On September 17th, a court in the city of Almaty upheld an earlier decision to seize two buildings owned by the New Life Protestant Church. The facilities were being used for worship, as well as a means of support for those suffering from drug and alcohol dependency. Three of the church’s pastors were detained in November last year and sentenced to terms of up to five years for allegedly “causing psychological harm” and having involvement in illegal associations. The church’s properties were also confiscated.
In a separate incident, Grace Church in Nur-Sultan is also challenging the legalities relating to the confiscation of their property which was seized to make room for a kindergarten.
Pray that the courts will recognize the positive impact these churches have had on their communities and thus rule equitably in their favour.
Pray that the Lord will grant wisdom to the leaders of both churches as they work their way through the legal mazes before them. May the Lord be their “refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble,” also ministering in this manner to their families and congregation members (Psalm 46:1). As they await God’s vindication, may they seize every opportunity they are given to share their faith with others.
(Source & Photo Credit : VOMC)
#persecuted Church
