voice of the christians - persecution relief...god bless you, shibu thomas, founder...
TRANSCRIPT
Fortnightly Edition - Volume - 1 Issue - 17 Bhopal 13.07.2017 to 25.07.2017 Title code: RNI:MPENG/2016/70216 `5 /-
For Private Circulation, within the Church
voice of the christians
Persecution Relief will observe 22nd July as the
“Indian Christian Martyrdom Day” which will be an annual event, to honour ‘Bharat ki Beti’ who was
raped and murdered and to salute the martyrdom of Christian soldiers, who lost their lives
defending their faith in Jesus Christ.
www.persecutionrelief.org
Call 9826025767
22nd July will be honored as “Indian Christian Martyrdom Day”
On this day, please pause from your activities, individually or with family and friends, to pray at home, work, or Church, for 2 minutes, to remember the persecuted Church and the Martyrs’ families.
Let this Annual Event make us reflect on their great sacrifice, which India must never forget. May it raise up believers to pray, volunteer and lend support to the persecuted Church in India.
Persecution Relief will observe 22nd July as the
“Indian Christian Martyrdom Day” which will be an annual event, to honour ‘Bharat ki Beti’ who was
raped and murdered and to salute the martyrdom of Christian soldiers, who lost their lives
defending their faith in Jesus Christ.
www.persecutionrelief.org
Call 9826025767
2 13 July to 25 July 2017Volume-1 Issue-17
and inconspicuous’ crisis of ‘widespread’ Christian persecution of the Church in India.
abandoned broken men and women of God, for recommitment; to go out with a new road map for life in Christ Jesus.
build up the Church – the body of Christ.
up to our magnificent God.
forgiveness and transformation of persecutors.
OURVISION
313 July to 25 July 2017Volume-1 Issue-17
On 22nd July, at 9.00 am, 16-year old Esther (name changed), one among six siblings, had left home to walk 3-km between her village and the government school. Three days before she was raped and killed, she had wheeled her cycle back home, its rear tyre punctured. The first two days after the puncture, her father had dropped her to school and brought her back. That day, he had left for the fields. The rains had arrived, there was work to do, and a family of eight to feed. The girl usually returned at four or five in the evening, but when she wasn’t home even an hour later, the family grew worried. Around 6 pm, three meters from the road, they found her school bag.
Her body was found half naked in the forest under Bayanar Police Station jurisdiction, district Kondagaon, in the state of Chhattisgarh. She had been intercepted by a group of men who gang raped and murdered. The cruel perpetrators even glued her eyes & lips together with Fevi Kwick! Esther was one among six siblings. The family had been boycotted and ostracized by the villagers for their resolve to remain Christians. The community had distanced themselves from this family from a year ago. In spite of this great loss, ‘Esther’s’ father, Bro. Maner Sori, declared courageously, “I will never recant Jesus Christ whatever may happen. I am not worried about my daughter because she is at the safest place in Heaven”.
INDIAN CHRISTIAN MARTYRDOM DAY, 22 JULY, 2017
Persecution Relief’ is commemorating “INDIAN CHRISTIAN MARTYRDOM DAY” on 22nd July 2017 – in honor of “Bharat ki Beti” and other Bharatiya Christian Martyrs. This day commemorates the death of 14 - year old ‘Esther’ known by pseudonym ‘Bharat ki Beti’, who was brutally raped and martyred for Jesus Christ exactly one year ago; in an act of hateful revenge to her family, who were unwilling to forsake their faith in Jesus Christ”.
On this day, established as a tribute to martyrs, we present real stories that you won’t see covered by the mainstream media - of real people of faith, staying true to their Christian beliefs in the face of religious oppression. These powerful stories - are tragic yet courageous, truly life inspiring, expressing passion, power, love and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. Our desire is that these stories will propel us to “live a life worthy of the calling you have received” (Eph. 4:11) and be renewed in taking up our cross daily no matter what it might cost us.
We must get rid of the “ENEMY IMAGE” we have of those who persecute us. The moment we regard them as the enemy, God’s love can no longer work through us to reach them! We must sincerely pray for and even love those who hate us. We are also called to take a stand for our persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ. Hebrews 13:3 says, “Continue to remember those in prison as if chained with them, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.”
Let us be a peculiar people, with the mind of Christ - a people of light, who respect, love and pray for other people from different religions and faith. Let’s remember to uphold our leaders and ministers who lead this nation. May God give them the wisdom, knowledge and understanding to govern and lead this land of India with all wisdom.
God bless you,Shibu Thomas, [email protected]
Founder’s Note
BHARAT KI BETI
MARTYRED FOR HER FAITH IN JESUS CHRIST
4 13 July to 25 July 2017Volume-1 Issue-17
SERVEPERSECUTEDLOVEPERSECUTORS
“Fear of persecution is eliminated with the power of the Holy Spirit. Be filled in Jesus’ name.” Shibu Thomas - Founder, Persecution Relief
“Fear of persecution is eliminated with the power of the Holy Spirit. Be filled in Jesus’ name.” Shibu Thomas - Founder, Persecution Relief
Page 2:
Serve Persecuted, Love Persecutors
Pastor Yohan Maria Beheaded:
Pastor Yohan Maria, lived with this wife and 4 children in Yetapaka Village in East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh.
Pr. Maraiah, who himself was once a Maoist, had a life changing encounter with Jesus Christ and renounced his former life. His entire family and many others were transformed by this powerful witness and became disciples of Jesus Christ. He pastored a small fellowship and boldly shared the love of Jesus Christ and inspired many, who left their evil ways and started living a normal life.
However, his conversion efforts were not acceptable to the Maoist Leaders. He had suffered several attacks and his church torched more than once. But, he remained strong in his unswerving faith in Jesus Christ. His constant quote was “I live or die it doesn’t matter I will share the love of Jesus to all’.
At around 2:30 am on July 29, Maoists dragged him to a nearby forest where they mercilessly beat him, beheaded him, and left him on the outskirts of the village. They left a note at the murder scene accusing him of being "a police informer" and "accumulating disproportionate wealth exploiting Tribals."
Pastor Yohan is survived by his wife & 4 children.
Page 2:
Serve Persecuted, Love Persecutors
Pastor Yohan Maria Beheaded:
Pastor Yohan Maria, lived with this wife and 4 children in Yetapaka Village in East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh.
Pr. Maraiah, who himself was once a Maoist, had a life changing encounter with Jesus Christ and renounced his former life. His entire family and many others were transformed by this powerful witness and became disciples of Jesus Christ. He pastored a small fellowship and boldly shared the love of Jesus Christ and inspired many, who left their evil ways and started living a normal life.
However, his conversion efforts were not acceptable to the Maoist Leaders. He had suffered several attacks and his church torched more than once. But, he remained strong in his unswerving faith in Jesus Christ. His constant quote was “I live or die it doesn’t matter I will share the love of Jesus to all’.
At around 2:30 am on July 29, Maoists dragged him to a nearby forest where they mercilessly beat him, beheaded him, and left him on the outskirts of the village. They left a note at the murder scene accusing him of being "a police informer" and "accumulating disproportionate wealth exploiting Tribals."
Pastor Yohan is survived by his wife & 4 children.
Page 2:
Serve Persecuted, Love Persecutors
Pastor Yohan Maria Beheaded:
Pastor Yohan Maria, lived with this wife and 4 children in Yetapaka Village in East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh.
Pr. Maraiah, who himself was once a Maoist, had a life changing encounter with Jesus Christ and renounced his former life. His entire family and many others were transformed by this powerful witness and became disciples of Jesus Christ. He pastored a small fellowship and boldly shared the love of Jesus Christ and inspired many, who left their evil ways and started living a normal life.
However, his conversion efforts were not acceptable to the Maoist Leaders. He had suffered several attacks and his church torched more than once. But, he remained strong in his unswerving faith in Jesus Christ. His constant quote was “I live or die it doesn’t matter I will share the love of Jesus to all’.
At around 2:30 am on July 29, Maoists dragged him to a nearby forest where they mercilessly beat him, beheaded him, and left him on the outskirts of the village. They left a note at the murder scene accusing him of being "a police informer" and "accumulating disproportionate wealth exploiting Tribals."
Pastor Yohan is survived by his wife & 4 children.
Pastor Yohan Maria BeheadedPastor Yohan Maria, lived in Yetapaka Village in East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh.
Pastor Maria, who himself was once a Maoist, had a life changing encounter with Jesus Christ and renounced his former life. His entire family and many others were transformed by this powerful witness and became disciples of Jesus Christ. He pastored a small fellowship and boldly shared the love of Jesus Christ and inspired many, who left their evil ways and started living a normal life.
However, his conversion efforts were not acceptable to the Maoist Leaders. He had suffered several attacks and his church torched more than once. But, he remained strong in his unswerving faith in Jesus Christ. His constant quote was “I live or die it doesn’t matter I will share the love of Jesus to all’. At around 2:30 am on July 29, Maoists dragged him to a nearby forest where they mercilessly beat him, beheaded him, and left him on the outskirts of the village. They left a note at the murder scene accusing him of being “a police informer” and “accumulating disproportionate wealth exploiting Tribals.”
Pastor Maria is survived by his wife & 4 children.
Persecution Relief will observe 22nd July as the
“Indian Christian Martyrdom Day” which will be an annual event, to honour ‘Bharat ki Beti’ who was
raped and murdered and to salute the martyrdom of Christian soldiers, who lost their lives
defending their faith in Jesus Christ.
www.persecutionrelief.org
Call 9826025767
513 July to 25 July 2017Volume-1 Issue-17
Day 1Lord, Jesus Christ was the first martyr, the first who gave his life for us. May he always be our inspiration.
Day 2Lord, we pray for the dis-placed widows and father-less children who have en-dured a cruel death of their loved one, never to give up their faith in our Lord Jesus Christ
Day 3Lord, we remember the widows, fatherless and orphaned children, many who are struggling to survive – be their Provider
Day 4Lord, we pray that believers experience God directly, powerfully and be transformed through the death of martyrs for Jesus
Day 5Lord, we pray that believers will encounter God through the example of the martyr, to experience Christ as Liberator
Day 6Lord, we pray that we will look to the Martyrs for inspiration – Jesus being the first, when we are tempted to selfishness
Day 7Lord, we pray that we will have the strength to follow the path of Jesus, to suffer with him and for him
Day 8Lord, fill us with the power of the holy Spirit to be a tangible testimony and witness of Jesus Christ
Day 9Lord, help us to remember to pray for Christians all around the world, in such perilous times
Day 10Lord, fill our hearts with super-natural compassion of Christ toward the persecutors who kill the body but cannot touch our soul
Day 11Lord, remind us of our duty to grow every day in greater love for God and for our neighbor
Day 12Lord, may the widows/orphans count no sacri-fice too great, no suffer-ing too deep, no poverty too excruciating, as long as the love of Christ re-mains in them
Day 13Lord, no matter how harsh the trial or how difficult the problems or how acute the suffering, may the widows/orphans never forget that they are always in God’s hands
Day 14Lord, may the faith of the widowed martyrs’ always flourish as a direct result of the martyrs’ witness
Day 15Lord, we pray that the blood of Your saints will confess Jesus Christ and many a Saul will be converted to Paul
Day 16Lord, we pray that the bereaved families will know You O God, are the defender of widows and a Father to the fatherless
Day 17Lord, we pray that You will bring peace and bring verses of Scripture to remembrance that will comfort them
Day 18Lord, we pray that the bereaved families will respond to their loss in a Christ like way so as to bring glory to God
Day 19Lord, we pray that you will continue to protect the children who are left without their mother and father’s care
Day 20Lord, we pray that the widows/orphans will rest in the knowledge that the Good Shepherd walks with them through this difficult time
Day 21Lord, we pray that the widows/orphans will rejoice in the opportunity to grow in Christlikeness through the ongoing opposition they face
Day 22Lord, we pray that the widows/orphans will keep their eyes on Jesus, persevere in their faith, and not grow weary or lose heart.
Day 23Lord, we pray that you will enable the widowed parent to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to Christ so that their children will be encouraged to walk closely with the Lord as they grow up
Day 24Lord, we pray that those who have lost their loved ones will be filled with the joy that comes from knowing that they will see them again at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ
Day 25Lord, we pray that You will strengthen young believers to follow in the example that has been passed down to them by their leaders
Day 26Lord, we pray that the widows/orphans will never be ashamed of the gospel because God’s power brings salvation through it
Day 27Lord, we pray that everything they have and even their very lives will mean nothing in comparison with the joy of knowing Christ and sharing him with others
Day 28Lord, we pray that the widows / orphans will rely on the Lord to give them the words to say when they stand before accusing authorities
Day 29Lord, we pray that You will bring about justice for the widows/orphans in this unjust world
Day 30Lord, we pray that the widows and orphans of martyrs will remember Your words, that You are the father of the orphans and the widows
Day 31Lord, we pray that Chris-tians all across India will demonstrate unity and solidarity with those who are suffering for Christ
Month of reMeMbering Christian Martyrs, widows of Martyrs, orphaned
Children and orphaned faMilies
PERSECUTION RELIEF PRayER CaLENDaR
2017 JuLY
An AppealAs I sit to pen a few lines on the occasion of ‘Indian Christian Martyrdom day, I am overwhelmed and challenged by the compelling life and sacrifice of the true heroes of our faith - those that labor and continue to laborin some of the hardest terrains of India; their unmatched courage and commitment, to go where we fear to go – I salute them.
Day in and day out, we hear of brutal, horrific stories of torture and suffering. Not only are our brethren suffering physical and mental abuse, they are also being socially boycotted. A village collectively shuns the Christian, refusing to buy nothing from them, sell nothing, cutting off water supply, exchanging no words with them,showing them plainly that they are not wanted there. Life becomes so uncomfortable, with no source of income, that they voluntarily leave the society. Christian families are displaced; Christian homes are abandoned.
What is the ‘Church of God’and the “Body of Christ’ doing?
We free Christians are part of the same body of Christ that is now being brutally beaten and even martyred for Christ. Can you not feel the pain? Our brothers & sisters are out there, alone and without help, waging the greatest and courageous battle of the 21st century, in par with the early Church, while the free Church is oblivious and sleeps on!
I pray that God would wrestle with each of our souls and challenge us; sow within us a deep desire for the outreach Jesus has tasked us. It has never been about “us” but rather “Him” and the glory of His name among the nations. I appeal to your moral consciousness, to share in our mission and help the persecuted brothers and sisters, who are suffering for their faith in Jesus Christ.
As we commemorate the “Indian Christian Martyrdom Day” on 22nd July, please do not turn your back to this opportunity to ‘Adopt a persecuted family’ or ‘Adopt a Martyred family’ A simple act of sending even Rs. 100/=,can make you a part of joining the cause of serving the body of Christ. I hope you will give this plea your full attention
“The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself” – Prov.11:25
I beseech you, give heed to the Word of God. God bless you.
Please contact us [email protected]
Sincerely, In Christ,
Asha
6 13 July to 25 July 2017Volume-1 Issue-17
Pastor Chamu Purty was pastoring a small church in the village Sandigaon which is 13 kms off the main NH 75 this village.
On 13th October, around 11:30 PM, around 10-12 people with arms knocked their mud house door seeking prayer. Peeping through the small window, his wife, Sr. Sonamti Purty saw armed men standing outside. Reluctant to let her husband outside, Sr. shouted out that her husband had retired for the night. These irate men
Pastor Chamu Purty…shot before his family for the sake of Christ
Debe Madi, wife of Pastor. Gurumurthy Madi, still couldn’t forget the memories of that night when she heard the sound of four gun shots. She knew for sure they killed her husband for being a daring gospel bearer.
Pastor Gurumurthy Madi had served many needy people in Malkangiri, Odisha. Through his transformed life and work, two Naxal commanders—members of a communist guerrilla group—gave themselves up to local police. After this he was able to inspire and influence other Naxals to surrender themselves to the Police. This transformation attracted the attention of Naxal leaders, who demanded that Pastor Madi return all those members of the group who had given themselves up to the police. When he refused to hand over a fellow pastor who was a former Naxal, Madi was on their hit list.
It was on the 10th of August 2016, when few men from the village came to their house in the wee hours looking for Guru as they needed to talk with him. Guru was away in the nearby villages spreading the Word to the thirsty. Guru never doubted the intention of the people seeking him as he was known in the
Gurumurthy Madi… Sacrificed for Christ to win his tribes…
Page 3:
(to use the 2nd Page of the brochure)
Pastor Chamu Purty…shot before his family for the sake of Christ Pastor Chamu Purty was pastoring a small church in the village Sandigaon which is 13 kms off the main NH 75 this village.
On 13th October, around 11:30 PM, around 10-12 people with arms knocked their mud house door seeking prayer. Peeping through
the small window, his wife, Sr. Sonamti Purty saw armed men standing outside. Reluctant to let her husband outside, Sr. shouted out that her husband had retired for the night. These irate men began to pound on the door and broke it open with axes and attacked the pastor.The Pastor was attacked and shot dead in cold blood. Sr. Sonamati and her son, who witnessed this nightmare, managed to flee in the cover of darkness and hid in the jungle through the night. Pastor Chamu Purty is survived by his wife Sonamati Purty and three daughters and a son.
Pastor Chamu had dedicated his life towards not just spiritual enrichment but also practical upliftment of the villagers in that he modified his two-wheeler and attached it with a cart that could be useful to carry any sick person to the block hospital which was around13 kms from the village. He was a powerful instrument of God, influencing lives of the entire village, that the whole village mourned over his sudden death.
Although the Church was closed down and over 100 believers scattered, no male pastors were willing to go serve in the village. However, after attending the Kumbanad Convention, on her return to the village, Sr.Sonamathi was inspired by the Holy Spirit, to resume the worship service. Today over 7 families gather to worship with her.
Gurumurthy Madi…Sacrificed for Christ to win his tribes…
Debe Madi, wife of Pastor. Gurumurthy Madi, still couldn’t forget the memories of
that night when she heard the sound of four gun shots. She knew for sure they killed
her husband for being a daring gospel bearer.
Pastor Gurumurthy Madi had served many needy people in Malkangiri, Odisha.
Through his transformed life and work, two Naxal commanders—members of a
communist guerrilla group—gave themselves up to local police. After this he was
able to inspire and influence other Naxals to surrender themselves to the Police.
This transformation attracted the attention of Naxal leaders, who demanded that
Pastor Madi return all those members of the group who had given themselves up to
the police. When he refused to hand over a fellow pastor who was a former Naxal,
Madi was on their hit list.
It was on the 10th of August 2016, when few men from the village came to their
house in the wee hours looking for Guru as they needed to talk with him. Guru was
away in the nearby villages spreading the Word to the thirsty. Guru never doubted
the intention of the people seeking him as he was known in the province as a
“Gospel Preacher” and the one who was available for any kind of help to the needy.
The next day, the religious fanatics came looking for him again saying they needed
to clarify few things with others who are waiting for him there. The family members
were helpless as they could do nothing except seek His face for a miraculous
intervention.
On the night of 11th August, at about 9 pm, they heard four gun shots from the
nearby forest surrounding the village. They found him, lying on ground bleeding from
the wounds of the gunshots & the brutal, vicious beatings. Guru is survived by this
wife Debe Madi and 2 children
province as a “Gospel Preacher” and the one who was available for any kind of help to the needy.
The next day, the religious fanatics came looking for him again saying they needed to clarify few things with others who are waiting for him there. The family members were helpless as they could do nothing except seek His face for a miraculous intervention.
On the night of 11th August, at about 9 pm, they heard four gun shots from the nearby forest surrounding the village. They found him, lying on ground bleeding from the wounds of the gunshots & the brutal, vicious beatings. Guru is survived by this wife Debe Madi and 2 children
INDIAN CHRISTIAN MARTYRDOM DAY, 22 JULY, 2017
Page 3:
(to use the 2nd Page of the brochure)
Pastor Chamu Purty…shot before his family for the sake of Christ
Pastor Chamu Purty was pastoring a small church in the village Sandigaon which is 13 kms off the main NH 75 this village.
On 13th October, around 11:30 PM, around 10-12 people with arms knocked their mud house door seeking prayer. Peeping through
the small window, his wife, Sr. Sonamti Purty saw armed men standing outside. Reluctant to let her husband outside, Sr. shouted
out that her husband had retired for the night. These irate men began to pound on the door and broke it open with axes and
attacked the pastor.The Pastor was attacked and shot dead in cold blood. Sr. Sonamati and her son, who witnessed this nightmare,
managed to flee in the cover of darkness and hid in the jungle through the night. Pastor Chamu Purty is survived by his wife
Sonamati Purty and three daughters and a son.
Pastor Chamu had dedicated his life towards not just spiritual enrichment but also practical upliftment of the villagers in that he
modified his two-wheeler and attached it with a cart that could be useful to carry any sick person to the block hospital which was
around13 kms from the village. He was a powerful instrument of God, influencing lives of the entire village, that the whole village
mourned over his sudden death.
Although the Church was closed down and over 100 believers scattered, no male pastors were willing to go serve in the village.
However, after attending the Kumbanad Convention, on her return to the village, Sr.Sonamathi was inspired by the Holy Spirit, to
resume the worship service. Today over 7 families gather to worship with her.
Gurumurthy Madi…Sacrificed for Christ to win his tribes…
Debe Madi, wife of Pastor. Gurumurthy Madi, still couldn’t forget the memories of
that night when she heard the sound of four gun shots. She knew for sure they killed
her husband for being a daring gospel bearer.
Pastor Gurumurthy Madi had served many needy people in Malkangiri, Odisha.
Through his transformed life and work, two Naxal commanders—members of a
communist guerrilla group—gave themselves up to local police. After this he was
able to inspire and influence other Naxals to surrender themselves to the Police.
This transformation attracted the attention of Naxal leaders, who demanded that
Pastor Madi return all those members of the group who had given themselves up to
the police. When he refused to hand over a fellow pastor who was a former Naxal,
Madi was on their hit list.
It was on the 10th of August 2016, when few men from the village came to their
house in the wee hours looking for Guru as they needed to talk with him. Guru was
away in the nearby villages spreading the Word to the thirsty. Guru never doubted
the intention of the people seeking him as he was known in the province as a
“Gospel Preacher” and the one who was available for any kind of help to the needy.
The next day, the religious fanatics came looking for him again saying they needed
to clarify few things with others who are waiting for him there. The family members
were helpless as they could do nothing except seek His face for a miraculous
intervention.
On the night of 11th August, at about 9 pm, they heard four gun shots from the
nearby forest surrounding the village. They found him, lying on ground bleeding from
the wounds of the gunshots & the brutal, vicious beatings. Guru is survived by this
wife Debe Madi and 2 children Page 3:
(to use the 2nd Page of the brochure)
Pastor Chamu Purty…shot before his family for the sake of Christ Pastor Chamu Purty was pastoring a small church in the village Sandigaon which is 13 kms off the main NH 75 this village.
On 13th October, around 11:30 PM, around 10-12 people with arms knocked their mud house door seeking prayer. Peeping through
the small window, his wife, Sr. Sonamti Purty saw armed men standing outside. Reluctant to let her husband outside, Sr. shouted out that her husband had retired for the night. These irate men began to pound on the door and broke it open with axes and attacked the pastor.The Pastor was attacked and shot dead in cold blood. Sr. Sonamati and her son, who witnessed this nightmare, managed to flee in the cover of darkness and hid in the jungle through the night. Pastor Chamu Purty is survived by his wife Sonamati Purty and three daughters and a son.
Pastor Chamu had dedicated his life towards not just spiritual enrichment but also practical upliftment of the villagers in that he modified his two-wheeler and attached it with a cart that could be useful to carry any sick person to the block hospital which was around13 kms from the village. He was a powerful instrument of God, influencing lives of the entire village, that the whole village mourned over his sudden death.
Although the Church was closed down and over 100 believers scattered, no male pastors were willing to go serve in the village. However, after attending the Kumbanad Convention, on her return to the village, Sr.Sonamathi was inspired by the Holy Spirit, to resume the worship service. Today over 7 families gather to worship with her.
Gurumurthy Madi…Sacrificed for Christ to win his tribes…
Debe Madi, wife of Pastor. Gurumurthy Madi, still couldn’t forget the memories of
that night when she heard the sound of four gun shots. She knew for sure they killed
her husband for being a daring gospel bearer.
Pastor Gurumurthy Madi had served many needy people in Malkangiri, Odisha.
Through his transformed life and work, two Naxal commanders—members of a
communist guerrilla group—gave themselves up to local police. After this he was
able to inspire and influence other Naxals to surrender themselves to the Police.
This transformation attracted the attention of Naxal leaders, who demanded that
Pastor Madi return all those members of the group who had given themselves up to
the police. When he refused to hand over a fellow pastor who was a former Naxal,
Madi was on their hit list.
It was on the 10th of August 2016, when few men from the village came to their
house in the wee hours looking for Guru as they needed to talk with him. Guru was
away in the nearby villages spreading the Word to the thirsty. Guru never doubted
the intention of the people seeking him as he was known in the province as a
“Gospel Preacher” and the one who was available for any kind of help to the needy.
The next day, the religious fanatics came looking for him again saying they needed
to clarify few things with others who are waiting for him there. The family members
were helpless as they could do nothing except seek His face for a miraculous
intervention.
On the night of 11th August, at about 9 pm, they heard four gun shots from the
nearby forest surrounding the village. They found him, lying on ground bleeding from
the wounds of the gunshots & the brutal, vicious beatings. Guru is survived by this
wife Debe Madi and 2 children
Page 3:
(to use the 2nd Page of the brochure)
Pastor Chamu Purty…shot before his family for the sake of Christ Pastor Chamu Purty was pastoring a small church in the village Sandigaon which is 13 kms off the main NH 75 this village.
On 13th October, around 11:30 PM, around 10-12 people with arms knocked their mud house door seeking prayer. Peeping through
the small window, his wife, Sr. Sonamti Purty saw armed men standing outside. Reluctant to let her husband outside, Sr. shouted out that her husband had retired for the night. These irate men began to pound on the door and broke it open with axes and attacked the pastor.The Pastor was attacked and shot dead in cold blood. Sr. Sonamati and her son, who witnessed this nightmare, managed to flee in the cover of darkness and hid in the jungle through the night. Pastor Chamu Purty is survived by his wife Sonamati Purty and three daughters and a son.
Pastor Chamu had dedicated his life towards not just spiritual enrichment but also practical upliftment of the villagers in that he modified his two-wheeler and attached it with a cart that could be useful to carry any sick person to the block hospital which was around13 kms from the village. He was a powerful instrument of God, influencing lives of the entire village, that the whole village mourned over his sudden death.
Although the Church was closed down and over 100 believers scattered, no male pastors were willing to go serve in the village. However, after attending the Kumbanad Convention, on her return to the village, Sr.Sonamathi was inspired by the Holy Spirit, to resume the worship service. Today over 7 families gather to worship with her.
Gurumurthy Madi…Sacrificed for Christ to win his tribes…
Debe Madi, wife of Pastor. Gurumurthy Madi, still couldn’t forget the memories of
that night when she heard the sound of four gun shots. She knew for sure they killed
her husband for being a daring gospel bearer.
Pastor Gurumurthy Madi had served many needy people in Malkangiri, Odisha.
Through his transformed life and work, two Naxal commanders—members of a
communist guerrilla group—gave themselves up to local police. After this he was
able to inspire and influence other Naxals to surrender themselves to the Police.
This transformation attracted the attention of Naxal leaders, who demanded that
Pastor Madi return all those members of the group who had given themselves up to
the police. When he refused to hand over a fellow pastor who was a former Naxal,
Madi was on their hit list.
It was on the 10th of August 2016, when few men from the village came to their
house in the wee hours looking for Guru as they needed to talk with him. Guru was
away in the nearby villages spreading the Word to the thirsty. Guru never doubted
the intention of the people seeking him as he was known in the province as a
“Gospel Preacher” and the one who was available for any kind of help to the needy.
The next day, the religious fanatics came looking for him again saying they needed
to clarify few things with others who are waiting for him there. The family members
were helpless as they could do nothing except seek His face for a miraculous
intervention.
On the night of 11th August, at about 9 pm, they heard four gun shots from the
nearby forest surrounding the village. They found him, lying on ground bleeding from
the wounds of the gunshots & the brutal, vicious beatings. Guru is survived by this
wife Debe Madi and 2 children
began to pound on the door and broke it open with axes and attacked the pastor.The Pastor was attacked and shot dead in cold blood. Sr. Sonamati and her son, who witnessed this nightmare, managed to flee in the cover of darkness and hid in the jungle through the night. Pastor Chamu Purty is survived by
his wife Sonamati Purty and three daughters and a son.
Pastor Chamu had dedicated his life towards not just spiritual enrichment but also practical
upliftment of the villagers in that he modified his two-wheeler and attached it with a cart that could be useful to carry any sick person to the block hospital which was around13 kms from the
village. He was a powerful instrument of God, influencing lives of the entire village, that the whole village mourned over his sudden death.
Although the Church was closed down and over 100 believers scattered, no male pastors were willing to go serve in the village. However, after attending the Kumbanad Convention, on her return to the village, Sr.Sonamathi was inspired by the Holy Spirit, to resume the worship service. Today over 7 families gather to worship with her.
713 July to 25 July 2017Volume-1 Issue-17
and inconspicuous’ crisis of ‘widespread’ Christian persecution of the Church in India.
abandoned broken men and women of God, for recommitment; to go out with a new road map for life in Christ Jesus.
build up the Church – the body of Christ.
up to our magnificent God.
forgiveness and transformation of persecutors.
OURVISION
PARAN, an offshoot of our flagship organization, ‘Persecution Relief’, is a charitable institution extraordinaire, providing a life-line and sanctuary to the persecuted Church in India. This shelter will address the desperate need of lodging, post-trauma care, spiritual renewal, recommitment and restoration to the widows and children of martyrs and other groups of persecuted brethren, forsaken by the community
Why the name ‘Paran’ and what does it mean?The word ‘PARAN’ means “abounding in caverns”. PARAN figuratively is the solid ‘Rock’, coined as a tribute and homage to Jesus Christ the ‘Rock of Ages’, who was ‘cleft’ or became a ‘PARAN’ for us – split apart, apart from the Father, in order to make a way, forcefully, through sin.
A place of permanent refuge
“Abraham sent off Hagar….. He dwelt in the Wilderness of Paran; (Gen. 21: 8-21)
A temporary place refuge
“And the children of Israel set out from the Wilderness of Sinai on their journeys; then the cloud settled down in the Wilderness of Paran”. (Num.10:12)
A place for righteous living
And he said:“The Lord came from Sinai, And dawned on them from Seir; He shone forth from Mount Paran, And He came with ten thousands of saints; From His right hand came a fiery law for them. (Deut. 33:2)
A place for preparation
“then Samuel died; and David arose and went down to the Wilderness of Paran” (1 Sam 25:1)
A place for spiritual healing
When Jezebel threatened Elijah… “But he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a broom tree. And he prayed that he might die, and said, “It is enough! Now, Lord, take my life, for I am no better than my fathers! Then as he lay and slept under a broom tree, suddenly an angel touched him, and said to him, ‘Arise and eat’.” (1 Kings 19:4, 5)
A place where God’s presence descends and abides
“So it shall be, while My glory passes by, that I will put you in the cleft of the rock, and will cover you with My hand while I pass by. Then I will take away My hand, and you shall see My back; but My face shall not be seen”. (Exo. 33:22, 23)All the Scripture references are NKJV
and inconspicuous’ crisis of ‘widespread’ Christian persecution of the Church in India.
abandoned broken men and women of God, for recommitment; to go out with a new road map for life in Christ Jesus.
build up the Church – the body of Christ.
up to our magnificent God.
forgiveness and transformation of persecutors.
OURVISION and
inconspicuous’ crisis of ‘widespread’ Christian persecution of the Church in India.
abandoned broken men and women of God, for recommitment; to go out with a new road map for life in Christ Jesus.
build up the Church – the body of Christ.
up to our magnificent God.
forgiveness and transformation of persecutors.
OURVISION
and inconspicuous’ crisis of ‘widespread’ Christian persecution of the Church in India.
abandoned broken men and women of God, for recommitment; to go out with a new road map for life in Christ Jesus.
build up the Church – the body of Christ.
up to our magnificent God.
forgiveness and transformation of persecutors.
OURVISION
INDIAN CHRISTIAN MARTYRDOM DAY, 22 JULY, 2017
and inconspicuous’ crisis of ‘widespread’ Christian persecution of the Church in India.
abandoned broken men and women of God, for recommitment; to go out with a new road map for life in Christ Jesus.
build up the Church – the body of Christ.
up to our magnificent God.
forgiveness and transformation of persecutors.
OURVISION
8 13 July to 25 July 2017Volume-1 Issue-17
Pastor David Lugun of Jharkhand was shot 3 times and killed on the road just before his house, on 29th of July 2015.
He was very effective in evangelism and in a very short time formed a house church with 7 families. Last November the enemies of the Kingdom of God stole his motor bike and threatened him not to inform the police. Some believers were badly tortured by them and where made to sit in dirt all night & it was raining heavily. They asked them to come back to their old life forsaking Jesus. Despite of all the persecution they didn’t leave Jesus.
On 19th July 2015 a group of anti-social elements rounded Pr David & warned him not to preach about Jesus,but still Pr David decided to stick to his calling and he proclaimed the love of Jesus to all villagers.
After few days Pr David went to Manoharpur in Jharkhand to prepare some documents & people from the village who were against Pr David informed the anti-social elements that he had gone to the city to make a Police complaint.
On 27th as Pr.David, his Brother & one more brother was coming to their house on a jeep. They were followed and where attacked, but they escaped.
But on 29th July of 2015 by 7:00pm 3 men who were masked came by a bike. To Pr.David’s house with arms & they Dragged him out on the road and fired 3 Bullets and killed him.
Sonamati Lugun, the wife of slain Pr David Lugun never imagined that her beloved
husband’s death would be a catalyst to bring many people to the Vineyard of the Lord. She was in tears when Persecution relief presented her the cheque as that money meant a lot to her after she lost her husband for standing for God’s kingdom. She is left with her one and half year old child baby Sonyam who was holding tightly her mother by seeing the huge crowd.
Page 5:
Pastor David Lugun of Jharkhand shotdead
Pastor David Lugun of Jharkhand was shot 3 times and he was killed on the road just before his house. on 29th of
July 2015
He was very effective in evangelism and in a very short time formed a house church with 7 families. Last November
the enemies of the Kingdom of God robbed his karisma bike. And threatened him not to inform the police. Last few
months back the believers were badly tortured by them and where made to sit in dirt all night & it was raining heavily,
they asked them to come back to their old life detesting Jesus. Despite of all the persecution they didn't leave Jesus.
On 19th July 2015 a group of anti-social elements rounded Pr David & warned him not to preach about Jesus,but still
Pr David decided to stick to his calling and he proclaimed the love of Jesus to all villagers.
After few days Pr David went to Manoharpur in Jharkhand to prepare some documents & people from the village who
were against Pr David informed the anti-social elements that he had gone to the city to make a Police complaint.
On 27th as Pr.David, his Brother & one more brother was coming to their house on a jeep. They were followed and
where attacked, but they escaped.
But on 29th July of 2015 by 7:00pm 3 men who were masked came by a bike. To Pr.David’s house with arms & they
Dragged him out on the road and fired 3 Bullets and killed him.
Sonamati Lugun, the wife of slain Pr David Lugun never imagined that her beloved husband’s death would be
a catalyst to bring many people to the Vineyard of the Lord. She was in tears when Persecution relief
presented her the cheque as that money meant a lot to her after she lost her husband for standing for God’s
kingdom. She is left with her one and half year old child baby Sonyam who was holding tightly her mother by
seeing the huge crowd.
Pastor David Lugun of Jharkhand shot dead
Page 5:
Pastor David Lugun of Jharkhand shotdead Pastor David Lugun of Jharkhand was shot 3 times and he was killed on the road just before his house. on 29th of July 2015 He was very effective in evangelism and in a very short time formed a house church with 7 families. Last November the enemies of the Kingdom of God robbed his karisma bike. And threatened him not to inform the police. Last few months back the believers were badly tortured by them and where made to sit in dirt all night & it was raining heavily, they asked them to come back to their old life detesting Jesus. Despite of all the persecution they didn't leave Jesus. On 19th July 2015 a group of anti-social elements rounded Pr David & warned him not to preach about Jesus,but still Pr David decided to stick to his calling and he proclaimed the love of Jesus to all villagers. After few days Pr David went to Manoharpur in Jharkhand to prepare some documents & people from the village who were against Pr David informed the anti-social elements that he had gone to the city to make a Police complaint. On 27th as Pr.David, his Brother & one more brother was coming to their house on a jeep. They were followed and where attacked, but they escaped. But on 29th July of 2015 by 7:00pm 3 men who were masked came by a bike. To Pr.David’s house with arms & they Dragged him out on the road and fired 3 Bullets and killed him.
Sonamati Lugun, the wife of slain Pr David Lugun never imagined that her beloved husband’s death would be a catalyst to bring many people to the Vineyard of the Lord. She was in tears when Persecution relief presented her the cheque as that money meant a lot to her after she lost her husband for standing for God’s kingdom. She is left with her one and half year old child baby Sonyam who was holding tightly her mother by seeing the huge crowd.
Page 5:
Pastor David Lugun of Jharkhand shotdead Pastor David Lugun of Jharkhand was shot 3 times and he was killed on the road just before his house. on 29th of July 2015 He was very effective in evangelism and in a very short time formed a house church with 7 families. Last November the enemies of the Kingdom of God robbed his karisma bike. And threatened him not to inform the police. Last few months back the believers were badly tortured by them and where made to sit in dirt all night & it was raining heavily, they asked them to come back to their old life detesting Jesus. Despite of all the persecution they didn't leave Jesus. On 19th July 2015 a group of anti-social elements rounded Pr David & warned him not to preach about Jesus,but still Pr David decided to stick to his calling and he proclaimed the love of Jesus to all villagers. After few days Pr David went to Manoharpur in Jharkhand to prepare some documents & people from the village who were against Pr David informed the anti-social elements that he had gone to the city to make a Police complaint. On 27th as Pr.David, his Brother & one more brother was coming to their house on a jeep. They were followed and where attacked, but they escaped. But on 29th July of 2015 by 7:00pm 3 men who were masked came by a bike. To Pr.David’s house with arms & they Dragged him out on the road and fired 3 Bullets and killed him.
Sonamati Lugun, the wife of slain Pr David Lugun never imagined that her beloved husband’s death would be a catalyst to bring many people to the Vineyard of the Lord. She was in tears when Persecution relief presented her the cheque as that money meant a lot to her after she lost her husband for standing for God’s kingdom. She is left with her one and half year old child baby Sonyam who was holding tightly her mother by seeing the huge crowd.
913 July to 25 July 2017Volume-1 Issue-17
CHRISTIANMARTYR’S MUSEUM
PARAN will house the first Christian Martyr’s Museum, made in remembrance and recognition of the dedication and commitment of our martyrs; it will display their sacrificial death and influence on the proliferation of Christianity in India.
PERSECUTION RELIEF FAMILY SALUTES THE MARTYRS FOR JESUS CHRIST
“We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed — always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body” (2 Cor. 4: 8-10)
PERSECUTION RELIEF FAMILY SALUTES THE MARTYRS FOR JESUS CHRIST
“We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed — always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body” (2 Cor. 4: 8-10)
This Museum will display vivid photographs of historic Indian Martyrs from the time of the formation of India; it will preserve all their personal and valuable assets, quotations and letters; it will be a ‘state of the art’, modern, informative, educational exhibition, using interactive touch screen displays and new graphic panels telling the story in text and images.
Our objective is that, every person who walks into the Museum, will be inspired as in Apostle Paul’s words, “For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Phil 1: 21) and go back with an allegiance and determination that he would not count the cost but be willing and ready to be martyred for Jesus.
The Church owes these brave souls a spiritual debt, who have proclaimed to the world that Jesus, and not Caesar, is Lord. As in the words from the Book of Revelation “and they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death” (Rev. 12: 11)
“The memory of these brothers and sisters of ours, must remain alive. Indeed, may it grow! May it be passed down from generation to generation that it may germinate a profound Christian revival”
Jesus' Disciples Martyred Andrew was crucified on an X-shaped
cross
Bartholomew or Nathanael was flayed alive with knives
James (the son of Zebedee), was First apostle martyred
James (the son of Alphaeus), was Sawn in pieces
Jude or Thaddeus was killed with arrows
Matthew or Levi was martyred in Ethiopia
Peter was crucified upside-down on a cross
Philip died by hanging
Simon the Zealot died a martyr’s death
Thomas Didymus killed with a spear
10 13 July to 25 July 2017Volume-1 Issue-17
a persecuted
www.persecutionrelief.org
familya persecutedfamily
Adopt
Call 9826025767
How can you be part of tHis
movement? The courage and conviction of many believers in the persecuted Church of India, is both inspiring and humbling, but comes at a great cost. There are several widows of martyred brothers, orphans, and single parents in persecuted families who do not have the basic sustenance. With the growing persecution of the Christian Church, the Christian community needs to step in to support the future generations.
Jesus said, “For whoever gives you a cup of water to drink because of your name as followers of Christ, truly I say to you, he shall not lose his reward.” Mark 9:41.
If you wish to learn more and partner with us to sponsor a family, please contact us at
a persecuted
www.persecutionrelief.org
familya persecutedfamily
Adopt
Call 9826025767
a persecuted
www.persecutionrelief.org
familya persecutedfamily
Adopt
Call 9826025767
1113 July to 25 July 2017Volume-1 Issue-17
12 13 July to 25 July 2017Volume-1 Issue-17
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ADOPT AMARTYREDFAMILY
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ADOPT AMARTYREDFAMILY
www.persecutionrelief.org
Call 9826025767
ADOPT AMARTYREDFAMILY
www.persecutionrelief.org
Call 9826025767
ADOPT AMARTYREDFAMILY
www.persecutionrelief.org
Call 9826025767
ADOPT AMARTYREDFAMILY
www.persecutionrelief.org
Call 9826025767
ADOPT AMARTYREDFAMILY
www.persecutionrelief.org
Call 9826025767
ADOPT AMARTYREDFAMILY
www.persecutionrelief.org
Call 9826025767
ADOPT AMARTYREDFAMILY
www.persecutionrelief.org
Call 9826025767
ADOPT AMARTYREDFAMILY
www.persecutionrelief.org
Call 9826025767
ADOPT AMARTYREDFAMILY
www.persecutionrelief.org
Call 9826025767
ADOPT AMARTYREDFAMILY
www.persecutionrelief.org
Call 9826025767
ADOPT AMARTYREDFAMILY
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Call 9826025767
Publisher: Shibu Thomas 352 9-B, Saketh Nagar, Ward No. 55, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh - 462024, India. Printer’s Name: St. Joseph Printers, 142 Durgesh Vihar, JK Road, Govindpura PO, Bhopal - 462023
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Publisher.