All Christian Churches apart from those belonging to Eritrea’s three principal
denominations have been ordered to close, according to information received by
the World Evangelical Alliance.
A press release from the Barnabus Fund, quoting the WEA, states: "All
Christian Churches apart from those belonging to Eritrea’s three principal
denominations have been ordered to close, according to information received by
the World Evangelical Alliance."
The release, obtained by ASSIST News Service (ANS) says: "The shocking
move to close all churches apart from those belonging to the Orthodox, Roman
Catholic and Mekane Yesus (Evangelical Lutheran) denominations is a severe blow
for many Christians in the country. The crackdown is considered by many to be a
response to the growing evangelical movement amongst Eritrean Christians."
"The growth of evangelicalism is resented both by some Muslims in the
country, many of whom are increasingly influenced by Islamic militant teachings
from neighbouring Sudan, Somalia and Yemen, and by more traditional
conservative elements amongst the dominant Orthodox Church," the release
said.
It adds: "The new move parallels the continuing deterioration in
circumstances for many Christians in Central Asia where small Christian
denominations are facing increasing restrictions on their activities from
governments determined to suppress evangelical activity and maintain the status
quo between large Muslim and Orthodox Christian populations."
The Barnabus Fund asks Christians to pray for those Christians in Eritrea who
now find themselves facing new and disturbing restrictions on their freedom to
worship. "Pray that they will be able to continue meeting and sharing
their faith without facing any penalties. Also pray that this startling change
in official policy will be swiftly reversed and that good relations between
Christians and with the authorities will be restored."