In 2017 terror attacks claimed over 100 Christian lives, and Egypt’s government has responded to the rising terror threat by introducing measures that repress human rights. These measures include a crackdown on NGOs and human rights defenders that has drawn criticism from the UK, the US, Germany and the UN.
Sunday 31 March
In August 2018 a mob gathered in the village of Demshao Hashem, following rumours that a building belonging to the local Christian community was going to be converted into a church. The attack resulted in three people being injured and four properties being damaged. Pray for ongoing physical and emotional healing for the survivors, as well as for reconciliation between communities.
Monday 1 April
Egypt has approximately 15 million Sufis, whose practices are considered blasphemous by ultra-conservative branches of Islam. Over 300 people were killed when gunmen attacked a Sufi mosque in November 2017, and in March 2018 IS beheaded two elderly Sufi men, accusing them of sorcery. Pray that violence against Sufis will cease completely.
Tuesday 2 April
In 2016 parliament approved a law aimed at making it easier to build and restore churches, and 53 churches and service buildings received official approval for carrying out religious rituals. Thank God for these developments.
Wednesday 3 April
At least seven people were killed and eleven injured in a terrorist attack on 2 November 2018, when attackers opened fire on a bus taking Christians to visit a monastery in Minya, Upper Egypt. The Coptic community has been the target of numerous attacks in recent years. Pray for God’s hand of protection and blessing over them.
Thursday 4 April
Under President Sisi there have been some advances in the enjoyment of freedom of religion or belief, but only for the Christian community. Pray that all Egypt’s people will be able to practise their religion or beliefs without fear of violence or harassment.
Friday 5 April
‘And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly.’ Luke 18:6-8. Pray this verse over Egypt today.
Saturday 6 April
Heavenly Father, your name is sovereign over all rulers and authorities. We thank you for the improvements we’ve seen for Christians in Egypt recently, and ask you to move the hearts of the Egyptian authorities to extend these protections to all citizens. In Jesus’ name. Amen.