Posted on 12^th January 2010

Greetings in the name of Jesus, Head of the Church

Algerian Christians have requested our prayers following a series of incidents at a newly opened church building in the city of Tizi Ouzo, western Algeria.

In November a growing church in the city opened a new church building to replace their previous rented premises. The new building seats 350 worshippers. Shortly afterwards, the authorities issued a letter to the church stating that it was not officially licensed for religious purposes. The church leaders had received similar notices previously but, as in the past, they chose to continue their activities because the church is a member of the Église Protestante d’Algerie which is registered with the authorities.

On 26^th December a mob of about 20 gathered at the entrance to the building and tried to prevent worshippers from gathering for their regular Saturday meeting. The church leaders called the police, who attended but did not intervene. Threats were made but no violent acts occurred.

On 27^th December Christians returned to the building and again found some of the mob present. Church members were able to speak with them and offered copies of the New Testament.

On 28^th December the church building was broken into. This was discovered the next day and the police were informed.

On 2^nd January a more serious incident occurred. A mob came to the service threatening worshippers, and manhandled the pastor. The service was stopped and calm was restored. Later in the day a group broke into the building and vandalised the interior until the police arrived and restored order. During the night there was another break-in and many contents were destroyed by a fire, though the structure of the building was not damaged.

Algerian Christians request our prayers that:

a.      The Lord will keep His peace, patience and protection over the church

b.      The pastor and all church members will know the wisdom and guidance of the Spirit in all aspects of their lives and witness

c.       All Christians in Algeria will be able to meet with fellow believers for worship, teaching, fellowship and prayer

d.      The perpetrators would be convicted by the Spirit, and respond to the truth of Jesus

e.      The authorities would act decisively to prevent any further attacks

May be circulated and quoted from freely citing "Middle East Concern" as the source of the information.