Christian Freedom International

SAULT STE. MARIE, MI – The latest news from Orissa, India is not good. As a matter of fact, it’s downright frightening. I know, I was just there delivering medicine, food, and aid to persecuted Christians.

The trouble began when Swami Lakshmananda Saraswati, a renowned Hindu leader who was openly opposed to Christianity, was murdered on August 23, 2008. Hindu radicals quickly began to retaliate against the Christian community, despite the fact that Maoist extremists claimed to be responsible for the Swami’s murder. Militants are now launching attacks against Christian homes and churches, setting fire to everything in their paths and viciously beating, or even murdering, Christian pastors.

Our indigenous co-workers have reported directly from the field that the devastation is affecting thousands of people in many districts throughout Orissa State. Thousands of homes have been either partially or completely damaged, electricity and phone lines have been cut, and dozens of injured people have been hospitalized as a result of the violence.

Those who manage to escape the destruction take refuge in the nearby forests and jungles, where hundreds are already struggling to survive without adequate food, medicine, clothing or shelter.

Christian Freedom International made a recent trip to Orissa to deliver emergency aid, and we plan to continue our relief operations there. The urgency of the situation is causing far too many Christians to endure each day without basic necessities, but without government aid or protection, there’s only one way these believers will survive: when those who are truly willing and able to help -- their fellow Christians -- step forward to make a difference.

We would like to send more relief aid into Orissa as soon as possible, so I pray that you would partner with us to help make these deliveries a reality.

Your donation of any amount will bless the lives of other Christian families who are living in fear and persecution right now in India.

Orissa Christians are sending out desperate cries for help and prayers…can they count on you to help them survive?

Thank you for your generosity and God bless.

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See Orissa:  Orissa photos

Help persecuted Christians in Orissa:  Donate Now

H.Con.Res. 434

Know more:  India country report