Response Magazine Issue 151 by Sally Mavin

Response Mar-Apr 08

Issue 151

Fear & Loathing Burmaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s radical change of heart

Seeds of change Reaping the rewards of past campaigns

Congo casualties New ways to campaign for the DRC

Be a voice for the voiceless

www.csw.org.uk

Welcome

“The more the body of Christ responds to the suffering of those who are persecuted, the more effectively we fight the good fight for the ending of persecution.” CSW President Jonathan Aitken It’s no secret that at CSW, we choose to fight with our voices, not our fists. But whether we’re speaking to a supporter on the phone, delegates at a conference or peers in Parliament, speech will never be our most powerful weapon. For that we rely on prayer. Prayer not only gives us a chance to offer our concerns to God, it’s also an opportunity to praise Him for His mercies, and to enter into a spirit of unity with countless others around the world – all praying for the same cause. That’s why prayer is at the heart of what we do, and why we also want to encourage you to pray with us for our persecuted family in 2008 and beyond. When it comes down to fists or faith, I know what my weapon will be. Do you?

Mervyn Thomas, Chief Executive

contents

Contents Get in touch! Christian Solidarity Worldwide PO Box 99 • New Malden • Surrey KT3 3YF T 0845 456 5464 F 0208 942 8821 E admin@csw.org.uk • www.csw.org.uk

There’s something different about this issue of Response. We’ve altered the size and opted for a cleaner, fresher look. Do let us know what you think by emailing us at letters@csw.org.uk. In the meantime, delve in to see changed attitudes in Burma, hope springing from previous campaigns and a few pearls of wisdom from CSW’s President. Sally Draper, Publications Editor

Fear & loathing in Burma

News update

Standing together to turn anger into action

Stories from around the world and others a bit closer to home

Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) is a human rights organisation which specialises in religious freedom, works on behalf of those persecuted for their Christian beliefs and promotes religious liberty for all.

Building from the ground up

UK registered charity number 281836 Company number 1536426

Seeds of change

False starts

Best foot forward

Congo’s casualties

Converting attitudes

Over to you

Noticeboard

Chief Executive Mervyn Thomas President Jonathan Aitken Patron Baroness Caroline Cox Chairman of the Board Franklin Evans

Board of Reference (partial listing)

Editor’s comment

Lord Anderson of Swansea The Rev Preb Richard Bewes The Rev Lyndon Bowring Alastair Burt MP The Rev Dr Yonggi Cho The Rt Rev Lord Carey of Clifton Gerald Coates David Coffey (President of the Baptist World Alliance) The Rev John Coles (New Wine) David Drew MP Roger Forster Andy Hawthorne

The Rt Rev and The Rt Hon David Hope KCVO Simon Hughes MP Canon J John The Rt Rev Thomas McMahon (RC Bishop of Brentwood) The Rev Mark Melluish (New Wine) The Rt Rev Patrick O’Donoghue (RC Bishop of Lancaster) The Most Rev Dr John Sentamu (Archbishop of York) Phil Wall Paul Weaver

Response Magazine Editor Sally Draper Contributors Sally Draper, Penny Hollings Design Wild Associates Print Active Colour Cover photo Philip Daly

Copyright Christian Solidarity Worldwide 2008. All rights reserved. Reproduction of this text permitted solely for CSW promotional use. For all other uses, please contact us. This magazine is printed on paper from sustainable forests Packaged in biodegradable polywrap

Laying new foundations for Indonesia’s Christians

Reaping the rewards of past campaigns

Warming up for the Beijing hurdle

CSW’s President talks persecution and progress

CSW sparks a new campaign in the DRC

Challenging the UK Church to be a voice for converts

Your letters, plus a few messages from those you’ve helped

Events, resources and ways to get involved

Mar–Apr 08 Response 3

feature

Fear & Loathing in

Burma

Words Sally Draper Photos Toby Madden Chris Jones Philip Daly Free Burma Rangers

When anger takes root, so does action. The people are hungry for change.

Burma and hope: an unlikely combination. After half a century under the iron fistED rule of a military regime, hope inevitably gives way to despair. Yet pockets of optimism still emerge from time to time; the latest being the protests of September 2007. Soon after, CSW travelled to the region to see whether this time hope can lead to positive change.

“The only real prison is fear, and the only real freedom is freedom from fear.” These are the words of Burma’s democracy leader, Aung San Suu Kyi; a woman who clearly knows her people. Fifty years of violence, hunger, death and destruction have taken their toll. With millions displaced from their homes, many of whom have suffered the horrors of rape, murder, forced labour, torture and religious persecution, fear is as plentiful as the dust under their feet. But something is in the air; and while it may not necessarily be a tangible shift towards peace, a subtle change in the mindset of Burma’s people is taking hold. Fear is giving way to anger. “People in Burma are really angry. The regime has brutally suppressed them. Inside people’s minds they really want to do something to change this regime. Life is getting more difficult, but the SPDC has weakened. The people really hate them now.”

4 Response Mar–Apr 08

feature

victory, and the change we’d been praying for. Blog posts and images sprang up on the internet as people rushed to get information out of Burma. And the terrifying question was poised on everyone’s lips: how would the junta react? But then photographs began to emerge of blood-spattered streets, and one in particular – the sandals of a monk tinged with red. The rest, they say, is history.

“The regime is still physically strong. It has guns. But it has no legitimacy or moral authority.”

These words, spoken by a Buddhist monk who took part in the protests of September 2007, reflect a deep-seated frustration which has spanned decades. According to him, the regime is gradually losing its moral foothold, and has even begun overstepping its own boundaries. He recalls being beaten by soldiers with rubber sticks as he tried to protect an older monk, “I was surprised and shocked. I did not think the soldiers would beat monks. In Burma, religion is like a parent. The military beat their parents.” Creaking at the seams The regime tried its luck. Having increased fuel prices by 500%, the Burmese had simply been pushed too far. As tolerance levels peaked, trickles of fresh hope began to run through the city streets, soon becoming rivers of orange robes worn by the monks, whose peaceful marches marked the largest uprising since 1988. Bystanders The world looked on with baited breath. Many of us had our eyes glued to the television screens, wondering whether this would indeed be the people’s long-awaited

6 Response Mar–Apr 08

Meeting the victims CSW staff met with several Buddhist monks who had fled the crackdown, along with many others from the ethnic minorities who continue to suffer gross human rights violations. Clearly, despair has taken root in the hearts of many Burmese victims, a sad fact which was reinforced when we met Nang (not her real name), a 16-year-old girl from Shan state who had fled to an IDP camp on the Thai-Burma border. Weeping throughout her interview, Nang told us her story. “SPDC troops came to my village and asked for porters. My father was ill from a snake bite, so when they asked him, he said he could not go. They arrested him and beat him very badly. He was very shocked and he died in front of the house. I had one brother, but they took him to become a soldier and they took my mother away and she never came back. I never saw my brother again. The soldiers took me and I had to work for one of their families, looking after their three children,

cooking and washing clothes. I had to work very hard and I had to sleep outside, with only one blanket. This was in Rangoon. After my parents died, I stayed with an aunt for five or six months. I also saw my aunt raped by SPDC soldiers. Her husband was not at home so they stayed at her house and raped her. She was very shy. She killed herself.” Turning tides But change is on the horizon. This despair, which has effectively paralysed the Burmese people for nearly half a century, is gradually transforming into something fresh and exciting. As the September protests show, when anger takes root, so does action. The people are hungry for change. Channelling anger into action Ultimately, change can only come from within Burma, but there is also a huge role for us to play. Knowing they have the support of the international community will serve to strengthen and reassure those campaigning from inside. Our vision is to see democracy established in Burma, where the people live in freedom, and human rights are respected. In order to do this, we’re training Burmese human rights organisations to document human rights abuses and learn the principles of advocacy, so they can be the agents of change from within Burma. But it doesn’t stop there. We’re applying international pressure, supporting the victims and raising public awareness. The journey ahead is uncertain, but the wheels are already in motion. Now we need your help to keep up the momentum. We all have an opportunity to turn anger into action. Changing Burma. Together.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

Make our vision a reality by praying, protesting and providing for the people of Burma. Pray See p3 of the enclosed Prayer Diary to pray for change in Burma. Don’t forget our Day of Prayer for Burma on Saturday 8 March from 10am–4pm. Skip to p23 for more details. Protest Why not channel your frustrations into positive action by writing to your MP on behalf of the people of Burma? Ask your MP to write to the Chinese Ambassador, Ms Fu Ying, asking that the Chinese government uses its influence to urge the SPDC to engage in meaningful dialogue with the National League for Democracy and the ethnic groups. Provide We’re gearing up for change in Burma, but will you help us keep the wheels in motion? Donating to our work couldn’t be easier. Just visit www.csw.org.uk, phone 0845 456 5464 or write to us at PO Box 99, New Malden, Surrey KT3 3YF. Alternatively, you can send your donation along with the enclosed carrier sheet, using the freepost envelope provided.

And here’s what we can do for you… We can send a passionate, knowledgeable speaker to your meeting or service. Call Liz Pruett on 0208 329 0012. We’d love to send you Burma-related resources which are brimming with information and ways to get involved. Visit our new-look website at www.csw.org.uk or call 0845 456 5464 for more information. For a fascinating read, why not purchase a copy of A Land Without Evil by CSW’s advocate for Burma, Benedict Rogers. Order now at www.csw.org.uk/booksmusicanddvd.

news

News Tilman and Necati

Pursuing justice The trial has begun for the three Christians brutally murdered in a Turkish Christian bookshop in April 2007. As the wives and family of the victims sat in the courtroom, one of the defendants described how the victims were tortured and killed. CSW is urging the Turkish authorities to ensure that the trial moves forward without prejudice to ensure that justice will prevail irrespective of religious background, and to send a clear message that attacks against Christians will not be tolerated. CSW will keep supporters informed as fresh information emerges. Ugur

news

India’s devastation Christmas celebrations in Orissa, India, turned to horror in what CSW’s partners described as “the largest attack on the Christian community in the history of democratic India”. In a violent rampage which originated in a dispute on Christmas Eve, around 95 churches, convents and other institutions were destroyed or damaged, and 730 houses were burnt down – mostly belonging to Christians, some to Hindus. Several people were killed, and thousands left homeless. The violence began in Brahminigaon village, where the Catholic Church of our Lady of Lourdes was destroyed, and spread quickly throughout the district, affecting churches of all denominations. The violence was the culmination of a long process of ‘Hinduisation’ of tribals by extremist Hindu nationalists, which included inciting hatred against Christians. Mass rallies were held to demand justice and compensation for the victims, and CSW is calling on the Indian government to ensure these requests are met. CSW had already recorded around 160 attacks on Christians across India in 2007, with many more probably unreported. Keep up-to-date with the latest news at www.csw.org.uk/news.

A frugal lunch Looking for a way to raise money and awareness for the persecuted Church? One of our Church Representatives, Jo Carr from Sunderland, helped raise £140 for CSW by holding a soup, bread and cheese lunch in her church. Around 40 people came to the meal, after which they watched a short presentation about our work. For more fundraising ideas, log on to www.csw.org.uk/fundraisingresources.

Reaching out Those of you who tuned in to the BBC’s Songs of Praise on Sunday 27 January would have seen Mary Kohn, an 89-year-old CSW supporter from Northumberland who regularly organises letterwriting projects, sending cards to prisoners of conscience and others through our Connect & Encourage resource. Mary demonstrated how such a small effort like this can make a huge difference in the lives of those suffering for their faith. If you would like to begin writing cards to persecuted Christians, please contact the office on 0845 456 5464 or email admin@csw.org.uk to request your newly updated copy of Connect & Encourage. Alternatively, you can download this resource at www.csw.org.uk/writetothepersecuted.

Meaningful impact LADS in Pakistan has received over 2000 cards from CSW supporters over the Christmas period, addressed to both the LADS lawyers and the blasphemy prisoners for whom they work. They say, “this is a great encouragement for blasphemy victims. LADS is thankful for all the friends who remembered us and the victims in their love and prayers. May God bless all the friends for this favour and love”.

In brief Seeking forgiveness Christians in Colombia are showing the true meaning of forgiveness through Prison Fellowship, a programme run by Lácidez Hermandez Alvarez. Through workshops, the programme aims to bring reconciliation between victims and perpetrators, encouraging confession, repentance and forgiveness for crimes which include murder. “Without forgiveness there is no freedom” says Lacidez. “You become a prisoner of your own pain and bitterness. By giving perpetrators a chance to explain themselves and seek forgiveness from their victims, we begin the process of healing.”

feature

feature Then came the attack. Extremists, supported by local police, were angry that the church planned to expand its building without consent. Threatening the church with violence if it was not closed down, local authorities asked the church to halt activities ‘for the sake of the community’.

Building Words Sally Draper

from the ground up

“If you want a job done well, do it yourself,” or so the saying goes. But in reality, it all depends on the job in question. Taking the law into your own hands is dangerous business, as many Indonesians know only too well. In some regions, Christians and other minority religions are facing ongoing challenges as extremist groups threaten their ability to live in peace. 10 Response Mar–Apr 08

The break-in shook Bedali Hulu to his very core, reminding him that his life belongs solely to God. When Muslim extremists burst into his home and began kicking down doors and smashing windows, he knew he had to trust in God’s protection.

Moving backwards Two churches in two weeks. A sad reality. And particularly poignant considering how far Christian-Muslim relations have generally improved thanks to efforts in conflict resolution and inter-faith dialogue, a key component of CSW’s work in Indonesia.

Bedali, a Baptist pastor, had been holding church meetings at his home. He had gone through all the necessary channels, so naturally thought there was nothing to worry about. Bedali’s church was registered with the Religious Affairs authorities and he had a permit to conduct religious activities. But fear soon surfaced as he heard the first crash.

But in recent years, things have slipped. As the government becomes more tolerant of extremist groups, more licence is given for extremists to restrict religious freedom and act on the basis of fatwas instead of Indonesian law.

His home was completely destroyed. Worse still, the attack resulted in the closure of his church, and in an all too familiar pattern, instead of arresting those responsible for the violent attack, Bedali was asked to leave the area until tensions had cooled. Patterns emerge The next target was a Catholic church ironically named “Christ’s Peace”. But 23 November 2007 was far from peaceful as 75 Muslim demonstrators demanded that it closed down after 40 years of peaceful coexistence with the local Muslim community. Unlike Bedali, the leaders of Christ’s Peace had failed on numerous occasions to receive a permit, despite the government’s obligations to provide permits for religious groups. But the church was left to flounder with no permit and no explanation.

With these groups pursuing their own version of justice and the law, the casualties are far reaching. In West Java alone, more than 100 places of worship have been attacked or closed down in the past four years. And the violence continues. Breaking the cycle The saying that a chain is only as strong as its weakest link rings particularly true when the government is slow to respond. As the world’s largest Muslim state, Indonesia enjoys a reputation of tolerance and moderation, with people of all different faiths living harmoniously. But the government’s reluctance to tackle these small violent extremist groups and ensure that Indonesia’s laws and constitution are respected is not only undermining the tolerant culture of Indonesia; it is also challenging the ability of Indonesia’s laws to protect the rights of its minorities. Coming together However some signs of hope are in evidence. Indonesia’s majority Muslim leaders have condemned these actions, called on the authorities to protect minority religions and in

attacked theological college

many areas, Muslim youth groups and others have even physically protected churches and other places of worship. Adversity to opportunity So what is CSW doing? Well, we’re working with local NGOs and religious groups to encourage the Indonesian government to uphold the law in these situations, to bring to justice those who resort to violence and to encourage peaceful resolution through the correct legal channels. A miracle to believe in It’s a long, hard slog, but then Rome wasn’t built in a day. We all have our own brick to lay. Will you help Indonesia protect its tolerant culture and rebuild what has been destroyed?

As the government becomes more tolerant of extremist groups, more licence is given for extremists to restrict religious freedom and act on the basis of fatwas instead of Indonesian law

Start laying the foundations Pray Lift your hearts and prayers to God for Indonesia’s future and pray for Christians and others facing violence. Use p5 of CSW’s Prayer Diary. Protest Roll up your sleeves and write a letter to your MP, asking them to raise these church closures and attacks on religious minorities with the Indonesian government. Provide Please dig deep and support our work with a regular donation to CSW. Phone 0845 456 5464, visit www.csw.org.uk or fill out and return the carrier sheet provided.

CAMPAIGN UPDATE

Seeds of Change

campaign update

stories of hope from around the world

Your efforts are flourishing, planting new hope in the hearts of Christians around the world. Here, seven updates on previous campaigns demonstrate the potential you have to create lasting change.

Aid increased Combined efforts from CSW and supporters have resulted in dramatic success for the people of Burma. In November, we asked you to write to the Secretary of State for International Development, Douglas Alexander, asking him to accept and implement the recommendations in the House of Commons International Development Committee’s report on Burma (An MP in Burma, issue 149). Thanks to your letters, along with the lobbying efforts of CSW and the Burma Campaign UK, Douglas Alexander MP announced in the House of Commons that the British government would double aid to Burma, from £8.8 million to £18 million, by 2010, and that a proportion of the new funds would be used for crossborder aid. The Department for International Development (DFID) will also seriously look at funding human rights and democracy promotion projects on Burma’s borders. 12 Response Mar–Apr 08

Hope restored We’re delighted to announce that Zmitser Dashkevich, the young Belarusian Christian who was imprisoned because of his pro-democracy work, has been unexpectedly released. When asked by Euroradio what lesson he had learned during his imprisonment, Zmitser said, “I learnt that everything is in God’s hands. Prison only made my faith stronger. I want to say that I do not regret even one day spent in this place. In prison, understanding of truth comes quicker and feelings get deeper. I am even grateful to God that He planned it this way and took me through this great experience.” Many thanks for all your prayers and letters, which have been a huge encouragement to him. Zmitser said that in just one day he received around 200 cards and letters from people around the world, offering their support.

Healing found In one issue of Response, (Love in the long term, issue 146), we told you about Ida Beltran, whose husband, Pastor Párraga, was disappeared by the Peruvian military in 1989. His disappearance had a profound effect on this family, whose meagre resources were exhausted in their quest to find him, during which they travelled around the country, from prison to prison, hoping against hope that he might still be alive. Three years ago they were faced with another painful setback when an exhumation failed to turn up his body. Thanks to the dedication of our partners, Peace & Hope, a further exhumation was carried out in 2007 where his body was identified and returned to the family for burial. Nearly two decades on, Pastor Párraga has finally been laid to rest, and his family are able to move forward in their healing.

Captives freed Many of you prayed and wrote letters to the Chinese authorities concerning Mr Yoo Sang-joon, a North Korean activist who recently faced trial in China for his work in helping North Korean refugees. After just four months’ detention, Mr Yoo was released, and is now safely back in South Korea. Mr Yoo has expressed his heartfelt thanks for all the care and action focused on him during his imprisonment, saying, “I am grateful from the depths of my heart to CSW and CSW supporters for all the deep concern, prayer and advocacy on my behalf while I was in prison.”

Injustice lessened There has been some progress for two people highlighted in our Cut the Chains campaign. Following considerable international criticism of these cases, an appeal against the imprisonment of Vietnamese lawyers Nguyen Van Dai and Le Thi Cong Nhan was heard in the Supreme People’s Court at the end of November 2007. While the pair were not released as had previously been hoped, the prison sentences imposed on both lawyers were reduced by one year each.

your thoughts “How wonderful it is to receive good news! Praise the Lord! It encourages me to continue to pray for the many others who are suffering.” Angus Pountney “Wonderful news. God is faithful.” Jo Carr “We thank God for Him answering all the prayers for this particular man. When you see the results, it really is heart warming, and it increases our faith. Praise be to God who hears our prayers.” Ann Lewis

Awareness raised Last autumn, we asked you to write to your MEPs about Eritrea, asking that the EU sets clear benchmarks for progress in human rights (Notes from the inside, issue 148). Thanks to your letters, several MEPs tabled important questions to the Commission about the human rights situation in Eritrea. Thank you! Attention grabbed In response to the thousands of Cut the Chains postcards which you sent to David Miliband on behalf of prisoners of conscience, CSW has received a letter from the Foreign Office addressing our concerns. The full text of this letter is posted on our website at www.csw.org.uk. The campaign team is continuing to correspond with staff at the Foreign Office to follow up on the commitments made in the letter.

Want to be the first to hear updates like these? Sign up to our Urgent Action emails for prayer and lobbying points straight to your inbox at www.csw.org.uk/emaillistsignup.

Keep going! Even the smallest effort can make a huge difference. Could your letter be the one to secure a prisoner’s release, give faith back to the doubtful or even change the laws of a country? Be a voice for the voiceless. Pray. Protest. Provide. Mar–Apr 08 Response 13

PREVIEW

Looking for

False Starts Words Sally Draper

The finishing line is in sight. As the world gears up for the Beijing Olympics from 8–24 August, we consider whether religious freedom is a contender for a podium finish.

“One world, one dream” boasts China’s Olympic slogan. But whose dream would involve spending every day staring at the same four walls?

Shot to put It was a meeting that ended badly with three church leaders detained just five days before Christmas after their service was raided by local authorities.

When a Christian has spent the past three months in a Chinese prison cell simply for going to church, it’s difficult to believe that humanity has a united dream. If this is the case, Christians in China can’t be very human at all.

Two days before the raid, Chinese President Hu Jintao proudly declared China’s tolerance of religion at a Communist Party session. “The Party and government shall reach out to religious believers in difficulties and help them through their problems,” he said.

After all, humans have rights, one of which being the right to a peaceful assembly. But it’s this which got Tian Ming-ge into detention. And it’s this which keeps him there. taking the lead It’s no secret that the Church in China is one of the most dynamic and vibrant in the world, and Tian has “run with perseverance the race marked out” for him (Heb 12:1), dedicating himself to full-time ministry for the past two decades. Tireless in his efforts to unite the Church and to address the issues affecting it, Tian is a prominent Chinese house church leader. But on 20 December 2007, his marathon turned a corner. 14 Response Mar–Apr 08

But the problem Tian faces is the government itself. Ready, set, go As the Beijing Olympics draw closer, we’re warming up in preparation for the next big hurdle. And we need your help in highlighting religious freedom violations which are continuing throughout China. Be prepared for coming issues of Response for ways to get involved. Let’s make sure religious freedom wins the race. This is our world. Our dream.

adventure?

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Tian Ming-ge

Chinese Christians are not the only ones whose dreams are not being realised. North Koreans seeking refuge in China are habitually repatriated, facing detention and even execution on returning to their home country. Read more on p12–13 about one particular North Korean who you have been praying for.

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What CAN YOU DO? Pray Put your best foot forward and pray for China using p9 of the enclosed Prayer Diary. Provide CSW campaigns for a number of Chinese Christian prisoners. Why not send them letters or cards of support using our Connect & Encourage address list? Contact the office on 0845 456 5464 for your copy. You can also download this resource at www.csw.org.uk/writetothepersecuted.

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Ben Nevis

interview

Best Foot Forward Interview Sally Draper Photo Kristina Thiele

Words: Sally Draper Photos: Kristina Thiele

How did your compassion for the persecuted Church develop? I now know that my concern for the persecuted Church dates back to the 1950s when I was a teenage schoolboy. I am certain about this because I recently came across my school confirmation notebook from 1958. My handwritten entries in this notebook state that I wanted to pray for those suffering from religious persecution, particularly in Hungary, Poland, Russia and the Ukraine. It is encouraging to know that religious freedom now flourishes in all those countries! Unfortunately, I cannot pretend that my concern for the persecuted Church continued in an unbroken line for half a century. I’m afraid I neglected the cause for many years and only returned to it in the late 1990s. You have been acquainted with Christian Solidarity Worldwide for a number of years now, how did this come about? I became acquainted with the work of CSW because in 1997 I started a friendship and prayer partnership with Mervyn Thomas, CSW’s Chief Executive. His deep commitment to the work of CSW inspired me. I followed this up when I was studying theology for two years at Oxford. I then started to travel for CSW. My first memorable trip with Mervyn and others was to China in 2001. I have since come to know many of the wonderful people who work for CSW and have met many victims of persecution.

16 Response Mar–Apr 08

From modest beginnings as a young schoolboy to becoming President of CSW, religious freedom is clearly a cause stamped firmly on the heart of Jonathan Aitken. Now he takes up the baton to encourage Christians across the UK to do the same.

Has meeting persecuted Christians and campaigning on their behalf challenged your own faith in any way? Yes, my faith has been challenged but also strengthened. I do not think those of us who live in an atmosphere of religious freedom have any certain idea about how we would react if we were subjected to persecution. As a result of meeting victims of persecution I hope I would be steadfast under pressure. I would certainly pray to do this, just as I now regularly pray for those who still suffer persecution in the 21st century.

Do you feel that Christians in the UK should be doing more for the persecuted Church? How can they go about achieving this in your view? Almost all of us should be doing more for the persecuted Church! One particular way in which activists should respond is by persuading their own churches to pray for and support the work of CSW. We will gladly supply speakers and resources to those churches who want to support CSW’s work as part of their wider ministry. I have myself had some encouraging evenings with churches that make this commitment. The more the body of Christ responds to the suffering of those who are persecuted, the more effectively we fight the good fight for the ending of persecution.

How do you see your role as President of Christian Solidarity Worldwide developing in 2008? First, I shall try and stay close to my friend and prayer partner Mervyn Thomas and to others in leadership positions in CSW. Through them and the excellent briefings produced by the advocacy department, I hope to stay on top of the worldwide picture of persecution and then to proclaim CSW’s essential message about it. I often speak of CSW’s work to audiences and in media interviews. I also hope in 2008 to visit some of the countries in which persecution continues. I also intend to develop the part I play in communicating the story of CSW’s work to audiences large and small at every opportunity.

“The more the body of Christ responds to the suffering of those who are persecuted, the more effectively we fight the good fight for the ending of persecution.”

Jonathan has written a number of inspirational books which are available to order on our website, www.csw.org.uk/booksmusicanddvd.

Mar–Apr 08 Response 17

CAMPAIGN

feature

Congo’s casualties With your help, we’re making miracles happen. Laws are changing, injustice is being tackled and violence brought to an end. Yet there are still thousands more people who need your help.

Time to act Please write to your MEP on behalf of another prisoner in the DRC, Pastor Fernando Kutino, whose situation is outlined in the letter below. Pick up your pen for human rights. Now’s the time to act.

Dear I would like to draw your attention to the plight of a prominent church leader in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Pasto r Fernando Kutino has been sentenced to 20 years in prison, despite much of the evide nce against him being disputed. Pastor Kutino was arrested by Congolese Special Service police, along with two colleagues, Pastor Timothée Bompere and Junior Nganda, on 14 May 2006 after he appeared on television and a radio statio n owned by his church. In his sermon he reportedly criticised the DRC’s transitiona l government. The three men were initially charged with ‘incitement to hatre d’, yet when they appeared in front of a military tribunal on 31 May, the charg es were illegal possession of firearms, criminal conspiracy and attempted murde r. Although civilians, these charges brought the case under military jurisdiction , as the prosecution allege that arms had been discovered at Pastor Kutin o’s church at the time of his arrest and have therefore tried to implicate him in an alleged attempt to remove President Kabila from power.

The trial was brief, lasting for only nine sittings despite the complexity and gravit y of the case. One of the men, Junior Nganda, alleged that his testimony used during the trial was obtained under torture. In addition, another pastor that the three men were charged with attempting to murder had refused to implicate Pastor Kutino or his associates. Pastor Kutino is reportedly being held in poor conditions, which is affecting his health, and where he is regularly haras sed by the authorities. Although Pasto r Kutino was sentenced on 16 June 2006, his case was reopened on 12 December 2007, appar ently because of international pressure. Howe ver, the trial is reportedly being hamp ered by official obstruction and delays. I am therefore writing to request that you ensure the European Union Delegation in the country observes this trial to ensure he receives a fair trial. In addition, I would be grateful if you would submit a question to the European Commission, asking wheth er the EU, under the EU Guidelines on the Use of Torture, has made representations on behalf of Pastor Kutino’s co-defendant, Mr. Nganda and impressed on the Congolese governmen t that information obtained under torture shoul d not be used as evidence.

Converting

Attitudes

Photo/Reuters

Marie-Therese Nlandu is no stranger in our work. Arrested in the Democratic Republic of Congo while contesting the democratic presidential elections, she spent several months in prison whilst CSW staff and supporters fought tirelessly for her release. Success in the campaign sparked jubilant celebration, but when Marie-Therese walked free, others were left behind.

A change of mindset is not for the faint-hearted. It has consequences. Take on the plight of converts and it will throw you into disarray, giving you a whole new reason to pray and campaign. But who knows? it may just be the transformation you’ve been looking for. Abdul Rahman is a dangerous man. Pass him on the street, and you would mistake him for any normal Afghan: dark hair, middle aged, olive skin and a beard. But Abdul’s appearance hides a shocking secret; a secret which in 2006 came to the forefront of the world’s media. This secret saw him locked up and facing the death penalty as the Afghan government screamed for his execution. His very presence threatened the stability of the nation, throwing into turmoil an entire country’s national and spiritual identity. So what was Abdul’s crime? Converting from Islam to Christianity.

Words Sally Draper Photo Reuters TV

“I met people who had been detained, tortured, sexually abused, ostracised and isolated, simply because of their conversion to the christian faith.”

Yours sincerely,

18 Response Mar–Apr 08

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feature Thankfully, international pressure saw Abdul released and he finally found asylum in Italy. But his newfound faith cost him everything he had: his wife, his children; even his home. Abdul’s story is no isolated case. Every day, Christians from Muslim backgrounds face fresh challenges as their decision to convert is often met with brutal consequences. out of the spotlight So where is the international community if it isn’t fighting all cases like Abdul’s with as much fervour and determination? And what steps has the western Church played to support believers who face such terrifying consequences for their faith? Abdul was one of the lucky ones. Had his case not been brought to light, he would be like so many other Christians from countries like Kuwait, Iran, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Pakistan and Nigeria – branded, taunted and even murdered for their beliefs. On the move It was cases like Abdul’s which stirred in the heart of CSW’s Research & Advocacy Officer for the Middle East and North Africa, who, coming from a Muslim background himself, could empathise with the legal, practical and spiritual implications of conversion. Spurred into action, we began a research project into the deep and complex issues of apostasy and Islam, which saw us travelling all over the world to interview Muslim background believers. Our journey took us to Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Turkey and Egypt,

where we met with converts, church leaders, lawyers and activists. CSW also conducted interviews with converts in Pakistan, Nigeria and the UK. A complex tapestry Apostasy clearly is not a simple matter, and blanket definitions of conversion and its implications are largely unhelpful. Instead, our intensive research unravelled the complex threads of international law, Islamic law and theology and domestic laws in Muslim countries, as well as the social dynamics of why some Muslim countries react so strongly to apostasy. All this serving as a backdrop to what it means to be a convert in these settings. Emotional rollercoaster For CSW’s Advocacy Officer, tackling the issue of apostasy was challenging. “While researching this project, I met people who had been detained, tortured, sexually abused, ostracised and isolated, simply because of their conversion to the Christian faith” he says. “Yet everyone I interviewed clearly stated how grateful they were, and how they felt less lonely, simply because we cared enough about their plight to do something about it. Coming from a Muslim background myself and having been through similar experiences, this has been a very emotional journey, but equally an important one.” Hitting it home The culmination of our research is a report which will be used to lobby governments and other agencies with the aim of improving the lives of converts all over the world, seeking to ensure that their rights are protected, and their dignity upheld.

So what exactly are we doing? We’re educating the international community, letting them know that cases like Abdul’s are more common than they seem. We’re targeting governments and putting pressure on them to uphold the human rights of converts under international law. We’re exploring the nature of apostasy and the reasons why it can be so violently opposed. We’re also giving intelligent and objective recommendations to ensure lasting change. In short, we’re changing lives, shattering taboos, resolving injustices and restoring hope.

Power to change In all this, the Church itself needs its own conversion: a conversion of attitude. Now’s the time for Christians to speak out on behalf of converts, enabling the Church to reaffirm itself as the body of Christ by supporting them in their newfound faith. This is where you come in: we want you to make your church aware of people like Abdul, and to show you care by praying for them on a regular basis. Jesus taught us, “Inasmuch as you have done it for the least of my brothers, you have done

Protest Why not go one step further by writing to your MP, highlighting the issues faced by Muslim background believers and drawing their attention to CSW’s work?

The western Church is at a crossroads. Either we sit back and concentrate on serving ourselves, or reach out to others and respond as Jesus taught. The question is, will you be the one to buck the trend? Now’s your chance to shine.

And now it’s our turn…

Step up to the mark Pray Commit to spending just one week saying a daily prayer for converts. See p10 of the enclosed Prayer Diary.

it unto me.” Surely this cannot mean leaving converts to suffer their hardships alone? Instead, we must welcome converts into our hearts and prayers, offering solidarity and hope to those who feel isolated and afraid.

Provide Through our research and lobbying, we aim to draw attention to the plight of every convert who is suffering persecution. But this vision does not come cheap. Please consider making a regular donation to CSW so we can help more people like Abdul. Visit www.csw.org.uk or phone 0845 456 5464 to make your donation.

From April, you can view and download CSW’s apostasy report from our website, www.csw.org.uk. Need a little extra help with your letter writing? Our new Lobbying Guide is packed with ideas on how to make that added impact. Order your copy now by calling 0845 456 5464 or download it at www.csw.org.uk.

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letters

Noticeboard

Over to you Encouraged I have been reading the latest copy of Response over the last couple of days. To hear about the lives your work has touched, the successes your work has achieved has really impressed and encouraged me. As I was reading, I just got a real sense that this is exactly how Jesus wants us to be; supporting and encouraging believers throughout the world, as was the case in the early Church. Bruce Kirby, by email

Dates for your diary

Take every opportunity I recently had an encounter with a lady from the BBC. There I was minding my own business and she asked me if I had anything that I wanted to ask President Musharaff when he is in Europe. I said I would like to ask him what he is going to do about the blasphemy law. She looked surprised, but asked me what I knew. So I told her that it was an unjust law, that there were Christians in prison because of it. She told me that President Musharaff will hear the question and that my voice will be heard. It felt like a God moment! Crystal Baigent, by email Get in touch! Christian Solidarity Worldwide PO Box 99 • New Malden • Surrey KT3 3YF E admin@csw.org.uk • www.csw.org.uk

From the field A worthwhile journey We never expected that you would consider visiting us, but may the Lord who put a burden in your hearts be praised forever! CSW staff actually came and visited us in that hot desert, risking their comfort. May the Lord remember all the things they have done for His name’s sake. May the Lord also bless the ministry of Christian Solidarity Worldwide. We will be praying for you. Pray for us brothers! Somali Christians in Kenya

Gratitude beyond words I have no words to adequately express my love and admiration for all the care and love you have bestowed on us. It gives me great pleasures to be writing this message to you, not just writing it with pen and paper in my hand but as a loving expression coming out of the depths of my heart. I thank you for you have been with me every step of the way over the last three years; praying for me, supporting me financially and writing to me with words of encouragement. I am convinced that it is through your prayers that I was able to survive all the trials I faced. Together we have overcome the evil one and victory has indeed been ours. My fellow prisoners are always in my mind and in my heart, I cry for them every day, for I know the situation I left them in, please carry on praying for them just like you did for me, that way my joy would be complete.

Saturday 8 March Global Day of Prayer for Burma 10am–4pm Come along to the Global Day of Prayer for Burma at The Emmanuel Centre, 9-23 Marsham Street, London SW1P 3DW and pray for the nation of Burma. If you’re unable to attend, why not hold your own event or bring the subject to the attention of your house group or wider church congregation? If you would like resources or more details about the day of prayer please email events@csw.org.uk or call 0845 456 5464.

Saturday 12 April Nepal Day of Prayer Please email events@csw.org.uk or call 0845 456 5464 for more information on this event. Out and About In the coming months CSW staff and representatives will be giving talks about our work in the following locations: March: 30 Hunstanton April: 6 London (SW18), 12–13 Devon, 13 Godstone May: 4 London (SE9), 18 Rushden June: 29 Leicester For more information on these speaking events, please contact Liz Pruett on 0208 329 0021 or by emailing lizpruett@csw.org.uk. Please note that all dates are subject to change.

As a charity which relies solely on the generous donations of our supporters, we want to ensure that your money makes our work go further, and that our finances are used in the most appropriate way. For this reason, we have decided to discontinue our annual roadshow, opting instead for strategically targeted speaking engagements around the country. By doing so, we aim to meet the individual needs of the churches we visit. If you would like a CSW speaker to visit your church, please phone Liz Pruett on 0208 329 0021 or email events@csw.org.uk.

Outcry In January, we launched our new youth programme, Outcry, which aims to mobilise young people to speak up for the persecuted Church. To sign up to receive our youth leader resources or for more information, visit www.outcry-uk.org.

Running the race We’re delighted to announce that CSW supporter Graham West, 53, will be running in the 2008 London Marathon this April. Graham has chosen to run the London Marathon for CSW primarily to support CSW’s funding of our partners, the Free Burma Rangers. Graham says, “I hope that my run will serve to help highlight the wonderful work of CSW and that my efforts will raise lots of money for them. My target is £4,500.” Please support Graham as he runs for CSW. You can visit his online sponsorship page at www.justgiving. com/grahamwest

or call the office on 0845 456 5464 to make a donation over the phone.

The Remains of the Day: Christians under attack in Nigeria A new film about the persecution of Christians in Nigeria is now available to CSW supporters on DVD. The Remains of the Day documents the violent attacks on Christians in Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria, on 18 February 2006, where 57 churches were burnt down, around 65 Christians were murdered, and several Christian homes and businesses were destroyed. The documentary follows the story of five survivors from the events of that day. CSW partnered with Release International and Voice of the Martyrs Canada to produce the film in order to highlight the plight of Christians in northern and central Nigeria. The DVD costs £7.99 and is available to purchase online at www.csw.org.uk/booksmusicanddvd.

Eritrean gospel singer Helen Berhane 22 Response Mar–Apr 08

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London Conference Being a voice of hope He will proclaim justice to the nations… In His name the nations will put their hope Matthew 12: 18-21

Saturday 8 November 2008 11am–4pm Emmanuel Centre 9–23 Marsham Street London, SW1P 3DW More information coming in June 2008!