Iraq

Iraq's Christian minority experienced much violence in 2008. Bomb blasts regularly damaged churches and Christians continued to receive death threats, some clearly intended to expel all Christians from areas of Baghdad and Mosul. At least five Christians were kidnapped and 35 murdered for their faith in 2008. The violence has forced tens of thousands of Christians out of their homes, some out of the country.

Examples of Persecution:

• Christian individuals are being threatened, robbed, raped or kidnapped and churches are beign attacked.
• A bomb exploded near the rear entrance of a Catholic church in Baghdad after Sunday Easter Mass, injuring at least 7 people and shattering its windows.

Please Pray:

• For internally displaced people, especially those assisted by Open Doors with emergency aid, Bibles and essential items
• That authorities will intervene to restore homes and liberty for Christians to live and work freely in their own country
• That those who have lost loved ones will be comforted, strengthened and able to forgive their persecutors.