Watchman Wire

Watchman Wire

Dispatches for the persecuted church

FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2026
But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man. Luke 21:36
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Daily prayer with the global church:

Prayer for Persecuted Christians in Tunisia — July 31, 2026

Thank you for joining us this July as we interceded for prayer ministries to be strengthened across 31 cities in Asia and Africa. Faithful Lord, we thank You for Yassin and the ministry of persevering hope he is leading in Tunis, Tunisia. As he helps others hold fast the confession of hope, guide their teams to pray with confidence in Your faithfulness. Keep their hearts from wavering when obedience is costly. According to Hebrews 10:23 — “Let’s hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering; for He who promised is faithful” — we ask You to strengthen Yassin and the believers in Tunis. Help them hold fast to Jesus with quiet courage. Let their hope remain steady because You are faithful. Give them words that confess Christ with wisdom. Sustain those who feel alone. Open doors for Scripture, fellowship, and witness. Let Your promises become visible through lives transformed by the gospel. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Source: Jesus Revolution Global

Latest dispatches

Rebel Militia Abduct Pastor and Family Members in Sudan

JUBA, South Sudan (Morning Star News) – Members of a break-away group from the rebel Sudan People’s Liberation Army-North (SPLA-N) abducted a pastor and others in South Kordofan state, Sudan on July 23, his brother said. The Rev.

Morning Star News··

IRAQ: Seizure of land belonging to Monastery Mar Girgis and property rights

IRAQ: Seizure of land belonging to Monastery Mar Girgis and property rights AINA (23.07.2026)– The seizure of portions of the land belonging to the Monastery of Mar Girgis (St. George’s Monastery) in the Ba’awera area east of Mosul has once again brought the long-standing issue…

Human Rights Without Frontiers··

Encourage Kanya, Phonesay, and their Family

Kanya* and Phonesay*, a Christian couple from rural Laos, discovered hope and healing in Jesus but also faced severe persecution... The post Encourage Kanya, Phonesay, and their Family appeared first on Open Doors.

Pray →God of All Comfort, we lift up Kanya and Phonesay in Laos, who have found healing in Christ amidst severe trials. You are near to the brokenhearted and save those crushed in spirit. Bring Your sustaining presence to this family and strengthen them with Your mighty hand. Guard their hearts with Your peace, that surpasses all understanding, even as they face persecution. Reveal Jesus to their persecutors, that they may see the light of His love and turn to the truth. Let the joy of the Lord be their strength, and may their testimony of faith draw others to the hope they have found. We trust in Your unfailing love, for Your faithfulness endures forever. In the name of Jesus, our Savior and Redeemer. Amen.

Open Doors New Zealand·Prayer·

Early Rain Church Targeted in Fresh Raid

On Sunday, June 14, 2026, local authorities halted worship services at Early Rain Covenant Church and arrested church leaders, members and several children in Jiangyou City, Sichuan Province, southwestern China.

The Voice of the Martyrs USA··

Egypt’s “Reconciliation Sessions”: How the Terrorized Are Forced to Submit to the Terrorists

By Raymond Ibrahim – Coptic Solidarity – Just days ago, a Muslim mob attacked a Coptic church in the Upper Egyptian village of Tal al-Quiblya, in Minya Governorate. Shouting sectarian slogans, the assailants pelted the church with stones, injured several Christians, and damaged…

Pray →God of Justice and Truth, we lift up the Coptic believers in Tal al-Quiblya, where they have endured violence and intimidation. You have seen the stones and heard the cries, and You do not forget the suffering of Your people. Establish Your presence among them as a refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble, and let their faith not be shaken. Reveal Jesus to those who have participated in this violence, and turn the hearts of the oppressors toward repentance. Let the love of Christ abound in the Coptic community and shine as a light to their neighbors, breaking through the darkness. May reconciliation come not through human coercion but by Your Spirit's transforming power. To You belong all glory and honor, for You are the Defender of the weak and the Hope of the oppressed. Amen.

Coptic Solidarity·Prayer·

Medjugorje parish condemns vandalism, urges prayer and forgiveness

After an image of Our Lady was defaced and the outdoor altar of St. James Church set alight, the parish of Medjugorje in Bosnia and Herzegovina urges the faithful not to repay evil with evil. Read all

Pray →God of All Comfort, we lift up the parish of Medjugorje as they face the wounds of desecration and arson. You are near to the brokenhearted and save those crushed in spirit; let Your presence be their solace and strength. Transform this place of sorrow into a beacon of forgiveness, where mercy triumphs over judgment. Multiply what was stolen and use it as a testimony for Your faithful provision and care for Your people. Reveal Jesus to those who defiled and destroyed, that they may encounter the One who forgives and restores. Guard the hearts of the faithful from bitterness and retaliation, and let peace reign where division has sown discord. May worship rise anew from the ashes, glorifying Your name. To You, the God of peace and reconciliation, we entrust this parish, in the powerful name of Jesus. Amen.

Vatican News·Prayer·

Three Christian Men Cleared After False Blasphemy Allegation In Pakistan

Three Christian men who were detained in Pakistan for allegedly “desecrating” the Quran, viewed by Muslims as holy, have been released after police and authorities concluded the allegation “stemmed from a personal dispute rather than an act of blasphemy,” Christian advocates…

Worthy News Christian Persecution··

Released Pastors Say Immigration Agents Mocked Them, Threatened Family Separation

Pastors Nepthali Zozaya Saucedo and Cinthia Sarai Cardona Otero led their Edinburg, Texas, congregation on Sunday praising God for their recent release from immigration detention and praying for those left behind.

Pray →God of All Comfort, we lift up Pastors Nepthali Zozaya Saucedo and Cinthia Sarai Cardona Otero as they lead their congregation with renewed hope and gratitude. You have heard their cries and delivered them from detention, and we thank You for Your steadfast love and faithfulness. Strengthen them to comfort others with the comfort they themselves have received from You. Reveal Jesus to those still in detention, and let Your light break through the darkness that surrounds them. Guard the families of these pastors, ensuring their protection and unity amidst threats of separation. Let Your Spirit work powerfully in the hearts of those who mock and threaten, transforming hostility into peace. For the glory of Your name, let justice and mercy prevail in Edinburg and beyond. Amen.

Christianity Today·Prayer·

Nigerian Pastor’s Family Murdered by Fulani Extremists

At A Glance: Nine members of a pastor’s family – including a 2-month-old baby – were murdered by members of a radicalized Muslim Fulani militia, reportedly because he has advocated for persecuted Christians in the country.

Pray →Holy and Compassionate Father, we bring before You the grieving community in Nigeria, where a pastor's family has faced unspeakable loss at the hands of violent extremists. You are near to the brokenhearted, and You save those crushed in spirit. Surround this pastor and the remaining family with Your comfort and peace that surpasses all understanding. Restrain the violence of the Fulani extremists, and reveal Jesus to those who persecute, that their hearts might turn from hatred to Your love. Strengthen the church in Nigeria to stand firm in faith and to bear witness to Your unshakeable kingdom. Fill the believers with courage and hope, even in the valley of the shadow of death. For Your name's sake and in the power of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.

Global Christian Relief·Prayer·

DRC: Christian Boys and Farmers Kidnapped

Armed extremists, suspected of belonging to the Islamic State-aligned Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) have abducted Christian farmers and at least ten young... The post DRC: Christian Boys and Farmers Kidnapped appeared first on Open Doors.

Open Doors Australia··

PAKISTAN: Parents appeal for return of kidnapped daughter

Nadia Nadeem and Nadeem Masih are appealing for the return of their kidnapped daughter Amber Nadeem

Pray →God of all Comfort, we lift before You the family of Nadia and Nadeem Masih in Pakistan, who long for the return of their daughter Amber. You are the Good Shepherd who walks with us through the darkest valleys, and Your rod and staff bring comfort and guidance even now. Reveal Jesus to those who have taken Amber, that they might turn from darkness to light. Guard Amber and sustain her with Your presence, and let her return home safely. Strengthen Nadia and Nadeem with peace that surpasses understanding, and let them find refuge in Your unfailing love. For the sake of Your great name, we ask this, trusting in Your faithfulness. Amen.

Church in Chains·Prayer·

Tinubu Orders Arrest of Militia that Killed 30 Christians Sunday Night

But Doesn’t Identify Perpetrators: Fulani Ethnic Militia Nearby Army Outpost Failed to Intervene By Mike Odeh James and Luka Binniyat (Kaduna) nPresident Bola Tinubu, in an unusual response to a Middle Belt attack on Christians farmers in a rural village in the eastern edge of…

Pray →God of Justice and Mercy, we bring before You the land of Nigeria, where violence has claimed the lives of many in Kaduna. You see the blood of the innocent and hear the cries of those who mourn. Establish Your peace in this troubled region and comfort the families who have lost loved ones. Restrain those who seek to do harm, and reveal the truth that sets captives free to those in authority. Raise up leaders who walk in justice and righteousness, and let the light of Christ shine in the hearts of the perpetrators, turning them from darkness to light. Strengthen Your Church in Nigeria, that it may be a beacon of hope and reconciliation. For the sake of Your great name, we trust in Your faithfulness and justice. Amen.

Truth Nigeria·Prayer·

DRC: Christian Boys and Farmers Kidnapped

Armed extremists, suspected of belonging to the Islamic State-aligned Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) have abducted Christian farmers and at least ten young... The post DRC: Christian Boys and Farmers Kidnapped appeared first on Open Doors.

Open Doors New Zealand··

Hebrews 13:3 – Understanding the Call to Stand with the Persecuted

At A Glance: Hebrews 13:3 calls believers to remember persecuted and imprisoned Christians with deep compassion, identifying with their suffering as fellow members of the Body of Christ. This article explores the meaning of Hebrews 13:3, its connection to Christian unity, and…

Pray →Faithful Shepherd, we lift up the suffering members of Your Body around the world, longing for Your sustaining presence among them. You have promised that in their distress, You too are afflicted, and You hold them close to Your heart. Strengthen their spirits and let the light of Your face shine upon them in their places of trial. Reveal Jesus to their captors and those who persecute them, that their eyes might see the One who is gentle and humble in heart. Let the bonds of injustice fall away and make a way in the wilderness for Your people to walk in freedom and peace. For the glory of Your name and in the strength of the Spirit, we trust in Your unfailing love and mercy. Amen.

Global Christian Relief·Prayer·

Alleged kidnapper given custody of Christian girl in Pakistan

A court in Pakistan on Saturday (July 25) handed custody of a 13-year-old Christian girl to the Muslim accused of abducting her, forcibly converting her to Islam and coercing her into marriage, a rights advocate said.

Christian Daily International··

Christians, Former Extremist Face Persecution

Four Christians, including a former extremist, are in hiding after being harassed. As a young man, Mukesh joined a Hindu extremist group but became interested in dating a Christian woman who shared the gospel with him.

Pray →Faithful Shepherd, we lift up Mukesh and the believers in hiding, knowing that You are with them in every shadowed valley. You seek the lost and bring them into Your fold, and Mukesh's life is a testament to Your redeeming grace. Guard their hearts and minds with Your peace that surpasses understanding, and let their faith shine amid darkness. Reveal Jesus to the persecutors, that they might see the light of the world and be transformed. Strengthen the Church in this region, granting them boldness and wisdom as they bear witness to Your truth. We entrust these lives to Your steadfast love, for You are our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Amen.

The Voice of the Martyrs USA·Prayer·
Daily prayer with the global church:

Prayer for Persecuted Christians in Tunisia — July 31, 2026

Thank you for joining us this July as we interceded for prayer ministries to be strengthened across 31 cities in Asia and Africa. Faithful Lord, we thank You for Yassin and the ministry of persevering hope he is leading in Tunis, Tunisia. As he helps others hold fast the confession of hope, guide their teams to pray with confidence in Your faithfulness. Keep their hearts from wavering when obedience is costly. According to Hebrews 10:23 — “Let’s hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering; for He who promised is faithful” — we ask You to strengthen Yassin and the believers in Tunis. Help them hold fast to Jesus with quiet courage. Let their hope remain steady because You are faithful. Give them words that confess Christ with wisdom. Sustain those who feel alone. Open doors for Scripture, fellowship, and witness. Let Your promises become visible through lives transformed by the gospel. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Alleged Kidnapper Given Custody of Christian Girl in Pakistan

Nadeem Masih and wife Nadia Nadeem plead for recovery of daughter Amber Nadeem. (Christian Daily International-Morning Star News screenshot from video) LAHORE, Pakistan (Christian Daily International–Morning Star News) – A court in Pakistan on Saturday (July 25) handed custody…

Christian News Network Persecution··

Lawyer Who Defended China’s Persecuted Christians Released From ICE Custody

Christian Chinese human rights lawyer Wu Shaoping, who represented persecuted religious believers and other victims of government repression before fleeing China, was released on bond July 24. He had spent nine days in federal immigration custody despite having been granted…

Religion Unplugged··

INDIA: Seven Christians imprisoned under anti-conversion laws

Chhot Singh Dhurve (pictured) is one of seven Christians recently imprisoned under Madhya Pradesh’s anti-conversion laws

Pray →God of Justice and Compassion, we lift before You the believers in Madhya Pradesh, where Chhot Singh Dhurve and six others have been imprisoned under anti-conversion laws. You see the chains that bind them and the fear that tries to silence their witness. Let Your light shine in their hearts, that they may not be crushed by darkness. Strengthen these imprisoned believers with Your peace that surpasses understanding, and let their faith be a beacon to those around them. Reveal Jesus to the officials, accusers, and communities involved, and turn many hearts toward the saving knowledge of Your Son. Let Your kingdom come in India, that all may see Your righteousness and truth. For the sake of Your name and glory, we pray through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Church in Chains·Prayer·

Chinese pastor Jin Mingri released, prayers for Zion Church still needed

After nearly nine months in custody, pastor Jin “Ezra” Mingri of one of China's largest house church networks has been released. Het bericht Chinese pastor Jin Mingri released, prayers for Zion Church still needed verscheen eerst op Open Doors.

Pray →Almighty God, Protector of Your people, we give thanks for the release of Pastor Jin Mingri and lift up Zion Church in China, where Your Spirit is at work despite pressure. You have said that in this world we will have trouble, but we take heart knowing that You have overcome the world. Establish Your peace within the hearts of believers in Zion Church, and guard them from fear and intimidation. Reveal Jesus to officials and communities watching Zion Church, that they might see the light of Your truth and turn to the One who brings life. Strengthen these believers to shine brightly, and let their testimony be a beacon of hope and reconciliation. For the glory of Your name, we entrust them into Your hands. Amen.

Open Doors Netherlands·Prayer·

Pakistan Supreme Court acquits all suspects in 2014 brick kiln murders

The Supreme Court of Pakistan has ordered the release of the final three men on death row in the 2014 murder case of a Christian couple, Shahzad Masih and his pregnant wife, Shama Bibi. With this decision, along with the dismissal of a state appeal against the acquittal of 102…

ASSIST News Persecution··

Rebel Militants in Sudan Kill Pastor, Abduct Others

JUBA, South Sudan (Morning Star News) – A rebel militant faction backed by Islamic extremist groups in Sudan on Friday (July 24) killed a pastor in South Kordofan state’s Nuba Mountains, area church sources said.

Pray →God of Justice and Compassion, we bring before You the land of Sudan, where violence has claimed the life of a faithful pastor and others are held captive. Your eyes see the suffering of Your people, and You do not abandon them in their distress. Establish Your peace in the Nuba Mountains, and let Your justice roll down like waters upon this troubled land. Strengthen the hearts of the believers in South Kordofan, that they may be steadfast in love and truth. Reveal Jesus to the militants and those who support them, transforming hearts hardened by violence. Let Your light shine in the darkness, and may Your kingdom come in Sudan as it is in heaven. For the glory of Your name, Amen.

Morning Star News·Prayer·

8 Beijing Zion Church Christians face trial as prosecutors sidestep defense attorneys

(Beijing — July 27, 2026) Chinese prosecutors have filed criminal charges against eight members of Beijing Zion Church without notifying their defense attorneys or seeking their legal opinions, raising fresh concerns that authorities violated China’s own criminal procedure laws…

Pray →God of Justice and Truth, we lift up the believers of Beijing Zion Church as they face trial. You see the hidden motives and the sidestepping of due process, and Your eyes are on the righteous and Your ears attentive to their cry. Uphold Your servants with Your righteous right hand and let truth prevail in their defense. Guard their hearts and strengthen their faith as they prepare and engage this trial. Reveal Jesus to those in authority, and let the light of Your justice shine into the dark corners of this process. Strengthen Your Church in Beijing, that they may stand firm and be a light amid these trials. May Your truth be a shield and defender for them. Let their story be an encouragement to the Church and those who are wondering about You. To You belong justice and vindication, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

ChinaAid·Prayer·

Ethiopian Christians Grieve Deadly Monastery Strike

Christians across Ethiopia are grieving after reports that a drone strike hit the historic Arsema Monastery in South Wollo, Amhara Region, during a time of worship on July 22, killing clergy and worshippers.

Pray →God of all Comfort, we lift up the grieving hearts in Ethiopia where the Arsema Monastery in South Wollo was struck amid worship. You are close to the brokenhearted and save those crushed in spirit. Comfort the families and communities mourning the loss of clergy and worshippers, and let Your presence be a refuge in their sorrow. Reveal Jesus to those who orchestrate and execute violence, that they might see and turn to Your ways of peace. Establish a spirit of reconciliation in this region and strengthen the faith of believers who continue to trust in Your promises. Let the light of Christ shine brightly through their witness, drawing many to know Your love and truth. We entrust Ethiopia to Your unfailing care, for Your name's sake. Amen.

International Christian Concern (Persecution.org)·Prayer·

IRAN: Where is Mary Mohammadi?

Christian convert Mary Mohammadi disappeared in February and is believed to be detained by the authorities

Church in Chains··

CHINA: Pastor Ezra Jin Mingri of Zion Church released and flown to USA

Pastor Ezra Jin Mingri has been released from detention after diplomatic talks and arrived in Los Angeles on 4 July

Pray →Almighty God, we praise You for the release of Pastor Ezra Jin Mingri from detention in China, and for his safe arrival in the United States. You are the God who breaks the chains and sets the captives free. We ask You to sustain him in this new chapter, granting him peace and courage as he continues to serve You. Strengthen Zion Church and all believers in China who remain under pressure. Let Your Word spread swiftly and transform the hearts of those who oppose it. Reveal Jesus to officials and communities watching these events unfold, and let the light of Your truth shine brighter in the darkness. For the glory of Your name and the advancement of Your Kingdom we pray. Amen.

Church in Chains·Prayer·

Rebel militants in Sudan kill pastor, abduct others

A rebel militant faction backed by Islamic extremist groups in Sudan on Friday (July 24) killed a pastor in South Kordofan state’s Nuba Mountains, area church sources said.

Pray →God of All Comfort, we bring before You the church in Sudan's Nuba Mountains, where violence has taken the life of a pastor and abducted others. You see every tear and hear the cries of the oppressed. Strengthen the believers left behind, granting them courage and peace beyond understanding in their mourning. Rescue those who are held captive, and let their faith shine as a testimony to Your sustaining power. Reveal Jesus to the militants and those who persecute, turning hearts like streams of water toward righteousness and peace. Raise up peacemakers in Sudan who carry Your justice and mercy. We trust in Your promise that You are near to the brokenhearted and save the crushed in spirit. In the name of Jesus, our Redeemer. Amen.

Christian Daily International·Prayer·

Pakistan acquits two falsely accused Christians; a third dies in prison

Twee christelijke mannen die onterecht waren beschuldigd van blasfemie zijn vrijgesproken. Een derde christen overleed in de gevangenis. Het bericht Pakistan acquits two falsely accused Christians; a third dies in prison verscheen eerst op Open Doors.

Open Doors Netherlands··

INDIA: Pastor faces false charge; church and home set on fire

A pastor who was threatened by a neighbour on several occasions and falsely accused of assault in May had his church and home set on fire in June

Pray →God of Justice and Protector of the oppressed, we lift up the pastor in India whose church and home have been set on fire. You see the threats and false accusations against him, and Your eyes are upon the righteous. Establish Your justice in this situation and let truth prevail where lies have taken root. Guard the hearts of this pastor and his congregation, keeping them in perfect peace as they trust in You. Reveal Jesus to the neighbors and those who have sought harm, turning their hearts from violence to the knowledge of Your love. Strengthen the Church in India to stand firm in the face of persecution, that the light of Your gospel would shine even more brightly in the darkness. In the name of Jesus, the Lord of all hope, Amen.

Church in Chains·Prayer·

New Violence Explodes Between Christian Tribal Groups in India

Satkhokai Chongloi pointed to a charred fragment of paper that survived the fire set by armed men at his Imphal Valley home in the northeastern Indian state of Manipur in May 2023. At first glance, it appeared to be nothing more than a blackened scrap.

Christianity Today··

Islamic Extremists Kill 30 Christians in Nigerian Village

Rt. Hon. Stephen Hajara, spokesperson for the Kauru Local Government Legislative Council and Councilor representing Kamaru ward in Southern Kaduna, has called for immediate security intervention after Islamic extremists killed 30 Christians in the village of Naridon in Kaduna…

International Christian Concern (Persecution.org)··

BACA Provides Relief to Family of Murdered Christian Boy

British Asian Christian Association Helps Daud Masih’s Grieving Family Purchase Essential Food as They Continue Their Fight for Justice Daud Masih, a 16-year-old Christian boy from Bhikki village, Sheikhupura, was brutally shot dead on 8th April 2026 following an earlier…

British Asian Christian Association··

Pakistan Supreme Court Acquits All Suspects in 2014 Brick Kiln Murder Case

The Supreme Court of Pakistan has ordered the release of the final three men on death row in the 2014 murder case of a Christian couple, Shahzad Masih and his pregnant wife, Shama Bibi. With this decision, along with the dismissal of a state appeal against the acquittal of 102…

International Christian Concern (Persecution.org)··