Release International

A congregation near Kampala is living in fear after a violent mob armed with machetes and clubs tried to raid their Sunday worship service.

About 40 Islamist extremists attempted to storm the World Possessor's Church International in Namasuba, knocking bricks from the walls to force their way in. The congregation struggled to fend off the assault until local residents and police intervened.

One church member, who had been taking photos during the worship and continued to do so during the attack, was badly beaten and required treatment at a local health clinic. Part of the church was damaged in the raid. Attendance at the church on the next Sunday was less than half the usual number – about 100 people turned up instead of the usual 250.

Pastor Henry Zaake says he is dismayed that no arrests have been made since the attack on November 1, especially since he has continued to receive threatening messages on his phone. 'The police silence on the issue is worrying,' he told Compass Direct news agency.

Muslims have long opposed the church in Namasuba, complaining that it was trying to convert local residents to Christianity. Namasuba is a predominantly Muslim area.

(Source: Compass Direct)
 
• Ask God to fill His people in Namasuba with boldness so they will fear no evil. Pray there will be no further attacks on this church.
• Pray for wisdom for Pastor Henry Zaake and other church leaders.

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