| 2007-04-13 |
| Iraq: Youth pastor Fadi released by kidnappers |
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April 13, 2007 - Kidnapped youth pastor Fadi of the Alliance Church in Baghdad, was released by his kidnappers! They let him go this Friday around 15:00, Baghdad time. Just a minute ago I talked to him on the phone. He sounded very tired but said that he was immensely grateful. He added: “I sensed that God was with me and talked to me all the time”. The hostage takers told him: “We don’t know why, but we will not kill you”. But we do know why! Over the past days we received many messages from around the world of people praying for the release of our brother! Talking to pastor Ghassan in Baghdad, I heard shouts of joy in the background. He was at Fadi’s house with family and church members singing and praising God. Let’s join them and give glory to God. Fadi’s name means: Redeemer. Yes, our Redeemer lives! Arie Verduyn Alliance World Fellowship President |
| Alliance Youth Pastor Kidnapped in Iraq |
| April 10, 2007 - The youth leader of the Alliance church in Baghdad, pastor Fadi, has been kidnapped last Friday night April 6 on his way back from Kurdistan to Baghdad. Reports say that the abductors were followed by the Kurdish police who shot at the car. The family fears for Fadi's life since he was held in the trunk of the car. The kidnappers had Fadi call his relatives and told him to say his last words to them. It is uncertain whether this was a random abduction or whether Fadi was especially targeted. Fadi knew of the dangers of going to Kirkuk, but insisted on going because of ministry opportunities there. Members of the Alliance Church in Baghdad are praying and fasting and will be joined by six other evangelical churches on Tuesday the 10th for a special day of prayer. |
