ASSIST News Service

Christian News Agency’s Open Letter to United Nations Special Rapporteur for Human Rights in Iran, Points Out Injustices Toward New Believers

ASSIST News Service (ANS) - PO Box 609, Lake Forest, CA 92609-0609 USA
Visit our web site at: www.assistnews.net -- E-mail: assistnews@aol.com

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Christian News Agency’s Open Letter to United Nations Special Rapporteur for Human Rights in Iran, Points Out Injustices Toward New Believers

By Michael Ireland
Senior International Correspondent, ASSIST News Service

TEHRAN, IRAN (ANS) -- In a recent open letter to the UN Special Rapporteur for Human Rights in Iran, a Christian news agency says a ‘Sword of Damocles’ has been hanging over the heads of new converts to Christianity since the 1979 Iranian Revolution.

UN Special Rapporteur Ahmad Shahid.
(Photo courtesy FCNN.com)

In its letter to Ahmad Shahid, United Nations Special Rapporteur for Human Rights in Iran, the Farsi Christian News Network (FCNN) www.fcnn.com , says the death penalty for apostasy in converting from Islam to Christianity is a “Sword of Damocles” hanging over new believers -- and has been since the student-led Revolution in 1979.

As the voice of Christian-Iranians, and the suffering church in Iran, the Farsi Christian News Network, presented its annual report of sufferings among Christian converts, and informed the Special Rapporteur of “some of the realities of the injustices perpetrated against the Christian-Iranian community during 2010.”

FCNN said: “We hope this short list will be a useful contributory factor in your ‘Report on Human Rights situation in The Islamic Republic of Iran’ to the international community.”

The open letter says: “The Islamic Regime in Iran claims that Christianity is a state-recognized religion and its adherents are free to worship according to their faith.”

FCNN states: “This claim of the Islamic Republic is manifestly untrue. Christians in Iran are actively discouraged and under constant pressure not to attend services. Church attendance must be registered, and lists handed over to organs of State Security and local militia.

“Services are ordered to be held only on Sundays, a working day in Iran. Sale and distribution of The Holy Bible and sermons in Persian are forbidden, Christian converts cannot be Baptized, and they are forbidden to enter Churches. Above all they are to follow the Regime’s draconian Public Order and Propaganda requirements to the letter.

“For traditional and pre-revolution churches, compliance with these conditions and clauses are obligatory. If churches follow these mandatory orders, they will by default lose any religious content they have and will not be able to offer any meaningful Christian service, and if they do not follow these authoritarian orders they will face forced closure of the church by organs of Islamic Regime’s State Security.”

FCNN states as a case in point the Shahr-Ara church in North-Western Tehran, which was closed by direct orders of organs of the Islamic Regime for offering Baptismal and religious services to the new converts.

FCNN says the Islamic Republic “claims that Christians are fully represented in the Islamic Parliament by four members of their religion and so enjoy the same rights as the rest of their country folks.”

“This is yet another false claim,” FCNN said.

“These so called representatives are hand-picked by the regime and are primarily used as agents of control and guidance within Armenian and Assyrian communities of Christians,” the agency said.

“These so-called representatives are chosen by the Ministry of Islamic Guidance, and only the few with voting rights can cast their votes for these selected candidates. The Islamic Regime has restricted the community of Christians in Iran to two national groupings of Armenian and Assyrians, while in international circles, with duplicity and deception, claims to be practicing freedom of religion under the Islam.”

The FCNN open letter also says the Islamic Republic claims that there are open and active churches, and freedom of religion, where Christians are free to practice their faith.

“This claim is also one-sided and deceptive, made primarily to deceive the international community. Since the 1979 revolution in Iran, with rapid population growth -- which has more than doubled the populace during the 32 years of Islamic Regime -- not even one new Church building has been allowed to be built. New buildings are not allowed and repairs are to existing buildings are forbidden. Repair restrictions have caused the closure of ‘Kelisaye Jamia’t Rabbani’ in Kermanshah in western regions, and the deliberate destruction of Saint Adreas’ Church of Kerman in central Iran.”

The open letter points out the Islamic Republic “claims equal rights for its Christian citizens with the Moslem majority, free from any institutional discrimination.”

FCNN said: “This is but a bare-faced lie. The relentless pressure on Islamization at educational establishments forces many students to leave before graduation from high schools.

“In Iran, under the yoke of the Islamic Regime, Christians have no opportunity for further education, as non-Moslem students are not eligible for necessary grants and placement. This is particularly more worrying among the new converts to Christianity, as conversion from Islam can quickly lead to expulsion.”

Recent research shows an alarming decline in educational standards amongst Christian-Iranians, FCNN said.

The FCNN letter goes on to say that discriminatory legislations, regime decrees, and orders are far more draconian and restrictive in work place than educational system.

“All cultural, educational, judicial, Military and Police jobs are strictly for ‘conforming and reliable’ Moslems. All governmental jobs are subject to the applicant being a Moslem and the application forms contain a pledge ‘to observe and practice the Sharia.’ All managerial posts are strictly forbidden to Christians and the discovery of a conversion to Christianity is only ever met with dismissal from any job the new convert may have held, no matter high or lowly it might have been.”

FCNN, in its letter, explains that discriminatory laws of inheritance, child custody and/or any financial transactions between and among Christians and Moslems, create an atmosphere of uncertainty, suspicion, and mistrust amongst the community of Iranians.

In financial and business fields, restrictive practices stop any growth and development of Christian-owned businesses, FCNN says.

FCNN concludes: “The Damocles Sword of (the) death penalty for Apostasy from Islam, has been hanging over the collective head of all new converts to Christianity since the 1979 revolution.”

“As UN’s Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Situation in Iran, and a champion of human rights everywhere, the Christian community expects you to carefully examine these and numerous other violations of our basic rights, and inform the world, of suffering and plight of Christians under the Islamic Regime.”

** Michael Ireland is the Senior International Correspondent for ANS. He is an international British freelance journalist who was formerly a reporter with a London (United Kingdom) newspaper and has been a frequent contributor to UCB UK, a British Christian radio station. While in the UK, Michael traveled to Canada and the United States, Albania,Yugoslavia, Holland, Germany,and Czechoslovakia. He has reported for ANS from Jamaica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Israel, Jordan, China,and Russia. Michael's volunteer involvement with ASSIST News Service is a sponsored ministry department -- 'Michael Ireland Media Missionary' (MIMM) -- of A.C.T. International of P.O.Box 1649, Brentwood, TN 37024-1649, at: Artists in Christian Testimony (A.C.T.) International where you can make a donation online under 'Donate' tab, then look for 'Michael Ireland Media Missionary' under 'Donation Category' to support his stated mission of 'Truth Through Christian Journalism.' Michael is a member in good standing of the National Writers Union, Society of Professional Journalists, Religion Newswriters Association, Evangelical Press Association and International Press Association. If you have a news or feature story idea for Michael, please contact him at: ANS Senior International Reporter

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Dan Wooding goes ‘In the Market with Janet Parshall’ tomorrow (Tuesday) on the Moody Radio Network

ASSIST News Service (ANS) - PO Box 609, Lake Forest, CA 92609-0609 USA
Visit our web site at: www.assistnews.net -- E-mail: assistnews@aol.com

Monday, February 6, 2012

Dan Wooding goes ‘In the Market with Janet Parshall’ tomorrow (Tuesday) on the Moody Radio Network
He also plans to turn the tables on Janet and her husband, Craig, by interview them for Front Page Radio at the upcoming NRB Convention

By Michael Ireland
Senior International Correspondent, ASSIST News Service

CHICAGO, IL (ANS) -- Veteran journalist, Dan Wooding, will be featured as guest on one of America’s most popular radio shows – “In the Market with Janet Parshall” on the Moody Radio Network at 4:00 PM (Central Time) on Tuesday, February 7, 2012.

Janet Parshall being interviewed at a previous NRB Convention by
Dan Wooding

Wooding, 71, the founder of ASSIST Ministries and the ASSIST News Service (www.assistnews.net), will be the first guest on the show and, during a 30-minute segment, and will talk about stories recently featured on ANS, including information about the fourth annual “Passion for the Persecuted” award that will be given to Dan Wooding, on behalf of ANS, at the upcoming NRB Convention in Nashville, Tennessee, by Dr. Carl Moeller, President and CEO of Open Doors with Brother Andrew.

The award is presented to a media organization which has established an on-going commitment to inform its readers/listeners/viewers about the plight of persecuted Christians around the world. Past recipients of this award include, Moody Radio, Mission Network News and The Christian Post.

Janet Parshall joins Moody Radio

Moody Radio brought Janet Parshall on board to be part of their radio family on May 3, 2010 and her live, weekday, drive-time show highlights the day’s headline issues, analyzes them through the “lens of Scripture” and, “offers compelling commentary with guests and live call-ins.”

Parshall has been the recipient of the National Religious Broadcasters On-Air Radio personality award in 2008 and 2011. In 1988, she was elected to the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee of the National Religious Broadcasters. Parshall and her husband, Craig, live in Virginia, and have four children and six grandchildren. (Craig is Senior Vice President and General Counsel for National Religious Broadcasters.)

Wooding says, “I always enjoy being on Janet’s show as she is one of the most well-informed hosts on American Christian radio and does a great job researching her material before each program.

“I have been a monthly guest now for some time now, and appreciate the opportunity to shares with the huge listening audience about world missions and the persecuted church.”

Stations

Moody Radio owns and operates 35 radio stations with a Christian perspective on the news, interactive talk, teaching and inspirational music and it also reaches audiences around the world through Internet radio streams and podcasts, and seeks to provide compelling substantive content that impacts people—wherever they are.

Moody Bible Institute

D.L. Moody

Moody Radio is a part of the Moody Bible Institute of Chicago, Ill., founded by evangelist Dwight Lyman Moody in 1886. Its purpose is to equip and motivate people to advance the cause of Christ through ministries that educate, edify, and evangelize. Moody is best known for its education branch, which includes an undergraduate school, graduate school, aviation school and continuing education. Other Moody ministries include Moody Publishers and Moody Conferences.

Turning the Tables

At the upcoming NRB Convention, that takes place at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Spa in Nashville from February 18-21, 2012, Wooding is planning to turn the tables on Janet Parshall when he interviews Janet and her husband, Craig, for his Front Page Radio program which originates on the KWVE Radio Network – www.kwve.com -- and is carried on many other stations around the world.

Wooding, who before moving to the United States in 1982 with his wife Norma and their two sons -- Andrew and Peter -- has worked for some of the UK’s largest circulation newspapers and was also an interviewer for BBC Radio One, revealed, however, he still needs support to travel to the convention with his son, Peter Wooding, who is flying over from the UK to work with him for the many interviews he will be doing.

He will also sharing with the attendees from all over the world about why he believes it is “vital” for them to carry ANS material on their media outlets. (The Annual NRB Convention and Exposition is the largest nationally and internationally recognized event dedicated solely to assisting those in the field of Christian communications. It is the best place to network with Christian communications leaders, to promote a program and to obtain serious industry training. www.nrb.org.)

“We have raised over a third of the $2,500 needed to pay our expenses,” he said. “So we have a little way to go.”

So if anyone would like to ASSIST us at this time, just go to: http://www.assistnews.net/assist/donations.htm or send a check made out ASSIST and mail it to: ASSIST, PO Box 609, Lake Forest, California 92609, USA.

To get more details about the show, just go to: http://www.moodyradio.org/inthemarketwithjanetparshall/ where information about tomorrow’s program show will be posted first thing in the morning.

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Religion & Ethics Digest with Scott Cramer Takes to the High wire with the Flying Wallendas, Visits Albuquerque’s Joy Junction -- and there’...

Religion & Ethics Digest with Scott Cramer Takes to the High wire with the Flying Wallendas, Visits Albuquerque’s Joy Junction -- and there’s Talk About Angels Everywhere

ASSIST News Service (ANS) - PO Box 609, Lake Forest, CA 92609-0609 USA
Visit our web site at: www.assistnews.net -- E-mail: assistnews@aol.com

Monday, February 6, 2012

Religion & Ethics Digest with Scott Cramer Takes to the High wire with the Flying Wallendas, Visits Albuquerque’s Joy Junction -- and there’s Talk About Angels Everywhere

By Michael Ireland
Senior International Correspondent, ASSIST News Service

PALM SPRINGS, CA (ANS) -- Dear friends of ANS: I am pleased to let you know that we have just released our latest fast-moving Religion & Ethics Digest which is hosted by veteran broadcaster, Scott Cramer.

Each of the stories are chosen every week from the pages of the ASSIST News Service (www.assistnews.net ).

In this latest program, Cramer begins by telling how one Texas pastor used an unusual ‘visual aid’ during a recent sermon series.

Pastor Kerry Shook of Woodlands Church in Texas continued his sermon series EXTRAORDINARY with a special message called Extraordinary Faith.

As pastors usually do, Shook had a visual illustration to help the congregation understand the message he will preach. But this was just any ordinary means of helping attendees to visualize his teaching points.

The Flying Wallendas.

Those who attended Shook’s church got to see extraordinary faith in action as they watched the amazing high-wire performance of Tino Wallenda, his two daughters, Alida and Aurelia and his 10-year-old granddaughter, Ysabella, who make up the Flying Wallendas.

As far back as 1780, in the cafes of Old Bohemia in the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the ancestral Wallenda family was a traveling circus troupe consisting of acrobats, jugglers, clowns aerialists and animla trainers all in one family.

The second story is about a visit to Albuquerque’s Joy Junction homeless shelter which is typically thought of as being a place where needy people can find a place to stay and enjoy a warm, nourishing meal.

But there is much more than just that going on there.

Graduates of the CIP program at Joy Junction.

Founder Jeremy Reynalds, who is also Senior Correspondent for ASSIST News, says: “While we shelter, feed people and provide an array of other services, we also offer a nine-month faith-based life recovery program called CIPP, standing for Christ in Power Program.” Reynalds says CIPP participants are taught the skills they will need to reenter and succeed in the work place.

“They'll learn, for example, anger management, coping skills, resume writing and a variety of other important tools,” said Reynalds, who added:
“Just a few days ago, we had a ceremony for 13 program graduates. Some of them shared how the program had touched their lives.”

The final segment features a story that begins: “During an emotion-filled evening of worship at the Vineyard church in Laguna Niguel, several photographs taken with a digital camera reveal some unusual effects.”

“It seems like the angels are showing up more,” says Kathy Tanaka, a regular at the church.

Her nine-year-old son Joshua took several photos with his new camera, which seem to show an angelic presence floating above his mother’s head.

“My son just got his first camera, and he got a bunch of photos like that,” she said.

You can hear the program by going to: www.youtube.com/watch?v=lIXgtEVKIN4

I hope you can listen to it, and don’t forget to tell you friends where you can find this digest online.

From your ASSIST News friend, Michael Ireland.

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Glowing tributes at service for Latin America’s beloved Christian broadcaster

ASSIST News Service (ANS) - PO Box 609, Lake Forest, CA 92609-0609 USA
Visit our web site at: www.assistnews.net -- E-mail: assistnews@aol.com

Monday, February 6, 2012

Glowing tributes at service for Latin America’s beloved Christian broadcaster

By Mark Ellis
Senior Correspondent, ASSIST News Service

SANTA ANA, CALIFORNIA (ANS) -- Family and friends gathered to pay tribute to Hermano Pablo (Paul Finkenbinder), the veteran broadcaster who led thousands to faith in Christ through his crusades and programs on radio and television.

Flowers surround portrait of Hermano Pablo

Paul’s joyous homecoming was January 27, 2012 at age 90. His memorial service, February 4th at Templo Calvario in Santa Ana, California, told the story of a man of authenticity, who behaved the same publicly as he did privately, and treated servers waiting on his table with the same concern as heads of state.

“He was the outstanding hero of my life,” said Pastor Danny de Leon, of Templo Calvario. “I will never forget my times with him – they are dear to my heart.”

Granddaughter Jenny Kaneaster spoke about Paul’s priorities. “He cared more about people than material things,” she said. “What everyone saw at home was the same as he was publicly.”

Rev. Norm Mydske, with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, recalled traveling through Latin America with Paul. “He was a tremendous preacher whose skills were unequaled,” he noted. “Thousands came to Christ through the crusades.”

“What he was in the pulpit was what he was on Monday morning,” he continued. “He was totally and completely transparent. He didn’t have a dishonest bone in his body.”

His optimistic outlook on life touched Rev. John Bueno, the former executive director of the Assemblies of God. “One day I saw Paul and asked, ‘How are you?’

“If I was feeling any better I would levitate,” Paul replied.

Bueno reflected on the fact that Paul “levitated the other day,” when he went into the presence of the Lord he loved.

Mark Ellis is a senior correspondent for ASSIST News Service and the founder of www.Godreports.com. He is available to speak to groups about the plight of the church in restricted countries, to share stories and testimonies from the mission field, and to preach the gospel.
mark@Godreports.com

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Nine-year-old Lakshmi works in a factory as a cigarette roller.

ASSIST News Service (ANS) - PO Box 609, Lake Forest, CA 92609-0609 USA
Visit our web site at: www.assistnews.net -- E-mail: assistnews@aol.com

Sunday, February 5, 2012

Nine-year-old Lakshmi works in a factory as a cigarette roller.
She tells her sister’s story

Gospel for Asia
For Immediate Release

Breaking the chains of illiteracy

SOUTH ASIA (ANS) -- “My sister is ten years old. Every morning at seven she goes to the bonded labor man, and every night at nine she comes home. He treats her badly; he hits her if he thinks she is working slowly or if she talks to the other children, he yells at her, he comes looking for her if she is sick and cannot go to work. I feel this is very difficult for her.

“I don't care about school or playing. I don't care about any of that. All I want is to bring my sister home from the bonded labor man. For 600 rupees I can bring her home—that is our only chance to get her back.
We don't have 600 rupees…we will never have 600 rupees [the equivalent of U.S.$14].”

According to the Human Rights Watch, bonded labor is life for over 10 million children in India.

Calcutta alone is home to more than 100,000 street children who know neither mother nor father, love nor care. They are not just numbers or statistics—they are real children. Though nameless and faceless on the streets where they live, each one was created with love and is known by God.

It is doubtful they've ever held a toothbrush or a bar of soap; they've never eaten an ice-cream cone or cradled a doll. The child laborers of South Asia toil in fireworks, carpet and match factories; quarries and coal mines; rice fields, tea plantations and pastures, and even brothels. Because they are exposed to dust, toxic fumes, pesticides and disease, their health is compromised; their bodies are crippled from carrying heavy weights. Some are bonded laborers, enslaved to their tasks by family poverty.

To find out more about how you can help children like this, please go to: www.gfa.org/sponsorachild/ At: www.gfa.org, you can discover how Gospel for Asia IS breaking the bonds of illiteracy.

Gospel for Asia is an evangelical mission organization based in Carrollton, Texas, involved in sharing the love of Jesus across South Asia.

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A Red-Letter Day Awaits you

ASSIST News Service (ANS) - PO Box 609, Lake Forest, CA 92609-0609 USA
Visit our web site at: www.assistnews.net -- E-mail: assistnews@aol.com

Sunday, February 5, 2012

A Red-Letter Day Awaits you

By Rick Marschall
Special to ASSIST News Service

SWARTZ CREEK MI (ANS) -- “The words of our Savior in red,” some Bibles say on their spines. But what about the words printed in black? I recently posted a picture on Facebook of a tattered Bible, opened to no place in particular, but the two pages looking like a Technicolor spectacular, with notes, revelations, and reminders in its margins. Bookmarks and Post-It notes splayed forth from many spots. Many people mark verses and passages that speak -– or shout -– to them in their Bibles.

Accompanying this picture I found was the quotation by Charles Spurgeon, “People whose Bibles are falling apart usually lead lives that aren’t.” It reminded me of the country song whose title warned listeners against “dust on the Bible.”

There are some devout people who think that any notes or marks we make in the Holy Bible is a form of desecration, but I am of the school that thinks that scripture, the Holy Word, is also God’s User Manual for Life. I suspect it pleases Him when we are touched by a truth... want to revisit things easily... find ways we can organize the wisdom, commands, and promises... and know it all better.

In a way, margin-notes and color highlighters are not all that different from the old-fashioned versions of the Bible, those “Red Letter” editions. On the spines or title pages, sometimes, we read, “Jesus’ Words in Red.” Just so. Easy to find; quicker to, perhaps, memorize.

Certainly there is utility in highlighting Christ’s words. But even when a kid I used to wonder whether that would suggest to some people that the rest of the Bible was NOT the inspired Word of God, or not AS inspired. If God caused scripture to be written; if the Holy Spirit inspired every word, should not ALL the Bible be printed in red letters? “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the servant of God may be perfect, thoroughly provided for all good works” (II Timothy 3:16-17).

Again, just so. Jesus is Savior, but we must resist the temptation, when highlighting only His words, to think that the rest of the Bible might (as many in the world think) “merely” be the thoughts of good men, or well-meaning legends, or less than Holy.

I have been blessed enough to visit some of the world’s great cathedrals, and it was brought to my mind, despite the memorable majesty, that God does not dwell only in grand churches. In fact, we go to church to worship God, not really to meet Him. I have also been profoundly moved in some of the world’s humblest chapels; and, so, I am sure, you have been too. Plus, we are reminded that our very bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit.

Therefore, like Bibles we mark and underline, our worship-temples are not remote: they come with us, they are part of us. A fancy Bible can prompt reverence, just as a mighty cathedral can remind us of God’s grandeur. But if it stops there, we sadly are left with counterfeit experiences. The Bible is, instead, a lamp unto our feet. And when we enter the Temple of Life, so to speak -– not some New Age cliché, but in the reality of God’s habitation of every aspect of our lives -– then we can experience many “red-letter days” God intends for us.

+ + +

“The Temple of Life” is a place we all may enter! Like Red-Letter Bibles, we run the fear of proscribing, or categorizing, the God-portions of our lives. If we “carve out” times for God, better it would be that we spend every hour of every day with Him, and let that one hour on Sunday morning go astray! A musical celebration of that point of view is this “Christian blues” song (in chord structure, not a blue or sad theme!) -– in fact an upbeat, reverent, “Thank you Jesus” song, in the words of its closing words. That the singer is Avril Levigne might surprise some people, but she grew up Christian and her early performances and recordings were Jesus songs, like “Temple of Life.”

Click: The Temple of Life

Rick Marschall is the author of 65 books and hundreds of magazine articles in many fields, from popular culture (Bostonia Magazine called him “perhaps America’s foremost authority on popular culture”) to history and criticism; country music, television history, biography and children’s books. He is a former political cartoonist, editor of Marvel Comics, and writer for Disney comics. For 10 years he has been active in the Christian field, writing devotionals; co-author of The Secret Revealed with Dr Jim Garlow. His biography of Johann Sebastian Bach for the “Christian Encounters” series (Thomas Nelson) was released in April, 2011. His history of cartoon Advertising, Drawing Power, will be published in July 2011 by the Marschall Books imprint of fantagraphics Books. In October his major biography of Theodore Roosevelt, BULLY!, will be publ;ished by Regnery History of Washington DC. He is currently working on a One-Year CDevotional for Tyndale House; and edits the the reissue of Harper's Weekly -- the Civil War Years for NOVOink e-books. Rick is a former Director of Product Development for Youth Specialties. He is recipient of the 2008 “Christian Writer of the Year” award from the Greater Philadelphia Writer’s Conference, and produces a weekly e-mail devotional, “Monday Morning Music Ministry.” His e-mail address is: RickMarschall@gmail.com.

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This story is the personal opinion of the writer and does not necessarily reflect the views of the ASSIST News Service or ASSIST Ministries.

Iran: Concern over health condition of Pastor Farhad Sabokroh in prison

ASSIST News Service (ANS) - PO Box 609, Lake Forest, CA 92609-0609 USA
Visit our web site at: www.assistnews.net -- E-mail: assistnews@aol.com

Sunday, February 5, 2012

Iran: Concern over health condition of Pastor Farhad Sabokroh in prison

By Dan Wooding
Founder of ASSIST Ministries

AHWAZ, IRAN (ANS) -- Concern is growing in Iran over health condition of Pastor Farhad Sabokroh who was arrested together with two other Christian converts. They have now been in custody for over 40 days.

Pastor Farhad Sabokroh (From Mohabat News)

According to the Iranian Christian news agency, Mohabat News (www.mohabatnews.com), family, relatives and a wide range of Iranian Christians within and outside Iran expressed their concern over the health condition of Pastor Farhad Sabokroh, who was arrested on December 23, 2011, with others in attendance at the Christmas service of the Assemblies of God (AOG) church of Ahwaz, where he was pastoring.

According to this report, sources affirmed that Pastor Sabokroh, Naser Zamen-Defzuli and Davoud (David) Alijani were transferred to Karoun prison of Ahwaz. They have now been held in prison for over 40 days. They were arrested by security authorities in Ahwaz, (543 miles south west of Tehran, the Capital), which is in Khuzestan province.

“Prior to his arrest, Pastor Sabokroh was under treatment for cataract disease and underwent surgery but now has no access to a doctor,” a spokesperson for Mohabat News told the ASSIST News Service.

“Knowledgeable sources define his situation concerning this because, after the surgery, he needed to visit his doctor on a regular basis for the required medications. Now, with this situation, he is still not allowed to leave the prison after over 40 days to continue his treatment.”

Christian Prisoners' Rights Advocacy Club sent a report to Mohabat News expressing their deep concern and objection to illegal and inhuman acts by the Iranian Security system towards Iranian Christians, especially Pastor Sabokroh and the two other Christian prisoners who are being held with him.

Illustration from www.freedomessenger.com

They called on the Intelligence and Judicial systems of Iran to free them immediately and grant Christian prisoners their legal and human rights. This organization also considers the continuation of Pastor Sabokroh's medical treatment as his human right and adjudged the authorities as directly responsible for the health and welfare of Christian prisoners.

Pastor Sabokroh’s wife was allowed to visit him briefly on January 27, 2012, and expressed concern over his health condition.

"It's being said that he spends most of his time in prayer and fasting in his cell. His physical situation is extremely bad and he has lost weight. He also asked all Iranian Christians to pray for the release of Christian prisoners," added the Mohabat News spokesperson.

“It should be remembered that Mrs. Shanaz Jeizan, the wife of Pastor Sabokroh was also among those arrested at Christmas in the AOG church of Ahwaz. After 10 days, she was temporarily released from the Intelligence office of Ahwaz after submitting a house title deed as bail."

According to this report, no news is available regarding the condition of the two other prisoners, Davoud Alijani and Naser Zamen-Dezfuli. They're still being held in uncertainty and without being formally charged.”

The reports also indicate that Noorollah Qabitizade, another Christian convert who was arrested on December, 24, 2010, is still being held in Karoun prison of Ahwaz.

“He was subjected to severe interrogations by Intelligence officers from the time of his arrest,” added the spokesperson. “It is being reported that security authorities and interrogators have put him under different mental pressures including forcing him to sign commitments stating that he won't participate in any evangelical activities and to write repentance notes renouncing Christianity, in order to make him discontinue his faith in Christ.”

Dan Wooding, 71, is an award winning British journalist now living in Southern California with his wife Norma, to whom he has been married for 48 years. They have two sons, Andrew and Peter, and six grandchildren who all live in the UK. He is the founder and international director of ASSIST (Aid to Special Saints in Strategic Times) and the ASSIST News Service (ANS) and was, for ten years, a commentator, on the UPI Radio Network in Washington, DC. He now hosts the weekly “Front Page Radio” show on KWVE in Southern California which is also carried throughout the United States. The program is also aired in Great Britain on Calvary Chapel Radio UK and also in Belize and South Africa. Besides this, Wooding is a host for His Channel Live, which is carried via the Internet to some 192 countries and also provides a regular commentary for Worship Life Radio on KWVE. You can follow Dan Wooding on Facebook under his name there or at ASSIST News Service. He is the author of some 44 books, one of which is his autobiography, “From Tabloid to Truth”, which is published by Theatron Books. To order a copy, press this link. Wooding, who was born in Nigeria of British missionary parents, has also recently released his first novel “Red Dagger” which is available this link.

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Pakistani Christian Youth began New Era of Sharing Love with Muslims

ASSIST News Service (ANS) - PO Box 609, Lake Forest, CA 92609-0609 USA
Visit our web site at: www.assistnews.net -- E-mail: assistnews@aol.com

Sunday, February 5, 2012

Pakistani Christian Youth began New Era of Sharing Love with Muslims
‘Peace, Love and Harmony’ stressed at historic event

By Dan Wooding
Founder of ASSIST Ministries

TOBA TEK SINGH, PAKISTAN (ANS) -- Pakistani Christian youth in Toba Tek Singh, which is in Pakistan’s Western Punjab Province, have begun a new era of promoting “peace, love, and harmony” as well as understanding with Muslims.

Ashfaq Fateh addressing the event
(Photo: Ahsan Sadaqat)

The young people decided to organize a program for this “Christian-Muslim Get Together” in connection with the birth celebrations for the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and it was attended by Muslim clerics, political leaders, traders, students, media representatives, Christian pastors and priests, as well as community leaders who had been invited to express solidarity and share the celebrations with each other.

The historic event took place on Thursday, February 2, 2012, in the Tehsil [Administrative Division] Municipal Hall, in Toba Tek Singh at which there was a recitation from the Holy Quran (Naat Shariefs) and songs were performed in respect of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).)

Muslim speakers highlighted a message of “Peace and Harmony” with Christians and local pastors and priests assured Muslims that they “respect” their religion.

Ashfaq Fateh, a Christian leader and organizer of the event, told the ASSIST News Service, “History is full of Christian-Muslim cooperation, as well as peace, love, and harmony between the two groups and Christians have been serving in education, health and social sector for a long time.

Sahibzada Abdul Munam Husnan Sadique, a Muslim scholar, speaking at the event
(Photo: Ahsan Sadaqat)

“Millions of Christians in Pakistan are working with Muslims in both the government and private sectors and they have jointly contributed to the progress of the country. Christian ministries and churches have preached to respect and honor the Muslims and witness the values of responsible citizens.”

He went on to say, “There are different forums at at government and Church levels to strengthen inter-faith harmony. However, for the last three decades, incidents of violence at Shantinagar and Gojra, as well as the killings of Emmanuel brothers in a broad daylight as they were leaving a courtroom after being charged with blasphemy, and many others have widened the gaps between the two communities.

“The murder of Clement Shahbaz Bhatti, the Federal Minister for Minorities, and others, has created segregations and concerns among the weaker sections of the society. A common Christian feels hesitation to interact with a Muslims to avoid misunderstanding which causes tension between the two communities.”

Ashfaq Fateh went on to state, “Muslim brothers and sisters expressed great love with Christians during Christmas and other religious events. The Muslim-Christian friendship is an example here.

“In recent years, Muslims in Toba Tek Singh have set examples of love, tolerance and cooperation and so, therefore, our Christian youth decided to conduct a program in which a message could be given to the Muslim world that Christians have also expressed the same love and solidarity. The program planned to opened up new horizons of understanding and cooperation between the people of these two major religions.”

Mr. Johnson Gill, a youth leader, said, “The Christian youth feel that it is time to express to Muslims our love and respect for their Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the Holy Book of the Quran. When the Christians celebrate Christmas, New Year and Easter, Muslim friends shared the gifts, sent Christmas cakes and organized Christmas parties to enjoy the celebrations. If a Christian expected to be wished and respected, he/she should also express the same feelings for his/her Muslim friends.

“Therefore, following the Gospel values, our youth decided to organize a program. It’s a great sign of change that the Muslim clerics of different sects, priests/pastors and people of various sections of life, welcomed the first ever program of celebration of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) by Christians in Pakistan.”

Rasheed Jalal, district president the Pakistan Muslim League (N) for Minorities said, “The program is helping to break the cycle of segregation and it will open new horizons of dialogue and cooperation between the people of our two religions.

"Finally, this kind of a program, organized for the first time in the history of Pakistan, was with the intention to assure our Muslim brothers and sisters that Christians love and respect what they believe and are not against their prophet, but rather wish to share in their celebrations.”

Sahibzada Abdul Munam Husnan Sadique, a Muslim scholar, hailed the Christian youth for conducting such a gathering. He said, “This program is a message to the world that Christians and Muslims are united and share the celebration of birth of Hazart Muhammad (PBUH) with the same spirit.

“The program helps Muslim brethren feel the love and respect Christians have for our Holy Prophet in their hearts. Today, I assure the Christian community that we shall keep on working jointly for lasting peace and prosperity in the country.”

Mufti Abdul Mueed Asad, Leader of the Interfaith and Peace Council Pakistan, praying for
Christian-Muslim friendship
(Photo: Ahsan Sadaqat)

Muslim leaders, such as Mufti Abdul Mueed Asad, Khatib, Jamia Usmania, welcomed the Christian community for organizing a public program for the two communities to promote a dialogue of life.

Syed Murad Ali Shah, an Advocate, said, “For lasting peace and harmony this platform should be strengthened. As religious scholars, it’s our responsibility to share the good gesture of the Christian community with Muslims at a mass level. It will help to bridge the gaps. The program by Christian youth has proved that they have high regards for our prophet (PBUH).”

Fr. Simon Khurshid, a parish priest at a local Catholic church, thanked the organizers for creating an opportunity for two communities for peace and harmony. He assured the Muslims that the Catholic church always pray for the Muslims whenever they have religious events or face difficulties or celebrations.

“Christian charities help everyone whenever there are disasters like floods and earthquakes,” he said. “Most of the beneficiaries of charity programs are Muslims.”

He then prayed for Muslim-Christian unity for “peace and development” in the country.

Ch. Amjid Ali Javed, District president Pakistan Muslim League (N), Pastor Victor, Ayub Anjum and Tehsil Municipal officer Tariq Mehmood Paroia, also spoke at the occasion.

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A Very Special Time at Joy Junction

ASSIST News Service (ANS) - PO Box 609, Lake Forest, CA 92609-0609 USA
Visit our web site at: www.assistnews.net -- E-mail: assistnews@aol.com

Sunday, February 5, 2012

A Very Special Time at Joy Junction

By Jeremy Reynalds
Senior Correspondent for ASSIST News Service

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (ANS) -- Joy Junction is typically thought of as being a homeless shelter, a place where needy people can find a place to stay and enjoy a warm, nourishing meal.

While that’s very important, there is much more than just that going on there.

While we shelter, feed people and provide an array of other services, we also offer a nine month faith-based life recovery program called CIPP, standing for Christ in Power Program.

CIPP participants are taught the skills they will need to reenter and succeed in the work place. They’ll learn, for example, anger management, healthy eating habits, coping skills, resume writing and a variety of other important tools.

Our graduates.

A few weeks ago, we had a ceremony for 13 program graduates. Some of them shared how the program had touched their lives.

Larry Jo said the graduation ceremony gave him a feeling of respect and more. He added, “Also, when doing something to better myself, not to give up, always go forward and if it is hard to continue what I started. Now that I have graduated, I know I can achieve and accomplish what is hard.”

Rina said, “Graduation meant (seeing) a ... number of people working together to reach a goal; to (overcome addictive behaviors). She said the other program participants and God helped her successfully graduate the program.

Traci said graduation was very important for her, as it was only the third time in her life that she had successfully followed through to the conclusion of a goal.

“It meant a sense of accomplishment,” she said. “Going through this nine month program, completing it and graduating made me feel like I can accomplish anything I set my mind to. It also gave me a sense of pride because I saw my friends and family’s faces and knew that they were proud.”

Traci said it wasn’t an easy program. “There were many times I wanted to quit. But I stuck it out and made it through. So going through this graduation helped me realize what a strong person I have become. I stuck it out for nine months, and I am a better person today because of this program, and the staff here at Joy Junction.”

Our other life recovery program participants who have yet to graduate were also in the audience. The ceremony touched them.

Mike said when he graduates it will mean “the completion of a goal and the beginning of a new phase in my life.”

He added, “Dr. Reynalds has found a way through our Lord to make Joy Junction a shelter every other (mission) in America should emulate. The CIPP program has not only saved me but changed my life completely. For someone who has been agnostic his entire life to be saying what I say now about my belief in Jesus as my Lord and Savior proves that if you want your life bad enough, this program works. You just have to want it and have a little faith.”

Leona said when she graduates our life recovery program, she will have “the knowledge and resources to continue on a path of sober living and a change of life style.”

She added, “Also, completing the 12 step program will help me earn the respect of my children as they are also hurting as a result of a broken family and separation. This will help my marriage and getting my family back together.”

Elizabeth said that graduation for her will mean “my heart and soul have been filled with the love of God.”

She added, “ I will be able to accomplish anything that I set out to do. Being empty like before, the responses from finding a job, to talking to people always seemed to be on the negative side. Now I will feel like I can face and conquer the world with my head up and a smile on my face.

My Take

The graduation ceremony was a wonderful experience, and one in which God’s Presence and blessing was evident. Would you pray for all of our graduates, as well as those who are still making their way through the program?

Jeremy Reynalds is Senior Correspondent for the ASSIST News Service, a freelance writer and also the founder and CEO of Joy Junction, New Mexico's largest emergency homeless shelter, http://www.joyjunction.org He has a master's degree in communication from the University of New Mexico, and a Ph.D. in intercultural education from Biola University in Los Angeles. His newest book is "Homeless in the City."

Additional details on "Homeless in the City" are available at http://www.homelessinthecity.com. Reynalds lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico. For more information contact: Jeremy Reynalds at jeremyreynalds@comcast.net.

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UK Christians told by advertising authority that they cannot say that people can be healed from physical illness

ASSIST News Service (ANS) - PO Box 609, Lake Forest, CA 92609-0609 USA
Visit our web site at: www.assistnews.net -- E-mail: assistnews@aol.com

Saturday, February 4, 2012

UK Christians told by advertising authority that they cannot say that people can be healed from physical illness

By Dan Wooding
Founder of ASSIST Ministries

BATH, UK (ANS) -- The British Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has told a group of Christians in the city of Bath, located in Somerset, south west England, not to make any claims which state or imply that, by receiving their prayer, people could be physically healed.

The healing team outside Bath Abbey

A registered Christian trust, the “Healing on the Streets – Bath” (www.hotsbath.org) team, comprised of Christians from many different churches, have been praying for the public outside Bath Abbey for three years and regularly offer to pray for people who are sick to receive healing.

But atheist Hayley Stevens, a 24-year-old from Bradford on Avon in Wiltshire, who is a regular blogger and speaker at skeptic conferences, took offence to the group’s adverts, complaining to the ASA that the claims by the Christians could “not be substantiated.”

On the www.thisissomerset.co.uk website, she is quoted as saying, “I have complained before to the ASA about claims to do with healing people, but they were against spiritual healers or people making false claims about treatments. I didn’t even realize the Healing on the Streets people were Christian until I got home and looked at their website.

“My issue isn’t with their Christian faith, it is with the potentially dangerous situation of vulnerable people who think they will be cured of something as serious as cancer.

Hayley Stevens' complaint against a Christian group was upheld (Photo: www.thisissomerset.co.uk)

“I don’t think it is appropriate for them to be out on the streets taking the chance that they could come across someone with, say, mental health issues who should be being treated properly."

Her complaint was upheld and the ASA have now ordered the group to stop stating on their website or in literature that God can heal.

The founder of the Christian group, Paul Skelton, said: “Other teams around the country have been targeted in similar ways.

“It seems very odd to us that the ASA wants to prevent us from stating on our website the basic Christian belief that God can heal illness.

“The ASA has even demanded that we sign a document agreeing not to say this, which is unacceptable to us - as it no doubt would be for anyone ordered not to make certain statements about their conventional religious or philosophical beliefs.

“The ASA has decided it is appropriate to insist that we cannot talk about a common and widely held belief that is an important aspect of conventional Christian faith. They would now like us to recant our Christian faith in the Bible.

“We tried to reach a compromise, recognizing some of the ASA’s concerns, but there are certain things that we cannot agree to - including a ban on expressing our beliefs.”

HOTs has said that it will now appeal the decision.

Membera of the healing team
praying for a woman

Andrea Minichiello Williams, CEO of Christian Concern, said: “This decision strikes at the heart of freedom of belief in the UK. Will we be told that telling people their sins are forgiven, or that you can go to heaven, breaches advertising standards next?

“Will all Christian websites and leaflets now be liable to these types of complaints? Is all Christian doctrine now going to be ruled as misleading by the ASA?

“This decision reveals all too clearly how basic freedoms quickly begin to be lost in a nation that has increasingly chosen secularism over the Christian faith.”

The “Healing on the Streets – Bath” website says that it is a Christian trust and its vision is to: "Promote Christian Healing as a daily life style for every believer, though demonstration, training and equipping."

It adds that they are working in unity, from numerous churches outside the four walls of the building, in order to:

* Heal the sick
* Share God's love
* Equip the Church

The website -- http://www.hotsbath.org/stories.html -- also features stories of claimed healings which you can check out for yourself.

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Pakistani Christian leader addresses challenges that Christians in his country are facing

ASSIST News Service (ANS) - PO Box 609, Lake Forest, CA 92609-0609 USA
Visit our web site at: www.assistnews.net -- E-mail: assistnews@aol.com

Saturday, February 4, 2012

Pakistani Christian leader addresses challenges that Christians in his country are facing
He blames the lack of political leadership

By Dan Wooding
Founder of ASSIST Ministries

RAWALPINDI, PAKISTAN (ANS) -- Mr. Riaz Anjum, Chairman of the Pakistan Christian Movement and an advocate who is practicing as a private lawyer in Pakistan, has told a conference in Rawalpindi, about the many challenges facing Christians in his country.

Riaz Anjum

Speaking at a special event that took place on Thursday, January 26, 2012, and attended by Christian political parties, clergy and human rights activists, Anjum said, “There is no doubt that poverty, illiteracy, unemployment, and lack of quality education, are challenges for Pakistani Christians, but our politicians have failed to address these issues.”

He went on to say, “We have gathered here to discuss challenges faced by Pakistani Christians and solution to secure religious freedom. I think it is very much necessary to discuss the reasons of these problems due to which Christians are facing these challenges.”

Riaz Anjum told the participants at the well-attended event organized by overseas Christian Pakistanis and held in a local hotel, that a "nation, country or community" makes progress, but credit goes to politicians and when a nation, country or community fails to achieve the destination or to make progress "discredit" also goes to politicians.

“I am of the opinion that we are facing these challenges due to our failure in politics. Our politicians have completely failed to lead Christians towards their destination: helping them to attain economic prosperity and getting quality and higher education," said Mr. Anjum.

“This is the reasons we are far behind than other communities in Pakistan in social, educational and economic fields.”

He stated that the “failure of Christian politicians” started before the existence of Pakistan.

Logo for Pakistan's Independence Day

The Islamic Republic of Pakistan gained its independence from Great Britain on August 14, 1947, when it was partitioned from India. The partition was set forth in the Indian Independence Act 1947 and resulted in the dissolution of the British Raj. It resulted in a struggle between the new states of India and Pakistan and displaced up to 12.5 million people in the former British Indian Empire, with estimates of loss of life varying from several hundred thousand to a million. The violent nature of the partition created an atmosphere of mutual hostility and suspicion between India and Pakistan that plagues their relationship even to this day.

“There were many communities in the subcontinent, such as Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs and Christians,” Anjum went on to say. “During the partition, Hindus got India and Muslims succeeded in getting Pakistan and, to satisfy Sikh community, Punjab was divided and east Punjab was given to the mainly Sikh community because they refused to live under the domination of Muslims.

“I do not say that Christians should have struggled for separate state or province; I just say that Christian politicians of that era should have struggled for some districts to live together. If Christian politicians had struggled and taken some districts, the social, economic and political situation of Christians would have been completely different today.

“It is political failure of Christian politicians of that era that they could not visualize the future of Christians,” he added.

The lawyer said that after partition and the creation of their new country, Pakistan Christian politicians "could not set the destination" for their nation.

Grief-stricken Pakistani Christian women after another violent act in their community

“They did not have vision for social, political and economic progress of Christians," he said. "The Christian politicians, who came during the period of 1947 to 1990, did not have any vision or agenda except for development work of the streets and sewerage.”

He also stated that these politicians had been pursuing what he called a “one-point agenda” which is to repeal the country’s controversial blasphemy laws. Anjum said that with such a "short-sighted" agenda, “how can such a nation make progress?”

He added, “It is the misfortune of Pakistani Christians that they have been facing a crises of leadership since the existence of Pakistan. A strong, major, organized and visionary political party is the solution of all these problems. Such a party should not be an ordinary party, but must work like a state.

“There should be some institutions or departments under the flag of a [Christian] party. There should be department of international affairs for lobbying for the interests of Christians and for gaining the sympathy of the international community.”

He also said, “There should be department of economic development for the economic prosperity of Christians and also a department of higher education for the educational development of our people.

“There was time when a number of people and sources were considered strong element for nations, but now the time has changed. Now it is war of brains and the quality of persons.

“You can take the example of Finland, whose total population is less than that of Karachi but, the exports of one company, Nokia of Finland, is more than total exports of Pakistan. I mean that now quality matters. We should emphasize on quality education.

“Although we are less in numbers, we can become a strong nation by getting quality education. All such institutions should be under one flag of that political party.”

Mr. Anjum was one of many speakers at the conference. See http://www.assistnews.net/Stories/2012/s12010167.htm for another report.

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When A World Renowned Surgeon Opened His Heart To A Remote Village In Africa -- Amazing Things Happened

ASSIST News Service (ANS) - PO Box 609, Lake Forest, CA 92609-0609 USA
Visit our web site at: www.assistnews.net -- E-mail: assistnews@aol.com

Saturday, February 4, 2012

When A World Renowned Surgeon Opened His Heart To A Remote Village In Africa -- Amazing Things Happened

By Michael Ireland
Senior International Correspondent, ASSIST News Service

PLANO, TEXAS (ANS) -- Dr. Isadore Lieberman is an orthopedic spine surgeon at the Texas Back Institute of Plano, TX. He has been leading medical mission trips to remote villages in Africa for seven years.

Each year, Dr.Lieberman, a resident of Dallas, Texas, travels to Uganda for a medical mission. One of the rural communities he visits is Putti; a village comprised of about 200 individuals who practice Judaism and who speak English, Luganda and Hebrew.

Just over a year ago during one of his medical missions, Dr. Lieberman discovered that the village did not have an authentic Torah -- just a 12” paper version. The Torah is an ancient, hand-written parchment scroll of the first five books of the Hebrew Bible. Dr. Lieberman made a vow to return one day with an authentic Torah.

When he learned that a rural community of struggling Orthodox Jews in Uganda had no Torah for worship, he made a commitment to provide one. One year and $25,000 later, he delivered the ancient Torah to the African village!

The Torah and its delivery cost approximately $25,000. This ancient scroll is essential in connecting the Jews with Hebrew traditions dating back thousands of years in a way that no other item can.

When he returned to Putti in 2011, what Dr. Lieberman didn’t expect when he showed up with the Torah after a bumpy and grueling 5-hour drive was being greeted like royalty! The people of the village welcomed Lieberman and his group with shouts and screams of pure joy at this incredible gift.

It has not been easy for the people of Putti to practice their Jewish faith. From 1971 - 79 the reigning President of Uganda placed a ban on Judaism which resulted in many practitioners converting to other religions. In fact, the community calls itself 'Remnant of Israel' because they are the remaining practitioners of Judaism in their area.

Lieberman and his team continue to be inspired by the people of this small village who strive to be recognized as Orthodox Jews. For more information please visit: www.ugandatorah.org.

The outpouring of gratitude and love showered on Dr. Lieberman and his team was captured on video at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=IfOrS6dQh34.

___________________________________________________________

For more information on this story, contact:
Jeff Brady
The Brady Media Group
15455 N. Dallas Pkwy. Ste. 600
Addison, TX 75001
jeff@bradymediagroup.com
Office: (214) 265-5670

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Iran concerned over spread of Christianity in Malaysia

ASSIST News Service (ANS) - PO Box 609, Lake Forest, CA 92609-0609 USA
Visit our web site at: www.assistnews.net -- E-mail: assistnews@aol.com

Saturday, February 4, 2012

Iran concerned over spread of Christianity in Malaysia

By Michael Ireland
Senior International Correspondent, ASSIST News Service

TEHRAN, IRAN (ANS) -- The ruling Islamic Regime of Iran is not only worried about the growth of Christianity inside the country, but is also concerned about the increase in tendency of Malays towards Christianity.

www.MohabatNews.com reports the IRNA news agency, which is backed by the Islamic Republic, reflected this news quoting the ‘Malaysia Insider’ news site as saying: "Jamil Khair Baharom, the minister of Islamic affairs expressed his concern over the growth of Christianity among Malays and in reaction to the growth in evangelism said, instead of passage of new rules, all efforts should be made to enforce current rules more strongly."

Mohabat News says the law to control and restrict non-Islamic religions among Malay Muslims was adopted in 1980.

The news agency says the minister of Islamic affairs in Malaysia believes that the law lacks strength in its execution, and officers of religious affairs should exert more seriousness in executing these laws.

Religious situation in Malaysia

Mohabat News says that according to Malay laws, conversion would be considered a crime for Muslims. Malay society is multi-religious, and Islam is the state religion. According to statistics published in 2000, Muslims form 60.4 %, Buddhists 19.2%, Christians 9.1 % and Hindus 6.3% of Malaysia's population.

Based on the laws in Malaysia, anyone who decides to renounce Islam should formally announce it, Mohabat News reported.

However, this rule is not recognized in the local courts, the news agency said.

Mohabat News stated: “It is being said that one could formally announce his apostasy to a court of Sharia, but he/she is not expected to receive a permit for that.”

The news agency went on to state that the IRNA, the Iranian government backed news agency, claimed that some time ago Islamic groups held a demonstration in protest at the spread of evangelism in the National mosque of Malaysia.

Mohabat News explained that during the past year Malaysia has prevented sectarian religious conflicts.

“However,” the agency said, “tension between Muslims and Christians has risen since 2009 when a court decided to allow Catholics to use the word ‘Allah’ to refer to God in the Malay language.

Many Muslims in Malaysia think that this word is exclusive to their religion, the news agency said.

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Pakistan: Row over demolition of historic Roman Catholic institution

ASSIST News Service (ANS) - PO Box 609, Lake Forest, CA 92609-0609 USA
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Friday, February 3, 2012

Pakistan: Row over demolition of historic Roman Catholic institution

By Rodrick Samson
Special Correspondent for the ASSIST News Service in Pakistan

LAHORE, PAKISTAN (ANS) -- The row has broken out in Pakistan after the Gosh-e-Aman Institute, an historic Roman Catholic institution, established in 1887, has been demolished on the orders of the Punjab provincial government

Zenobia Richards sitting amidst the rubble

It stood on a 2-acre area now worth billions of rupees and housed a senior citizens’ home, a girls’ school, a convent and a chapel and was demolished on January 10, 2012.

The legal arguments over who owned the building and the land has been going on for some time; at least since a woman convert to Islam had sought shelter in the facility.

The Catholic Church had filed a petition at the Lahore High Court (LHC) protesting at what he says is the illegal demolishing of the building.

Father Emmanuel Yousaf Mani, director of the National Commission for Justice and Peace has been leading the case at the Lahore High Court.

The residents have since been trying to find shelter.

Zenobia Richards, 61, told ANS, “The Catholic Church has filed the petition only for the illegal demolishing, but not for the desecration of the church, which is unacceptable. I have filed a case at the LHC against the desecration of the Bible, Mary`s Statue and the rosary. I am surprised that the Church in spite of having the authority didn’t mention the desecration.

“I have also questioned them that why they had given the land to a Muslim inside the church premises. I will fight for my right. I saw everything happening in front of my eyes. God has given me the courage to file a case for blasphemy.”

Surveying what is left of the institution

Father Emmanuel Yousaf, after appearing in the LHC said, “The case is in the court and we have full confidence in our legal system. We have filed the case for illegal demolishing of Gosh-e-Aman. We are trying to do whatever we can for the displaced.”

A representative from the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) said that the land was government property, and it was in possession of a “land mafia.” The group was led by a woman, who was a Christian who had converted to Islam. She had deployed armed men around the property to resist demolition by the LDA officials. The church had not been able to oust her, but she left the place before it was demolished.

Pervaiz Rafique, a Member Provincial Assembly says that he will be raising the matter on the floor of the Punjab assembly and will demand the Government officials to answer why they had illegally demolished the Church property.

Discussing what can be done about the demolition

Zenobia Richards, 61, has been working for the Catholic Church for over 24 years,and she lived alone and had no connection with the Muslim convert.

The case is in the court, the Church leadership has refused to talk to anyone regarding the proceedings. The question about the Muslim convert being the legal or illegal occupant is being investigated as she claimed that she had the property documents and the church had transferred the land to her, but the LDA and other government officials say she was illegally living there.

Gosh-e-Aman (Corner of peace) was established by Catholic Church of Pakistan in 1887 and, after the creation of Pakistan, it was being administered jointly by the Catholic Church, Anglican Church and the Presbyterian Church. Later, in 1970’s, Caritas was looking after the property. Since 2001 a welfare trust had been taking care of the premises. There were around 5-6 families in the premises along with the women who later converted and became a Muslim.

Rodrick Samson is a freelance journalist based in Pakistan

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Sudan: Samaritan’s Purse Bible College Bombed

ASSIST News Service (ANS) - PO Box 609, Lake Forest, CA 92609-0609 USA
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Friday, February 3, 2012

Sudan: Samaritan’s Purse Bible College Bombed
At least eight bombs were dropped in the area Wednesday during the school’s first day of classes

By Dan Wooding
Founder of ASSIST Ministries

SOUTH KORDOFAN, SUDAN (ANS) -- Samaritan’s Purse has announced that a Bible school that they support, was destroyed on Wednesday, February 1, 2012, in the latest bombing raid to hit South Kordofan, an oil-rich Sudanese province that borders the newly created independent country of South Sudan.

A man stands in front of one of the
bombed out buildings

At least eight bombs were dropped in the area of Heiban Bible College Wednesday during the school's first day of classes, according to a statement by Samaritan's Purse, Franklin Graham’s Christian humanitarian group, which supports the school.

Heiban Bible College operates out of a compound in the Nuba Mountains in South Kordofan, which borders the new nation of South Sudan, and fortunately, no injuries were reported.

“We have been working for years in Sudan,” Samaritan's Purse President Franklin Graham said on Wednesday. “Today our Bible school in Heiban in the Nuba Mountains was bombed by the Sudanese Air Force. No one was killed or hurt, but buildings were destroyed. Please pray for the safety of believers, and that God would intervene.”

The son of evangelist Billy Graham went on to say, “My staff and I are deeply concerned for the welfare and lives of the people in the Nuba Mountains of Sudan who were terrorized by the bombings of the Heiban Bible College. This attack was carried out by Sudanese Air Force planes that dropped eight bombs on the school that Samaritan’s Purse, the international Christian relief organization I lead, constructed and dedicated in 2007 to train local pastors.

“It was the first day of class for the new school year and the campus was full of students, teachers and teachers’ families. It was a miracle that no one was injured or killed. The bombs ignited grass in and around the campus and we still do not know the full extent of the damage.

Devastation after the bombing of the Bible school

“We at Samaritan’s Purse condemn the repeated attacks on the innocent people who are being terrorized in the Nuba Mountains. Many have been forced to flee their homes and we are committed to helping those in need. My prayer is that the world will not just sit by and watch and hope for the best, but make it clear to the government of Sudan that attacks like these will not be tolerated.”

Samaritan’s Purse has supported the Heiban Bible College since it was founded in 2007. The organization constructed classrooms, dormitories, kitchens, a dining room and housing for teachers and in 2010, Franklin Graham attended and spoke at the ceremony for the first graduating class of 36 students.

Samaritan's Purse and Franklin Graham have a long history in Sudan, having spent some $100 million to help the Sudanese people. The organization has been working throughout Sudan since 1993, providing hundreds of thousands of people with food, medical aid and vocational training.

Franklin Graham met with the students when he spoke at the first graduation ceremony at
Heiban Bible College

Graham, who has called on the international community to take out Sudan’s air assets and establish a no-fly zone in the region, said in a statement Thursday that he blamed Sudan's air force for the strike.

At least four churches have been destroyed since August, the group said.

CNN is reporting, “More than 78,000 people have fled South Kordofan and Blue Nile states since August of last year after an armed rebellion took root, the United Nations reported. The Sudanese government is thought to have responded to the rebellion by conducting sustained air raids with the use of Russian-made Antonov bombers, which have raised concerns over civilian casualties.

“Decades of civil war between the north and south, costing as many as 2 million lives, formally ended with a U.S.-brokered peace treaty in 2005.
But before South Sudan gained independence in July of last year, human rights monitors expressed concerns that longstanding grievances could again lead to violence consuming the region.

“In November, there were several days of bombings near an entry point for refugees at the border, the United Nations reported. It did not specify who launched the bombs.”

Now, the United States has accused Sudan of targeting civilians in recent airstrikes, including one that destroyed the Bible school.

“The United States strongly condemns the bombing by the Sudanese Armed Forces of civilian populations in Southern Kordofan,” a White House statement said. “Aerial attacks on civilian targets are unjustified and unacceptable. Such attacks are a violation of international law and compound the ongoing crisis in these areas.”

CNN added, “The Sudanese government could not be immediately reached for comment, but has said in the past that it is targeting rebels in the area.”

Decades of civil war between the north and south, costing as many as 2 million lives, formally ended with a U.S.-brokered peace treaty in 2005.
But before South Sudan gained independence in July of last year, human rights monitors expressed concerns that longstanding grievances could again lead to violence consuming the region.

In November, there were several days of bombings near an entry point for refugees at the border, the United Nations reported. It did not specify who launched the bombs.

The White House statement, released on Thursday, urged for officials to find others ways to settle the conflict.

“We believe that this conflict can only be resolved by dialogue, not through violence, and we encourage all parties to negotiate a peaceful settlement,” the statement said.

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