Attack wounds Christ-followers but claims no lives

Kenya (MNN) — Believers in coastal Kenya are praising God after a recent church attack.

According to Open Doors South Africa, two unknown attackers hurled a hand grenade into the compound of the Earthquake Miracle Ministries Church, Likoni on Sunday evening just as an open air meeting concluded.

Some 17 people, including a 10-year-old, are being treated for blast injuries. Their injuries range from bruises to more serious shrapnel wounds. Open Doors says some were wounded in the stampede as people fled the premises.

The Star, a Kenyan news publication, says police have been watching coastal Kenya closely, especially the Mrima and Majengo Mapya Likoni regions. Police claim many al-Shabaab terrorists returning from Somalia are hiding in the region with dangerous weapons.

Al-Shabaab announced a merger with al-Quaeda in February 2012, and is listed as a Foreign Terrorist Organization by the U.S. National Counterterrorism Center.

Officials also told The Star that the type of grenade used in this attack was introduced during World War II.

"It is of Russian make and can kill several people within a minute," said Likoni DCIO George Mutonya.

Thank the Lord that no one was killed in this attack. Pray for a speedy recovery for all those who were injured.

Open Doors South Africa has had a long relationship with the Church in Kenya's coastal and border regions. They say Christians here are facing increasing pressure.

Pray for wisdom and courage for Kenyan Christians as they respond to these difficulties. Pray that Open Doors support to them will help them to stand strong in the faith.

To learn more about Open Doors and how they help persecuted Christians worldwide, click here.