Ethiopia

The constitution recognises freedom of religion but this is restricted by the government. Evangelical Christians continue to face opposition from the Orthodox Church, although Islam is fast becoming the main source of persecution. The Bible is increasingly distributed and read, but demand far outnumbers supply. But the Church is growing and in places there has been revival amongst Orthodox believers.

Examples of Persecution:

• In March 2011, more than 3,000 Christians were displaced as the result of Muslim violence that began after rumour was spread that Christians had desecrated the Quaran. Their homes and churches were burned down.
• In June 2010, a 13-year-old believer was stabbed to death for refusing to renounce Christ and marry a Muslim.
• In 2010, there were several reports of Christians being falsely charged with crimes to force them to suspend evangelistic activities.

Open Doors is: providing Bibles, children's Bibles and bicycles, conducting theological leadership training, and assisting Christians in livelihood projects.

Please Pray:

• For those involved in training programs designed to help church leaders stand firm in the face of opposition
• Praise God that the Church is growing. Pray for boldness for those seeking to share their faith
• The border conflict with Eritrea remains unresolved. Pray for stability in the region