Authorities destroy historic Christian building in Vietnam
by Staff
October 9, 2008
(christiansunite.com) - On September 19, government authorities bulldozed a building in Hanoi, Vietnam after a long-standing land dispute between Christians and officials, according to a September 26 report from Compass Direct. The building, which once served as the Vatican embassy and residence, was seized in the mid-1950s by the government. Late last year, Christians began holding prayer vigils and protests in response to the government's refusal to give back the land.
In February, government leaders promised to negotiate a settlement with the believers over the property on the condition that the prayer vigils ceased. The government took no action, however, and Christians resumed the vigils in August.
Christian leaders are calling the government's response to the believer's peaceful protests a serious setback to the religious freedom in Vietnam. Authorities are reportedly planning to use the leveled premises for a library and park.
Pray for the government to change its mind and act justly in this situation. Pray that the Lord will continue to strengthen Christians in Vietnam in their hearts, minds, and bodies as they face opposition to their faith.
For more information on the persecution of Christians in Vietnam, go to www.persecution.net/vietnam.htm.
