Christians Detained in Afghanistan

The Taliban detained at least 18 staff members of International Assistance Mission (IAM), a Christian-based NGO which has served the 99% Muslim country since 1966.

AIM said no charges have been lodged yet against their organization or any individual in custody. But other news sources say the workers are accused of “doing mission work” or “preaching Christianity.” (Arab News, September 16; and VOA, Ayaz Gul, September 15)

Three, including an American woman and two Afghans, were taken from the nonprofit group’s office in Ghor Province on September 3, and then 15 more Afghans on September 13. All were transported to Kabul.

AIM is the longest continually serving NGO in Afghanistan. “Over the last decade alone, IAM has profoundly impacted the lives of over 4.2 million people in Afghanistan through its dedicated efforts. During this period, IAM has spent over 40,000,000 USD on initiatives aimed at improving healthcare, education, and community development.”

Their website states, “We are unaware of the circumstances that led to these incidents and have not been advised of the reason for the detention of our staff members. The well-being and security of our colleagues are paramount to us, and we are doing everything possible to ensure their safety and secure their swift release. IAM remains committed to its mission, working tirelessly in Afghanistan to address the pressing needs of the people, striving to build a more just and peaceful Afghanistan.

“We stand by the principle that ‘aid will not be used to further a particular political or religious standpoint.’ All IAM staff agree to abide by the laws of Afghanistan.”

More than 99% unreached with the gospel of Christ, Afghanistan is considered one of the most dangerous countries in the world, with Islamic extremists persecuting and terrorizing not only Christians and women, but other Muslims as well. Earthquakes and floods have only increased their desperation.

An estimated 90% of Afghanistan’s households don’t have enough food to eat; many die of starvation and malnourishment daily, especially children. Earning a living is difficult, and in many cases impossible. Under Taliban rule, women are forbidden to work or go to school, leaving desperate mothers with no way to feed their hungry children.

“I used to be able to give my children a cookie or biscuit when they were hungry, but now when they ask for food, I often have nothing to give to them and they cry.” 

An Afghan father (Global Christian Relief)

Lord, have mercy, please. We ask You for a miracle. Open the way for the quick and safe release of these faithful servants. Remind them of scriptures and songs that will give them hope. Strengthen them with courage, faith and love. Grant them kindness and forgiveness to their persecutors. Give them and the others helping them wisdom and favor with authorities. Be a Shield around them, protecting them from harm. Fill their rooms with Your angels and Your felt presence. Make those angels visible to the guards. Give authorities, wardens and other prisoners dreams and visions from You to convince them of who You are. Make a way where there seems to be no way for every person in Afghanistan to know of Your love. Invade their dreams each night. Visit them in visions throughout the day. Open up the internet for those with phones or other means of access. Have mercy, please, on the thousands who are dying without the chance to know of Your great love. Break those who are terrorizing their country. Flatten them with fear of the Lord. As hungry as people are for food, O God, make the people of Afghanistan all the more hungry for You. Provide a way out for them, so they can escape terror, starvation and death, and meet the One who is Life instead, satisfied forever with Your love, protection and peace. When they seek You, meet them in extraordinary ways. Provide manna from Heaven, both spiritual and edible. May they meet the Bread of Life, receive Your salvation, and spread word of You throughout the land. Turn what the enemy has meant for great evil and death into a pathway for every heart to find eternal life through Christ.

Join us on Sunday, November 5, for the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church, and invite others in your church or prayer group.

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