Story number 2 for 31 May 2000

Emboldened by the Hindu-run government, it appears that terrorists in India are beginning to step up their attacks against Christians. Juliet Thomas, director of women’s ministries for Operation Mobilization says: “Persecution is increasing. It can happen to anyone, at any place, at anytime now. It’s not just one type or particular area, though places like Gujerat has had more and Orissa. But now, things are just happening in just any place at all.” Thomas adds that despite the increased pressure, ministry will not cease. “I think God is pouring out a spirit of prayer. We see things happening among the Christians as we have not seen before. We are seeing people in the hundreds and the thousands turn to God in prayer-the church is giving themselves to prayer and fasting as we have not had before. God is also bringing a unity among the Christians-that need to stand together and face this thing together.”