SRI LANKA: Three Churches Attacked

Date of Bulletin: 5 February 2014

Sri Lanka

Two churches in Hikkaduwa, Galle District, were attacked on Jan. 12, and a third, in Pitipana, Homagama, Colombo District, was set on fire the same day.

The Assemblies of God and Calvary churches in Hikkaduwa had received warnings prior to the attacks and were promised police protection. However, during worship services on Jan. 12, about 300 people led by Buddhist monks stormed the churches and obstructed a main road, claiming the Christians' presence was illegal. The mob dispersed only after a senior police officer promised that the churches would be closed until  Feb. 10, during which time a solution would be sought.

The Church of the Foursquare Gospel, in Pitipana, was set on fire by unidentified attackers during a prayer  vigil. The fire was doused before serious damage could occur. A threatening note was left on the gate of the church.

Voice Of the Martyrs Sources, National Christian Evangelical Alliance of Sri Lanka

Please Pray!

• Remember the pastors and congregations of these churches as well as other Christian churches in Sri Lanka.
• Pray that they will remain steadfast and unmovable in their faith.
• Pray that they will find favor with the authorities and that many will come to faith in Christ through their witness.

"Plead my cause, O LORD, with those who strive with me; fight against those who fight against me. Take hold of shield and buckler, and stand up for my help. Also draw out the spear, and stop those who pursue me. Say to my soul, 'I am your salvation.'" Ps. 35:1-3

The Voice of the Martyrs provides training for pastors in Sri Lanka.

Other Sources:

Sri Lanka police "identify church attackers" in Hikkaduwa, By Charles Haviland BBC News, Colombo


The video below was posted on YouTube by Srilanka Majahedin.