The underground church has faced increased persecution in North Korea since the unexpected death of North Korean leader Kim Jong Il on December 17th.

"Three weeks ago seven underground churches got exposed," says Thomas Kim, executive director of Cornerstone Ministries. "It's been very difficult for the last month and I think it's going to continue," he says.

The North Korean leadership apparently fears the kind of insurrection that swept other communist regimes and is now sweeping through the Middle East. "They are scared there will be an uprising," Kim notes. "They are scared by the expansion of the Christian faith because Christians will die for their faith."

"Now the regime is putting out many people to search for the underground church. There is a need to pray for protection," Kim said. Full Story

Pray that this change in leadership may result in eased pressure upon the North Korean church.
Pray for the leaders of North Korea, that they may see the love of Christ in these Christians.
Pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ who are facing some of the most intense persecution in the world. Pray for their faith to be strengthened and that they would remain faithful to Christ.

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SI Moderator - Greg Gordon