Christians asked to fast and pray for missionaries kidnapped in Haiti

 (Photo: CAM)

A day of prayer and fasting will be held on Thursday for a group of 17 missionaries and children kidnapped in Haiti.

Christian Aid Ministries (CAM) said it was praying for their safe release, as well as for the kidnappers to turn to Christ.

The group is formed of 16 Americans and one Canadian, and includes five children, the youngest of which is just 8 months old. 

They were kidnapped near capital Port-au-Prince on their way back from visiting an orphanage supported by CAM. 

The gang behind the kidnapping, 400 Mawozo, has demanded $17m for their release.

The US-based non-profit said it was working closely with government authorities to bring the group home. It has not commented on whether it will meet the ransom demand.

Asking people to pray and fast, CAM said: "We invite continued prayer for: the victims—for endurance, faithfulness, and a spirit of Christlike love ... the kidnappers—that they would experience the love of Jesus and turn to Him [and] government leaders and authorities—as they relate to the case and work toward the release of the victims."

One of CAM's ongoing projects in Haiti is to provide meals for school children. (Photo: CAM)

CAM is also asking for prayer for Haiti.

"This time of difficulty reminds us of the ongoing suffering of millions of Haitians," it said.

"While our workers chose to serve in Haiti, our Haitian friends endure crisis after crisis, continual violence, and economic hardship.

"Despite the difficulties and dangers involved in working there, both our Haitian and American workers carry a vision to minister the love of Jesus in Haiti.

"Our goal is to seize opportunities around the world, even in difficult contexts, to follow in the footsteps of Jesus, who 'went about doing good' (Acts 10:38)." 

News
Iran’s unyielding cry: from economic collapse to the fall of the theocracy
Iran’s unyielding cry: from economic collapse to the fall of the theocracy

The revolt and ensuing violence in Iran should not surprise anyone who truly values fundamental civil rights. 

Catholic bishops push for two-state solution to restore peace to the Holy Land
Catholic bishops push for two-state solution to restore peace to the Holy Land

Praise was given to all those who work for peace, on both sides of the conflict.

Pakistan: Christian nurses acquitted of blasphemy
Pakistan: Christian nurses acquitted of blasphemy

A district court ruled that the prosecution failed to substantiate the charge.

Jordan in talks with evangelical leaders to boost pilgrimage ahead of Jesus baptism anniversary
Jordan in talks with evangelical leaders to boost pilgrimage ahead of Jesus baptism anniversary

Jordan has in recent months accelerated preparations at key Christian sites, including Bethany Beyond the Jordan.