On the evening of December 9, approximately 20 Hindus stopped Yuvraj Digal (40), a respected Christian leader, and his 20-year-old son as they were heading home on motorbike from the village of Tikabali, Kandhamal district, Orissa. The Hindus accused Digal of being involved in the murder of Hindu leader Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati (click here for more) and began beating him. His son was able to escape the attackers and seek help from the police. Digal, however, disappeared and his body was found on December 18.

The situation remains tense for Christians in Orissa even though Hindu militant groups have called off a protest that was planned for Christmas Day. The district has employed additional security measures, but many Christians remain apprehensive about possible outbreaks of violence in the coming days. District authorities in Kandhamal have asked churches not to hold midnight services. Many churches have cancelled Christmas ceremonies.

Pray for those mourning the loss of Digal. Pray that the Lord will be exalted, even through the deaths of those who proclaim His name (Phil 1:20). Ask God to bring peace to Orissa as believers celebrate the birth of our Saviour.

For more on the persecution Christians face in India, go to the India Country Profile. To watch a video report about how Christians are fearful as Christmas approaches, please see our blog.