Escalating Tensions in Manipur: Meitei Militants Desecrate Church, Spark Gunfire with Police Families Seek Justice for Rape Survivors
Dear all,
As I compose this letter, I'm saddened to report further devastating attacks on Kuki Christians in the region of Manipur, India. These heinous acts include beatings, arson, gun violence, and even loss of life or cases of sexual assault. Despite these alarming events, the Indian Government continues to overlook their plight, while the police and armed forces appear either
biased, constantly under threat from militants, or simply indifferent to the suffering of the victims. Adding to the distress, our donors have shown reluctance to support our efforts in India since the initial global media attention. In response, we have initiated a crowdfunding campaign to allow people to track the amount raised to assist over 60,000 internally displaced Christians. Learn more (here). Donate towards our crowdfund (here).
In what promises to be a somber newsletter, we find ourselves compelled to share yet more distressing news. In Pakistan, a
father's desperate plea for help in locating his missing daughter underscores the alarming increase in abductions of Christian girls (click here). Additionally, we mourn the loss of a Christian
employee who was tragically killed by his employer, with the motive behind the crime still shrouded in mystery (click here). Meanwhile, the plight of Nabeel Masih, a victim of blasphemy laws who was only 16 when arrested and now faces the
looming threat of reimprisonment, continues to haunt us (click here). His fear is palpable and heart-wrenching.
In times as dire as these, it is faith that sustains Christians. Despite enduring unimaginable trials, they cling to God for strength and solace. Consider the case of Fanson, who was arrested and coerced into making a confession for blasphemy following a brutal police interrogation. This came after a message was posted on Facebook
from a phone that had been stolen two years prior. (click here). As our brothers and sisters face such relentless adversity, we humbly request your prayers and support for all these beleaguered Christians.
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;in all your ways submit to
him, and he will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV
Throughout January and
February, we were able to raise just over £3000 from our appeals. While this support is deeply appreciated, it has posed significant challenges in carrying out our regular work. As we strive to maintain financial stability, we appeal to to you to help if you can.
Regrettably, due to the limited funds raised last month, we were unable to provide support to several victims, particularly the Pakistani Christians we assist in Thailand. Their urgent needs remain unmet, and we earnestly seek additional donations to extend our aid to them. To learn more about their situation, please read here.
Your contributions play a vital role in our ability to provide assistance to those in need, and we are immensely grateful for every bit of support we get. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of these vulnerable communities.
I also want to bring to your attention a more personal appeal. While many of you are aware of the National RAAC roofing crisis, few may know that I have been directly affected along with 150 other Ex-council homeowners in Torry, Aberdeen. The story is a lengthy one,
and I feel compelled to share it with you here.
Fortunately, I am in the fortunate position where my father is covering the costs of an inspection for my home. However, countless families in Torry, Aberdeen, which is among some of the areas with the highest levels of deprivation, have been left grappling with crippling expenses, cancelled insurance and the threat of becoming homeless and wracked with debt
because of their now zero equity homes.
I urge you all to please sign my petition (here) and consider contributing to a crowdfunding initiative that I have initiated (here). While I will not directly benefit
from this fund, but many of the most vulnerable homeowners, burdened with overwhelming costs, may find some relief through it. Your support could make a significant difference in their lives.
Please read this news story (click here) and BBC News feature: