Closer to the Fire with Greg Musselman: Recent Episodes
Greg Musselman
The “Closer to the Fire” podcast addresses the persecution of Christians in various restricted nations around the world. By presenting informative interviews with Christian leaders on the front lines, this regular podcast serves to raise awareness, support and prayer on behalf of those who are suffering for their faith in Jesus. “Closer to the Fire” is produced by The Voice of the Martyrs Canada, a non-profit organization that has served persecuted Christians for more than 50 years. To learn more about the ministry of VOM Canada, go to www.vomcanada.com Hosted by longtime television broadcaster Greg Musselman, who also represents VOM Canada as the organization’s Minister-at-Large, this podcast will keep you up to date on the latest global situations involving today’s persecuted church. Greg joined VOM Canada in 2003 and, over the years, he has interviewed hundreds of persecuted Christians during his extensive international travels.
Ranked number one on Open Doors’ World Watch List, North Korea remains the most dangerous place in the world for followers of Jesus. Church life is virtually nonexistent, gathering for worship or prayer is impossible, and even secret expressions of faith carry grave risks. Christians live under constant surveillance from government spies, neighbours, teachers, and even family members. Being reported for Christian activities can lead to execution or lifelong imprisonment in brutal labour camps. Yet, despite such intense persecution, the Gospel message continues to reach hearts in this Hermit Kingdom – including through the powerful Christian radio broadcasts that are being supported by VOMC.
In this episode of the Closer to the Fire podcast, host Greg Musselman speaks with Dr. Eric Foley, who serves as CEO and Co-Founder of Voice of the Martyrs Korea. Although listening to foreign broadcasts is illegal and highly punishable in North Korea, Dr. Foley shares how God is using shortwave radio programs to disciple believers and spread the hope of Christ throughout one of the most restrictive nations on earth. During the interview, he also discusses the launch of a new program that’s aimed at further strengthening the country’s resilient underground church.
Length: 1 hour 12 minutes
Episode Notes
To view the interview with Dr. Foley: https://www.vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-kp-2025-09-24.htm
The Voice of the Martyrs Korea: www.vomkorea.com
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Over the past decade, Christians in India have faced a disturbing rise in persecution. Throughout this time, churches were demolished, worship gatherings violently disrupted, crosses in graveyards vandalized, and Bibles confiscated and burned. Pastors have been falsely accused of forcing Hindus to convert to Christianity, resulting in the physical assaults and imprisonment of these Christian leaders. In 2015, there were 177 reported incidents of persecution. By 2024, that number had surged to 834, with many more cases likely going undocumented.
In this episode of the Closer to the Fire podcast, human rights advocate Tehmina Arora, the founding trustee of Alliance Defending Freedom India, joins host Greg Musselman to discuss this alarming trend. They explore how anti-conversion laws are being misused to target followers of Jesus, the broader implications for religious freedom, and the heartbreaking issue of forced marriages in both India and Pakistan.
Length: 36 Minutes
To view the interview https://vomcanada.com/in-videos/video/in-2025-09-11.htm
Episode Notes
Alliance Defending Freedom International www.adfinternational.org/
Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Persecution and Prayer Alert https://store.vomcanada.org/subscribe#q40771
Christians in Somalia encounter life-threatening persecution not only from the militant Islamic group al-Shabab, but also from hostile members of their families and local communities. In particular, those who have left Islam to follow Jesus risk harassment, intimidation and even the threat of death. According to the World Watch List from Open Doors (an annual ranking of the top 50 countries where Christians encounter the most extreme persecution), Somalia remains the second most dangerous region in the world for followers of Jesus. Despite the intense opposition, this East African nation is home to one of the fastest growing church movements in the world.
VOMC’s Closer to the Fire host, Greg Musselman, is joined by Dr. Aweis Ali from the Somali Bible Society to discuss the many dangers facing the country’s Christians, why the church is experiencing remarkable growth, and the exciting efforts of ministry workers who are reaching out to Somalis with the Gospel message. During his conversation with Greg, Dr. Aweis also shares the story of how he personally came to faith in Jesus – and the price he and other Muslim-background believers have paid for choosing to follow Christ in this restricted nation.
Length: 43 minutes
To watch the interview with Dr. Aweis https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-so-2025-05-06.htm
Episode Notes
Somali Bible Society: www.somalibiblesociety.org
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Christians in Somalia encounter life-threatening persecution not only from the militant Islamic group al-Shabab, but also from hostile members of their families and local communities. In particular, those who have left Islam to follow Jesus risk harassment, intimidation and even the threat of death. According to the World Watch List from Open Doors (an annual ranking of the top 50 countries where Christians encounter the most extreme persecution), Somalia remains the second most dangerous region in the world for followers of Jesus. Despite the intense opposition, this East African nation is home to one of the fastest growing church movements in the world.
VOMC’s Closer to the Fire host, Greg Musselman, is joined by Dr. Aweis Ali from the Somali Bible Society to discuss the many dangers facing the country’s Christians, why the church is experiencing remarkable growth, and the exciting efforts of ministry workers who are reaching out to Somalis with the Gospel message. During his conversation with Greg, Dr. Aweis also shares the story of how he personally came to faith in Jesus – and the price he and other Muslim-background believers have paid for choosing to follow Christ in this restricted nation.
Length: 43 minutes
To watch the interview with Dr. Aweis https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-so-2025-05-06.htm
Episode Notes
Somali Bible Society: www.somalibiblesociety.org
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Following Ayatollah Khomeini’s Islamic Revolution in 1979, Iran became the world's only country to be governed by an Islamic theocracy. Today, many of those living under the Islamic regime are filled with despair. Yet, their disillusionment has opened new doors for the Gospel, which is sweeping across the nation via satellite TV, the Internet, as well as a growing number of house church movements.
Even so, the government continues its attempts to thwart the spread of Christianity by persecuting the nation’s followers of Jesus. Many Iranians are also coming into a relationship with Christ after leaving the country and moving abroad, where they are passionate about seeing fellow Iranians – both inside and outside of the nation – come to faith in Jesus. One such person is Shah Ahmadi of Iran Alive Ministries, a U.S.-based organization and trusted ministry partner of Voice of the Martyrs Canada. In this episode of Closer to the Fire, host Greg Musselman sits down with Shah at the Iran Alive headquarters in Texas.
Length: 42 minutes
Episode Notes
Iran Alive Ministries: www.iranalive.org
Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
In this episode of the Closer to the Fire podcast, host Greg Musselman reports on the escalating violence committed against Christians in the North Central Nigerian state of Benue. In June, militant Fulani herdsmen launched a brutal attack on the Christian community of Yelwata, killing an estimated 200 villagers – many of them internally displaced people who had fled previous violence. The attackers used fuel to set the villagers’ homes ablaze, leaving devastation in their wake.
Just weeks later, in early July, four members of Christian Faith Ministries were also tragically killed in Benue State. In this podcast report, Greg is joined by Ruth and Kent Hodge, the founders of Christian Faith Ministries, to discuss these recent heartbreaking attacks, the broader persecution of Christians throughout Nigeria, and how God is still working powerfully through His people – even in the midst of suffering.
Length: 38 minutes
Episode Notes
To watch the interview with the Hodge’s www.vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-ng-2025-07-11.htm
Christian Faith Ministries: https://www.cfaithnews.org/
Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Why Are Men and Women Persecuted Differently for Their Faith?
There is plenty of evidence indicating that men and women suffer differently when they are persecuted for their faith in Jesus. In this episode of Closer to the Fire, podcast host Greg Musselman is joined by Emma, the director of an organization that is dedicated to addressing gender-specific religious freedom issues. (Due to the nature of her work, Emma’s surname cannot publicly disclosed.)
During the interview, this valued ministry partner of VOMC discusses the various ways in which gender-specific persecution affects the church, the devastating consequences that occur when these realities are overlooked, and how the body of Christ can respond with greater understanding, wisdom and compassion. Most importantly, she highlights the hope and healing that Jesus is bringing into the lives of persecuted believers in the midst of suffering.
Length: 56 minutes
Episode Notes
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
China: The Communist Party's Relentless Persecution of Christians
In China, where Communist authorities remain determined to suppress the rapid growth of Christianity, church leaders in that nation are arrested and imprisoned for their ministry activities. One pastoral couple, Yang Rongli and her husband Wang Xiaoguang, have endured years of persecution for continuing to shepherd thousands of believers despite government opposition.
Greg Musselman, host of the Closer to the Fire podcast, is joined by Dr. Bob Fu of ChinaAid to discuss the ongoing court case against Yang and Wang, as well as the recent trend in which church leaders are being charged with “illegal border crossing” for participating in religious training abroad. During the interview, Dr. Fu also sheds light on how the Communist regime is targeting the Biblical education of children, revealing the broader strategy to stifle religious freedom at every level of society.
Length:38 minutes
Episode Notes
To watch the interview with Dr. Bob Fu
https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-cn-2025-06-05.htm
ChinaAid: www.chinaaid.org
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
According to recently published reports, anti-conversion laws may soon be enacted in the northern Indian state of Rajasthan. Members of the state legislature are presently considering a newly proposed law that would make so-called “forced conversions” illegal and require anyone who seeks to convert to Christianity – or any other religion outside of Hinduism – to notify officials at least 60 days in advance.
In this episode of the Closer to the Fire podcast, host Greg Musselman is joined by Rev. Sudhakar Mondithoka, who serves as Principal and Director for the Hyderabad Institute of Theology and Apologetics in Hyderabad, India. During their conversation, Rev. Mondithoka discusses the newly proposed law and what it could mean for Christian believers living in Rajasthan.
Rev. Mondithoka also provides insight into the history of anti-conversion legislation in India, how it's being used against Christians, and the effect it's having on followers of Christ throughout this South Asian nation. In the midst of these challenges, he emphasizes the need for believers to rely on the Lord’s wisdom as they seek to share their faith with those in their communities and beyond.
Length: 58 minutes
Episode Notes
To view the interview with Rev. Sudhakar Mondithoka https://www.vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-in-2025-01-23.htm
Hyderabad Institute of Theology and Apologetics: https://hitha.org
Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Christians in Somalia encounter life-threatening persecution not only from the militant Islamic group al-Shabab, but also from hostile members of their families and local communities. In particular, those who have left Islam to follow Jesus risk harassment, intimidation and even the threat of death. According to the World Watch List from Open Doors (an annual ranking of the top 50 countries where Christians encounter the most extreme persecution), Somalia remains the second most dangerous region in the world for followers of Jesus. Despite the intense opposition, this East African nation is home to one of the fastest growing church movements in the world.
VOMC’s Closer to the Fire host, Greg Musselman, is joined by Dr. Aweis Ali from the Somali Bible Society to discuss the many dangers facing the country’s Christians, why the church is experiencing remarkable growth, and the exciting efforts of ministry workers who are reaching out to Somalis with the Gospel message. During his conversation with Greg, Dr. Aweis also shares the story of how he personally came to faith in Jesus – and the price he and other Muslim-background believers have paid for choosing to follow Christ in this restricted nation.
Length: 43 minutes
To watch the interview with Dr. Aweis https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-so-2025-05-06.htm
Episode Notes
Somali Bible Society: www.somalibiblesociety.org
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, is a nation grappling with significant turmoil and humanitarian crises. The devastating earthquake that took place in March of this year claimed thousands of lives and caused widespread damage across the country. Additionally, the ongoing military coup is now in its fifth year, and solutions are nowhere in sight.
The political conflict is having a devastating impact on the nation’s Christians, who have frequently been the targets of violent military strikes. In addition to disproportionately attacking Christian villages and destroying church buildings, the opposing military forces have also killed innocent Christian aid workers and pastors.
In this episode of the Closer to the Firepodcast, host Greg Musselman is joined by “Joshua,” a Christian leader in Myanmar whose real name has been withheld for security purposes. Despite the dire situation facing the country’s believers, “Joshua” reports that God is working powerfully amidst the country’s numerous challenges and hardships.
Length: 36 minutes
Episode Notes
Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
The Iranian government is among the most oppressive regimes in the world. It is illegal to leave Islam, and Christians face the constant threat of imprisonment on false charges of "acting against national security.” Recently, three Christian converts, including a woman who is pregnant with her first child, received lengthy prison sentences on charges relating to their religious beliefs and worship meetings.
Greg Musselman, host of the Closer to the Fire podcast, is joined by Joseph Hovsepian to address the harsh verdicts against these detained believers. Joseph is the founder of Hovsepian Ministries, an organization dedicated to supporting persecuted Christians in Iran. He knows firsthand about the extreme persecution encountered by followers of Jesus in this Middle Eastern country. Joseph’s father, an Iranian pastor named Haik, was tragically martyred for his faith in 1994. During this podcast interview, Greg also discusses with Joseph how Christians in Western countries can help their persecuted Iranian family in Christ.
Length 35 Minutes
Episode Notes
Watch the interview with Joseph Hovsepian www.vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-ir-2025-04-09.htm
Hovsepian Ministries: http://www.hovsepian.com
Watch the award-winning documentary, A Cry from Iran: www.youtube.com/watch?v=GLeKQz4tuDo
Read VOMC’s Persecution & Prayer Alert report for more information about these three imprisoned believers:www.vomcanada.com/ir-2025-03-13.htm
Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Pakistan's blasphemy laws have placed Christians at constant risk of being falsely accused of blaspheming Islam, the Quran or the Islamic prophet Muhammad – often leading to mob riots and harsh punishments when convicted. Despite the large number of blasphemy cases in Pakistan, most of the accusations were proven to be false. This was the case for two Christian brothers from Jaranwala, a city in the province of Punjab. In August 2023, these young men were accused of desecrating the Quran. As a result of the allegations, churches and Christian homes were targeted by an out-of-control mob. VOMC’s Minister-at-Large, Greg Musselman, recently travelled to the Christian community that was devastated by the mob attack. During his visit, he saw firsthand how the incident has impacted local followers of Jesus, and how these resilient believers are working to rebuild their houses, churches and lives in the aftermath of the violence.
Length: 10:20 minutes
Episode Notes
To view the report from Jaranwala https://www.vomcanada.com/pk-videos/video/pk-2025-03-21.htm
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada www.vomcanada.com
In many nations, Christian women face extreme persecution, and often their situations are too shameful to publicly acknowledge. The social stigma attached to these acts of violence frequently becomes a barrier when attempting to effectively prosecute the perpetrators of such attacks. Beyond the broader gender-based persecution affecting marginalized communities, Christian women and girls endure targeted sexual violence, trafficking, and even threats against their lives, as forms of punishment for their faith. Despite these attempts to silence Christian voices through terror, there is hope for our persecuted sisters in Christ.
Greg Musselman, host of the Closer to the Fire podcast, speaks with “Kate” (whose real name is being withheld for security reasons) about why believers in the West have a critical role in addressing the suffering of our Christian sisters, and what we can do to help bring them hope and healing. Kate is a trusted ministry partner of VOMC who serves as an advisor for Gender and Religious Freedom, a global ministry network that facilitates training, advocacy and research on gender-specific persecution. During the interview, Greg and Kate will also explore what the Bible says about the mistreatment of women, as well as the ways in which God’s Word affirms their inherent value and dignity.
Length: 46 minutes
Episode Notes
Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Gender and Religious Freedom: www.genderandreligiousfreedom.org
Several followers of Jesus have recently experienced situations of severe persecution in the Southeast Asian country of Vietnam. In one recent case, a house church leader identified as Brother Ting was tragically killed after he refused to stop holding worship meetings. A week after Brother Ting was murdered, his wife Mar was found dead in her home, leaving the couple’s children orphaned.
Brother Paul , who serves as the Project Partner Manager for Voice of the Martyrs Australia, joins Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman to discuss why Christians are encountering escalating opposition in many rural communities throughout this Communist nation. During their conversation, Paul explains how the global body of Christ is coming alongside persecuted Vietnamese believers to provide greatly needed support, relief and encouragement. He also describes the specific ways in which VOM Australia is supplying financial and emotional support to the traumatized children of Brother Ting and Mar.
Length: 32 minutes
To Watch the interview with Paul Paduhilao https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-vn-2025-02-06.htm
Episode Notes
Voice of the Martyrs Australia: www.vom.com.au
Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Nearly all Christians in northeastern Nigeria have lost family members due to the violence perpetrated by terrorist groups. Entire congregations have been displaced, and many pastors have been forced to leave the region. In the midst of the volatile situation, it takes great courage and faith to openly worship and serve Christ in this West African nation, where more followers of Jesus are killed each year for their faith than all the other countries of the world combined.
In this episode of the Closer to the Fire podcast, host Greg Musselman is joined by Mark Lipdo, the founder and CEO of Stefanos Foundation. For the past 23 years, this foundation has met the needs of hundreds of thousands of victims in Nigeria. Today, the ministry continues to faithfully stand alongside persecuted Christians who have suffered turmoil, forced displacement and the loss of family members. Amid ongoing concerns about the spread of Christian persecution throughout Nigeria, Mark explains why providing practical care, love and support to these suffering believers is more crucial than ever.
Length: 39 minutes
Episode Notes
To watch the interview with Mark Lipdo https://www.vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-ng-2025-02-28.htm
Stefanos Foundation on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Stefanosfoundation
Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Pastor Gideon Dawel’s story: https://vomcanada.com/ng-videos/video/ng-gideon-tragedy-forgiveness.htm
Nankpak Kumzwam’s story: https://vomcanada.com/ng-videos/video/ng-nanpak-2024.htm
According to recently published reports, anti-conversion laws may soon be enacted in the northern Indian state of Rajasthan. Members of the state legislature are presently considering a newly proposed law that would make so-called “forced conversions” illegal and require anyone who seeks to convert to Christianity – or any other religion outside of Hinduism – to notify officials at least 60 days in advance.
In this episode of the Closer to the Fire podcast, host Greg Musselman is joined by Rev. Sudhakar Mondithoka, who serves as Principal and Director for the Hyderabad Institute of Theology and Apologetics in Hyderabad, India. During their conversation, Rev. Mondithoka discusses the newly proposed law and what it could mean for Christian believers living in Rajasthan.
Rev. Mondithoka also provides insight into the history of anti-conversion legislation in India, how it's being used against Christians, and the effect it's having on followers of Christ throughout this South Asian nation. In the midst of these challenges, he emphasizes the need for believers to rely on the Lord’s wisdom as they seek to share their faith with those in their communities and beyond.
Length: 58 minutes
Episode Notes
To view the interview with Rev. Sudhakar Mondithoka https://www.vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-in-2025-01-23.htm
Hyderabad Institute of Theology and Apologetics: https://hitha.org
Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
For over 50 years, the Voice of the Martyrs Canada has been serving the persecuted church worldwide. In this episode of the Closer to the Fire podcast, host Greg Musselman is joined by Floyd Brobbel, the Chief Executive Officer for VOM Canada. We invite you to tune in as they look back at what the ministry has accomplished throughout 2024, and then look ahead to some of the opportunities that will be available in 2025 to encourage and embolden Christ's followers in the world’s hostile and restricted countries. Floyd will also talk about the motivation for writing his most recently published book, United in Prayer.
Length 46:00
Episode Notes
To watch the interview with Floyd Brobbel https://vomcanada.com/fromvomc/video/vomc-2025-01-02.htm
For more information on Floyd’s books:
United In Prayer: store.vomcanada.org/category/new/united-in-prayer
Trouble on the Way store.vomcanada.org/category/all/books/trouble-on-the-way
Trouble on the Way Study Guide: store.vomcanada.org/category/all/books/trouble-on-the-way-study-guide
During recent years, the international community has witnessed the scope of the Taliban’s brutal rule in Afghanistan since the militant group regained power over the nation in August 2021. Amid the Taliban’s draconian restrictions on the rights of women and girls – together with the use of arbitrary arrest and detention, plus enforced disappearance and torture – the militants insist that there are now no Christians residing in the country. Most house churches that existed before the Taliban’s takeover have since been closed, forcing many believers to either flee the country or go even further underground.
In this edition of Closer to the Fire, host Greg Musselman is joined by Brother Adib, an Afghan Christian leader who currently resides in Canada. Adib shares how he came into a relationship with Jesus in 2006, the opposition he faced for his decision to leave Islam, and how he escaped Afghanistan with his family. Adib also explains why he is so passionate about reaching Afghans with the Gospel message here in Canada – as well as in Afghanistan and other nations around the world – through his ministry work with the Jesus Network and Afghan Church of Toronto.
Length: 50 minutes
To view the interview with Adib Maxwell https://vomcanada.com/af-videos/video/af-opportunities-gospel.htm
Episode Notes
Jesus Network: www.jesusnetwork.ca
Afghan Church of Toronto: www.afghanchurch.ca
Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
The church in Pakistan faces opposition and persecution in numerous ways. Not only are the country’s notorious blasphemy laws being used to target the Christian minority, each year thereare hundreds of cases in which individual Christian girls have been abducted, abused, forcefully married, and/or converted to Islam against their wills. Additionally, churches that engage in outreach activities are prone to opposition.
In November, Greg Musselman and his ministry colleague Stephen Wesley travelled to Lahore to teach VOMC’s Theology of Persecution and Discipleship course to over 30 local pastors. During their trip, Greg and Stephen also visited a brickyard where they met and interviewed modern-day Christian slaves. They then travelled to Jaranwala, a city in Punjab province, where 26 churches and more than 100 buildings and homes belonging to Christians were destroyed due to blasphemy allegations in August 2023.
During this episode of the Closer to the Fire podcast, Greg and Stephen discuss their recent experiences in Pakistan and how – despite the many challenges facing the church in this primarily Islamic country – God’s Kingdom is continually moving forward.
Length: 37 minutes
To View the interview with Stephen Wesley https://www.vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/ctff-pk-strengthening-embattled.htm
Episode Notes
Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
While the Democratic Republic of the Congo is home to one of Africa's largest Christian-majority populations, militant Muslim groups severely persecute believers along the nation's eastern border with Uganda. When rebels capture groups of people, they often release the Muslims while killing any Christians who refuse to convert to the Islamic faith. Amid the ongoing violence, the church in this war-torn country is under immense pressure.
Dr. David Kasali serves as the founder of the Congo Initiative, a Christ-centred educational institution that seeks to bring spiritual transformation to the country. He joins Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman to discuss the violent attacks on followers of Jesus in the DRC, the many other challenges facing the nation’s believers, and the reasons why he chose to return to such a dangerous place despite the risks.
Length: 40 minutes
Episode Notes
To view the interview with Dr. Kasali https://www.vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-cd-ten-years.htm
Congo Initiative: https://congoinitiative.org
Pray for the Democratic Republic of the Congo: https://www.vomcanada.com/drc.htm
On February 13th, 2017, a Malaysian pastor named Raymond Koh was kidnapped in broad daylight by a group of men in the greater Kaula Lumpur area while on his way to a friend's house. The incident was captured on CCTV cameras, providing evidence that least 15 men in three black SUVs were part of the abduction. More than seven years later, his wife Susanna continues to search tirelessly for answers regarding her husband's disappearance.
Todd Nettleton, host of VOM Radio for the Voice of the Martyrs USA, has reported on the pastor’s mysterious disappearance ever since the incident took place, and then later interviewed Susanna Koh to hear her story. During this episode of Closer to the Fire, Todd joins podcast host Greg Musselman to address recent developments in the case and discuss whether Pastor Raymond may still be alive after all these years. During the interview, Todd also provides insight into the various challenges presently facing other followers of Jesus in Malaysia.
Length: 27 minutes
Episode Notes
To watch the interview with Todd Nettleton https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-my-wheres-koh.htm
To purchase your copy of Todd’s book, When Faith is Forbidden: 40 Days on the Frontline with Persecuted Christians, go to: https://store.vomcanada.org/purchase/when-faith-is-forbidden
Listen to VOM Radio at: https://www.vomradio.net
Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
In 2022, Christian activities across Russia – including gathering for worship, distributing Bibles and Christian literature, as well as personal evangelism – were investigated by Russian police and punished as crimes by Russian courts of law. Believers were forced to pay fines and, in most cases, those who challenged the court’s decisions lost their appeals. This trend of mounting opposition against the country’s Christian population is being closely monitored by The Voice of the Martyrs Korea.
Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman is joined by Dr. Eric Foley, who serves as the CEO and Co-Founder of VOM Korea, to discuss the heightened persecution of evangelical Christians in Russia. Dr. Foley offers insight into how the invasion of Ukraine is affecting Russian believers and addresses how the church is navigating increased challenges amid the ongoing war. Additionally, he provides an update on the growing underground church in North Korea.
Length: 52 minutes
Episode Notes
To watch the interview with Dr. Foley
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada | Closer to the Fire - Russia: Evangelical Believers 'Fined for Faithfulness (vomcanada.com)
The Voice of the Martyrs Korea: www.vomkorea.com
Read VOMC’s latest Persecution & Prayer Alert report on Russia: https://www.vomcanada.com/ru-2023-02-02.htm
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
The latest crackdown against followers of Jesus in the East African nation of Eritrea has led to the arrest of more than 200 Christians – including children – within a span of 12 months. According to Dr. Berhane Asmelash, who serves as the Director of Release Eritrea (a ministry based in the United Kingdom), most of the recently arrested believers were taken from their homes without any warning, and some were even apprehended during the middle of the night. In multiple cases, entire families were taken into custody and remain in prison today.
Dr. Berhane joins Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman to discuss these latest arrests and provide insight into why, after more than 20 years, persecution against the country’s evangelical Christians remains ongoing. Dr. Berhane also shares about his own experiences as a believer who formerly lived in Eritrea, where he was arrested, imprisoned and tortured for his faith in Jesus. Dr. Berhane’s moving story of faith is recounted in his recently published biography, Brother, I Have Come to Arrest You.
Length: 42 minutes
To view the full interview with Dr. Berhane Asmelash https://vomcanada.com/er-videos/video/er-government-crackdown.htm
To order your copy of Dr. Berhane’s newly published biography, visit: https://releaseinternational.org/product/brother-i-have-come-to-arrest-you/
Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Christians in India are finding themselves increasingly under the threat of violent persecution. The growing hostility is often driven by an ongoing belief among Hindu extremists that all Indians ought to be Hindu – and that the practise of any faith outside of Hinduism is not welcome in India. This mindset has led to numerous violent attacks across the country; crimes perpetrators of the violence are permitted to continue with impunity.
In this episode of Closer to the Fire, podcast host Greg Musselman speaks with Manorama Mallick, a believer from Odisha State who has suffered greatly for her faith. The Christian woman’s husband was tragically poisoned to death for being a follower of Christ, and Manorama herself was physically attacked for refusing to renounce her faith in Jesus. Even though the beating left her with significant hearing loss, this faithful Christian widow continues to serve the Lord today by providing greatly needed ministry to impoverished people living within the slums of Odisha State.
During the episode, Greg is also joined by Rev. John Sankara Rao of Divine Ministries India to discuss a recent incident in which 120 Christians were forced to “reconvert” to Hinduism in Odisha State. In addition, Rev. Rao shares an update on Dr. K.A. Swamy, an evangelist who was left in a nearly vegetative state after suffering a brutal attack by Hindu radicals during the year of 2017 for handing out Bibles on the streets of Hyderabad. To support Dr. Swamy’s journey to recovery, Voice of the Martyrs Canada has provided financial assistance for the injured Christian man’s medical expenses.
Length: 37 minutes
Episode Notes
Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Following Ayatollah Khomeini’s Islamic Revolution in 1979, Iran became the world's only country to be governed by an Islamic theocracy. Today, many of those living under the Islamic regime are filled with despair. Yet, their disillusionment has opened new doors for the Gospel, which is sweeping across the nation via satellite TV, the Internet, as well as a growing number of house church movements.
Even so, the government continues its attempts to thwart the spread of Christianity by persecuting the nation’s followers of Jesus. Many Iranians are also coming into a relationship with Christ after leaving the country and moving abroad, where they are passionate about seeing fellow Iranians – both inside and outside of the nation – come to faith in Jesus. One such person is Shah Ahmadi of Iran Alive Ministries, a U.S.-based organization and trusted ministry partner of Voice of the Martyrs Canada. In this episode of Closer to the Fire, host Greg Musselman sits down with Shah at the Iran Alive headquarters in Texas.
Length: 42 minutes
Episode Notes
To watch the interview with Shah Ahmadi https://vomcanada.com/ir-videos/video/ir-hopelessness-opens-door.htm
Iran Alive Ministries: www.iranalive.org
Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
A religious freedom advocate recently warned that a proposed Canadian law could imperil citizens’ freedom of speech and religious liberty, raising concerns for Christians across Canada.
Jeff King, who serves as the president of International Christian Concern (a religious watchdog group based in the U.S.), says the proposed law, Bill C-367, would amend the Criminal Code by removing religious exemptions from Canada’s hate speech laws. If enacted, he warns that the new measures could impact public expressions of Biblical truth.
In this episode of Closer to the Fire, host Greg Musselman is joined by VOMC’s CEO, Floyd Brobbel, to talk about what it could mean for Canadian Christians if the bill or one like it is passed into law. Floyd also discusses the various degrees of persecution, and where the church in Canada is currently positioned on the persecution scale.
Length: 46 minutes
Episode Notes
To watch the interview with Floyd Brobbel
https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-vomc-bible-prison.htm
To purchase a copy of Trouble on the Way by Floyd Brobbel, go to: https://store.vomcanada.org/purchase/trouble-on-the-way
View Jeff King’s interview with CBN News:https://www2.cbn.com/news/us/persecution-watchdogs-warning-canadian-bill-could-send-christians-jail-quoting-bible
Sign up to receive VOMC’s Persecution & Prayer Alert emails and free monthly magazine: https://store.vomcanada.org/subscribe
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
The Christian faith has a long history in North Africa. In fact, the early church father, Augustine of Hippo, was from this region of the world. However, after invasions by Arab Muslims, much of North Africa’s public Christian worship and witness disappeared during the seventh century AD.
Today, many North Africans are rediscovering their Christian heritage. As a result, the church is expanding rapidly, but so is persecution against followers of Jesus. VOMC’s Minister-at-Large, Greg Musselman, recently travelled to an undisclosed country to hear firsthand about the situation facing our North African family in Christ. During this time, Greg met with Christian leaders from Algeria and Libya to discuss the growing challenges being encountered by believers in these Muslim-majority nations.
Length: 30 minutes
Episode Notes
To view the full video report on Algeria, go to: https://www.vomcanada.com/dz-videos/video/dz-growing-persecuted.htm
To view the full video report on Libya, visit: https://vomcanada.com/ly-videos/video/ly-dangers-following-1.htm
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
For Christians in Iran who convert from Islam, there is not even a semblance of tolerance for their faith. Conversion from Islam to Christianity is illegal in this Middle Eastern nation, and anyone discovered to be a member of a house church can be charged with a crime against national security. Followers of Jesus who are arrested and detained may also be subjected to torture and abuse during imprisonment.
Despite the intense opposition to the Gospel, Iran is considered home to the fastest-growing church in the world. One of the ministries working in this oppressive country is the American-based organization, Iran Alive. This partner of Voice of the Martyrs Canada is witnessing a deep spiritual hunger among the Iranian people, and many are turning to faith in the Lord!
In this episode of Closer to the Fire, host Greg Musselman speaks with Lily Meschi, the Director of Partner Relations for Iran Alive, about the various challenges and opportunities facing Christians in her home country. Lily also shares the story of her journey to Jesus, how she survived a 14-year abusive marriage, and her passion for seeing women in Iran and beyond experience the same freedom she now enjoys in Christ.
Length: 45 minutes
Episode Notes
To view the interview with Lily Meschi
https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-ir-bringing-light.htm
Iran Alive Ministries: https://iranalive.org/
Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
A sessions court in Islamabad has handed down a 25-year prison sentence to a Muslim man for murdering a Christian woman three years ago after she turned down his marriage proposal. Judge Azam Khan of the Islamabad Sessions Court convicted Muhammad Shahzad (also known as Shani) for the murder of 24-year-old Sonia Allah Rakha while acquitting three other suspects who had been involved in the case.
Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman discusses this landmark verdict with Asher John of Kross Konnection, a digital media platform that advocates for human rights on behalf of vulnerable minorities living in this Muslim-majority nation. During their conversation, Asher also provides an update on a recent incident in which a pastor in Jaranwala faked his assassination, and describes the current situation for followers of Jesus in an area where thousands of militant Muslims burned churches and Christian homes this past August.
In addition, Asher and Greg preview a documentary focussing on the plight of Pakistan’s Christian women and girls, who are being kidnapped, forcibly converted to Islam, and then married against their wills – incidents that have been taking place with alarming frequency throughout the country.
Length: 37:30
Episode Notes
To watch the interview with Asher John
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada - Closer to the Fire (vomcanada.com)
View the Stolen Lives documentary: www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=YQXm_5Lo0Ig
Kross Konnection: www.krosskonnection.pk
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Nearly all Christians in northeastern Nigeria have lost family members due to the violence perpetrated by terrorist groups like Boko Haram and the region’s militant Fulani Muslims. Since the onslaught of violence began, thousands of followers of Jesus have been killed each year, and entire congregations were subsequently displaced. Remaining active in the church takes great courage and faith, as believers worship and serve Christ openly despite risk of attack.
Recently, Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman and VOMC’s trusted ministry partner, Stephen Wesley, travelled to Kaduna State to present the Theology of Persecution and Discipleship course to pastors from the Muslim-dominated regions of northern Nigeria. In this episode, Greg and Stephen discuss how these influential Christian leaders were impacted by the teaching. During their conversation, Stephen also reflects on his meeting with two Christian men who suffered the loss of multiple family members because of their faith in Jesus.
Length: 46:30 minutes
Episode Notes
To Watch the interview with Stephen Wesley https://www.vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-ng-persecution-teaching.htm
Beyond Borders Ministries: www.beyond-borders.ca
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
View Greg’s interview with Nankpak Kumzwam: www.vomcanada.com/video/ng-tragedy-triumph.htm
With an estimated 22,200 followers of Jesus, Tunisia’s Christian population comprises only a tiny minority of the country’s 12.2 million people. If a believer's faith is discovered in Tunisia, it can have a profoundly damaging impact on their daily life – including subjection to verbal/physical abuse, rejection by loved ones, and/or job insecurity. In this episode of Closer to the Fire, host Greg Musselman speaks with two Christian leaders about the various challenges facing the church in this North African nation. During their conversation, they also discuss how Christian media is being used to reach the Muslim-dominated culture with the hope of the Gospel.
Length 27:30
Episode Notes
To watch the video https://vomcanada.com/tn-videos/video/tn-risks-challenges.htm
For more information about what life is like for Christians in Tunisia, go to: www.vomcanada.com/tunisia.htm
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Six Kenyan merchants, all of them professed followers of Jesus, were recently killed in a border town between Kenya and Somalia. Those responsible for the incident are suspected to be members of al-Shabaab, a militant Islamic group based in Somalia. The six victims of the attack had been selling plastic utensils and other household goods for the past six years. It’s believed that the Christians were killed because they were active in sharing the Gospel with local Muslims. On the 2024 World Watch List, Open Doors ranked Somalia as second among the 50 listed nations considered to be the most difficult for those practising Christianity.
In this edition of the Closer to the Fire podcast, host Greg Musselman is joined by a Somalian Christian leader who equips and trains followers of Jesus living in the war-torn country. “Joshua” (not his real name) provides insight into the many challenges facing believers in the Muslim-majority nation and why the church continues to grow amid intense persecution, even in areas where there are no church buildings. During the interview, the Muslim-background believer also shares about his personal journey to faith in Jesus.
Length 45:30
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
To learn more about the persecution of Christians in Somalia, visit: https://www.vomcanada.com/somalia.htm
The government of the Islamic Republic of Iran has been accused by several countries, including the United States, of providing training, financing and weapons – as well as safe havens – to several terrorist organizations. These militant groups include Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in Gaza, and the Houthis in Yemen. Additionally, Iran was listed as number nine on the 2024 World Watch List produced by Open Doors, making it one of the most dangerous countries in the world to follow Jesus.
To discuss recent reports about this Middle Eastern nation, Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman is joined by Dr. Hormoz Shariat, the founder and president of Iran Alive. This Texas-based ministry is working to transform Iran into a Christian nation through satellite television, discipleship programs, Bible distribution projects, and so much more. Dr. Shariat, who comes from a Muslim background, speaks with Greg about why the Iranian government is seeking to destroy Israel and eradicate Christianity.
Length: 36 minutes
Episode Notes
To view the interview with Hormoz https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-ir-govt-terrorism-persecution.htm
Iran Alive: www.iranalive.org
To purchase a copy of Dr. Shariat’s book, Iran’s Great Awakening: How God is Using a Muslim Convert to Spark Revival, go to: store.vomcanada.org/purchase/irans-great-awakening (in Canada) or https://iranalive.org/irans-great-awakening/ (in the US and other countries)
Saeed Pakniat’s testimony: https://www.vomcanada.com/video/ir-forced-flee.htm
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
April 14th, 2024, marks the passing of ten years since the militant Islamic group, Boko Haram, kidnapped 276 mostly Christian girls from a secondary school in the Nigerian town of Chibok, Borno State. According to a recently published BBC report, 91 of the abducted students remain missing today.
During the past two years, 20 of the kidnapped victims were rescued from Boko Haram hideouts in the Sambisa forest, which is located in northeastern Borno State. However, recent reports indicate that some of the rescued women have decided to stay married to their captors. The state government’s response to this situation has sparked outrage among the parents – including Yama Bullum, who was heartbroken to discover that his daughter, Jinkai, remains married to the militant who once held her captive.
In this episode of the Closer to the Firepodcast, host Greg Musselman is joined by Rev. Margaret Adina. This Christian leader serves as the Director of Mara’s House, a trauma centre for women and girls near Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria. Rev. Adina discusses why some of these recently freed young women, who were teenagers when they were abducted ten years ago, are choosing to stay with their kidnappers. During her conversation with Greg, she also explains how traumatized Nigerian women and girls are receiving greatly needed healing and hope at Mara’s House.
Length: 40 minutes
Episode Notes
To Watch the Interview with Margaret Adinga https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-ng-chibok-parents.htm
Learn more about Mara’s House: https://www.vomcanada.com/ng-videos/video/ng-maras-house2.htm
Christian Faith Ministries: https://cfaithministries.org/
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
A religious freedom advocate recently warned that a proposed Canadian law could imperil citizens’ freedom of speech and religious liberty, raising concerns for Christians across Canada.
Jeff King, who serves as the president of International Christian Concern (a religious watchdog group based in the U.S.), says the proposed law, Bill C-367, would amend the Criminal Code by removing religious exemptions from Canada’s hate speech laws. If enacted, he warns that the new measures could impact public expressions of Biblical truth.
In this episode of Closer to the Fire, host Greg Musselman is joined by VOMC’s CEO, Floyd Brobbel, to talk about what it could mean for Canadian Christians if the bill or one like it is passed into law. Floyd also discusses the various degrees of persecution, and where the church in Canada is currently positioned on the persecution scale.
Length: 46 minutes
Episode Notes
To watch the interview with Floyd Brobbel
https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-vomc-bible-prison.htm
To purchase a copy of Trouble on the Way by Floyd Brobbel, go to: https://store.vomcanada.org/purchase/trouble-on-the-way
View Jeff King’s interview with CBN News:https://www2.cbn.com/news/us/persecution-watchdogs-warning-canadian-bill-could-send-christians-jail-quoting-bible
Sign up to receive VOMC’s Persecution & Prayer Alert emails and free monthly magazine: https://store.vomcanada.org/subscribe
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
One young man who knows firsthand the brutality against followers of Jesus in Nigeria is Nankpak Kumzwam. In 2002, the then eight-year-old lost his father, mother, brother and sister when militant Muslims attacked his village. Nankpak, who was injured during the attack, was taken to a Christian orphanage where he received an education, as well as a place to live and heal from the trauma he experienced after losing four of his family members.
Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman first met Nankpak during 2007 in Abeokuta, Ogun State, to hear his tragic story. In this episode, Nankpak speaks with Greg about how he remained strong in his faith in Jesus after going through such a horrific event. During their conversation, Nankpak also shares about his ministry today to persecuted Christians in Nigeria and the many challenges currently facing believers in this West African nation.
Length: 53 minutes
Episode Notes
To watch the interview with Nankpakhttps://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-ng-tragedy-triumph.htm
Stefanos Foundation on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Stefanosfoundation
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.coma: Overcoming Tragedy and Trauma
One young man who knows firsthand the brutality against followers of Jesus in Nigeria is Nankpak Kumzwam. In 2002, the then eight-year-old lost his father, mother, brother and sister when militant Muslims attacked his village. Nankpak, who was injured during the attack, was taken to a Christian orphanage where he received an education, as well as a place to live and heal from the trauma he experienced after losing four of his family members.
Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman first met Nankpak during 2007 in Abeokuta, Ogun State, to hear his tragic story. In this episode, Nankpak speaks with Greg about how he remained strong in his faith in Jesus after going through such a horrific event. During their conversation, Nankpak also shares about his ministry today to persecuted Christians in Nigeria and the many challenges currently facing believers in this West African nation.
Length: 53 minutes
Episode Notes
To watch the interview with Nankpakhttps://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-ng-tragedy-triumph.htm
Stefanos Foundation on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Stefanosfoundation
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
“Adam” (not his real name) grew up in a Muslim home in the North African country of Mauritania, where over 99 percent of the population is considered to be Muslim, and it’s illegal to leave Islam. Even though it was dangerous even to consider another religion Adam was disillusioned with the god of Islam, so he wanted to know more about Christianity. However, the churches he went to refused to let him in because he was a Muslim. That didn’t deter Adam’s desire to know more about Jesus. After a decade of searching, he met a missionary who led him to Christ. After becoming a close friend to another missionary named Chris Leggett, Adam’s faith blossomed. In 2009, tragedy rocked Adam’s world when Leggett, a married father of four, was murdered by militant Islamists for his ministry among Muslims in Mauritania. Adam became even more focused on building God’s Kingdom in the North African nation, but it came at a huge cost.
Length 6:30
Episode notes
To watch the video of Adam’s story https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-mr-adam.htm
To learn more about The Voice of the Martyrs Canada Equipping the Saints fund https://store.vomcanada.org/category/donations/equipping-the-saints-fund
Anees Khan grew up in a Christian home in Pakistan, where he and his family faced extreme persecution because of their faith in Jesus. When Anees was kidnapped by a group of militant Muslims, his father – who served as a local pastor – received a phone call from the captors demanding that he convert to Islam, or they would kill his son. After the pastor refused to renounce his Christian faith, the attackers threw 13-year-old Anees off a cliff. However, the faithful follower of Jesus miraculously survived the ordeal without injury.
The family eventually escaped Pakistan by going to Sri Lanka, and then later settling in Canada. During this episode of the Closer to the Fire podcast, Anees joins host Greg Musselman to talk about his powerful testimony of survival, the many challenges facing Christians today in Pakistan, and how he is now helping followers of Jesus in his homeland.
Length: 50 minutes
Episode Notes
To watch the entire interview with Anees Khan https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-pk-anees-khan.htm
To subscribe to the Closer to the Fire podcast, go to: https://blubrry.com/cttf/
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
“The persecution of God’s people has entered into the worst time we’ve seen in 40 years.” These are the words of Dr. Bob Fu, who serves as the founder and president of ChinaAid. Dr. Fu, a longtime ministry partner of The Voice of the Martyrs Canada, joins Closer to the Fire podcast host Greg Musselman to discuss why such intense opposition against Christians is taking place in China.
During their conversation, Dr. Fu provides insight into the methods being used by the Chinese Communist Party to oppress and harass the country’s Christians – including forcing children to renounce their faith in Jesus, installing facial recognition cameras in churches (and arresting pastors who refuse them), as well as rewriting and distorting the Bible. In addition, Dr. Fu addresses why the church continues to grow despite the many challenges facing followers of Jesus in this Communist nation.
Length: 52 minutes
Program Notes
To watch the interview with Dr. Bob Fu, visit: www.vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-cn-40-years.htm
ChinaAid: www.chinaaid.org
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
The government of the Islamic Republic of Iran has been accused by several countries, including the United States, of providing training, financing and weapons – as well as safe havens – to several terrorist organizations. These militant groups include Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in Gaza, and the Houthis in Yemen. Additionally, Iran was listed as number nine on the 2024 World Watch List produced by Open Doors, making it one of the most dangerous countries in the world to follow Jesus.
To discuss recent reports about this Middle Eastern nation, Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman is joined by Dr. Hormoz Shariat, the founder and president of Iran Alive. This Texas-based ministry is working to transform Iran into a Christian nation through satellite television, discipleship programs, Bible distribution projects, and so much more. Dr. Shariat, who comes from a Muslim background, speaks with Greg about why the Iranian government is seeking to destroy Israel and eradicate Christianity.
Length: 36 minutes
Episode Notes
To view the interview with Hormoz https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-ir-govt-terrorism-persecution.htm
Iran Alive: www.iranalive.org
To purchase a copy of Dr. Shariat’s book, Iran’s Great Awakening: How God is Using a Muslim Convert to Spark Revival, go to: store.vomcanada.org/purchase/irans-great-awakening (in Canada) or https://iranalive.org/irans-great-awakening/ (in the US and other countries)
Saeed Pakniat’s testimony: https://www.vomcanada.com/video/ir-forced-flee.htm
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
During the week of Christmas, more than 240 Christians were murdered in Nigeria’s Plateau State. The recent December 2023 massacre, referred to as “Black Christmas,” is only the latest in a series of attacks against innocent followers of Jesus. According to the Intersociety for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law, an organization based in the southeastern Nigerian city of Onitsha, more than 52,000 Christians have been murdered in Nigeria since 2009. Yet, despite the staggering levels of violence, much of the world appears to be unresponsive to the plight of believers in Africa’s most populous nation.
In this episode of the Closer to the Fire podcast, host Greg Musselman speaks with Mark Lipdo, the Founder and Program Coordinator for Stefanos Foundation. Based in Jos, Plateau State, this Christian organization is dedicated to helping believers in Nigeria who are being persecuted for their faith. During his conversation with Greg, Mark reports on the recent attacks that took place in Plateau State and discusses the reasons behind the recurring brutality.
Length: 46 minutes
Episode Notes
To watch the interview with Mark Lipdo:
www.vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-ng-black-christmas.htm
Stefanos Foundation on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Stefanosfoundation
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Release International: www.releaseinternational.org
During this first episode of 2024, the Closer to the Fire podcast highlights four countries of growing concern where the persecution of Christians is expected to rise this year. These countries are Nigeria, India, Pakistan and China. Host Greg Musselman speaks with Andrew Boyd of Release International, a UK-based mission which recently published its annual Persecution Trends Report. Greg and Andrew discuss the concerning trends described in the report, which are based on findings from international ministry partners serving in the world’s most dangerous persecution hot spots.
Length: 56 minutes
Episode Notes
To watch the interview with Andrew Boyd
www.vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-persecution-trends-2024.htm
Persecution Trends Report for 2024: www.releaseinternational.org/persecution-trends-report-2024/
Release International: www.releaseinternational.org
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
In many countries around the world where governing leaders claim to guarantee freedom of religion, Christians continue to be persecuted, harassed and arrested for their faith. Such is the case in Sri Lanka, where Jerome Fernando, a well-known pastor in the Western Province, was recently arrested for comparing Christianity to other religions. Although the constitution of this island nation provides all citizens freedom of thought, conscience and religion, Pastor Jerome’s arrest is just one example of the many religious freedom violations being committed against followers of Christ in this Buddhist-majority country.
In this episode of the Closer to the Firepodcast, host Greg Musselman discusses Pastor Jerome’s case with Roshini Wickremesinhe, who serves as the Executive Director of the Religious Liberty Partnership in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Roshini, who also happens to be a lawyer, explains why this incident is so troubling in a country where Christians are commonly persecuted. During their conversation, Roshini also addresses the situation facing believers in India and describes how the country’s oppressive anti-conversion laws have led to the arrests of hundreds of believers.
Length 30 minutes
Episode Notes
To view the interview with Roshini Wickremesinhe: https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-lk-really-freedom.htm
Religious Liberty Partnership: www.rlpartnership.org
For additional reports about Sri Lanka from The Voice of the Martyrs Canada, go to: www.vomcanada.com/srilanka.htm
The National Christian Evangelical Alliance of Sri Lanka: www.nceasl.org
Almost 90 percent of all the reported kidnappings of Christians worldwide take place in Nigeria. According to credible news sources, approximately 5,200 followers of Christ have been kidnapped in the African nation between January 2021 and June 2022. So far this year, as of mid-November, recent reports indicate that 23 ministerial clergy/church workers were abducted, and several other believers have been murdered.
In this episode of the Closer to the Fire podcast, host Greg Musselman speaks with Rev. John Joseph Hayab to learn more about the kidnapping crisis in Nigeria and why Christians are being targeted. Rev. Hayab presently serves as the Kaduna State Chairman for the Christian Association of Nigeria, as well as the Country Director of Global Peace Foundation Nigeria.
During the interview, Rev. Hayab also discusses the miraculous escape of 14-year-old Treasure Ayuba, a student who had been held captive by Islamic militants for two years following his abduction from a denominationally operated school in Kaduna State.
Length: 1 hour, 5 minutes
Episode Notes
To watch the interview with Rev. Hayab www.vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-ng-kidnapping-crisis.htm
Global Peace Foundation: https://globalpeace.org/
Christian Association of Nigeria: https://canng.org/
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: https://www.vomcanada.com/
“The persecution of God’s people has entered into the worst time we’ve seen in 40 years.” These are the words of Dr. Bob Fu, who serves as the founder and president of ChinaAid. Dr. Fu, a longtime ministry partner of The Voice of the Martyrs Canada, joins Closer to the Fire podcast host Greg Musselman to discuss why such intense opposition against Christians is taking place in China.
During their conversation, Dr. Fu provides insight into the methods being used by the Chinese Communist Party to oppress and harass the country’s Christians – including forcing children to renounce their faith in Jesus, installing facial recognition cameras in churches (and arresting pastors who refuse them), as well as rewriting and distorting the Bible. In addition, Dr. Fu addresses why the church continues to grow despite the many challenges facing followers of Jesus in this Communist nation.
Length: 52 minutes
Program Notes
To watch the interview with Dr. Bob Fu, visit: www.vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-cn-40-years.htm
ChinaAid: www.chinaaid.org
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
A sessions court in Islamabad has handed down a 25-year prison sentence to a Muslim man for murdering a Christian woman three years ago after she turned down his marriage proposal. Judge Azam Khan of the Islamabad Sessions Court convicted Muhammad Shahzad (also known as Shani) for the murder of 24-year-old Sonia Allah Rakha while acquitting three other suspects who had been involved in the case.
Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman discusses this landmark verdict with Asher John of Kross Konnection, a digital media platform that advocates for human rights on behalf of vulnerable minorities living in this Muslim-majority nation. During their conversation, Asher also provides an update on a recent incident in which a pastor in Jaranwala faked his assassination, and describes the current situation for followers of Jesus in an area where thousands of militant Muslims burned churches and Christian homes this past August.
In addition, Asher and Greg preview a documentary focussing on the plight of Pakistan’s Christian women and girls, who are being kidnapped, forcibly converted to Islam, and then married against their wills – incidents that have been taking place with alarming frequency throughout the country.
Length: 37:30
Episode Notes
To watch the interview with Asher John
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada - Closer to the Fire (vomcanada.com)
View the Stolen Lives documentary: www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=YQXm_5Lo0Ig
Kross Konnection: www.krosskonnection.pk
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Since China’s persecution of Christians has led to increased church growth, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is now targeting truths in the Bible through a ten-year project to change the Scriptures. With as many as 130 million Christians in the country, there are more followers of Jesus than members of the CCP. As a result, the government is pushing their socialist values by distorting Biblical passages to reflect Communist ideologies. This is yet another attempt by China’s authorities to bring both official and unapproved churches under total control of the government.
In this episode ofCloser to the Fire, host Greg Musselman is joined by Dr. Eric Foley of The Voice of the Martyrs Korea to discuss the CCP’s latest plans to promote its political ideologies, and how these methods of persecution are affecting Christians throughout the country. During the interview, they also address recently published reports in which some organizations have indicated that China’s Christian population is now in decline.
In addition to providing an update on the situation in China, Dr. Foley shares about the enduring faith of believers in North Korea and the fact that, despite extreme opposition, the underground church continues to grow in this “Hermit Kingdom.”
Length: 51 minutes
Episode Notes
To watch the interview with Dr. Eric Foley https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-communists-rewrite-bible.htm
The Voice of the Martyrs Korea: www.vomkorea.com
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
The Christian faith has a long history in North Africa. In fact, the early church father, Augustine of Hippo, was from this region of the world. However, after invasions by Arab Muslims, much of North Africa’s public Christian worship and witness disappeared during the seventh century AD.
Today, many North Africans are rediscovering their Christian heritage. As a result, the church is expanding rapidly, but so is persecution against followers of Jesus. VOMC’s Minister-at-Large, Greg Musselman, recently travelled to an undisclosed country to hear firsthand about the situation facing our North African family in Christ. During this time, Greg met with Christian leaders from Algeria and Libya to discuss the growing challenges being encountered by believers in these Muslim-majority nations.
Length: 30 minutes
Episode Notes
To view the full video report on Algeria, go to: https://www.vomcanada.com/dz-videos/video/dz-growing-persecuted.htm
To view the full video report on Libya, visit: https://vomcanada.com/ly-videos/video/ly-dangers-following-1.htm
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
The Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, recently described the war in Syria as a humanitarian nightmare for the long-suffering Syrian people and urgently called for a solution to the conflict. While the true number of lives lost may never be known, hundreds of thousands of Syrians have died since 2011.
The UN estimates that over six million surviving Syrians have fled to neighbouring countries and overseas nations, including Canada, and that more than seven million refugees are internally displaced. Christians remaining in this war-torn country are vulnerable to attacks from militant Islamic groups like ISIS and must also face the ongoing humanitarian crisis caused by the war and sanctions.
Fayez Youssef, who serves as a pastor and evangelist in the Middle East/North African region, is working to bring practical help and encouragement into Syria. In this latest episode of Closer to the Fire, podcast host Greg Musselman interviews Pastor Fayez of Cairo, Egypt, about the challenges facing followers of Jesus in Syria and other countries of the Middle East. Length: 35 minutes First aired February, 2023
Episode Notes To view the interview with Fayez Youssef https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-sy-uncertain-future.html
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
A mob violently attacked churches in Pakistan on August 16th and set fire to the homes of several believers following allegations of blasphemy against Christian residents. Thousands of militant Muslim men armed with sticks attacked townships in Jaranwala, Punjab, after two local Christians were accused of desecrating the Quran. Podcast host Greg Musselman, Minister-at-Large for The Voice of the Martyrs Canada, provides more details on the violent rampage.
Length: 4:30
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
For more information about the persecution of Christians in Pakistan, go to: https://www.vomcanada.com/pakistan.htm
There are times when it is appropriate for the followers of Jesus to fight for one’s legal rights. The Apostle Paul did so on several occasions, and it could be argued that he defended his legal rights to further the Kingdom of God. Even Jesus defended Himself at one point during His trial – not to protest His suffering, but as a testimony of His innocence.
In this episode of Closer to the Fire, host Greg Musselman is joined by Mervyn Thomas, the founder and president of Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW). Mervyn discusses the importance of advocating for our persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ, as well as defending the freedom of religion for people of all faiths. He also describes the most dangerous places in the world to be a Christian and addresses the challenges he encounters in his work at CSW.
Length 42:30
To view the interview https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-mervyn-thomas-csw.html
Christian Solidarity Worldwide: www.csw.org.uk
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Pakistan's notorious blasphemy laws place Christians at constant risk of being falsely accused of speaking against Islam, the Quran or Mohammed – resulting in harsh punishments when accused believers are convicted and death threats if they aren’t. A quarter of all blasphemy accusations in Pakistan target Christians, who make up only 1.8 percent of the population. The number of blasphemy cases is increasing, as is the number of Christian girls being abducted, abused and forcibly converted to Islam.
Asher John is a human rights journalist based in Pakistan who serves as the founder of the digital media platform, Kross Konnection. For this podcast, he joins Greg Musselman to discuss how the country’s blasphemy laws are being used against vulnerable minorities, including followers of Jesus. Asher also addresses the ongoing persecution of Christian women and girls in Pakistan, emphasizing the vital work of advocates who are trying to bring these vulnerable victims of kidnapping safely home to their families.
Episode Notes
To watch the interview with Asher John
CTTF – https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-pk-constant-risk.html
Kross Konnection: www.krosskonnection.pk
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Sign up to receive VOMC’s Persecution & Prayer Alert reports and monthly magazine: VOMCanada.com/engage.htm#subscribe
Some of the worst acts of persecution committed against followers of Jesus are directed towards those who have converted from another religion. Nadalla Alrajo grew up in a strict Muslim home in Syria but, even as a child, he began to question his Islamic faith. Eventually, Nadalla made the choice to follow Christ – a decision that not only changed his life forever, but also put him at risk of extreme danger.
Forced to flee for his safety, Nadalla left his home country of Syria for Lebanon. However, his father – who was a Muslim leader and a powerful businessman – remained determined to kill his son for leaving Islam. In this episode of Closer to the Fire, Nadalla joins host Greg Musselman to talk about his decision to follow Jesus, the murder of his brother by their militant father, the many attacks he has suffered for his Christian faith, and his unwavering passion to reach Muslims with the Gospel message.
Length: 39 minutes
Episode Notes
To watch the interview with Nadalla www.vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-sy-surviving-attacks.htm
Voice of the Faith Ministries: www.voicefaith.net
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
To sign up to receive VOM Canada’s monthly magazine and/or weekly Persecution & Prayer Alert reports, visit: https://store.vomcanada.org/subscribe
As India’s Hindu population reaches nearly one billion, nationalism within the country is on the rise. Fundamentalist Hindus are calling for the nation to be purged of all non-Hindus, leaving Christians increasingly vulnerable to persecution. Since 2016, the cases of persecution have worsened yearly, and, in 2020, India ranked 10th on the list of countries where it is most dangerous to be a Christian.
Another reason for the escalating number of attacks on Indian followers of Jesus is the growth of Christianity that’s presently taking place within the country. In this episode of Closer to the Fire, Greg Musselman is joined by David Witt, the CEO of Spirit of Martyrdom International, who aspires to shine God’s light into this spiritually dark nation by planting 100,000 churches. David has spent several decades providing support and encouragement to persecuted Christians in more than 50 countries across the globe.
In his recently published book, God’s Global Grace Movement: Hope Rising from An Awakening in India, David teaches how we can all learn to be more effective in advancing God’s Kingdom. In this book, he also shares inspiringly stories of believers who have committed their lives to following Jesus, no matter the cost. To order a copy https://store.vomcanada.org/category/all/books/gods-global-grace-movement
Length: 47 minutes
Show Notes
To Watch the interview with David Witt
www.vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-in-planting-persecution.html
Spirit of Martyrdom International web site
www.spiritofmartyrdom.com
To order David Witt’s book, God’s Global Grace Movement: Hope Rising from an Awakening in India, go to
www.spiritofmartyrdom.com/online-christian-bookstore
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada
www.vomcanada.com
The International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church (Canada)
www.idop.ca
The International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church (US)
www.persecution.com/idop/
Eritrea is considered the North Korea of Africa because of its brutal treatment of evangelical Christians. For more than 20 years, the oppressive regime of this small East African nation has resulted in the imprisonment of numerous Christians, subjecting these faithful followers of Jesus to confinement under inhumane conditions and torture. In addition, many churches across the country have been forcibly closed.
In this episode of Closer to the Fire, host Greg Musselman is joined by Dr. Berhane Asmelash, who serves as the Director of Release Eritrea – an organization dedicated to supporting persecuted Christians in Eritrea. Dr. Asmelash discusses with Greg why the Communist dictatorship has been specifically targeting evangelical Christians throughout the country. They also address their concerns over the imprisonment of two pastors who have been detained for more than 19 years, the recent arrests of 103 young adults, and the various hardships facing Eritrean believers in general.
Despite the extreme dangers encountered by followers of Jesus in Eritrea, Dr. Berhane reports, the evangelical church there is continuing to grow amid persecution.
Length: 42 minutes
Episode Notes
To watrch the entire interview with Dr. Berhane https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-er-nkorea-africa.html
Release Eritrea’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/release.eritrea
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Sign up to receive VOMC’s monthly magazine and Persecution & Prayer Alert reports: https://store.vomcanada.org/subscribe
Does advocacy make a difference when addressing the persecution of not only Christians but all religious minorities around the world? Roshini Wickremesinhe – who serves as the Executive Director of the Religious Liberty Partnership (RLP) – joins Greg Musselman to share about the important work of the RLP, a coalition dedicated to the international collaboration of Christian organizations that focus on religious liberty for all. Members of the RLP intentionally work together when addressing advocacy, conducting research, providing assistance, and raising awareness of religious restrictions worldwide.
Roshini and Greg also discuss the recent violence that erupted in the northeast Indian state of Manipur – an incident that claimed over 50 lives, left more than 50 church buildings destroyed, and resulted in the displacement of tens of thousands of people. The majority of those who were killed during the unrest are believed to have been Christians. During this episode, Roshini also provides an update on the challenges facing followers of Christ in her home country of Sri Lanka.
Length: 35 minutes
Episode Notes
To watch the interview with Roshini Wickremesinhe https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-lk-roshini.html
Religious Liberty Partnership:
www.rlpartnership.org
Sign up to receive VOMC’s Persecution & Prayer Alert reports andmonthly magazine: VOMCanada.com/engage.htm#subscribe
Mara's House is a safe home in Nigeria that assists traumatized young women who are recovering from persecution, terrorism, kidnapping, sexual violence, child marriage and socio-economic deprivation. In addition to safe housing, Mara's House provides medical care, education, vocational training and pastoral care so Christian women can rebuild their lives and create opportunities for their future.
In partnership with Crossroads Cares and The Voice of the Martyrs Canada, Christian Faith Ministries is presently working to complete the construction of this dormitory building. We are pleased to share this update on the incredible progress that’s being made – all thanks to YOUR support!
To donate, call: 1-800-265-3100 or visit: crossroads.ca/nigeria.
Length: 34 minutes
Program Notes:
To watch the Mara’s House Special https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-ng-maras-house2.html
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Crossroads Cares: www.crossroads.ca/nigeria
Pakistan's notorious blasphemy laws place Christians at constant risk of being falsely accused of speaking against Islam, the Quran or Mohammed – resulting in harsh punishments when accused believers are convicted and death threats if they aren’t. A quarter of all blasphemy accusations in Pakistan target Christians, who make up only 1.8 percent of the population. The number of blasphemy cases is increasing, as is the number of Christian girls being abducted, abused and forcibly converted to Islam.
Asher John is a human rights journalist based in Pakistan who serves as the founder of the digital media platform, Kross Konnection. For this podcast, he joins Greg Musselman to discuss how the country’s blasphemy laws are being used against vulnerable minorities, including followers of Jesus. Asher also addresses the ongoing persecution of Christian women and girls in Pakistan, emphasizing the vital work of advocates who are trying to bring these vulnerable victims of kidnapping safely home to their families.
Episode Notes
Kross Konnection: www.krosskonnection.pk
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Sign up to receive VOMC’s Persecution & Prayer Alert reports andmonthly magazine: https://www.vomcanada.com/engage.htm
An increasing number of states in India have implemented anti-conversion laws, supposedly in an effort to stop Hindus from being forcibly converted to other religions. In reality, however, these laws are often used as an excuse to harass, arrest, imprison, and intimidate Christians who distribute aid among their communities or hold private church meetings. Additionally, these laws do not seem to protect Christian converts from being coerced to return to Hinduism.
Often, persecuted followers of Jesus in India do not have the financial means to hire lawyers who can help defend them against false charges. As a result, Ramchand Saranu – a trusted ministry partner of VOMC and long-time Christian leader in central India – founded the Sui Juris Law Firm in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, with the help of Sushil George. In this episode of the Closer to the Firepodcast, Ramchand and Sushil join host Greg Musselman to discuss how they are advocating for believers being targeted for their faith under the country’s oppressive anti-conversion legislation. While sharing about past and current cases of persecution, they also explain how these laws are impacting the church in India.
Length:52 minutes
Episode Notes
To watchwww.vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-in-defending-christians.html
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
The military government in the African nation of Sudan is trying to eliminate all Christian villages, churches, hospitals and schools in an effort to Islamize the country. Although the constitution guarantees religious freedom, Islam remains the de facto state religion, and apostasy is punishable by death under the government's Shariah law. Persecution is especially harsh for followers of Jesus who have come from Muslim backgrounds.
During this episode of Closer to the Fire, Dr. Yassir Eric – a former Muslim who hated Christians while growing up in Sudan – joins host Greg Musselman to share his powerful testimony and discuss the ongoing persecution being faced by believers in Sudan, as well as in the Middle East. In spite of intense opposition, he also explains how and why the Gospel continues to advance in these hostile regions.
Dr. Yassir is a theologian, author, missiologist, and expert on Islam who networks with Muslim-background believers worldwide. He is also the founder of Communio Messianica, an organization of Christian leaders from Muslim backgrounds.
Length: 41 minutes
Episode Notes
To watch the interview with Dr. Yassir Eric The Voice of the Martyrs Canada | Closer to the Fire - The Persecution of Muslim-Background Believers in Sudan and the Middle East: An Interview with Dr. Yassir Eric (vomcanada.com)
Dr Yassir Eric
www.communiomessianica.org
www.edu.awm-korntal.eu/en/person/1276.html
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
One of the relevant questions many Christians in Canada and other countries of the West ask is: “How can followers of Jesus cope with today’s eroding religious freedoms, and the world’s increased hostility to the Gospel, while serving as ‘salt’ and ‘light’?”
Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman talks with author and speaker Paul Estabrooks about his latest book, LIVING LIKE A LAMB AMONG 21st-CENTURY WOLVES: Balancing Grace and Truth. During the interview, they discuss how Christians can engage in a world that has become culturally more antagonistic towards the Bible and those who follow its teachings.
Paul Estabrooks, an author of seven books, has served the persecuted church around the world for more than 40 years.
Length 39 minutes
Episode Notes
To view the interview with Paul Estabrooks www.VOMCanada.com/video/LivingLikeALamb
To order a copy of Living Like a Lamb Among 21st-Century Wolves, visit the ministry’s online store: https://store.vomcanada.org/category/all/books/living-like-a-lamb-among-21st-century-wolves
Paul Estabrooks’ website: www.paulestabrooks.com
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada www.vomcanada.com
In 2022, Christian activities across Russia – including gathering for worship, distributing Bibles and Christian literature, as well as personal evangelism – were investigated by Russian police and punished as crimes by Russian courts of law. Believers were forced to pay fines and, in most cases, those who challenged the court’s decisions lost their appeals. This trend of mounting opposition against the country’s Christian population is being closely monitored by The Voice of the Martyrs Korea.
Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman is joined by Dr. Eric Foley, who serves as the CEO and Co-Founder of VOM Korea, to discuss the heightened persecution of evangelical Christians in Russia. Dr. Foley offers insight into how the invasion of Ukraine is affecting Russian believers and addresses how the church is navigating increased challenges amid the ongoing war. Additionally, he provides an update on the growing underground church in North Korea.
Length: 52 minutes
Episode Notes To watch the interivew with Dr. Foley The Voice of the Martyrs Canada | Closer to the Fire - Russia: Evangelical Believers 'Fined for Faithfulness (vomcanada.com)The Voice of the Martyrs Korea: www.vomkorea.comRead VOMC’s latest Persecution & Prayer Alert report on Russia: https://www.vomcanada.com/ru-2023-02-02.htmThe Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
The persecution of Christians is reportedly intensifying in the Southeast Asian nation of Laos. During this episode, Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman speaks with Patrick Klein of Vision Beyond Borders, a trusted ministry partner of VOM Canada. Patrick shares about his recent trip to the Communist country and addresses several cases of harassment and opposition against Laotian followers of Jesus – including one incident in which believers were driven from their village in the province of Luang Prabang for refusing to renounce their faith.
During the interview, Patrick also reports of a fatal attack that took place last November, involving a pastor who was murdered for his ministry work. He adds that persecution is even being perpetrated by members of the government-controlled church. Yet, in spite of the many challenges facing our Christian brothers and sisters in Laos, the church continues to grow.
Length: 35:30
Episode Notes
To watch the interview with Patrick Klein: https://www.vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-la-persecution-rise.html
Vision Beyond Borders: www.visionbeyondborders.org
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
The Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, recently described the war in Syria as a humanitarian nightmare for the long-suffering Syrian people and urgently called for a solution to the conflict. While the true number of lives lost may never be known, hundreds of thousands of Syrians have died since 2011.
The UN estimates that over six million surviving Syrians have fled to neighbouring countries and overseas nations, including Canada, and that more than seven million refugees are internally displaced. Christians remaining in this war-torn country are vulnerable to attacks from militant Islamic groups like ISIS and must also face the ongoing humanitarian crisis caused by the war and sanctions.
Fayez Youssef, who serves as a pastor and evangelist in the Middle East/North African region, is working to bring practical help and encouragement into Syria. In this latest episode of Closer to the Fire, podcast host Greg Musselman interviews Pastor Fayez of Cairo, Egypt, about the challenges facing followers of Jesus in Syria and other countries of the Middle East.
Length: 35 minutes
Episode Notes
To view the interview with Fayez Youssefhttps://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-sy-uncertain-future.html
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
The Islamic nation of Iran has seen widespread protests against the authoritarian regime after the arrest of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who died in custody last September at the hands of the country’s morality police over forced hijab rules.
In Iran, it is also illegal to leave Islam. Known followers of Christ are often imprisoned, tortured, evicted from rented homes, and routinely fired from their jobs. For those who have escaped from Iran – especially Christians from Muslim backgrounds – their lives are often in danger until they are able to resettle in a country that allows them religious freedom.
Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman is joined in this episode by Afshin Javid of Cyrus Call, a ministry that seeks to provide practical assistance to Iranian believers who are being persecuted for their Christian faith. Afshin, who grew up committed to Islam before having a dramatic encounter with Jesus, shares how Iranian Christians in Turkey are being threatened with deportation back to Iran, where they could be imprisoned, tortured or even killed. He also explains why, in the midst of so much opposition, Iran has one of the fastest growing church movements in the world.
Length: 55 minutes
Episode Notes
To watch the interview with Afshin Javid www.vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-ir-christians-under-threat.html
To contact Afshin: Ajavid72@gmail.com
To view Afshin’s testimony, visit: www.youtube.com/watch?v=JxEzdto-8OI
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
During this first episode of 2023, the Closer to the Fire podcast highlights three countries of growing concern where the persecution of Christians is expected to rise this year. These countries are Nigeria, India and China. Host Greg Musselman speaks with Andrew Boyd of Release International, a UK-based mission which recently published its annual Persecution Trends Report. Greg and Andrew discuss the concerning trends described in the report, which are based on findings from international ministry partners serving in the world’s most dangerous persecution hot spots.
Length: 62 minutes
Show Notes
To watch the interview with Andrew BoydThe Voice of the Martyrs Canada | Closer to the Fire - Persecution Trends Report for 2023: Nigeria, China and India (vomcanada.com)
Persecution Trends Report for 2023: https://releaseinternational.org/persecution-trends-2023-focus-on-nigeria-india-china/
Release International: www.releaseinternational.org
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Representatives from 21 countries are calling on India’s governing officials to improve their protection of religious freedoms for vulnerable minority groups, including Christians. Human rights advocates are condemning the increase in violence, hate speech and anti-conversion laws throughout the country.
During this episode of Closer to the Fire, host Greg Musselman is joined by Rev. Nitin Sardar, who presently serves as the Director of Dinabandhu Ministries in central India. Rev. Sardar addresses the intensifying attacks on Indian followers of Jesus and discusses recent video footage showing violence against believers in Chhattisgarh State. In the midst of these growing dangers, together with the anti-conversion laws being used to target non-Hindus across the country, Rev. Sardar explains how it is becoming increasingly difficult for Christians to share the Gospel and carry out humanitarian work.
Length: 42 minutes
Show Notes
To view the interview with Rev. Sadar www.vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-in-anti-conversion.html
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
There are over 6,000 people groups in today’s world that consist of a total population representing Christianity by less than two percent. When it comes to hearing the Gospel, approximately 60 percent of these groups is considered “unreached,” for the people live in countries where it’s extremely difficult for evangelical missionaries to enter. Followers of Jesus within these regions are often persecuted for their faith and, as a result, feel isolated from others in their communities.
Thankfully, the message of God’s love – together with the encouragement of fellow Christians – is now being provided to isolated believers and those in need of salvation through radio broadcasts and the provision of audio Bibles.
Tim Whitehead, who serves as the Executive Director of Galcom Canada, joins Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman to talk about the importance of bringing the Gospel into restricted and dangerous places through radio broadcasts, and why The Voice of the Martyrs Canada is one of Galcom’s key ministry partners.
Length: 34 minutes
Show Notes
To view this interview
https://vomcanada.com/fromvomc/video/vomc-tim-whitehead.html
Galcom International – Canada: www.galcom.org
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Northern Nigeria is one of the most dangerous places on earth to be a follower of Jesus. According to Open Doors, more than 4,600 Nigerian Christians were killed for their faith in 2021, and those are only the cases that were reported.
Militant Islamic groups are determined to eliminate Christianity from the country. These groups often target Christian women, using kidnapping, forced marriage and conversion to Islam as a means of demoralizing believers.
In this edition of the Closer to the Fire podcast, host Greg Musselman will introduce you to four young Christian women who are receiving greatly needed counselling and ministerial care so they can overcome the traumatic attacks of Islamic militants and experience renewed hope for the future.
Greg also shares how you can be a part of their healing journey by supporting Mara’s House, a trauma centre for Nigerian women and girls. Additionally, he examines the reasons behind the horrific levels of violence perpetrated against followers of Jesus in Africa’s most populous nation and what we can do to help many of these innocent victims.
Length: 20 Minutes
Show Notes
To find out more about how you can help, go to: www.crossroads.ca/nigeria.
To view the Mara’s House Special on 100 Huntley Street, go to:
http://www.100huntley.com/watch?videoID=339305
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada www.vomcanada.com
When Christians in Pakistan are falsely accused of speaking against Islam, Muhammad or the Quran, they risk being charged under the country’s infamous blasphemy laws, which carry harsh punishments – ranging from hefty fines to the death penalty. Even if not convicted, Christians accused of blasphemy remain vulnerable to mob violence.
Other believers are tortured or killed for their faith in Christ – especially if they are involved in Christian activities or if they have left Islam to follow Jesus. Christian girls and young women are at risk of being kidnapped, forcibly converted to Islam and, in many cases, married to much older men. Because of these dangers, Pakistan is listed eighth on the World Watch List, Open Doors’ annual ranking of countries where it is most difficult to follow Jesus.
In the latest episode of Closer to the Fire, host Greg Musselman is joined by Pastor Peter Paul to discuss the current state of Christian persecution in Pakistan and the many challenges facing believers in his native country. Pastor Peter presently leads a church in southern Ontario, as well as the Christian television channel, Living Hope TV. He also partners with The Voice of the Martyrs Canada to provide help and hope to persecuted Christians in Pakistan.
Length: 48 minutes
Show Notes
To view this interview with Peter Paul : https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-pk-constant-threat.html
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
An Interview with Richard and Sabina Wurmbrand: The Founders of The Voice of the Martyrs (International)
Andrew van der Bijl, better known as Brother Andrew, was a Dutch missionary who became famous for smuggling Bibles into Communist countries at the height of the Cold War. He expanded his ministry to persecuted Christians by founding the global organization now known as Open Doors. For his courageous missionary activities, he earned the nickname "God's Smuggler." Brother Andrew passed away on September 27th at the age of 94. Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman talks to Brother Andrew’s longtime friend and colleague, Paul Estabrooks, about the life and legacy of this incredible man. Paul, who served Open Doors International for many years before founding Open Doors Canada, is also an accomplished author and speaker.
Length: 35 minutes
Show Notes
To view this interview www.vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-brother-andrew.html Paul Estabrooks’ website: www.paulestabrooks.com Open Doors Canada: www.opendoorscanada.org The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
There are times when it is appropriate for the followers of Jesus to fight for one’s legal rights. The Apostle Paul did so on several occasions, and it could be argued that he defended his legal rights to further the Kingdom of God. Even Jesus defended Himself at one point during His trial – not to protest His suffering, but as a testimony of His innocence.
In this episode of Closer to the Fire, host Greg Musselman is joined by Mervyn Thomas, the founder and president of Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW). Mervyn discusses the importance of advocating for our persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ, as well as defending the freedom of religion for people of all faiths. He also describes the most dangerous places in the world to be a Christian and addresses the challenges he encounters in his work at CSW.
Length 42:30
To view the interview https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-mervyn-thomas-csw.html
Christian Solidarity Worldwide: www.csw.org.uk
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Recent raids on house churches in China have raised concerns, for these incidents could signify a shift in governmental policy. It's estimated that about 80 percent of the persecution presently taking place in China is being directed towards unauthorized house churches. Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman is joined by Dr. Bob Fu, the president of ChinaAid, to find out why this shift is taking place.
During this episode, Dr. Fu also discusses the Chinese Communist Party’s increasing crackdown on religious freedom in Hong Kong and explains how the church is being affected. Additionally, Dr. Fu considers what might happen to believers in Taiwan if China takes over the neighbouring island, and highlights the importance of advocacy and legal defence for Christians in China and around the world.
Length: 25 minutes
Show Notes
To watch the interview The Voice of the Martyrs Canada | Closer to the Fire - China: House Church Raids Rising! (vomcanada.com)
ChinaAid: www.chinaaid.org
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
As India’s Hindu population reaches nearly one billion, nationalism within the country is on the rise. Fundamentalist Hindus are calling for the nation to be purged of all non-Hindus, leaving Christians increasingly vulnerable to persecution. Since 2016, the cases of persecution have worsened yearly and, in 2020, India ranked 10th on the list of countries where it is most dangerous to be a Christian.
Another reason for the escalating number of attacks on Indian followers of Jesus is the growth of Christianity that’s presently taking place within the country. In this episode of Closer to the Fire, Greg Musselman is joined by David Witt, the CEO of Spirit of Martyrdom International, who aspires to shine God’s light into this spiritually dark nation by planting 100,000 churches. David has spent several decades providing support and encouragement to persecuted Christians in more than 50 countries across the globe.
In his recently published book, God’s Global Grace Movement: Hope Rising from An Awakening in India, David teaches how we can all learn to be more effective in advancing God’s Kingdom. In this book, he also shares inspiringly stories of believers who have committed their lives to following Jesus, no matter the cost. To order a copy https://store.vomcanada.org/category/all/books/gods-global-grace-movement
Length: 47 minutes
A year after the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan, the promise of a less militant version of the Islamic group has not materialized. This has been the case in spite of promises made to the international community, a source the country relies on for billions of dollars in funding. Life for women, girls, and citizens who are seen as unsupportive of the Taliban’s brand of Islam – including Christians – is difficult and dangerous.
Shoaib Ebadi is the President and Executive Director of Square One World Media, a Winnipeg-based ministry focussed on producing Christ-centred radio, TV and online programming. In the latest episode of Closer to the Fire, he shares an update on the situation experienced by followers of Jesus in Afghanistan and the many challenges they are presently facing. Mr. Ebadi is an Afghan Canadian from a Muslim background who hosts and produces Christian programming that is reaching into Afghanistan. Tune in as he speaks to VOMC’s Greg Musselman about the simultaneous heartbreak and hope of Christians in this troubled nation.
Show Notes
Length: 32 minutes
To view this interview The Voice of the Martyrs Canada | Closer to the Fire - Afghanistan: How Are Christians Surviving Taliban Rule? (vomcanada.com)
Square One World Media: www.squareoneworldmedia.com
Hope 4 Afghans: www.hope4afghans.com
Afghan Bibles: www.afghanbibles.org
To learn how your church or group can sponsor a Christian family from Afghanistan, email: arley@pamteam.org
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Note: For security reasons, the identities of this episode’s podcast
guests, and their present residing country, cannot be disclosed.
For two years, “Pastor Amir” was brutally tortured while imprisoned in the Middle East. According to his daughter “Sarah,” the former Muslim was arrested for his Christian activities (including distributions of food and Bibles, as well as sharing the Gospel message. He was falsely accused of spying for a neighbouring country.
Following his release, “Pastor Amir” and his family were ordered to immediately leave their home country with no prospect of returning.
“Sarah” candidly speaks with Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman about the hardships endured by her family. Forced to live temporarily in another country since 2013, they hope to soon obtain safe refuge in Canada.
Greg is also joined by Jennifer Miedema, the Executive Director of Remember Ministries, who is helping this persevering Christian family make Canada their new home.
Length: 52 minutes
Show Notes
To view this interview The Voice of the Martyrs Canada | Closer to the Fire - The Middle East: Pastor Tortured, Jailed and Exiled (vomcanada.com)
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada www.vomcanada.com
Remember Ministries www.rememberministries.com
Note: For security reasons, the identities of this episode’s podcast
guests, and their present residing country, cannot be disclosed.
For two years, “Pastor Amir” was brutally tortured while imprisoned in the Middle East. According to his daughter “Sarah,” the former Muslim was arrested for his Christian activities (including distributions of food and Bibles, as well as sharing the Gospel message. He was falsely accused of spying for a neighbouring country.
Following his release, “Pastor Amir” and his family were ordered to immediately leave their home country with no prospect of returning.
“Sarah” candidly speaks with Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman about the hardships endured by her family. Forced to live temporarily in another country since 2013, they hope to soon obtain safe refuge in Canada.
Greg is also joined by Jennifer Miedema, the Executive Director of Remember Ministries, who is helping this persevering Christian family make Canada their new home.
Length: 52 minutes
Show Notes
To view this interview The Voice of the Martyrs Canada | Closer to the Fire - The Middle East: Pastor Tortured, Jailed and Exiled (vomcanada.com)
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada www.vomcanada.com
Remember Ministries www.rememberministries.com
Afghanistan: How Are Christians Surviving Taliban Rule?
A year after the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan, the promise of a less militant version of the Islamic group has not materialized. This has been the case in spite of promises made to the international community, a source the country relies on for billions of dollars in funding. Life for women, girls, and citizens who are seen as unsupportive of the Taliban’s brand of Islam – including Christians – is difficult and dangerous. Shoaib Ebadi is the President and Executive Director of Square One World Media, a Winnipeg-based ministry focussed on producing Christ-centred radio, TV and online programming. In the latest episode of Closer to the Fire, he shares an update on the situation experienced by followers of Jesus in Afghanistan and the many challenges they are presently facing. Mr. Ebadi is an Afghan Canadian from a Muslim background who hosts and produces Christian programming that is reaching into Afghanistan. Tune in as he speaks to VOMC’s Greg Musselman about the simultaneous heartbreak and hope of Christians in this troubled nation.
Show Notes Length: 32 minutes
To view this interview The Voice of the Martyrs Canada | Closer to the Fire - Afghanistan: How Are Christians Surviving Taliban Rule? (vomcanada.com) Square One World Media: www.squareoneworldmedia.com Hope 4 Afghans: www.hope4afghans.com Afghan Bibles: www.afghanbibles.org To learn how your church or group can sponsor a Christian family from Afghanistan, email: arley@pamteam.org The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Based on stats of the previous year, human rights experts are predicting a record-setting year of violence against Nigeria’s Christians for 2022. The Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project recorded a total of 31 attacks on Nigerian churches and Christians throughout 2021. Yet, so far, about halfway through 2022, there have already been more than 23 separate attacks on believers.
The deadly raid on a church in southwestern Nigeria on Pentecost Sunday (see https://www.mnnonline.org/news/sunday-shooting-shocks-believers-in-southwest-nigeria/ for details), as well as last month’s kidnapping of Samuel Kanu, the head of Nigeria’s Methodist Church, are two incidents that recently captured the world’s attention. Sadly, events like these are all too common.
In this episode of Closer to the Fire, host Greg Musselman discusses concerns over the increasing levels of violence against Christians in Nigeria with Emmanuel Ogebe. Mr. Ogebe, an international human rights lawyer specializing in African issues, currently serves as the Special Counsel of the Justice for Jos Project based in Washington, D.C.
Length: 42 minutes
Show Notes
To view this interview The Voice of the Martyrs Canada | Closer to the Fire - Nigeria: Record-Setting Pace of Violence Against Christians (vomcanada.com)
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Jubilee Campaign: www.jubileecampaign.org
View the Justice for Jos Project on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JusticeForJosProjectNigeria/
For the past 25 years, Ray Thorne has devoted his life to encouraging and helping persecuted believers around the world. Ray joins Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman to share his experiences in South Sudan, Pakistan and Afghanistan, as well as the invaluable lessons he has learned from those who have paid the price for their faith in Jesus. Ray also recounts his first trip with The Voice of the Martyrs USA and how it almost became his last. For the past eight years, Ray and his wife Denice have faithfully partnered with VOM Canada while serving in the Middle East. Length: 48 minutes Show Notes To view this interview with Ray Thorne https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-mideast-serving-church.html The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com To subscribe to the Persecution & Prayer Alert and receive weekly updates on Christian persecution, visit: https://store.vomcanada.org/subscribe
Radical Hindu nationalists believe that all Indians should be Hindus and, therefore, the country should be rid of any other religions – including Christianity. They use extensive violence to achieve this goal, particularly targeting Christians who come from a Hindu background.
In this episode of the Closer to the Fire podcast, host Greg Musselman reports on three recent acts of persecution against followers of Jesus in India, as well as an assault on a young believer that resulted in tragedy. The 16-year-old victim, Nitish Kumar from Bihar state, died on September 26th after being attacked with acid in late August.
Greg and his guest, Christian leader Nitin Sardar of Dinbandhu Ministries in Central India, also discuss the assault of three other Christians, including one pastor, at a police station in Raipur, the capital of India’s Chhattisgarh state. In addition to describing how the country’s anti-conversion laws are being used to exploit Christians, Nitin further explains what is behind the alarming increase of persecution.
Length: 41 minutes
To view this interview https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-in-eliminate-christianity.html
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada www.vomcanada.com
To subscribe to the Persecution & Prayer Alert or the ministry’s monthly magazine, visit: The Voice of the Martyrs Canada | The Voice of the Martyrs Canada - TakeAction (vomcanada.com)
Followers of Jesus in Nigeria are constantly vulnerable to deadly attacks from militant Muslims. According to international human rights lawyer Emmanuel Ogebe, the ongoing violence can be described as a “genocide” of Christians.
Mr. Ogebe presently lives in Washington, D.C., where he serves as Special Counsel of the Justice for Jos Project. He speaks with Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman about the relentless persecution of Christians in Nigeria, sharing stories of not only suffering but also the overcoming faith and perseverance demonstrated by believers in Africa’s most populous nation.
Show Notes
Length 45:30
To view the interview with Emmanuel Ogebe www.vomcanada.com/ng-videos/video/ng-deadliest-country.html
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Jubilee Campaign: www.jubileecampaign.org
Facebook Link for Justice for Jos https://www.facebook.com/JusticeForJosProjectNigeria/
Facebook Link for “I Am Leah” (Leah Sharibu) www.facebook.com/groups/1560987890666262
While Armenia is considered the world’s oldest Christian nation, its very existence is being threatened by the neighbouring country of Azerbaijan. Churches in Armenia continue to be desecrated by the Azeri military, and now the country has been given an ultimatum: If they refuse to surrender its southern border with Iran, there will be war.
In this episode of Closer to the Fire, host Greg Musselman is joined by Dr. Haig Kherlopian, the lead pastor of the Armenian Evangelical Church of New York. Dr. Kherlopian has studied the ancient Christian heritage of Armenia to better understand the country’s current situation, as well as the 1,700 years of persecution against Armenian followers of Jesus.
Length: 19 minutes
Show Notes Interview courtesy of 100 Huntley Street. To view the interview The Voice of the Martyrs Canada | Closer to the Fire - Armenia: Centuries of Christian Persecution (vomcanada.com)
Dr. Kherlopian’s website: www.armenianpastor.com
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
In mid-March, 29 evangelical Christians were arrested when Eritrean security forces raided a home prayer meeting in Asmara. According to reports, 17 women and 12 men were taken to the Mai Serwa prison camp on the outskirts of the capital city. It is unknown what led to this attack. Since worship outside of government-recognized churches is illegal, most gatherings take place in private homes. However, each residential area is known to have government spies who report "unusual activities" to the authorities. The believers have not been formally charged and it is unknown at this point if they will be. Over the years, Christians in Eritrea have been held indefinitely without charges, sometimes for weeks. There are also numerous cases in which people have been held for several years without charge. Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman is joined by Dr. Berhane Asmelash to discuss the current arrests and the ongoing persecution of Eritrean followers of Jesus. Dr. Asmelash currently serves as the Director of Release Eritrea, an organization dedicated to supporting persecuted Christians in this East African nation. Length: 41 minutes To watch the interview with Dr. Berhane Asmelash www.vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-er-more-arrests.html The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
The northern Nigerian state of Kaduna has again experienced multiple attacks on predominantly Christian villages. Due to the nature of these recent attacks, the exact number of victims is not yet clear, but survivors estimate that over 80 villagers were killed and approximately 150 others kidnapped. Greg Musselman, who serves as the Minister-at-Large for The Voice of the Martyrs Canada, provides more details on this latest wave of attacks. He also consults a prominent Christian leader in the country to discuss why the government is not doing more to stop the ongoing violence against Nigerian followers of Jesus.
Length 5:30
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
On Easter Sunday, 2019, in Sri Lanka’s largest city and commercial capital of Colombo, Christians had gathered to remember the resurrection of Jesus Christ. That April morning, three churches, along with three luxury hotels, were targeted in a series of coordinated attacks by suicide bombers. A total of 269 people were killed and at least 500 others were injured. Among the organizations that helped in the aftermath was the National Christian Evangelical Alliance of Sri Lanka (NCEASL), a valued ministry partner of The Voice of the Martyrs Canada.
As we approach the third anniversary of those horrific attacks, Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman speaks with Yamini Ravindran, the Director of Legal and Advocacy for the NCEASL, about VOM Canada’s support of our Sri Lankan brothers and sisters in Christ. Yamini also provides an update on the situation of persecution currently facing Christians in this South Asian island nation.
Show Notes
Length 45 minutes
Persecution and Prayer Alert https://store.vomcanada.org/subscribe
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
The National Christian Evangelical Alliance of Sri Lanka: www.nceasl.org
With the eyes of the world focussed on the invasion of Ukraine by the Russian military, many are asking us how The Voice of the Martyrs Canada is responding to the mounting humanitarian crisis. Floyd Brobbel, Chief Executive Officer for VOM Canada, joins Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman to address this question and discuss why the mission needs to stay focussed on the persecuted church. Floyd also provides an update on how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the ministry.
Length 40:00
Show Notes
To watch the interview www.vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-ua-vomc-response.html
If you would like to contribute towards this project through VOMC’s Bible Fund, please go to www.vomcanada.com/give/bible-fund or call us toll-free here in Canada at 1-888-29-VOICE (298-6423).
To learn how you can partner with Mission Eurasia, please contact: om or 1-833-387-2727.
To help with the humanitarian needs in Ukraine through VOM Canada’s ministry partner, Crossroads Cares, visit: www.crossroads.ca/ukraine
Nigerian teenager Leah Sharibu was kidnapped by Islamic militants in 2018 and held captive for refusing to deny her faith in Jesus, while Malaysian pastor Raymond Koh was abducted in broad daylight by a suspected division of the state police in 2017 because of his ministry activities. Pastor Koh’s capture was caught on surveillance cameras. The anniversary dates of both abductions were recently remembered by The Voice of the Martyrs Canada. Length: 6:30 The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
After two decades of topping the World Watch List by Open Doors, North Korea has been overtaken by Afghanistan as “the most difficult and dangerous country to be a follower of Jesus.” While the challenges of persecution have not abated for Christians in North Korea, the situation has increasingly worsened for believers in Afghanistan since the takeover of the militant Islamic group, the Taliban, last August.
In this episode of Closer to the Fire, host Greg Musselman speaks with Afghan pastor, Obed Rod, about the perilous situation presently facing Christians in Afghanistan. Pastor Obed, who grew up in a devoted Muslim home, says that although things are even more dangerous for Christians in his home country, he remains hopeful, as many more fellow Afghans are coming to faith in Christ.
Pastor Obed also shares about his spiritual journey, which led to a personal discovery of the Lord, and describes the persecution he encountered as a result while living in Afghanistan and India. He further shares about the challenges he now faces as the leader of an Afghan church in Canada.
Length: 1 Hour 23 Minutes
Show Notes
To watch the interview: The Voice of the Martyrs Canada | Closer to the Fire - Afghanistan: The World’s Most Dangerous Country for Christians (vomcanada.com)
The Jesus Network: www.jesusnetwork.ca
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Christian women and girls are among those who are being aggressively targeted to convert to Hinduism. In the latest development, an anti-conversion bill has been passed in Jharkhand and made law in a location that is considered a tribal Christian belt in India. Without support and guidance, many new Christian women are now going back to their original religion.
Closer to the Fire podcast host Greg Musselman talks with “Kiara" (her real name was changed for security reasons). Kiara leads a local NGO in India that works with Christians facing significant restrictions, particularly women who are suffering harassment and violence as a result of being identified as a follower of Christ. “She also is a ministry partner of The Voice of the Martyrs Canada.
Length 43 Minutes www.vomcanada.com
Pastor Saeed Pakniat grew up in a religious Muslim home in Iran. As a young man, he started to question some of the customs and beliefs of his religion. This gradually led him to explore the life and teachings of Jesus. After receiving Christ as his Saviour, Pastor Saeed was tortured and eventually forced to flee with his family to Turkey and, later, to Canada. In addition to leading three Iranian churches in the cities of Toronto and Montreal, he also produces an online ministry that’s reaching Iranians in many countries around the world with the Gospel message. On this episode we will also look at what the Bible teaches about how to respond to persecution.
Length: 22 minutes
Show Notes To watch the interview with Saeed Pakniat 100 Huntley Street: Reaching Others After Persecution / SAEED PAKNIAT Iran Alive Ministries www.iranaliveministries.org The Voice of the Martyrs Canada www.vomcanada.com
Note: For security reasons, the identities of this episode’s podcast guests, and their present residing country, cannot be disclosed.
For two years, “Pastor Amir” was brutally tortured while imprisoned in the Middle East. According to his daughter “Sarah,” the former Muslim was arrested for his Christian activities (including distributions of food and Bibles, as well as sharing the Gospel message. He was falsely accused of spying for a neighbouring country. Following his release, “Pastor Amir” and his family were ordered to immediately leave their home country with no prospect of returning. “Sarah” candidly speaks with Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman about the hardships endured by her family. Forced to live temporarily in another country since 2013, they hope to soon obtain safe refuge in Canada. Greg is also joined by Jennifer Miedema, the Executive Director of Remember Ministries, who is helping this persevering Christian family make Canada their new home.
Length: 52 minutes
Show Notes
To view this interview The Voice of the Martyrs Canada | Closer to the Fire - The Middle East: Pastor Tortured, Jailed and Exiled (vomcanada.com) The Voice of the Martyrs Canada www.vomcanada.com Remember Ministries www.rememberministries.com
A judge at the Rawalpindi District Court in Pakistan has changed Pastor Zafar Bhatti’s sentence of life imprisonment to the death penalty. Pastor Zafar has been imprisoned on charges of blasphemy since July 2012, even though he strongly denies these charges. Greg Musselman, Minister-at-Large for The Voice of the Martyrs Canada, provides more details on this latest setback in Pastor Zafar’s case.
Length: 3:00
To learn more about the ordeal facing this Pakistani pastor, go to: https://www.vomcanada.com/zafar-bhatti.htm
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada www.vomcanada.com
According to Release International, a fellow VOM organization that also supports persecuted Christians around the world, trends indicate that Nigeria and the Sahel region of sub-Saharan Africa are expected to become hot spots for violence against followers of Jesus this year. Other countries of growing concern include Afghanistan, India and North Korea. Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman speaks with Release International spokesman Andrew Boyd about the ministry’s recently published Persecution Trends Report and how we can help those who are suffering for their faith in Christ.
Length: 39 minutes
For Afghan followers of Jesus, persecution was a reality even before the Taliban returned to power. Radical Islam and violent political activity make the nation a dangerous place for Christians to live. To convert from Islam to Christianity can result in harsh consequences, even martyrdom, and yet thousands have decided to follow Christ.
In this episode of the Closer to the Fire podcast, host Greg Musselman and the CEO of The Voice of the Martyrs Canada, Floyd Brobbel, are joined by John Weaver, a longtime humanitarian relief worker in Afghanistan. This dedicated Christian worker, who has lived in the Central Asian country with his wife and children for more than 20 years, discusses the current heartbreaking situation and explains what we can do to help our persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ.
Length: 35 minutes
According to Open Doors, Christians in Bangladesh face the greatest pressure within their general communities and private lives. Although Bangladeshi society has traditionally been open to Christianity, the nation is growing increasingly Islamic, with the government doing more to appease concerns from Muslim extremists. Islamic militants in the country pressure all groups of Christians. However, evangelical churches that work among the Muslim majority endure the most persecution. Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman is joined by “Robert” (name changed due to security concerns), a Christian ministry worker based in Canada who is providing support to Bangladeshi followers of Jesus and bringing help and hope to the Rohingya people – an ethnic group driven into Bangladesh from Myanmar (also known as Burma). Robert is a trusted ministry partner of The Voice of the Martyrs Canada.
Length: 30 minutes Show Notes To watch the interview The Voice of the Martyrs Canada | Closer to the Fire - Bangladesh: Christians Face Pressure Within Their Muslim-Majority Communities (vomcanada.com) To learn more about life for Christians in Bangladesh, visit: https://www.vomcanada.com/bangladesh.htm The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
Over the past several years, the Chinese Communist Party has increased its repressive crackdown on the Chinese church. From destructive church raids to the imprisonment of pastors, there are almost daily reports of police action against believers in China. Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman is joined by Dr. Bob Fu, the founder and president of ChinaAid – an international Christian human rights organization that’s committed to promoting religious freedom in China. ChinaAid also financially supports persecuted Chinese Christians and their families. In this informative interview, Dr. Fu explains why the Chinese government has stepped up its attacks on the followers of Jesus. In addition, he provides updates on the latest incidents of persecution in the country and shares of his own personal experiences – including an ordeal that forced him and his family into hiding due to protests outside of his home. Dr. Fu believes those protests and threats were orchestrated by the government in Beijing. Length: 40 minutes Show Notes To watch the interview with Dr. Bob Fu https://vomcanada.com/cn-videos.html?slg=cn-christians-exile ChinaAid www.chinaaid.org To order a copy of the book God’s Double Agent by Dr. Bob Fu: https://store.vomcanada.org/purchase/gods-double-agent Country Profile on China https://vomcanada.com/china.htm The Voice of the Martyrs Canada www.vomcanada.com
As there are no church buildings in this Muslim-majority nation where it's extremely dangerous to be a Christian, the total number of secret believers remains unknown. Because Islam is a critical part of Somalia’s national identity, Christian converts are likely to be harassed, intimidated, injured, or possibly even killed, by militant members of their family or community. If discovered, followers of Jesus are also at risk of attack by those in allegiance to the al-Shabab terrorist group. Yet, in spite of all these dangers, there are more Somali believers today than ever before. In this episode of Closer to the Fire, host Greg Musselman is joined by “Jacob,” a Somali Christian leader who is working to equip and train Christians living both inside and outside of this East African nation. Due to security concerns, the identity of this faithful VOMC ministry partner has been concealed for the podcast interview.
Length: 41:00 To view this interview, go to The Voice of the Martyrs Canada | Somalia - Somalia: The Extreme Dangers of Following Jesus (vomcanada.com) The Voice of the Martyrs Canada www.vomcanada.com To learn more about the persecution of Christians in Somalia, visit https://www.vomcanada.com/somalia.htm
Following a recent military coup in Sudan, international human rights organizations are warning of a new threat to the religious freedom of Christians in this northeast African nation. Under the previous military government, it not only became illegal to convert to Christianity, but some churches were forcibly closed, demolished and even burned down. Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman speaks with Petr Jasek, the Global Ambassador for The Voice of the Martyrs international, about the current situation facing Christians in Sudan. After being arrested by Sudanese authorities in 2017, Petr spent 445 days in prison for working on a mission to help the underground church. Petr writes about his harrowing ordeal in the book, Imprisoned with ISIS: Faith in the Face of Evil.
Length: 39 minutes
Show Notes
To view the interview with Petr Jasek The Voice of the Martyrs Canada | Sudan - Sudan: New Threat to Religious Freedom After Coup (vomcanada.com) The Voice of the Martyrs Canada: www.vomcanada.com
You can purchase your copy of Imprisoned with ISIS: Faith in the Face of Evil here: https://store.vomcanada.org/purchase/imprisoned-with-isis-faith-in-the-face-of-evil
Radical Hindu nationalists believe that all Indians should be Hindus and, therefore, the country should be rid of any other religions – including Christianity. They use extensive violence to achieve this goal, particularly targeting Christians who come from a Hindu background. In this episode of the Closer to the Fire podcast, host Greg Musselman reports on three recent acts of persecution against followers of Jesus in India, as well as an assault on a young believer that resulted in tragedy. The 16-year-old victim, Nitish Kumar from Bihar state, died on September 26th after being attacked with acid in late August. Greg and his guest, Christian leader Nitin Sardar of Dinbandhu Ministries in Central India, also discuss the assault of three other Christians, including one pastor, at a police station in Raipur, the capital of India’s Chhattisgarh state. In addition to describing how the country’s anti-conversion laws are being used to exploit Christians, Nitin further explains what is behind the alarming increase of persecution.
Being a Christian in northern Nigeria can be very dangerous, especially for well-known and high-profile Christian leaders like Pastor Yunusa Nmadu. Pastor Yunusa, who is the head of Christian Solidarity Worldwide Nigeria, also serves as the General Secretary of Evangelical Church Winning All. This dedicated husband and father of two young boys explains to Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman why he chooses to remain in Nigeria, where the killing and kidnapping of Christians is an almost daily occurrence. Pastor Yunusa, who comes from a Muslim background, also shares his personal journey to faith in Jesus.
Length: 41 minutes
Show Notes Pastor Yunusa Nmadu discusses the rise of persecution against Christians in Nigeria www.vomcanada.com/video/nmadu-ecwa The Voice of the Martyrs Canada www.vomcanada.com
More than 3,400 followers of Jesus were killed in Nigeria within the first 200 days of 2021. This equates to an average loss of 17 believers each day in Africa’s most populous nation. Attacks against Christians have not abated since, leaving members of the church in Nigeria – especially those residing in the northern part of the country – vulnerable to violence, kidnappings, and forced displacement from their homes and communities. Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman speaks with Pastor Yunusa Nmadu, the CEO of Christian Solidarity Worldwide Nigeria and General Secretary of Evangelical Church Winning All, about this situation of concern regarding our Nigerian brothers and sisters in Christ. Pastor Yunusa encourages us by reporting that, even in the midst of this extreme persecution, God is expanding His Kingdom in Nigeria.
Length: 31 minutes Show Notes
To view the full interview with Yunusa Nmadu www.vomcanada.com/ng-videos/video/ng-never-end.html
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada www.vomcanada.com
Keith Getty is a Northern Irish singer/songwriter of modern hymns. Together with his wife Krystin, he’s using his music as a platform to draw attention to those suffering persecution for their faith in Jesus. Closer to the Fire host Greg Musselman speaks with Keith about the upcoming theatrical release of the movie, Sabina: Tortured for Christ, The Nazi Years.
Sabina Wurmbrand co-founded The Voice of the Martyrs international with her husband Richard. The founding couple lived exemplary Christian lives despite suffering at the hands of Nazis and Communists in their homeland of Romania. The film, which premieres in November, will feature the Gettys’ music on the soundtrack. Greg also shares an update on a Nigerian pastor who was recently killed for his faith, providing you with an opportunity to join him in prayer on behalf of our Christian brothers and sisters in Nigeria.
Length: 16 minutes
Show Notes
View the trailer for Sabina: Tortured for Christ, The Nazi Years:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Y_rgUdlAP0
For information about global Christian persecution, visit
www.vomcanada.com/global-persecution.htm
To subscribe to The Voice of the Martyrs Canada’s weekly Persecution & Prayer Alert or monthly magazine, go to www.vomcanada.com/manage-subscription.htm
As India’s Hindu population reaches nearly one billion, nationalism within the country is on the rise. Fundamentalist Hindus are calling for the nation to be purged of all non-Hindus, leaving Christians increasingly vulnerable to persecution. Since 2016, the cases of persecution have worsened yearly and, in 2020, India ranked 10th on the list of countries where it is most dangerous to be a Christian. Another reason for the escalating number of attacks on Indian followers of Jesus is the growth of Christianity that’s presently taking place within the country. In this episode of Closer to the Fire, Greg Musselman is joined by David Witt, the CEO of Spirit of Martyrdom International, who aspires to shine God’s light into this spiritually dark nation by planting 100,000 churches. David has spent several decades providing support and encouragement to persecuted Christians in more than 50 countries across the globe. In his recently published book, God’s Global Grace Movement: Hope Rising from An Awakening in India, David teaches how we can all learn to be more effective in advancing God’s Kingdom. In this book, he also shares inspiringly stories of believers who have committed their lives to following Jesus, no matter the cost. Length: 47 minutes
Show Notes To Watch the interview with David Witt www.vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/cttf-in-planting-persecution.html
Spirit of Martyrdom International web site www.spiritofmartyrdom.com
To order David Witt’s book, God’s Global Grace Movement: Hope Rising from an Awakening in India, go to www.spiritofmartyrdom.com/online-christian-bookstore
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada www.vomcanada.com
The International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church (Canada) www.idop.ca
The International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church (US) www.persecution.com/idop/
For Afghan followers of Jesus, persecution was a reality even before the Taliban returned to power. Radical Islam and violent political activity make the nation a dangerous place for Christians to live. To convert from Islam to Christianity can result in harsh consequences, even martyrdom, and yet thousands have decided to follow Christ.
In this episode of the Closer to the Fire podcast, host Greg Musselman and the CEO of The Voice of the Martyrs Canada, Floyd Brobbel, are joined by John Weaver, a longtime humanitarian relief worker in Afghanistan. This dedicated Christian worker, who has lived in the Central Asian country with his wife and children for more than 20 years, discusses the current heartbreaking situation and explains what we can do to help our persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ.
Length: 35 minutes
Show Notes
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada www.vomcanada.com
Phone: (905) 670-9721
To purchase John Weaver’s books
Inside Afghanistan
Inside Afghanistan: A Mission of Mercy to a War-Torn People Before 9/11 and Beyond: Weaver, John: 9781733001120: Books - Amazon.ca
Najiba: A Love Story from Afghanistan
https://www.amazon.ca/Najiba-Story-Afghanistan-John-Weaver/dp/1733001107/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=john+weaver+books&qid=1633614517&sr=8-3
A Flame on the Front Line
A Flame on the Front Line: Journey from America to Afghanistan: Weaver, John: 9781733001144: Books - Amazon.ca
A church in India recently suffered an attack that left two people injured, including the pastor’s wife, Raj Rani. Carrying swords and wooden rods, a mob of hard-line Sikhs and Hindus converged on the Evangelical Church of God in the Arniwala area of Punjab and attacked the believers. As VOM Canada’s Greg Musselman reports, the pastor and his family had to flee the area. Greg also leads us in prayer for those who were injured in the attack, as well as the other members of this church. Length: 9:00
Podcast Show Notes
To view this Prayer Alert www.vomcanada.com/in-videos/video/in-attack-2021-08.html
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada www.vomcanada.com
What does the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan mean for the small but growing church in this troubled nation? According to a recently announced declaration by the militant Islamic group, the country will now follow a strict version of Sharia law, in which Christian converts are considered “apostates” – a crime punishable by death. Even before the Taliban overthrew the government, Afghan followers of Jesus were already extremely vulnerable to persecution and routinely faced dire consequences for their faith.
VOMC’s Greg Musselman is joined by Afghan-Canadian Shoaib Ebadi, the Executive Director of Square One World Media, to discuss the tragic events unfolding in Afghanistan and the increased challenges facing Christians in the days ahead. Shoaib also shares his concerns about the safety of his family remaining in Afghanistan, as well as the uncertain future for women and girls who are forced to adhere to Taliban rule.
Length: 36:30
In this episode, we meet the wife and daughter of Dr. K. A. Swamy, a Christian man who was left in a nearly vegetative state after being attacked for distributing Bibles in the Indian city of Hyderabad. Although the attack, which was carried out by Hindu extremists in January of 2017, has devastated his family – not their faith in Jesus!
Dr. Swamy’s wife Sujatha shares about the challenges she has faced while caring for her husband, and the need for her to rely on the Lord for strength as she now raises her two daughters. In addition, she has learned the importance of forgiving her husband’s attackers for the pain they have caused her and her family.
Host Greg Musselman also reports on the recent death of an Indian pastor, Vinod Kumar, who was likely killed for his Christian activities.
Length 19:00
Show Notes
To view this podcast https://vimeo.com/578181243
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada www.vomcanada.com
The rise of Buddhist nationalism is making life extremely difficult for evangelical Christians living in rural areas of the island nation of Sri Lanka. About 70 percent of the Sri Lankan population is Buddhist, compared to the approximate eight percent representing Christians of all denominations. Host Greg Musselman investigates why these followers of Christ are facing such opposition, while highlighting their inspiring faith in the midst of persecution.
Length: 26 minutes
Show Notes
To view this week’s podcast, Persecution in Paradise, go to The Voice of the Martyrs Canada | Sri Lanka - Sri Lanka: Persecution in Paradise (vomcanada.com)
To receive the weekly Persecution & Prayer Alert, register at The Voice of the Martyrs Canada (list-manage.com)
To receive VOMC’s free monthly publication, subscribe at The Voice of the Martyrs Canada | The Voice of the Martyrs Canada - The Voice of the Martyrs Canada (vomcanada.com)
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada’s website www.vomcanada.com
Will the persecution of Christians intensify in Iran, following the election of hardliner Ebrahim Raisi as the Islamic Republic’s new president? The 2021 election was described by various news sources as being fraudulent because many reformers and moderates were barred from standing for election. Dr. Hormoz Shariat of Iran Alive Ministries joins Greg Musselman to discuss the implications of Iran’s new presidential leadership, and what it could mean for the followers of Jesus in that country. Dr. Hormoz also addresses the amazing growth of the church in the Islamic Republic and the persecution of Christians.
Length 28:30
Show notes
To watch the interview www.vomcanada.com/component/allvideoshare/video/ir-president-election.html?Itemid=3412
Iran Alive Ministries www.iranaliveministries.org
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada www.vomcanada.com
Purchase of a copy of Iran’s Great Awakening www.vomcanada.com/shop1/product/irans-great-awakening/
Dr. Hormoz Shariat on 100 Huntley Street www.100huntley.com/watch?id=229918
How can we be more effective in praying and practically helping our persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ? The Voice of the Martyrs Canada CEO Floyd Brobbel discusses that with Pastor Matt Tapley of Lakemount Worship Centre in Grimsby, Ontario. Floyd has been serving at VOM Canada since 2003 and desires to make sure that persecuted believers know they are not forgotten!
Length 44 minutes
To view this interview https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NqjZd5_TPVs
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada www.vomcanada.com
To order of copy of Trouble on the Way by Floyd Brobbel www.vomcanada.com/trouble
Blasphemy laws in Pakistan are often used to falsely accuse Christians of insulting Islam. If convicted, these believers face harsh punishments ranging from life in prison to the death penalty. Even if they are not convicted, the accused frequently become the victims of mob violence.
In Pakistan, Christian women and girls are often kidnapped and forced to convert to Islam. In many cases, these women are forcibly married to much older men.
On this VOMC podcast, Pastor Peter Paul spoke to our host Greg Musselman about the death threat he received in Pakistan for his Christian activities. Pastor Peter also shares about the faithful endurance of Pakistani followers of Christ, who live under constant persecution for their faith, and what we can do to help our persecuted Christian family.
Peter is the pastor of Asian Cornerstone Church in Mississauga, Ontario. In 2020, Peter and his wife Jemima started Living Hope TV, which broadcasts Bible-based programs in multiple languages, including English, Urdu, Hindi and Punjabi.
Length: 59 minutes
Show Notes
To watch this interview https://vomcanada.com/cttf-videos/video/pk-christians-under-threat.html
Living Hope TV www.livinghopetv.org
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada www.vomcanada.com
Video report on the persecution of Christians in Pakistan www.vomcanada.com/pakistan-videos/video/pk-paying-price.html
Imagine taking a journey to various places around the world where having faith in Jesus is forbidden. Along the way, we’re given opportunities to meet bold believers whose powerful testimonies both encourage and challenge us. During this VOMC podcast, our host Greg Musselman interviews author and broadcaster Todd Nettleton, who in turn introduces us to Sister Tong from China, Iman from Iran, and Pastor Ragimov from Central Asia.
Throughout the past 23 years, Todd has travelled internationally, interviewing hundreds of Christians who have been persecuted for the name of Jesus. As the host of The Voice of the Martyrs Radio (VOMradio.net), and the author of When Faith is Forbidden: 40 Days on the Frontlines with Persecuted Christians, Todd provides inspiring stories based on his extensive global travels.
Length 36:00
Show Notes
To view this interview with Todd Nettleton
https://vomcanada.com/cttfvideos/video/cttf-t-nettleton.html
To purchase a copy of “When Faith is Forbidden: 40 Days on the Frontlines with Persecuted Christians”
www.toddnettleton.com
https://www.vomcanada.com/shop1/product/when-faith-is-forbidden/
The Voice of the Martyrs Radio www.VOMradio.net
The Voice of the Martyrs US www.persecution.com
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada www.vomcanada.com
A Nigerian pastor, Leviticus and his toddler son Godsend were recently killed by Islamic militants. The 39-year-old pastor also served as a church planter in Niger State. Fortunately, his wife and daughter escaped, but they are now in a state of shock and grief over the sudden loss of their loved ones. VOM Canada’s Greg Musselman provides more details on this tragic story and invites you to join him in prayer for Pastor Leviticus’ surviving family members and other Christians who are enduring persecution throughout Nigeria.
Pastor Kidane Gebremeskel Gedion says it was a great privilege to suffer for Jesus during the two-and-a-half years he spent in three different Eritrean prisons because of his Christian activities . Pastor Kidane tells VOM Canada’s Greg Musselman that being separated from his wife and children was much worse than the imprisonment itself. He also explains why the Eritrean government continues to persecute followers of Christ in his East African nation and what he has learned about God during the ordeal. This episode is a reunion of sorts, as Greg initially met with Pastor Kidane in Eritrea 17 years ago.
Length: 62 minutes
Show Notes
To view the interview with Kidane Gebremeskel Gedion
www.vomcanada.com/eritrea-videos/video/er-joy.html
The Persecution of Evangelical Christians in Eritrea www.vomcanada.com/eritrea-videos/video/er-struck-down.html
An interview with Dr. Berhane Ashmelash of Release Eritrea about the release of numerous Christian prisoners.
www.vomcanada.com/eritrea-videos/video/er-berhane1.html
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada www.vomcanada.com
The levels of violence against Christians in India from Hindu extremists have significantly intensified. And since the onset of the pandemic, the challenges facing persecuted believers have become even more alarming. VOM Canada’s Greg Musselman spoke with Abihijit Nayak, the Director of Step, a ministry partner of The Voice of the Martyrs Canada, about the rise of persecution in India and the extra struggles facing Christians during the pandemic.
Length: 34 minutes
Show notes
To view this podcast
Step International The Voice of the Martyrs Canada | 'Closer to the Fire' Videos - India: The Rising Levels of Violence against Christians (vomcanada.com)
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada www.vomcanada.com
One of the most violent and dangerous counties in the world to be a follower of Jesus is Africa’s most populous nation of Nigeria. Christians are killed, kidnapped and terrorized by the Militant Islamic groups Boko Haram and Fulani Herdsmen. Last year the number of followers of Jesus who were killed increased by 60 percent. A study from Open Doors says that more than 2,200of the 4,761 believers killed around the world were in Nigeria, and the number is likely a lot higher. VOM Canada’s Greg Musselman talk with Ruth Hodge of Christian Faith Ministries International (CFMI) in Nigeria about why there the persecution of Christians continues and is increasing in some parts of the country. Ruth also talks about how CFMI is helping the children who have been displaced by the violence and how they are trying to bring reconciliation between Christians and Muslims, teaching vocation skills and mentoring new believers to be strong in their faith in Jesus.
Length 38 minutes
Christian Faith Ministries International www.cfaithministries.org
Ugandan Pastor Thomas Chikooma was recently invited by local Muslims to participate in an open-air religious debate in the community of Pallisa. After giving his defense of Christianity, he was privileged to lead 14 people to faith in Christ, including six who had been Muslims. While many at that meeting were excited by the response to the Gospel, there were some Muslims who were angry, and they confronted the father of 11 children later that night and killed him. Thomas was a well-respected pastor who planted 50 churches in eastern Uganda. VOM Canada’ Greg Musselman explains what happened and to pray for Thomas’ wife Jessica, his 11 children, the Christians of Uganda and those who were responsible for this act violence.
Length 5 Minutes
On this program we’ll be hearing from 2 men who were imprisoned for their faith in Jesus and Christian activities. Dan Bauman in Iran and Andrew Brunson in Turkey. Both men began so depressed while in prison they wanted to end their lives. Here how they were rescues and the lessons they learned when their freedom was taken from them.
On May 11, four Indonesian Christians were beheaded in in the village of Kalimago, Central Sulawesi Province. Five men were seen and identified as members of the terrorist group East Indonesia Mujahidin that morning. Later that day four victims that had been beheaded. All four victims were identified as members of local churches, adults over the age of 40.
Length 4:00
www.vomcanada.,com
www.opendoorsca.org
Martyrdom is NOT a special calling from Jesus given only to the apostles or a small number of bold Christians at key moments in history. Dr. Eric Foley of The Voice of the Martyrs Korea says that all Christians are called to be martyrs! In his interview conversation with Greg Musselman, Dr. Foley examines how the Bible defines martyrdom, and the answer may surprise you. Dr. Foley also discusses the situation he and his VOM Korea team are experiencing regarding their balloon launch ministry into North Korea, which the South Korean authorities have made illegal, and the consequences these Christians are prepared to face.
Length: 34 minutes
To view the interview www.vomcanada.com/cttf/video/cttf-foley-martyrs.html
The Voice of the Martyrs Korea www.vomkorea.com
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada www.vomcanada.com
To learn more about the persecution of Christians in North Korea, go to www.vomcanada.com/northkorea.htm.
The nation of India is struggling under the weight of a pandemic that has sick people being turned away from hospitals that have run out of beds and oxygen as the numbers of new cases rise to record levels each day and the death toll mounts. The situation in the world’s second most populous nation is heart breaking. Greg Musselman talked with The Voice of the Martyrs Canada partner Ramchand Saranu of Youth With A Mission India about the crisis in his nation, which has claimed the lives of dozens of pastors and the ongoing persecution of Christians.
Length 7:30
To find out more about Youth With A Mission India and how they are helping click www.ywamindia.org
email ywamin@gmail.com
Since the early days of the church, Christians have recognized three distinct modes of martyrdom, each designated by a colour. However, few followers of Jesus today have even heard about this Biblically rooted tradition. Dr. Eric Foley, CEO for The Voice of the Martyrs Korea, joins Greg Musselman to examine the significance behind the red, green and white colours of martyrdom. Dr. Foley also provides an update on how Christians are fairing in North Korea during the global pandemic.
To view this interview with Dr. Eric Foley www.vomcanada.com/north-korea-videos/video/kp-foley-colours1.html
The Voice of the Martyrs Korea web site www.vomkorea.com
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada web site www.vomcanada.com
To learn more about the persecution of Christians in North Korea, go to www.vomcanada.com/northkorea.htm
April 30, 2021 48 minutes
A mother of seven children in eastern Uganda has suffered serious wounds and, consequently, was forced to flee after her husband and other Muslim relatives attacked her on Easter Sunday for converting to Christianity., 37 year old Salimati Naibira, 37, had recently placed her faith in Christ after being miraculously healed.
Story from Persecution and Prayer Alert https://www.vomcanada.com/ug-2021-04-22.htm
Uganda Country Profile https://www.vomcanada.com/uganda.htm
To view Uganda Prayer Alert vomcanada.com/pnp-videos/video/pnp-ug-salimati.html
April 28, 2021
5 minutes
Trouble on the Way: Persecution in the Christian Life – Part Two
Floyd Brobbel, CEO for The Voice of the Martyrs Canada, continues his discussion with Greg Musselman about his new book, Trouble on the Way, in which he looks at the various stages of persecution. In the previous episode, Floyd examined ridicule, harassment, discrimination and defamation, stages that are commonly encountered by our persecuted brothers and sisters as a result of following Jesus. In part two of the interview conversation, Floyd discusses other potential levels of persecution: attack, detainment, torture and martyrdom. You may be surprised to learn what it means to be a martyr for Christ. Get ready to be both challenged and inspired.
To view the interivew https://vomcanada.com/from-vomc/video/ca-floyd2.html
To get a copy of Trouble on the Way www.vomcanada.com/trouble
To see the report to the story about Maryam and Navish https://www.vomcanada.com/pk-2021-04-15.htm
Pakistan country profile https://www.vomcanada.com/pakistan.htm
To view the Pakistan Prayer Alert video https://vimeo.com/539735734
The Voice of the Martyrs Canada web site www.vomcanada.com
Trouble on the Way: Persecution in the Christian Life
While most Christians living in the West have heard about fellow believers around the world suffering for their faith in Jesus, the plight of the persecuted church can often be far removed from one’s daily life. Floyd Brobbel, CEO for The Voice of the Martyrs Canada, joins Greg Musselman to talk about his new book, Trouble on the Way, in which he examines the various stages of persecution – information based on his decades of experience serving persecuted believers near and far. Floyd also shares his personal journey as the leader of a ministry he wanted little association with during his formative childhood years.
To order Trouble on the Way by Floyd Brobbel go to http://www.vomcanada.com/trouble
To view this podcast go to https://www.vomcanada.com/from-vomc/video/floyd1.html
For more on The Voice of the Martyrs go to http://www.vomcanada.com
Another 35 Christians have been arrested in Eritrea for conducting prayer meetings. The latest arrests dash any hopes of a change of heart towards the followers of Jesus in the East African nation, where many have been imprisoned for their faith since Eritrea closed most churches in 2002.
Story from Persecution and Prayer Alert https://www.vomcanada.com/er-2021-04-08.htm
Eritrea country profile https://www.vomcanada.com/eritrea.htm
Release Internation web site www.releaseinternational.org
Christian girls and women around the world are being forced into another religion and often married to much older men. Even when some of these girls and women are rescued or escape, they often find their community not so welcoming, and are victimized again. So, what can we do to help our sisters in Christ? Greg is joined by Emma Dipper is the founding Director of Gender and Religious Freedom and a partner with The Voice of the Martyrs Canada to discuss how we can make a difference. Emma will also share the Biblical teaching on suffering, risk, persecution and resilience.
In February, it was reported that a Christian man named Hamid had been sentenced to five years in prison for sharing a cartoon on Facebook. On March 22nd, a judge in Oran, Algeria, heard his appeal and upheld the sentence along with a fine of almost $1,000 CAD.
News Article: https://vomcanada.com/dz-2021-03-25.htm
More about Algeria: https://vomcanada.com/algeria.htm
Please remember to prayerfully uphold Leah and other surviving Christians who were abducted in separate incidences and, to date, are still being held captive by Nigeria's terrorist groups because of their faith in Jesus.
Read morehttps://vomcanada.com/ng-2021-03-11.htm
An Alberta pastor was recently arrested for conducting church services at full capacity and not adhering to the provincial health code. Many supporters of Pastor James Coates of GraceLife Church near Edmonton believe this was a violation of his of rights under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Some have even said he was being persecuted for his Christian faith.
Christian lawyer joins to discuss an issue that has brought confusion and even division in the church in Canada and asks the question, “Is this persecution?”
Don is a long-time member of Canada’s Christian Legal Fellowship. He is a member of the Law Society of Ontario. Don served for several years as Chief Legal counsel for The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. He is the author of Under Siege: Religious Freedom and the Church in Canada at 150 (1867-2017), and his most recent book Church in Society: First-Century Citizenship Lessons for Twenty-First-Century Christians. Don has appeared on many television and radio programs, in addition to writing opinion editorials for a variety of publications, both Christian and secular.
http://donhutchinson.ca