Exloring Life Eternal

MERT:
Always rememember our first Love: Jesus as Lord over all nations!
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WIN News for July 30-August 5, 2006
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Saudi Arabia – Pray that improved religious freedom promised to the State Department would be implemented.

Kuwait – Father, protect all those who seek to share Your Gospel, especially in the face of growing Islamic extremism.

Syria - Pray for the government as it considers its response to continuing external pressure concerning armed groups in Lebanon and the Palestinian areas.

West Bank & Gaza Strip – Pray that Christian leaders will be bold and courageous in sharing their faith and standing up for their belief in Christ.

Mauritania - Pray that Christian radio broadcasts would be effective in spreading the truth about Jesus Christ.

Sudan - Father we pray for training and support for Christian Church leaders, especially those in the south who have been most affected by the conflict.

Eritrea - Heavenly Father, we remember again Helen Berhane and other Christians imprisoned in Eritrea for their faith, and we ask that you would bring about their swift release. We pray also that the recent release of a gospel album recorded by Helen would help draw attention to the plight of Christians in Eritrea.

Tibet – Pray for the training of leaders to disciple new Christian Believers and plant churches throughout Tibet.

Bhutan - We pray that Christians in Bhutan would not be discouraged by discrimination from their families or communities.

East Timor - LORD God, we commit into your hands the conflict in East Timor praying that peace and stability would be established swiftly. We pray for all those Christians caught up in the violence, those who have lost their homes and those who are stationed there as peace-keepers, that they will know your presence in this situation.

Afghanistan – We pray that through the Christian Church in Afghanistan, You would bring healing to this country which has been ravaged by war and oppressive regimes.

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The full prayer sheet is online.
WINDOW INTERNATIONAL NETWORK
P.O. Box 49127
Colorado Springs, CO 80949-9127
email: win@win1040.com
phone: (719) 522-1040
web: http://www.win1040.com

Israel- Pray that formal relationships between the government and traditional Christian Churches would improve, enabling both to function more effectively.

Tajikistan- Heavenly Father, we give you thanks that a controversial bill to limit religious freedom in Tajikistan has been delayed in being discussed. We pray that any efforts to introduce it or similar pieces of restrictive legislation would falter.

Djibouti - Heavenly Father, we give thanks that religious freedom is enshrined in the constitution of this country. We pray for an end to the increase in animosity towards non-Muslims and also for the continuation of good relations between the different faith groups.

Yemen – Pray that church buildings would be permitted across the country as promised in 2001.

Bahrain – Pray for an end to the violence between the country’s peoples over political and religious differences. Pray for a spirit of peace and unity to rest on the nation.

Brunei – LORD God, we remember the Christians living in Brunei under its Islamic regime. We pray for change in this country’s policies, that there would be greater freedoms provided to people living there and particularly that Christians would not see their rights to worship eroded.

Lebanon - Pray for renewed hope and restored joy across the Christian community following the assassinations last year of several Christians active in public life, and pray for comfort for grieving family and friends.

Qatar - Pray for strength, wisdom, endurance, protection, and boldness for Qatar’s pastors.

Ethiopia - Pray for justice and freedom for our Christian brothers and sisters who are unjustly imprisoned without formal charges or a trial and who suffer harassment for no reason.

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Window International Network
P.O.Box 49127
Colorado Springs, CO 80949-9127
Email: win@win1040.com
Phone: 719-522-1040
Web: http://www.win1040.com

Oman - Pray for greater distinctive holiness amongst the Christian Believers in Oman.

Tunisia - Pray against a spirit of moaning and groaning amongst Christian Believers but for a spirit of unity and holiness.

Syria - Pray that political, economic, and human rights reforms promised in January would be implemented quickly and effectively.

Jordan – Pray that God will help the leaders of the Christian communities in this nation to respond with forgiveness and love to harassments and persecution for their faith.

Eritrea - LORD God, thank you the events in the UK and elsewhere last month focusing on the persecution taking place in Eritrea. We pray that the prayer initiative and protest at the Eritrean Embassy would have both spiritual and political ramifications in Eritrea.

Tibet – LORD, we ask that you would bless the Christian Church’s relationship with the Buddhist community.

Full text @:
http://www.win1040.com/WeeklyPrayerPoints/wpp062506.pdf

WINDOW INTERNATIONAL NETWORK
P.O. Box 49127
Colorado Springs, CO 80949-9127
email: win@win1040.com
phone: (719) 522-1040
web: http://www.win1040.com

Yemen – Pray that Christians in this nation would see growth in their number.

Bahrain – LORD, we praise you for the way in which you are at work in Albania and that many will received you.

Qatar - Pray that expatriate Christians will know the Spirit’s guidance in deciding where to live and which schools to use for their children.

Lebanon - Pray for an easing of the tensions with Syria.

Algeria - Pray for radio and TV program production in Algeria, that audiences grow, and that the Holy Spirit’s creativity, energy, and action is evident to all through them.

Libya – God, we ask that you would help the leaders of this nation engage in dialogue with one another for the sake of the people they govern.

Chad – Heavenly Father, we pray for all those Christians living inside Chad and those sheltered from oppression in neighboring lands. We ask that peace and stability would prevail there and that those who confess Jesus as LORD would not be marginalized by members of other faiths who hold political power.

Ethiopia - We pray for the local Church that it might be equipped to minister to all who are suffering in the nation at this time.

Brunei – LORD God, we ask again for protection over the Christian Church in Brunei. We pray that those whose aim is to create an Islamic state in this country would find their plans thwarted and instead we would witness more people turning to you.


The full list is here:
http://www.win1040.com/WeeklyPrayerPoints/wpp061806.pdf

WINDOW INTERNATIONAL NETWORK
PO Box 49127
Colorado Springs, CO 80949-9127
email: win@win1040.com
phone: (719) 522-1040
web: http://www.win1040.com

Western Sahara - We pray that you would help the Christian Church in the Western Sahara to grow in maturity.

Egypt – Pray for protection of those who chose to follow Jesus Christ in this precious nation.

UAE - We pray particularly that you would raise up good leaders and teachers so that the Christian Church in the UAE can continue to grow.

Morocco - We praise you, LORD, for the way in which you are at work in Morocco, and that many have received you as Savior in their lives.

Iraq - Pray for daily strength for each Christian, especially those living amidst the threat of violence and crime.

Israel - Pray that expatriate Christians present in this nation as migrant workers would be wisely intentional in making Jesus Christ known.

Tajikistan – Father, we give thanks that the number of Christian Believers has grown in this country over recent years. We pray that though few in number they might be a great light to this nation and lead many more to you.

Djibouti - We remember the Christian Church in Djibouti and ask, LORD, that you would strengthen its members as they seek to follow you in this Islamic state.

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WINDOW INTERNATIONAL NETWORK
PO Box 49127
Colorado Springs, CO 80949-9127
email: win@win1040.com
phone: (719) 522-1040
web: http://www.win1040.com

Qatar - Praise God for the continuing construction of the first Church building in Qatar since the rise of Islam. Pray that the tensions caused would be used for the glory of God.

Ethiopia - Pray for the peace of Ethiopia. During the Epiphany celebrations in January in Addis Ababa, the government again used live ammunition on a crowd that was denouncing the head of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church for being too close to Ethiopia's ruling party.

Chad – Thank you LORD for the relative freedom that Christians have in Chad under President Idris Deby. We pray that you would bless the country as it continues to offer hospitality to refugees from Darfur, and that you would deliver Chad from attacks by rebels financed by Sudan.

Algeria - Pray for national Christians to stand firm in faith and unity and that the spread of the Gospel will not be hindered despite regulations.

Libya – Pray that the general changes within the country motivated by increasing international trade will lead to greater acceptance and better treatment for Christians.

Oman - Pray for Christian radio and TV program production in Oman, that audiences would grow and the Holy Spirit’s creativity, energy, and action would be evident to all through them.

Tunisia - Pray for greater distinctive holiness amongst Christians and for indigenous fellowships to form outside the capital.

Turkey - Pray for protection for national Christians and church property from attack by extremists.

North Korea – LORD, we lift up Christians in North Korea to you, particularly as a recent report suggested that there is no regular worship even at the three official Christian Churches in Pyongyang, which many regard as ‘show churches.’ We ask that you would bless and sustain our brothers and sisters so that they stand firm in their faith.

<><
email: win@win1040.com
phone: (719) 522-1040
web: http://www.win1040.com
WINDOW INTERNATIONAL NETWORK
PO Box 49127
Colorado Springs, CO 80949-9127


Qatar - Praise God for the continuing construction of the first Church building in Qatar since the rise of Islam. Pray that the tensions caused would be used for the glory of God.
Ethiopia - Pray for the peace of Ethiopia. During the Epiphany celebrations in January in Addis Ababa, the government again used live ammunition on a crowd that was denouncing the head of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church for being too close to Ethiopia's ruling party.

Chad – Thank you LORD for the relative freedom that Christians have in Chad under President Idris Deby. We pray that you would bless the country as it continues to offer hospitality to refugees from Darfur, and that you would deliver Chad from attacks by rebels financed by Sudan.
Algeria - Pray for national Christians to stand firm in faith and unity and that the spread of the Gospel will not be hindered despite regulations.
Libya – Pray that the general changes within the country motivated by increasing international trade will lead to greater acceptance and better treatment for Christians.
Oman - Pray for Christian radio and TV program production in Oman, that audiences would grow and the Holy Spirit’s creativity, energy, and action would be evident to all through them.
Tunisia - Pray for greater distinctive holiness amongst Christians and for indigenous fellowships to form outside the capital.
Turkey - Pray for protection for national Christians and church property from attack by extremists.
North Korea – LORD, we lift up Christians in North Korea to you, particularly as a recent report suggested that there is no regular worship even at the three official Christian Churches in Pyongyang, which many regard as ‘show churches.’ We ask that you would bless and sustain our brothers and sisters so that they stand firm in their faith.

<><
email: win@win1040.com
phone: (719) 522-1040
web: http://www.win1040.com
WINDOW INTERNATIONAL NETWORK
PO Box 49127
Colorado Springs, CO 80949-9127

Somalia is number 7 on Persecution List)

Prayer is needed for Christian Believers in Somalia as anti-Christian violence spreads throughout the mainly Islamic, impoverished African nation.

Most Somalis, more than 99.5 percent, are Muslims who regard Christianity as a foreign religion of their historic enemies in Ethiopia and Italians and the British, who colonized the nation.

There is a generally held view that all Somalis are Muslim, so any Somali Christian is viewed as an apostate who is worthy of death. In the initial chaos following the collapse of the dictatorship of Siad
Barre in 1991, Somali Christians were hunted down, pastors were murdered and the Christian Church in Somalia was driven deeply underground.

According to Open Doors International, Somalia is ranked seventh on the 2006 World Watch List of nations where persecution against Christians is most intense. Over the years, several Somali Christians have ed to Kenya, where they hoped to be free to practice their faith. Instead they have continued to suffer severe harassment, both from Somali Muslim refugees and from Kenya’s own Somali population. Under Kenyan law, refugees are denied employment, yet they receive minimal assistance from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

Once Somali refugees are identied as Christians, they are frequently attacked on the streets or in their homes, and in the most severe instances their children are abducted and forcibly circumcised and reconverted to Islam.

Abdi Aziz and his wife, Rukia, are Somali Christians who have suffered great persecution on account of their faith in Christ and ed with their children to Kenya. On January 20, 2006, a group of Muslims followed Aziz to his home in the predominantly Muslim suburb of Eastleigh in Nairobi after he had visited the ofces of the UNHCR.

They ransacked his house, stole all of his ofcial documents and kidnapped two of his children, a boy named Sharmarke and a girl called Nadar. The family  led complaints with the appropriate Kenyan authorities, but nothing has been seen or heard of the children since. Then on March 17, 2006, the family was again attacked in their home and another of their children, Bashir, was abducted. The couple again reported the incident to the appropriate authorities, but they are not con dent that any real assistance will be forthcoming.

Following the most recent abduction, Aziz told Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW): “Almost every time, we are in a dangerous situation, but our prayers keep us strong for we believe in Jesus, our Savior and Lord.” Aziz’s case is not unique. Unfortunately, Somali Christians seeking refuge in Kenya rarely nd it.

During a recent visit to the area, CSW received harrowing testimonies from refugees, many of whom reported having been stoned, beaten, attacked with knives, insulted in the streets and harassed in their homes on a regular basis. Muslim relatives often instigate assaults. Halima, a widow, reported that three of her eight children had been abducted by relatives and returned to Somalia, where they were forcibly circumcised and compelled to study in Madrassas, or Islamic schools.

Hassan, a teenager, described how two of his cousins assaulted him with knives on the streets of Eastleigh on February 12, 2006. He has to sleep in a different place every night, but Hassan added: “I believe that my Lord will protect me.”

Several Islamist groups have spearheaded the campaign against Christianity. However, according to local sources, the most dangerous are Al-Itihad and Al-Islah. Both groups were behind the creation of Shariah courts in the capital city, Mogadishu, and are believed to have links with Al-Qaeda. CSW encouraged Christians worldwide to write polite letters to the Kenyan ambassador, bringing to his attention the plight of Somali Christians refugees in Kenya, and outlining the abuses they encounter and the child abductions.

Citizens of the United Kingdom can address their letters to:
His Excellency Joseph Muchemi
High Commissioner to the United Kingdom
The Kenya High Commission
45 Portland Place
London W1B 1AS

“Remind the Kenyan ambassador of Kenya’s obligations under international law towards refugees within its borders and request that he kindly uses his of ce to highlight these issues with the appropriate authorities in order to ensure that cases of abduction, assault and harassment are thoroughly investigated, the perpetrators are punished, and Somali Christians receive adequate protection as a matter of urgency,” CSW said. “However, in your letter please do not mention individual Somali Christians by name.”

Pray for:
* Abdi Aziz and his wife, Rukia. They have suffered great persecution since eeing to Kenya, three of their children have been kidnapped and smuggled back to Somalia. Ask God to comfort, strengthen and deliver them from further attacks and abductions. Pray that their abducted children would know God’s protection, peace and ncouragement and that they would soon be reunited with their parents and siblings.

* Kenyan authorities to move decisively to ensure the swift return of these and other abducted children and pray that they would also take rm action against those who harass or attack Somali Christian refugees.

* Somali Christians who are viewed as apostates by some militant Muslims. These Believers are targeted for persecution and many times put to death. Pray that God would supernaturally protect and sustain them as they face extreme persecution. Pray also for protection and a place of safety for Somali Christians and for Hassan in particular, who is in imminent danger.

* Christians who are still in Somalia, who have been driven underground because of extreme opposition towards them. Ask God to give them great courage and wisdom. Pray also for their protection and deliverance, and for the brave Christians who are still willing to risk their lives by openly declaring their faith.

* The Somali government to allow freedom for other religions besides Islam. The LORD to save militant Muslims who are targeting Christians. Ask God to soften their hearts to the Gospel.

Sourced: Barnabas Fund, Christian Solidarity Worldwide, Open Doors International

WINDOW KIDS: Somalia
PRAYER ALERT: SOMALIA

As a small child, Ilhan was smuggled out of Somalia as at the height of war between the clans. Her father and two sisters were killed, but she left behind her mother and brother when she was taken out of the country. Ilhan was one of the fortunate who found a good home in Sweden. Still, she misses her mother and brother, and someday hopes to return to Somalia.

Somali parents pay smugglers up to $10,000 to take their children abroad. Faced with desperate choices, many parents who see no future in their country allow their children to be abandoned by “agents” at airports and rail-road stations in Europe and North America.

These separated children, some as young as three years are given a false identity and history. Some are cared for by relatives, but others become crime victims. Many Somali parents feel this is a better choice than staying in Somalia, perhaps being killed in the civil wars, starving, or dying from lack of health care.

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The website which the above info was cut&pasted has a printable prayer sheet for you to share with family & friends. It includes info on a cookbook for kids to pray for the 10/40 Window.
http://www.prayersquared.org/WINEmailNews/WINEmailNewsMay2006.swf

I commend to you:
WINDOW INTERNATIONAL NETWORK
PO Box 49127
Colorado Springs, CO 80949-9127
email: win@win1040.com
web: http://www.win1040.com

Eritrea - LORD, we lift to you the Patriarch [leader] of the Eritrean Orthodox Church as he has been illegally dismissed from office. We pray that you would protect him from those who would do him harm, and we ask for justice to be done so that he can continue to lead and encourage the Church.

Syria - Pray for the government as it considers its response to continuing external pressure concerning armed groups in Lebanon and the Palestinian areas.

Mauritania – Pray for good use of the opportunities afforded to Christian aid workers in the country.

Sudan - Heavenly Father, we pray particularly for unity amongst Christians. We ask for a unity based on their shared knowledge and love of Jesus Christ that would transcend tribal and political divisions.

Kuwait – Pray that work on the construction of two additional churches for the many expatriate Christians will not raise tensions.

Saudi Arabia - Pray for wisdom and courage for all Christians living in Saudi Arabia, that they will be Christ’s presence.

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WINDOW INTERNATIONAL NETWORK
PO Box 49127
Colorado Springs, CO 80949-9127
Write to: WIN (at) win1040(dot)com
phone: (719) 522-1040
web: http://www.win1040.com

Algeria - A new law was passed on March 20, 2006 concerning the regulation of Christian worship, the effects of which are not yet clear. Pray for national Christians to stand firm in faith and unity and that the spread of the Gospel will not be hindered.

Jordan – We pray that the government’s anti-terror crackdown will not come at the expense of civil liberties.

Libya – Pray that the general changes within the country motivated by increasing international trade will lead to greater acceptance and better treatment for Christians.

Oman - Pray for strength, courage, and hope for Christian Believers who have been excluded from families because of following Jesus Christ.

Tunisia - Pray that Tunisian society will accept more openly the existence of Tunisian Christians, thereby reducing the pressure on new Believers from their extended families.

Chad – Thank you LORD that under the current government, Christians in Chad have relative freedom to worship you. As army defectors based in Darfur and backed by northern Sudanese authorities threaten to bring chaos to the country, we pray for peace to prevail.

Somalia - Somalia has recently been ranked as the fourth worst country in the world for the persecution of Christians. LORD, protect your people, particularly as many of them face being ostracized or even attacked by their own families for their faith.

Israel - Pray for acting Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, that he will lead the country wisely and promote justice for all.

Djibouti - LORD, we pray for Christians in Djibouti that they would be a good witness. We pray that you would protect them from those who would oppose them.

Yemen - Pray for the protection of Christians in a country with many ethnic/tribal tensions.

Bahrain - Pray for greater acceptance of religious choice in society and a reduction in family pressure against those who choose to follow Jesus.

Lebanon - Give thanks for positive across- party political discussions in March and pray for a greater sense of national unity and mutual support.

Qatar - Pray for the provision of gifted expatriate pastors for all fellowships, and that neither they nor key lay leaders will be deported for no good reason.

Ethiopia - Please pray for the peace of Ethiopia. During the Epiphany celebrations in January the government again used live ammunition on a crowd in Addis Ababa that denounced the head of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church for being too close to Ethiopia's ruling party. Pray for righteousness in government and a swift, free, and fair trial.

For More information, go to:
www.win1040.com

Turkey - Pray that newly started Christian satellite TV broadcasts in Turkish will effectively communicate the truth about Jesus Christ.

Somalia - We pray for the vulnerable population of Somali Christians whose lives are in danger because they are viewed as apostates. Father, protect and provide for them wherever they may be found.

Jordan – Pray for greater tolerance by society of those who choose to follow Christ.

Eritrea - We commit the Eritrea/Ethiopia border situation to you, LORD, and particularly remember Christians who are often the first to be sent to the front line. We also lift up the 75 Protestant Christians recently jailed by the Eritrean military authorities at the Sawa Military Training Camp for "reading Bibles and praying during their free time." Father, be with them as they face persecution for their faith. Help them to stand firm in you.

Syria - Pray that political, economic and human rights reforms promised in January would be implemented quickly and effectively.

West Bank & Gaza Strip – Pray for protection of all Christian ministries, that they may continue to bear witness to the true light of the world.

Mauritania - Pray for spiritual wisdom for national believers in handling changes within the church, that Christian radio broadcasts would be effective in spreading the truth about Jesus, and for good use of the opportunities afforded to Christian aid workers in the country.

Lebanon - Pray for greater confidence and hope within the Christian community. Pray for renewed hope and restored joy.

Qatar - Pray that expatriate Christians will know the Spirit's guidance in deciding where to live and which schools to use for their children.

Ethiopia - The UK government has announced it is to suspend aid to the Ethiopian government because of concerns over its commitment to human rights. LORD, we ask that aid would still get to those who need it most through aid agencies and local initiatives.

Chad – We pray for an end to conflict between Chad and Sudan. Give the leaders of these nations a heart for peace.

Algeria - Pray for the continuing development of theological education and leadership training within Algeria for new Believers.

Libya – Pray for a greater acceptance and better treatment for Christians in this nation.

Oman - Pray for strength, courage, and hope for Christian Believers who have been excluded from families because of following Jesus Christ.

Tunisia - Pray for a reduction of pressure on new Christian Believers from their extended families. Pray that these Believers will be a witness to their family members.

Turkey - Pray that it will become accepted that one can be a Christian and a good citizen of Turkey.

North Korea – LORD, we commit to you the plans for the International Week of Prayer for North Korea, which is happening from June 19, – 25, 2006. Please grant wisdom to those who are planning the event, and use it powerfully to bring change to this beloved nation.

Somalia - Thank you LORD for the cordial relationship that has recently been established between Somalia's Transitional Federal President, Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmed, and the Speaker of Somalia's Transitional Federal Parliament, Sharif Hassan Sheikh Adan.

Jordan – We pray that the government’s anti-terror crackdown will not come at the expense of civil liberties.

Debbie Meroff
Reply-To: newsbytes-owner@yahoogroups.com
N E W S * B Y T E S - February 2006
*************************************************
A Free Service of OPERATION MOBILISATION NEWS & INFORMATION*

TEL AVIV: GAY CAPITAL?
Israel tourism officials have announced that they plan on turning Tel Aviv into the gay capital of the world. "Tel Aviv and gay people are a perfect fit," said an official with the Israel Hotel Association (IHA). The idea was born when IHA Director-General Eli Ziv visited London to participate in the 2005 World Travel Market exhibition and met with representatives of the homo-lesbian travel industry. "We are drafting plans to encourage gay tourism from Germany, England and Holland," said Ziv. Tourism Ministry Director-General Eli Cohen said he would offer any financial assistance necessary. Tel Aviv hosts the largest Gay Pride Parade in Israel, drawing up to 100,000 people. [Ynetnews.com]

"YEAR OF THE FAMILY"
At its annual Partnership Conference in Cyprus, SAT-7, the Arabic Christian satellite TV channel in the Middle East and North Africa, announced the launch of the "2006 Year of the Family" Campaign. The campaign will include special programs on SAT-7, book distributions and seminars in churches with the aim of strengthening families. SAT-7 is sponsoring the event in association with local churches and Bible Societies in the Middle East. The slogan is "Together we can shape the future!" SAT-7 is also aiming to raise awareness of the needs of the disabled in the Arab world, and expanding programming for youth. [www.sat7.org/]

IRAQI CHURCHES BOMBED
A spate of car bombs exploded outside churches in Iraq on Sunday 29th January in what appears to have been a coordinated attack. The explosions occurred within a half hour period, apparently chosen to coincide with the time at which Christians would be going to church. Two churches in the northern city of Kirkuk and at least two others in the capital Baghdad were targeted. At least three people, including a 13-year-old boy, were killed and an estimated 16-20 people injured. According to some reports as many as 7 churches were bombed. On the same day, Christian students at Mosul University were beaten up by Muslim students. Many Iraqi Christians believe the events were retaliation for the Danish cartoons of Mohammed. [BARNABAS FUND 2 Feb.'06]

FIRST-EVER TURKISH CHRISTIAN SATELLITE TV CHANNEL
A broad coalition of sending organisations and Turkish local churches are pooling resources to start TURK-7 TV, the country's first Christian satellite TV channel. Programs were scheduled to begin airing in January on the same frequency as SAT-7, the successful Christian TV broadcasters for the Arab-speaking world. Initially TURK-7 will be on for 2 hours each Tuesday and Thursday, but it is hoped the channel will eventually have 24/7 programming. Follow-up (audience relations) will be an important part of the effort. Says one leading Turkish pastor, "Television is a very effective method for communicating across the entire nation. The most exciting thing is that TURK-7 is helping Turks to proclaim Christian truths to their own people, in their own language". [www.sat7.org/ ]

BIBLE GROUPS IN ETHIOPIA
Starting at zero four years ago, Ethiopia's capital Addis Adaba now has 185 Bible listening groups meeting regularly to listen to audio cassettes of the Bible and talk about the Scriptures. The groups are part of the Bible Society's "Faith comes by hearing" project. "Many participants have told us how listening to God's Word has changed their lives," states the project director. He says the people come together for fellowship and nourishment from the Scriptures. [BIBLE SOCIETY, EN 1/06]

YOUNG PEOPLE JAILED FOR READING BIBLE
Eritrean military authorities have jailed 75 Protestant Christians at the Sawa Military Training Camp for "reading Bibles and praying during their free time," local sources in the small East Africa nation confirmed. Most of the newly arrested evangelicals, 37 of them women, are student youths doing their compulsory national military service at Sawa, a remote center near Eritrea's mountainous western border with Sudan. The young conscripts had not attempted to conduct a Christian meeting or transgressed any other military law. Muslim conscripts are allowed to have their own copy of the Quran and pray 5 times a day. Since May 2002, the repressive regime of President Isaias Afwerki has closed down all independent evangelical churches and refused to allow their members to meet anywhere for worship. [COMPASS 2 Feb.'06]

RESPONSE TO CHRISTIAN RADIO IN INDONESIA TRIPLES
The coast of Indonesia is being rebuilt after the December 2004 tsunami, although survivors are still dealing emotionally and spiritually with their loss. A new radio station was launched in November by Back to the Bible in North Sumatra, one of the worst-hit areas. The station was launched through relief funds that came into Back to the Bible after the tsunami hit. Several programs are being aired, including a live call-in program. In the future, Aceh-language programming will be added to reach the hard-hit and spiritually needy area of Banda Aceh. The message of hope is resonating with listeners, many of whom write asking difficult questions. Response has nearly tripled since November. [MNN 2 Feb.'06]

INCREASE IN MISSION INTEREST BY STUDENTS
Jerry Rankin of the USA's Southern Baptist International Mission Board says more and more students are showing interest in missions. In 2001 and 2002, the board has seen more candidates than they have ever had in their history, with over 1,000 missionaries dispatched to fields in each of those years. "Even though we have a higher number of retirements," he said, "we're seeing the highest [number] of missionary appointments." This past year, over 3,000 people applied as candidates to be apprentice missionaries, expressing a sense of call to missions. And "these are candidates for our long-term service, accentuated Rankin, "not our short-term service." [CHRISTIAN POST 6 Feb.'06]

USA [TRADITIONAL] CHURCHES LOSING ATTRACTION [YET HUNGER REMAINS]
A growing number of Americans no longer view a local church as their primary religious meeting place. A study by the Barna Group shows that new forms of religious experience, such as house churches, marketplace ministries, and cyberchurches, are becoming the norm for millions. Discontent with traditional churches, changes in lifestyle and a desire to get closer to God have spurred a megashift. 2/3 of adults have internet access and the internet now serves as the foundation for faith experiences for more than 1 in 10 adults, although most also use it in tandem with another form of corporate religious experience. [RELIGION TODAY]

SHOCKWAVE! [PERSECUTED CHURCH]
For the fifth year, a prayer initiative organised by Open Doors International's youth branch, "Underground," will involve thousands of youths worldwide in praying for persecuted Christians. The March 3-5 event kicks off in New Zealand and travels across all time zones, both online and in other creative ways such as all-night events or prayer breakfasts. For more information in various languages or to obtain resources visit:
http://www.odshockwave.org/

RESOURCES:
TO ENCOURAGE CHRISTIAN WORKERS, especially those working in difficult or dangerous places, a new 15 minute daily radio program produced by Trans World Radio. For details see www.memcarebyradio.com Audio of programs also available on the web.

"France 2006," 40 DAYS OF PRAYER & FASTING DAYS FOR FRANCE, will take place from March 1st to April 9th. Prayer guides, promotional leaflets, and a new DVD called "God in France" can be ordered online. See www.objectiffrance.org

KIDS OF COURAGE website helps kids, parents and teachers link up with
mission prayer and projects worldwide: http://www.linkingup.com/

EZINE FOR MOBILIZERS "Missions Catalyst" by Caleb Project is a weekly
bulletin designed to inspire and equip Christians worldwide to be a voice
for strategic ministry.
See http://tinyurl.com/ar8ac
email info@cproject.com

==========

NEWS BYTES is compiled monthly by Debbie Meroff of OM News & Information
[OMNI] in London, England. Material may be freely copied and circulated.
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Here are some reminders to pray for the saints in Somalia & for the discipling of all peoples there:

- 15 years of no cohesive government in the land (i.e. no law & no order.)
- Famine could possibly worsen if there are no rains before May. (April Showers would really be considered a blessing.)
- The land has a history of persecution of Christians.
- There are more people with wounds from arms than anywhere else.
- Children in East Africa looking for water @ wells / watering holes are threatened by predatory animals who are lurk at some places.

==> PRAY FOR THE LEADERS IN SOMALIA & THAT CHRISTIANS WHO ARE THERE OR WHO COULD HAVE A POSITIVE IMPACT WOULD SPEAK UP & INTERCEDE BEFORE THE GREAT KING OVER ALL THE EARTH. THE LORD IS ALIVE!!

(The whole context of Somalia reminds me of Elijah & Ahab.)

PAKISTAN: MESSIANIC MUSLIM CONTINUES LONELY MARCH
From: ASSIST News Service - February 3, 2006

By Mark Ellis

His houses along the Pakistan and Afghanistan border have been sprayed with bullets. Yet his unconventional approach to reach Muslims is winning converts. “It’s been an uphill battle,” says Brother John, a full-blooded Pashtun, and founder of a ministry devoted to presenting biblical Christianity within an Islamic context. His houses near the border of Afghanistan and Pakistan are lined with prayer rugs and have the feel of an Eastern worship center.

... “The moment I say he’s the one and only, God Almighty in human
flesh, the trouble begins,” John says. “You have to take things
one step at a time.” Many Christians will not understand John’s strategy because it sounds like compromise. “To some degree it is,” he admits. At
the same time, he emphasizes his main thrust is to prove that
Jesus Christ is God in human flesh. “We worship him as the Creator
and the Savior.”

Full story here (http://www.assistnews.net/Stories/s06020013.htm).

----------------------------------------------------

ERITREA: MILITARY JAILS 75 PROTESTANT CONSCRIPTS
from: Compass Direct - February 2, 2006

Eritrean military authorities jailed 75 Protestant Christians
yesterday (February 1, 2006) at the Sawa Military Training Camp
for “reading Bibles and praying during their free time,” local
sources in the small East Africa nation confirmed. Most of the
newly arrested evangelicals, 37 of them women, are students doing
their compulsory national military service at Sawa, a remote
center near Eritrea’s mountainous western border with Sudan.

... The jailed Protestants are routinely subjected to physical beatings
and severe psychological pressure to deny their religious beliefs.
Police and military authorities continue to demand that the prisoners
return to one of the three “official” Christian denominations
recognized by the government.

Full story here
http://www.compassdirect.org/en/newslongen.php?idelement=4184

===
Excerpts from

Missions Catalyst News Briefs: WORLD NEWS BRIEFS --
Wed Feb 15, 2006 -- Edited by Pat Noble <mcnews@cproject.com>
Published by Caleb Project --
Equipping the Church to Reach the Nations -- http://www.calebproject.org

UAE - Pray for the Emirate of Dubai following the death of its ruler on January 4, 2006. We pray that the new ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, would rule justly and wisely for the benefit of all who live in his emirate.

Morocco - Pray that the national Church would gain full acceptance within Moroccan society.

Iraq - Pray for the emergence of a government that will govern wisely for the benefit of all Iraqis.

Israel - Pray that the fellowship whose Christmas Eve baptismal service was disrupted by 300 ultra-orthodox Jews would continue to respond with love and courage.

Djibouti - Nearly 150,000 people, almost a fifth of the nation's population, are facing severe food shortages brought on by drought conditions. We ask that God would provide for them and that aid would quickly reach those who need it most.

Yemen - Pray that those who choose to follow Jesus would find fellowship and be discipled.

Bahrain - Pray for greater acceptance of religious choice in society, particularly of Christianity.

=====
See Window International Network for more: http://www.win1040.com .
(c) 2006.

Eritrea - Almighty God, we know that the peace-keeping forces on the border with Ethiopia have been crippled by the government's request that all European personnel leave the country. Lord, we ask you for a just and swift resolution to the border dispute.

Syria - Pray for those who choose to follow Jesus, that they will stand firm against intense family pressure.

West Bank & Gaza Strip – Pray for Christians in Bethlehem, as restrictions on access to the town for locals, tourists, and pilgrims are made increasingly difficult with severe consequences for local businesses.

Mauritania – Pray that more Christians will be able to visit Mauritania to support local Believers.

Sudan - Thank you, Lord, for the release of Sudanese refugees who had been detained in Cairo. We continue to pray that you would restore peace to Sudan, so that people would feel that it is safe to return.

Kuwait – Pray that Christians would make good use of the opportunities afforded by the official mourning period following the death on 14th January of the Emir.

Saudi Arabia - Praise God that the police raids on informal expatriate fellowships meeting in homes appears to have ended. Pray for wisdom and courage for all Christians living in Saudi Arabia, that they will be Christ’s presence.

Remember, three primary prayer concerns for these countries:
- Wisdom & Peace for those in leadership & authority positions.
- Workers for Christ to be thrust out to reach the lost.
- More believers in Christ.

====
Chad – Pray for ongoing freedom of religion as the country is increasingly polarized between the politically dominant Muslim northerners and the increasingly marginalized Christian and ethnic religion southerners.

Algeria - Pray for the discipleship of new Christian Believers.

Libya – Pray that the general changes within the country motivated by becoming re-integrated with global trade will lead to greater acceptance and better treatment for Christians

Oman - Pray that those excluded from families because of following Jesus will find nourishing relationships with other Christian Believers.

Tunisia - Pray that Tunisian society will accept more openly the existence of Tunisian Christians, reducing the pressure on new Believers from their extended families

Turkey - Pray for protection for national Christians and church property from attack by extremists.

Somalia - Thank you, Father, that the UN has launched an appeal to address the humanitarian needs of the Somali people. We pray that aid would get to those who are in greatest need.

Jordan – Pray for greater tolerance by society of those who choose to follow Christ.

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http://www.win1040.com -- win@win1040.com
Window International Network
PO Box 49127
Colorado Springs, CO 80949-9127
USA

ERITREA: CHRISTMAS RAIDS ON CHRISTIAN BUSINESS OWNERS
from: Release Eritrea (http://www.release-eritrea.org.uk) - December
26, 2005

Release Eritrea has been informed by sources in Asmara that,
over the last few days, the government of Eritrea conducted a
series of raids on Eritrean businesses owned by evangelical Christians,
arresting owners and staff and closing establishments.

Many other people including Mr. Berhane, the director of industrial
issues, are reported to have gone missing. Mr. Berhane was at
work in the ministry of trade and industry at the time of his
disappearance. Our sources indicate that many unknown people
have also gone missing from their homes, work places, and streets.
It is estimated that as many as 150 people could have fallen
victims of this latest purge on Eritrean Christians.

A source close to many of those arrested stated, “In this Christmas
many people are celebrating their freedom in different churches
around the world for the birth of Jesus Christ, but for the Eritrean
Christians this is a dark day.”

Eritrean Christians have urged Release Eritrea to let the world
know what is happening to them. One such sentiment was expressed
in the brother who told us, “Let the world know what is happening
in this suffocated nation without press and democracy. Many families
are in danger. Please pray for us.”

Full story here (http://www.release-eritrea.org.uk/node/41).

As you read through these requests: Remember, the chief aim is the salvation of those who are lost in darkness & have no hope of eternal life apart from Jesus Christ. - mjh

----
Israel - Pray that the election scheduled for March 28, 2006 will lead to governance for all Israelis, whether they are ethnically Jewish or Arab, and religiously Jewish, Muslim, or Christian.

Djibouti - Pray that Christians will be a strong witness to God's love and see spiritual breakthroughs in their country.

Yemen - Pray for the protection of Christians in a country with many ethnic/tribal tensions.

Bahrain - Pray for a reduction in family pressure against those who choose to follow Jesus Christ.

Lebanon - The assassination of Christian journalist and political Gibran Toeni on December 12, 2005 further dented the confidence and hope of the Christian community. Pray for renewed hope and restored joy.

Qatar - Praise God for the commencement of construction of the first Christian Church building in Qatar since the rise of Islam. Pray that any tension caused would be used for the glory of God.

Ethiopia - Pray for unity amongst the various church groups that they can work together in the common goal of filling their nation with the Good News of Jesus Christ.

=====