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Atrocities around world demonstrate need for key appointment

39 days into 2010, and already there are reports of heavy persecution and other major atrocities against Christians, reports MNN.

According to Compass Direct News, two pastors and 46 other Christians were confirmed killed, 27 believers are still missing, and 10 churches were burned to the ground as a result of Muslim/Christian clashes in Jos, Nigeria, in mid-January.

They also reported a case last month in Somalia. Members of al Shabaab, having learned that Mohammed Ahmed Ali had left Islam to become a Christian, murdered the 41-year-old underground church leader and threatened to kill his wife.

Open Doors discovered the death of yet another Christian in Eritrean detention. Hana Hagos Asgedom was allegedly beaten to death, becoming the 11th known Christian to die while imprisoned in Eritrea.

Open Doors says these cases demonstrate a pressing need for the Obama administration to appoint an Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom.

The position was created in 1998 to monitor religious persecution, recommend and implement policies and advise the U.S. State Department and the administration.

Although given verbal support, the post has been vacant for over a year. Open Doors launched a petition drive requesting an appointment. Our Web site will give you the details.

Open Doors USA Advocacy Director Lindsay Vessey says, "The over 8,000 signatures in only two weeks demonstrates that people are really concerned about the delay in making this appointment and want action by the administration." She adds, "It also demonstrates that people have a real passion for freedom of religion around the world."

TAGS: USA persecution atrocities against Christians Mohammed Ahmed Ali Muslim/Christian clashes freedom of religion

[02/09/2010]

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