Christian Freedom International

SAULT STE. MARIE, MI -- “Very painful and sad things are happening here. Two days ago three more Christians were attacked and killed by RSS and Hindu parties,” a local pastor told Christian Freedom International.  The pastor must remain unnamed for his own protection.  “Still then we are in Lord’s protection and mercy. As the Bible says, ‘If God is with us what man can be against us?’”

The violence against Christians in Orissa 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.

Since the August of murder of Swami Lakshmananda Saraswati, many churches have been destroyed and thousands of homes belonging to Christians destroyed by Hindu radicals. 

In the Phulbani District alone, 150 churches have been destroyed, and more than 4,000 homes belonging to Christians damaged.  More than 40 Christians have been killed and thousands have been displaced from their homes.  The displaced Christians are hiding in the jungle areas without adequate food, medicine, and shelter.  

Likewise, in the Bolangir District, 45 churches have been destroyed and approximately 500 houses belonging to Christians damaged.  More than 300 Bibles were burned in a public display of contempt for Christianity.  The displaced Christians lack adequate food, medicine, and shelter.
 
Christian Freedom International is providing medicine and food to displaced Christians in Orissa.  “We’re trying to reach as many Christians as possible,” said CFI president Jim Jacobson.   “Our relief efforts are hampered by the tragic reality that local police are doing nothing to stop the mob violence against Christianity.  If you are a Christian here, you can expect no help from the police.”

CFI is calling on India’s national government to stop the persecution of Christians in Orissa.  “Since local officials are doing nothing, the national government must intervene in this religious cleansing of minority Christians.  The systematic burning of Christian homes and churches and the killing of pastors must be stopped,” said Jacobson.

“It is sad to see the awful conditions for the Christians of Orissa,” a local pastor told CFI.  “Please, it is very important to let others know about the great violence against Christians.   Please keep us in yours prayers.”

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