Source: Human Rights Watch for Laos2 Corinthians 13:14Seven Christian leaders remain in prison after authorities raided their Christmas gathering in Boukham village, Laos. Under orders from the village chief, authorities raided the home where the Christians were celebrating Christmas on Friday, Dec. 16. They arrested eight Christian leaders and took them to the village government house. Authorities accused the Christians of violating village law by holding a Christian service that offended the village's traditional spirit religion. A representative of the Savannakhet Lao Evangelical Church (LEC), which is recognized by the government, attempted unsuccessfully to obtain the Christians' release the day after their arrest. The LEC deputy chairman paid 1 million kip ($125, or about three months' pay) for the release of Kingnamosorn, one of the imprisoned believers. The remaining seven were asked to admit guilt. When they refused, authorities placed their feet in stocks. "Their situation will likely get worse unless we have God's intervention," wrote a VOM contact. In 2008, three Christians were imprisoned for three months in Boukham village and were threatened with life imprisonment if they did not recant their Christian faith. Pray that the seven prisoners will be released and will have sweet communion with God while in prison.
_________________SI Moderator - Greg Gordon