By Linda Jones

3/15/2018 Washington, DC (International Christian Concern) – On September 8, 2017 a group of Muslim Fulani militants carried out an attack in central Nigeria’s Plateau state. The incident claimed the lives of at least 20 Christians, including children, as they slept in the middle of the night. Several witnesses and village residents were terrified and surprised since they had never experienced any problems with the Fulani militants who have a settlement a few miles away.

“I heard sporadic gunshots all over the village. They were shooting everywhere in the village and this lasted for about 25 minutes,” said one of the villagers.

At least 18 of the victims who were massacred that night were active members of the Baptist church in Ancha village. This tragic event affected all church members and placed an even bigger burden on the pastor of the church since many of the congregants became discouraged. The pastor faced many challenges while fulfilling other pastoral duties because of the devastation and fear left behind from the attack.

During a visit to Nigeria this year, ICC’s Regional Manager for Africa listened to several devastating stories and interviewed many of the affected families, including the pastor of the church. In response, we decided to donate a motorcycle to the pastor to make it easier and faster for him to travel to families in need. This gift will help him reach out to these families that live in fear after witnessing the massacre or losing a loved one.

The pastor shared, “Thank you so much for caring for our community. You are the first people to come see our town and show care for our loved ones.”

Please continue to pray for Christians in Nigeria who are constantly harassed and persecuted by Islamic radicals and hostile neighbors. Pray also for our brothers and sisters in Ancha who are peaceful Christian farmers who already face many challenges and now live in fear of being targeted again. Remember to also pray for the pastor of the Baptist church as he continues to reach out to the affected victims and other villagers who desperately need to witness the love of God. Ask God to provide for the church and give the pastor the courage he needs to continue sharing the Gospel.