Kidnapped men released; two others killed in Iraq

We recently requested prayer for three Assyrian Christians, together with a Turkman Muslim, who were kidnapped near Kirkuk on September 21. Middle East Concern reports that they were released on September 30. Praise God! Reportedly a ransom was paid to secure their release.

However, the Christian community continues to suffer, as two Christian men were shot dead in Kirkuk in recent days. Hanna Polos Emmanuel's body was found on the city's outskirts on October 1. He was 60 years old. Bassam Isho was killed in the Muthana district on October 2. He was 30 years old.

Iraqi Christians fear that these incidents are targeted attacks to destabilize Christian communities in Iraq.

For the full report, click here.

Iraqi Christians rejoice in the release of the kidnapped men and thank us for our prayers. They request our continued intercession that:

• Those kidnapped, together with their families, will find emotional healing after facing this trauma.
• The families of those killed will know the peace, presence and comfort of Jesus.
• The perpetrators of violence against Christians will know the Spirit's conviction, the Son's offer of forgiveness and the Father's welcome to relationship with God.
• The authorities will act decisively to improve security for all people, including Christians and other religious minorities, in Kirkuk and throughout Iraq.