Persecuted church

While we enjoyed the blessings of Christmas, Christians in other parts of the world were not as fortunate.  Many churches in Iraq canceled Christmas services due to fear of attacks, although some continued despite the risks.  The story on one Baghdad church begins: “As they gathered to celebrate the birth of Jesus, the congregation here first contemplated death…”  Thirty-eight people were killed in Nigeria, including 6 killed in attacks on two churches.  Pray for the Christians in many parts of the world who are suffering persecution.
Tuesday update: death toll now at 86.