For those Mindsayers who care about the persecution of Christians, please pray for your brothers and sisters in the Indian state of Orissa.  As you will read, most of the victims are Dalits, formerly known as untouchables.  Our friend, who lives in India, sent us this:

“In the aftermath of the murder of a Hindu swami by unknown assailants on August 23, 2008, mobs attacked the Christian community across the eastern state of Orissa. On Monday, a 12-hour strike called by hardliner Hindu nationalist organizations resulted in spreading violence. Media reports and eye witness accounts indicate about a dozen Christians were killed and thousands of Christian properties burnt. See dedicated webpage at: http://indianchristians.in/news/content/view/2332/45/

The Christian leaders across denominations are calling for Christian educational institutions to peacefully protest by closing schools on Friday.

‘Some people have called the violence “Hindu-Christian clashes.” But this is not accurate. Innocent Christians – mostly of Dalit origin – continue to be attacked by communal organizations which are mocking the rule of law. Governance in Orissa state appears to have disintegrated,’ said Dr. Joseph D’souza, President of the All India Christian Council.

• Pray for the government to take strong action in order for peace to be restored.
• Pray for protection over all: Christians, Hindus, Muslims, Buddhists, and others.
• Pray for the Christian community to not retaliate in like manner.
• Pray for physical and spiritual healing and for forgiveness and reconciliation.
• Pray that the name of Jesus would be lifted up in this situation – that all may see HIM.”