Story number 2 for 30 Aug 2002

(China)–Next, Voice of the Martyrs is reporting that 71 Christians have disappeared or been secretly arrested in recent months. That, on word from the Committee for Investigation on Persecution of Religion in China. The group believes this is likely preparation for the Communist Party’s national congress this fall. It is common for Chinese authorities to arrest those who might “embarrass” the Communist Party during high-profile events. Pray that they will not give in to pressure, but that they will stand firm in their faith and ministry.