reports that 50.3% of Nigeria's population are Christians, 43.6% are Muslims, and 5.8% adhere to other religions. Evangelicals make up 19.7 percent of the Christian population.

Jama Mapun, Bajau Kagayan of Philippines

Jama Mapun, Bajau Kagayan of Philippines The Bajau Kagayan are seafaring people (known as "sea gypsies") and fish in the Sulu Sea by the Philippines and Sulawesi, Indonesia. They are non-aggressive people who usually retreat from trouble. They live on their boats or on the coast in houses that are built over the sea on stilts. Their livelihood comes from the sea through fishing. The Bajau Kagayan are Sunni Muslims. Ministry Obstacles Establishing trust with the Muslim Bajau Kagayan people may be difficult. Outreach Ideas Christians can carry the good news of Jesus to the Bajau Kagayan by telling them stories from Scripture, and by using Gospel films and recordings. Pray for the followers of Christ Pray for the few followers of Jesus among the "sea gypsy" people of the Philippines, that good teachers will be sent to help them grow. Pray they will be firmly established on the truths of Scripture, and will be zealous to study and learn, and be faithful disciples of Christ. Pray for the entire people group Pray the Bajau Kagayan people will be able to provide adequately for their families, and be kept safe as they fish for their livelihood. Scripture Focus "Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice; and let them say among the nations, 'The Lord reigns.'" 1 Chronicles 16:31		People Name: Jama Mapun, Bajau Kagayan Country: Philippines 10/40 Window: No Population: 51,000 World Population: 56,000 Language: Mapun Primary Religion: Islam Bible: Portions Online Audio NT: No Jesus Film: Yes Audio Recordings: Yes Christ Followers: Few, less than 2% Status: Unreached Progress Level: 1.1

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST

GPN 04-25-2013

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST:


Mrs. Rita F. has had several surgeries for cancer. She became a Christian in this period. Now, she has been a stroke in a store. Pray for a miracle of deliverance and healing.

Marga Hooglugt
Global Prayer Network

Berber, Kabyle of Algeria

Berber, Kabyle of Algeria The Kabyle name derives from the name of the mountainous region in the north of Algeria, which they traditionally inhabit. The traditional economy of the area is based on orchards and olive trees, and tapestry or pottery. The area was gradually taken over by the French from 1857, despite vigorous local resistance. The armed Algerian revolutionary resistance to French colonialism, the National Liberation Front (FLN) recruited several of its historical leaders in this region. Ministry Obstacles Access to the Kabyle Berbers of Algeria is limited. Outreach Ideas Gospel television and radio can have good effect in North Africa, not being restricted by national borders. Pray for the followers of Christ Pray for the followers of Jesus among the Kabyle Berbers, that they will be faithful to fellowship together, and will grow in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. Pray they will live a life worthy of their calling in Christ. Pray for the entire people group Pray the Kabyle community will have an increasing desire for the One who is "the Way, the Truth, and the Life." Pray the Spirit of Christ will satisfy this desire. Scripture Focus "God has granted to the Gentiles [nations] also the repentance that leads to life." Acts 11:18		People Name: Berber, Kabyle Country: Algeria 10/40 Window: Yes Population: 3,442,000 World Population: 4,202,000 Language: Kabyle Primary Religion: Islam Bible: New Testament Online Audio NT: No Jesus Film: Yes Audio Recordings: Yes Christ Followers: Few, less than 2% Status: Unreached Progress Level: 1.2

Arab, Yemeni of Yemen

Arab, Yemeni of Yemen Yemen is very poor. Most of the population is engaged in growing grains, vegetables, fruit, cotton, coffee, and khat (a stimulant-containing shrub), and raising sheep, goats, and camels. Foreign aid and remittances from Yemenis working abroad are important to the economy. Once part of the ancient Sabaean kingdom (750 BC-115 BC), Yemen was later ruled by the Himyarites, Romans, Ethiopians, and Persians. It was conquered by Muslim Arabs in the 7th century AD. Ministry Obstacles Yemen provides a hostile environment to Christian workers. Outreach Ideas Bridges of friendship and trust are needed with the Arabs of Yemen. Christians can help them in material and physical ways. Pray for the followers of Christ Pray the few followers of Christ among the Ta'izz-Adeni Arabs will cling strongly to their faith in a harsh environment. Pray the Lord will protect them and teach them to fully trust in Himself for life. Pray for the entire people group Pray for the Arabs of Yemen to improve their standard of living, find employment and provide schooling for their children. Scripture Focus "He will have compassion on the poor and needy, And the lives of the needy He will save." Psalm 72:13		People Name: Arab, Yemeni Country: Yemen 10/40 Window: Yes Population: 5,967,000 World Population: 6,908,000 Language: Arabic, Taizzi-Adeni Spoken Primary Religion: Islam Bible: None Online Audio NT: No Jesus Film: Yes Audio Recordings: Yes Christ Followers: Few, less than 2% Status: Unreached Progress Level: 1.1

Death Sentence for our Brother Younis Masih

Pakistani Court Overturns Younis Masih's 'Blasphemy' Conviction, Death Sentence
Beaten and Tortured Christian spent 7.5 years in jail

By Dan Wooding
Founder of ASSIST Ministries
LAHORE, PAKISTAN (ANS) -- Morning Star News (http://morningstarnews.org), is reporting that, according to an advocacy group, a court in Pakistan today (Wednesday, April 3, 2013) overturned the death sentence of a Christian convicted under Pakistan's "blasphemy" laws and ordered him released.

Younis Masih

Younis Masih, who has languished in jail since his arrest on Sept. 10, 2005, was declared innocent by Lahore High Court justices Khaja Amtiaz Ahmed and Khalid Mehmood Khan, according to Legal Evangelical Association Development (LEAD). The justices also overturned a 100,000-rupee (US$1,013) fine against him. Masih had reportedly suffered a heart attack on Jan. 8.
"On Sept. 9, 2005, he left a midnight gathering at a house after Muslims loudly singing a religious song became angry at him for requesting that they sing more quietly," said Morning Star News. "The Muslims incited others against him the next day and beat him unconscious. Islamic leaders later incited mobs to burn Christians' homes, saying Masih had committed blasphemy and uttered derogatory remarks against Muhammad, the prophet of Islam.
"More than 100 Christian families fled their homes. Police filed a blasphemy case against Masih in order to pacify the furious mobs and tortured him in custody."
He was sentenced to death by a judge in Lahore on May 30, 2007. The appeal was filed by the Legal Aid for Destitute and Settlement, and his case was re-opened in September 2012.

More Nigerian 'Brethren' die in violent attacks, US work campers return home safely

ASSIST News Service (ANS) - PO Box 609, Lake Forest, CA 92609-0609 USA
Visit our web site at: www.assistnews.net -- E-mail: assistnews@aol.com

Monday, February 11, 2013

More Nigerian 'Brethren' die in violent attacks, US work campers return home safely

By Dan Wooding, who was born in Nigeria
Founder of ASSIST Ministries MUBI, NIGERIA (ANS) -- More members of the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria, known there as EYN, have died in violent attacks on the churches of Ekklesiyar Yan'uwa in the West African country.

Boko Haram members who have been accused of killing many Nigerian Christians

According to the Church of the Brethren Newsline (www.brethren.org), the Local Church Council (LCC) Samunaka church on the outskirts of the city of Mubi was attacked twice in four days, first on Feb. 1 and again on Feb. 4. At least 15 people were killed in the attacks, including eight members of the congregation, while one member of the church sustained gunshot wounds said an EYN report.
During the attacks, the Samunaka church building and the pastor's office were burned down, along with some houses belonging to Christians.
Two EYN churches in other areas were burned in attacks on the same weekend: LCC Huwim in the Mussa district was burned on Feb. 2, and LCC Bita in the Gavva west district was burned on Feb. 3, the EYN report said.
These most recent attacks on Brethren occur in a month in which northern Nigeria has experienced several well-publicized attacks by the militant Islamist group Boko Haram: the murders of three North Korean doctors and nine nurses who were administering polio vaccine, and an assassination attempt on the Emir of Kano, a prominent Muslim leader.
Two visitors from the US church were in Mubi on the day of the first attack on the Samunaka church, but had returned to the EYN headquarters just a few miles away before the violence occurred. The two were on a "mini workcamp" representing the US church: Jay Wittmeyer, executive director of Global Mission and Service, and Fern Dews of North Canton, Ohio, and East Nimishillen Church of the Brethren. They returned safely to the US on Feb. 7, 2014

Woman at one of the Nigerian churches during happier times

The two delivered cards and letters of support to EYN, expressing prayer and encouragement from American Brethren to Nigerian Brethren in the face of the continuing violence. The Church of the Brethren also has transferred to EYN donations amounting to $30,268.25, for a fund that helps care for churches and members affected by violence. Wittmeyer met with EYN leaders during the work camp trip, and also with Church of the Brethren mission workers who are seconded to EYN: Carol Smith, who teaches at the EYN secondary school, and Carl and Roxane Hill, working at Kulp Bible College. Both institutions are on the EYN headquarters campus.

Poster

In addition to those lost in violent attacks against its churches, EYN has suffered other losses recently. The director of EYN's Peace Program has died from illness, reports Wittmeyer, and a son of former EYN president Filibus Gwama has died in a car accident. A bus carrying EYN women home from that funeral also had a serious accident, causing injuries among the women but no deaths, Wittmeyer said.
Wittmeyer called Brethren in the US to continued prayer for the Nigerian Brethren. Note: Church of the Brethren traces its roots back over 300 years to 1708. Eighteenth-century Europe was a time of strong governmental control of the church and low tolerance for religious diversity. Nevertheless, there were religious dissenters who lived their faith in spite of the threat of persecution. Some of these dissenters found refuge in the town of Schwarzenau, Germany. Among them was Alexander Mack, a miller who had been influenced by both Pietism and Anabaptism.
In August 1708 five men and three women gathered at the Eder River in Schwarzenau for baptism, an illegal act since all had been baptized as infants. They understood this baptism as an outward symbol of their new faith and as a commitment to living that faith in community. An anonymous member of the group first baptized Mack. He, in turn, baptized the other seven. This new group simply called themselves "brethren."
Though the early Brethren shared many beliefs with other Protestants, a number of issues separated them from the state churches. Relying on the New Testament as their guide, these men and women believed that Jesus had intended for his followers a different kind of life-one based on peaceful action, plain and compassionate living, and a shared search for truth. They also shared their faith enthusiastically with others, sending evangelists to other parts of Germany, Switzerland, and the Netherlands.
Moving to America
Due to growing persecution and economic hardship, Brethren began emigrating to North America in 1719 under the leadership of Peter Becker. Most Brethren left Europe by 1740, including Mack, who brought a group over in 1729. The first congregation in the New World was organized at Germantown, Pa., in 1723. Soon after its formation, the Germantown congregation sent missionaries to rural areas around Philadelphia. These missionaries preached, baptized, and started new congregations.
Their zeal, honesty, and hard work drew many new members into the Brethren faith community through the 1700s. New congregations were formed in New Jersey, Maryland, and Virginia. With the promise of inexpensive land, they moved into Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and Missouri after the Revolutionary War. By the mid-1800s Brethren had settled in Kansas and Iowa and eventually the West Coast.
Expansion across the continent and changes due to the Industrial Revolution caused strain and conflict among the Brethren. In the early 1880s a major schism took place resulting in a three-way split. The largest branch after the schism was the German Baptist Brethren, who changed their name to the Church of the Brethren in 1908.
20th century and beyond
During the 20th century, focus areas of Church of the Brethren included educating its young people by developing Sunday schools, camping, and youth programs; strengthening its emphasis on service, missions, and peacemaking; increasing its inter-faith involvement; and developing a new denominational structure.
The Brethren began mission partnerships in India, China, Nigeria, Ecuador, Sudan, South Korea, and-more recently-in Brazil and the Dominican Republic. Mission staff and Brethren Volunteer Service workers are assigned throughout the US and more than a dozen countries around the world.
In the 21st century, the Church of the Brethren has about 125,000 members in more than 1,000 congregations in the United States and Puerto Rico; about 150,000 in the fast-growing Ekklesiyar Yan'uwa a Nigeria (Church of the Brethren in Nigeria); and hundreds more in India, Brazil, the Dominican Republic, and Haiti.
While times have changed, the Church of the Brethren today maintains the basic beliefs of the first Brethren and seeks to find new ways to continue the work of Jesus in the world.

---

Dan Wooding, 72, who was born in Nigeria of British missionary parents, is an award winning British journalist now living in Southern California with his wife Norma, to whom he has been married for 49 years. They have two sons, Andrew and Peter, and six grandchildren who all live in the UK. He is the founder and international director of ASSIST (Aid to Special Saints in Strategic Times) and the ASSIST News Service (ANS) and he hosts the weekly "Front Page Radio" show on the KWVE Radio Network in Southern California and which is also carried throughout the United States and around the world. Besides this, Wooding is a host for His Channel Live, which is carried via the Internet to some 192 countries. Dan recently received two top media awards -- the "Passion for the Persecuted" award from Open Doors US, and as one of the top "Newsmakers of 2011" from Plain Truth magazine. He is the author of some 45 books, the latest of which is "Caped Crusader: Rick Wakeman in the 1970s." To order a copy, go to: Caped Crusader - Amazon

Severe Injuries sustained after Suicide Bomb Attack in Bauchi, Nigeria

Islamic extremist bombing, alleged military shooting, kill 21 By Michael Ireland Senior International Correspondent, ASSIST News Service BAUCHI, NIGERIA (ANS) -- Amid allegations that soldiers were responsible for at least eight of 21 deaths after the suicide bombing of two churches here on Sunday (June 3), sources told Compass Direct News (CDN) that most of those injured from the blast and alleged military shooting were in critical condition. Three of 10 people injured after suicide bombing collapsed a wall of the Harvest Field Church of Christ were in critical condition. (Photo: Compass Direct News) Compass reports that a statement reportedly from the Muslim extremist Boko Haram sect claimed responsibility for the suicide bombing of the Living Faith church in Yelwa, a Christian settlement on the outskirts of the northern Nigerian city of Bauchi. Compass said the blast also collapsed a wall of the nearby Harvest Field Church of Christ, leaving three people in critical condition. Compass added that a staff member told the agency on condition of anonymity, that of 61 people taken to Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital Bauchi after the blast, 38 were in critical condition; the other 23 have been treated and sent home. Church leaders said at a press conference on Monday (June 4) that 45 Christians were considered injured, the agency reported. "Twenty-five out of these were injured by the bomb blast, while 20 sustained various degrees of injuries from the gunshots by soldiers," said the Rev. Lawi Pokti, chairman of the Bauchi chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria, who said the military shot eight Christians to death. Compass reported that the Nigerian military has yet to respond to the allegations. In similar church attacks in Nigeria, Compass stated that Christians angry that their brethren were killed in the presence of security agencies have been shot for refusing military orders to leave. Johnson Elogva, associate pastor at Living Faith, said most of the injuries were severe. "Most of our members are critically ill in the hospitals," he said. "Some with first degree, second degree burns." For more information, log-on to www.compassdirect.org

PRAY FOR NOSU, TIANBA OF CHINA

Pray for Nosu, Tianba of China Violent conflict, inter-tribal and inter-clan warfare, and the taking of slaves were commonplace among the various branches of the Nosu until recently. The War songs were equally awe inspiring: "We are the famous Black Nosu! We are the tigers who eat up human flesh! We are the butchers who skin people alive! We are the supermen!'" The Tianba Nosu have been influenced by Chinese culture more than the other Nosu groups in Sichuan, although they still retain their traditional dress and most of their ceremonies and customs. Ministry Obstacles These people may have little concept of a loving, forgiving creator God. Outreach Ideas Sustained, focused prayer is needed to prepare these people to receive the good news of Christ. Pray for the followers of Christ There may be no followers of Christ among the Tianba Nosu today, but pray for those that will soon emerge from this group. Pray they will be kind and compassionate to one another. Pray for the entire people group Pray the Tianba Nosu may overcome their history of violence, and increasingly hunger to know the Prince of peace. Scripture Focus "Do you not say, 'There are yet four months, and then comes the harvest?' Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look on the fields, that they are white for harvest." John 4:35 People Name: Nosu, Tianba Country: China 10/40 Window: Yes Population: 101,000 World Population: 101,000 Language: Nuosu Primary Religion: Ethnic Religions Bible: New Testament Online Audio NT: No Jesus Film: Yes Audio Recordings: Yes Christ Followers: Few, less than 2% Status: Unreached Progress Level: 1.1

Pray for Arab, Saudi - Hijazi of saudi Arabia

Arab, Saudi - Hijazi of Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia once had a large Christian population, but they were expelled when Islam gained control 1300 years ago. Saudi Arabs see themselves as preservers of the Islamic faith, and the Wahabi fundamentalists were formed here. The Hijazi Arabs speak one of the variants of the Arabic language. Ministry Obstacles Any overt expression of the Christian faith is likely to bring strong negative response. Outreach Ideas Satellite TV and evangelistic websites are only two of the ways that the Gospel message can be communicated to these people. Pray for the followers of Christ Pray fervently for the few believers among the Arabs of Saudi Arabia, for their protection, and for their growth in the faith. Pray they will be courageous yet very tactful. Pray for the entire people group Pray for the Saudi Arabs, that their religious zeal will soon be directed toward serving Jesus the Son of God. Scripture Focus "Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples." Psalm 96:3 People Name: Arab, Saudi - Hijazi Country: Saudi Arabia 10/40 Window: Yes Population: 8,782,000 World Population: 9,005,000 Language: Arabic, Hijazi Spoken Primary Religion: Islam Bible: None Online Audio NT: No Jesus Film: No Audio Recordings: Yes Christ Followers: Few, less than 2% Status: Unreached Progress Level: 1.2

Christians in peril as Sudan and South Sudan head towards war

By Dan Wooding
Founder of ASSIST Ministries

SUDAN AND SOUTH SUDAN (ANS) -- The threat of an all-out war between Sudan and South Sudan is mounting amid intensifying fighting in the disputed border region, putting Christians in both nations in great danger.

3,700 people are said to have fled Jau, which lies across the border from Southern Kordofan,
since the attacks
(AFP/HO Stuart Price)
Barnabas Fund, based in the UK says that Fierce clashes in the oil-rich territory over the last three weeks have been described as the worst fighting since South Sudan gained independence in July 2011.

The UN Security Council last week expressed its "deep and growing alarm" over the "escalating conflict", and said that the situation threatened to return the countries to full-scale war.

Sudan, which has been indiscriminately dropping bombs in the border regions and the South for almost a year, said that if Southern troops do not comply with a UN order to withdraw from the Heglig oilfields, Khartoum "will chase them out" and "hit deep inside South Sudan".

"The tensions threaten a return to the deadly civil war that devastated the South and left more than two million people, mainly Southern Christians, dead," said a Barnabas Fund spokesperson.

"The independence of South Sudan was meant to herald a new dawn of peace, but a number of serious issues between the two countries remain unresolved, including disputed border territory, oil revenue and citizenship rights."

Left in limbo

South Sudanese boy shows he plans
to protect himself
The spokesperson went on to say that the hostility between the two nations has left people of Southern origin, who are mainly Christian and mainly African, in the overwhelmingly Muslim and Arab Republic of Sudan in a state of limbo and increasing danger. They were stripped of their citizenship of Sudan after the South voted to secede in January 2011 and given until 8 April to sort out their papers.

That deadline has now passed, and, treated as foreigners in Sudan, they have been denied work permits, while South Sudan has not yet started issuing identity documents. Thus they have been left without an official nationality.

A deal that would have given citizens of both countries key rights - to live, work and own property - in the other state has stalled, and there is little hope of further progress; a planned summit between the two presidents at the beginning of April was called off because of the violence in the border region.

A mother and child trying to shelter from the possible upcoming all-out war
"Thousands of people are consequently living rough, hundreds of them on wasteland around Khartoum, having had to give up their homes; many do not have the money and resources to transport their families and possessions to South Sudan. Around three-quarters of them are Christians," said the Barnabas Fund spokesperson.

One community leader said: "We've been out of our homes for three months. We're going to South Sudan, but we need the help of the two governments to return to our country. The people here are very tired. The men have no work, no food; that is our situation."

Barnabas Fund is helping to meet the practical needs of Christians in both Sudan and South Sudan. We are providing returning refugees with emergency supplies, including sorghum (grain), salt, plastic sheeting for shelters, mosquito nets, blankets, water drums and cooking pots.

A family that has been provided shelter

Dr Patrick Sookhdeo, International Director of Barnabas Fund, said: "A return to war would be a tragedy, especially for Christians in both territories who, during the long civil war, were particular targets of Khartoum's aggression. Christians in Sudan are already suffering greatly as a result of the unresolved tensions between the two countries; many have been left homeless and in great need. The humanitarian situation will only deteriorate as the latest conflict intensifies."

Give Today

If you would like to help Christians in Sudan and South Sudan, please make a donation to the Sudan and South Sudan General Fund (project 48-990). Donate Online (www.barnabasfund.org/donations/usa/?id=48-990&appealCode=SUD%2004/12 ) using their secure server.

Moor of Mauritania

Moor of Mauritania
The Moors are very proud people, conveying a sense of superiority to others in the area. Within their society, the Koran is faithfully followed. The term "Moor" is generally applied to any person, regardless of skin color, who speaks one of the Hassaniya dialects.

Ministry Obstacles
Scripture is not available in the language of the Moor, and access to the Moor is limited.

Outreach Ideas
The Jesus film and Gospel recordings are available. Pray for workers and for access.

Pray for the followers of Christ
Pray for the relatively few believers among the Moor, that they may be like-minded, being one in spirit and purpose, looking not only to their own interests but also to the interests of others.

Pray for the entire people group
Pray each individual in the Moor community may be prepared for the Gospel message when it comes to them.

Scripture Focus
"The time is coming to gather all nations and tongues. And they shall come and see My glory." Isaiah 66:18


People Name: Moor
Country: Mauritania
10/40 Window: Yes
Population: 2,971,000
World Population: 6,673,000
Language: Hassaniyya
Primary Religion: Islam
Bible: None
Online Audio NT: No
Jesus Film: Yes
Audio Recordings: Yes
Christ Followers: Few, less than 2%
Status: Unreached
Progress Level:
1.2

Pray for Bambara of Mali

Bambara of Mali
The Bambara are the largest and most dominant group in Mali. During the 1700's, there were two Bambara kingdoms: Segu and Karta. In the 1800's, aggressive Muslim groups overthrew these kingdoms, leaving only a few anti-Muslim Bambara to oppose their occupation. But today, the Bambara are majority Muslim. However, many people still follow their traditional beliefs in ancestor worship. The Bambara believe that the ancestral spirits may take on the forms of animals or even vegetables.

Ministry Obstacles
Mali is not very hospitable to Christian workers, so creative means of access is helpful.

Outreach Ideas
Christians need to build bridges of trust and friendship with the Bambara, helping them with physical and material needs.

Pray for the followers of Christ
Pray for the followers of Jesus among the Bambara, that they will live holy lives and be a shining testimony of the Lord's goodness to their own people.

Pray for the entire people group
Pray the Bambara tribe may be able to care adequately for their families, as they live in a harsh environment.

Scripture Focus
"The time is coming to gather all nations and tongues. And they shall come and see My glory." Isaiah 66:18


People Name: Bambara
Country: Mali
10/40 Window: Yes
Population: 3,787,000
World Population: 5,035,000
Language: Bamanankan
Primary Religion: Islam
Bible: Complete
Online Audio NT: No
Jesus Film: Yes
Audio Recordings: Yes
Christ Followers: Few, less than 2%
Status: Unreached
Progress Level:
1.2

TWIN TERROR STRIKES TIMBUKTU

Twin Terror Strikes Timbuktu

By Charles Gardner
Special to ASSIST News Service

TIMBUKTU, MALI (ANS) -- Timbuktu may seem faraway - even mythical - to many people, but the remote West African city and its environs is facing a twin terror threat from within and without.

Bella tents in Timbuktu
Already suffering famine through drought and now a military coup, Mali is being terrorized by Al Qaida and associated rebels said to be claiming the northern part of the territory as their homeland, according to Tim Yattara, a British Bible college graduate now back working with his own people.

The effects of lack of rain combined with the global recession, exacerbated by rising unemployment and terrible inflation, has led to a mass influx from the countryside so that the city of Timbuktu is now surrounded by tents with many still struggling for food and work.

And with a government now overthrown by a military coup, the security situation has been made even worse by rebels from Libya loyal to their former leader Col. Gaddafi.

They have taken some small towns and captured Malian soldiers as prisoners, but the Malian army has fought back and reportedly killed some 50 rebels.

Tim Yattara
"Famine is now seriously spreading with many people moving into our town in order to survive the considerable impact of misery caused by famine and extreme poverty," Tim told friends in England.

He said Gaddafi's death had opened the way for these rebels to get hold of all his heavy munitions which they are now using against the Mali Government and army.

"We still don't know what is coming next and we are hoping that all this one day ends up in peace and development for a better living condition of our people."

What is certain, he adds, is that there is a very urgent need for food and financial help. Anyone able to contribute should e-mail Tim at timfromtimbucktu@googlemail.com to whom you could send aid directly by Western Union.

Tim knows nothing is impossible with God as he was raised from the dead through the prayers of his pastor father when he was a little boy.

Pray for Hausa, North of Nigeria

Hausa, North of Nigeria
The Hausa are almost exclusively Muslim and practice agriculture. Their widespread trading activities have contributed to making their language a lingua franca in much of West Africa. In earlier times the Hausa were organized in the Hausa States. Long the vassals of Bornu, the states were conquered by the Songhay in 1513 and by the Fulani in the early 19th century. In colonial Nigeria the traditional Hausa-Fulani social and political structure was largely maintained under the British policy of indirect rule. The Hausa remain a major force in Nigerian politics.

Ministry Obstacles
The Hausa may have only a partial understanding of who Jesus truly is. Pray they will increasingly understand that He is more than a prophet.

Outreach Ideas
Much sustained prayer is needed to prepare the way for the Gospel among the Hausa. Prayer efforts are needed both to prepare the way, and to sustain the workers.

Pray for the followers of Christ
Pray for the few followers of Christ among the Northern Hausa people, that they will grow deeply into the Lord's love and be firmly established in His finished work on the cross. Pray they will be joyful always, praying continually, and giving thanks in all circumstances. Pray they will be zealous to learn, and to be obedient.

Pray for the entire people group
Pray for peace in northern Nigeria. Pray for the Hausa tribes to increasingly be drawn to Isa (Jesus) in the Koran. Pray the Lord will consider revealing Himself to the Hausa as He knows best.

Scripture Focus
"All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the Lord, and all the families of the nations will worship before You." Psalm 22:27


People Name: Hausa, North
Country: Nigeria
10/40 Window: Yes
Population: 353,000
World Population: 353,000
Language: Hausa
Primary Religion: Islam
Bible: Complete
Online Audio NT: No
Jesus Film: Yes
Audio Recordings: Yes
Christ Followers: Few, less than 2%
Status: Unreached