A growing church in the Kabyle region of Algeria was to begin meeting in their new building on Saturday, December 26th . This is their usual meeting day, but they were planning to have a special celebration of the birth of Jesus. When the believers started to arrive at their new premises, they found around 50 Muslim protesters barring the doors. The church leaders contacted the authorities who responded by sending four police cars. The police did not intervene, they just monitored the situation. The protesters continued their threats saying that if the Christians continued to meet in this building, they would slaughter the pastor and his family.
This church has seen incredible growth in the last few years, with many miraculous signs and wonders taking place while they meet. Many Muslim families and young people have found hope in Jesus through this ministry. The church leadership are not afraid or discouraged. They returned to their premises the next day and discovered 20 protesters still gathered there. They were able to share the gospel with them and give out New Testaments.
This incident was reported in one of the national newspapers, El Watan. (Dec 27, 2009) According to the paper, the protesters where local residents who were upset at finding that a church building with many visitors from outside the area would be opening up next to their houses. The article highlighted some of the misconceptions that Muslims have of the church growth in Algeria, stating that they where afraid that their youth would be lured into the church with promises of money or other material incentives. The newspaper tried to play down the involvement of the Muslim fundamentalist groups, but it is highly likely that these groups will capitalize on local unrest and use this as an opportunity to try to hinder the Lord’s work in Algeria.
We know that God can and will use this opposition for His glory but we covet your prayers for the protection of the pastor and his family.They are not afraid, but are in great need of wisdom in how to respond and and in talking to the authorities and to their opponents. Pray that the local authorities would intervene in a positive way and even find Jesus themselves!
