New South could have consequences for Christians in North Sudan
By Joseph DeCaro, Worthy News Correspondent
KHARTOUM, SUDAN (Worthy News)– Amid all the news over the world’s newest nation, South Sudan, Carl Moeller of Open Doors fears something was overlooked.
“We are rejoicing that there are increased freedoms in the South,” said Moeller, “but we have to ask the question: What about the Christians in the North?”
Even before the South’s secession, Christians were already fleeing in that direction for fear of what would become of them if they remained in the North.
“The biggest challenge that they’re facing right now is a decree from President Bashir that he is going to strengthen shar’ia law after the secession is finalized,” said Moeller.
Although shar’ia can vary in its severity and application, non-Muslims under its rule eventually become second-class citizens. However, Moeller said there is a strong if not small church in North Sudan that continues to grow.
“This is not a historical, or political analysis, but we know the end of the story,” he said. “As believers, we know that Jesus has said He will build His church, and the gates of Hell will not prevail against it … Those Christians are bracing for an onslaught of new repression, but pray that they would be able to stand strong and continue to provide the light of Jesus Christ into their communities.”