Faith
Violence Targets Nigeria’s Faithful, Global Concerns Rise
Faith Facts
- Gunmen attacked St. Andrews Anglican Church in Anambra state, resulting in the deaths of a priest’s wife and a church member, and the abduction of a priest.
- Authorities report that extensive property damage took place, including the destruction of church buildings and homes.
- One hundred children abducted from a Catholic school in Niger state have been released, but many remain captive as Christian communities face violence.
Tragic news comes from Nigeria, where the faithful at St. Andrews Anglican Church were assaulted as they gathered to worship. Local sources confirm that a priest’s wife was killed, another priest was kidnapped, and property including the church and homes was burned.
Many congregants suffered injuries, and the trauma of this attack has shaken believers across the region.
“There was indiscriminate shooting, many worshippers sustained injuries, and there was also extensive property damage, including the burning of vehicles, the church building and the priest’s residence,” said resident Rosemary Emabri.
The authorities have pledged to mobilize resources and bring those responsible to justice. These attacks highlight the vulnerability of Christian communities and underscore the importance of steadfast faith, united families, and courageous leadership.
In Niger state, the release of 100 out of more than 300 abducted schoolchildren brings relief but also ongoing concern, as numerous children and teachers are still held captive by criminal gangs.
Parents and the Christian Association of Nigeria await firm communication from officials, longing for their loved ones’ safe return and trusting God through this trial.
“My son is among the children abducted… we hoping this is true and looking forward to the return of our children as promised by the national security adviser,” shared parent Dimas Joseph Mauhuta.
International attention has grown, with U.S. congressional delegates visiting Nigeria to address the crisis and support efforts to protect the persecuted faithful. They participated in discussions focused on counterterrorism, religious liberty, and security cooperation.
Nigeria remains a focal point for anti-Christian violence, as nearly 70 percent of Christians killed for their faith worldwide have died there, according to Open Doors’ World Watch List.
In times of darkness, the Christian call to courage, hope, and prayer grows stronger. As believers, we must uplift the brokenhearted, seek justice, and remain ever watchful in defense of faith, family, and freedom. Continue to pray for peace and safety for all of God’s children in Nigeria and beyond.
Faith Facts
- The word “Christmas” comes from “Christ’s Mass,” a celebration of Jesus’ birth.
- Jesus is God’s greatest gift, bridging the gap caused by humanity’s sin.
- Receiving Jesus by faith leads to forgiveness, salvation, and true joy.
“It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas everywhere you go.”
Many cherish the lights, music, and family gatherings of the season, but these joys are only the wrapping paper, not the true gift.
The true meaning of Christmas rests in Jesus, whose birth brought hope and redemption for all people.
The world’s traditions can distract us from the miracle of the Messiah entering our world to restore our relationship with God.
Scripture teaches that because of sin, humanity was separated from God, but He lovingly sent Jesus to save us.
“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son.”
Jesus humbly came down to us, born in a manger, living among the humble, and offering Himself for our salvation.
Through Christ, darkness is overcome by light, and the lost are embraced as beloved children of God.
The invitation of Christmas is to receive Jesus by faith and welcome God’s transforming love.
As you celebrate with loved ones, let your heart remember that without Jesus, Christmas loses its purpose.
“Joy to the world—the Lord is come!”
This season, may our hearts sing with gratitude for the Savior who truly gives Christmas its meaning.
Faith Facts
- St Peter’s Church, a Victorian-era ‘tin tabernacle’, is now protected by Historic England.
- The church, built in 1885, served believers living far from their parish.
- It remains nearly unchanged and features a Psalm inscribed above its altar.
The newly protected St Peter’s Church in Essex stands as a testament to the faithful spirit and practical wisdom of rural Christians in Victorian England.
Its corrugated iron construction reveals both the ingenuity and devotion of those seeking to worship in remote locations.
This rare church has survived in its original place and form, when most similar buildings disappeared over time.
Decorative chairs, paintings of the Stations of the Cross, and an inscribed Psalm above the chancel arch reflect deep reverence for God’s Word and sacred tradition.
“I WILL WASH MY HANDS IN INNOCENCY/AND SO WILL I GO TO THINE ALTAR.”
Other newly listed sites include ancient burial mounds, war relics, and notable churches, all preserving the deep roots of faith and heritage in England.
Securing these sites celebrates Christian values, preserves religious history, and affirms the significance of faith in shaping free societies for future generations.
Faith Facts
- Dr. Yagoub Jibril Glademea, a Christian physician, was jailed in Ad-Damazin, Sudan, after officials discovered his faith.
- Security officers interrogated and detained him solely because of his Christian identity, denying family visits for three days.
- His release was confirmed after he expressed gratitude for prayers and support while in detention.
Steadfast believers in Sudan continue to face dangerous hostility, as government authorities increasingly wield oppressive measures against Christians. Dr. Glademea was targeted for seeking a national number for his niece, highlighting the courage required to live one’s faith in an overwhelmingly Muslim nation.
Security Cells in Sudan, empowered by the state, have reportedly engaged in arbitrary arrests and intimidation, often targeting Christians and others suspected of opposing the regime. God’s people are harassed and persecuted, especially amidst violent conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
As violence rages, Christians endure escalating assaults on churches, homes, and communities. Open Doors’ World Watch List reports relentless attacks, with churches looted and believers trapped in the chaos, unable to escape the turmoil.
Sudan’s population is approximately 2.3 percent Christian, facing severe risk as armed groups exploit unrest to foster Islamic dominance. Both military factions—despite projecting tolerance—share Islamist roots and view Christians as threats to their hold on power.
Religious freedom briefly improved following the overthrow of Sudan’s Islamist regime in 2019, but the October 2021 coup reignited fears of harsh persecution and reinstated restrictions that burden followers of Christ.
Let us uphold Dr. Glademea and all Christians facing adversity in our prayers, trusting the Lord to strengthen their faith and shine His light in the darkest places.
-
Self-Reliance8 months agoTrump’s Bold Move Uncovers Massive Social Security Fraud
-
News9 months agoGovernor Walz’s Rhetoric Sparks National Controversy
-
Faith8 months agoNew Clues Emerge in Noah’s Ark Mystery
-
Family9 months agoTexas Lawmaker Targets Furries in Schools
-
News9 months agoMel Gibson’s ‘The Passion of the Christ’ Sequel Title Announced
-
Freedom9 months agoMaine Lawmaker Challenges Sports Fairness Controversy
-
Family7 months agoCanada’s Controversial Policy Sparks Ethical Debate
-
Faith3 weeks ago
Congress Hears Pleas for Nigerian Christians