Pray! Believers kidnapped in Cameroon

There has been another attack in the Far North region of Cameroon.

This area, known as a “red zone” because it’s so dangerous for civilians, is home to many communities that endure regular attacks from Boko Haram, the notorious, militant Islamist group that often targets Christians.

This latest attack took place on 10 August in a village called Mahoula, located in a part of the Far North region close to Nigeria. The violence resulted in the abduction of two Christians, coming from two different churches.

Years of insecurity, kidnappings, village raids, looting and violence—mostly from Boko Haram—have left many believers in this area living in fear and uncertainty. Local Christians say the attack highlights the ongoing challenges facing vulnerable communities along Cameroon’s border with Nigeria.


 

Believers’ flesh grows weak

“[In my area], the church is going through many difficulties,” says Pastor Babien, a church leader in a nearby community. “We see regular kidnappings and sexual assaults here. We experience the destruction of the church's property. We face regular attacks.”

In the aftermath of the tragedy, Pastor Babien has made an urgent appeal to Christians around the world to pray for believers living under constant threat in the region.

  Pastor Babien stresses that beyond physical suffering, many believers are struggling to maintain hope and remain steadfast in their faith. “I would like you to pray for us that our faith will not fail,” he shares, “because given these trials, at some point, the flesh tells us to let go.”

The current farming season is also an especially risky time, as security concerns threaten food production and livelihoods, creating even more difficulties for believers. “Pray for us that God will keep us in this year, especially during this agricultural season, that we can bring in our harvests well,” Pastor Babien says.


 

Persecutors’ conversion is possible

The pastor also highlights the plight of widows, orphans and families: “I would also like you to pray for the Christian families, orphans, and widows who are destabilized through the attacks, the killings, the murders of Christians.”

But Pastor Babien doesn’t only ask for prayers for believers. In a remarkable appeal reflecting the teachings of Christ, he urges us to not only pray for victims but also for those responsible for the violence.

  “We want them to be converted,” he says. “I would like you to help us in prayer so that even those who persecute us believe. Because everything is possible with God.”

You can also help by signing and sharing the Arise Africa petition, which calls for protection, justice and restoration for those affected by violent persecution in Cameroon and in many places in sub-Saharan Africa. Together, we can raise one million signatures to present to national governments and international organisations, compelling them to use their power and influence to stop the violence and start the healing. Thank you.