In The Name of Jesus - Holy One

In The Name of Jesus - Holy One Tunisia is rich in Christian history. Some of the early church fathers, Augustine and Tertullian, lived in this country. Also many churches had been established. Sadly over the centuries, most of its memory was destroyed when Islam was introduced. But, in the early 20th century a reemergence of the church began and a few churches for foreigners were built. And, by the end of the century there were a handful of local believers. Since then the number of believers has grown. Marked by a tolerance for Christians, in 2005 local believers were even allowed to meet for worship in the buildings of the expat churches. Now there are several local groups worshipping in Tunis. There are also groups in Sousse and Sfax, and individual believers are scattered throughout the country. In other words, the church in Tunisia is growing! Tunisians are showing an interest in the Christian faith. Through Bible lessons and sermons, made available on radio, television, and the internet, and from personal witness, many have come to faith. But as quickly as they accept the new faith, some fall away. Backsliding is a problem that persists. Many say that the concept of being part of the body of Christ is hard to comprehend. Currently it is estimated that there are 1000 - 1500 Muslim Background Believers, the majority are between 18 and 35 years old. The Christian community also consists of a larger group of expat believers, and a small group of native-born citizens of European and Arab descent. The total number of these groups is estimated at 24,000. One With Them Home of the Jasmine revolution which gave rise to the Arab Spring, Tunisia was the country where democratic transition seemed to have the greatest chance of success. However, elections in October, 2012, were won by the Islamic Ennahda party, which announced its intention to transform Tunisia into an Islamic state. Foreign Christians have reported increased surveillance. During Ramadan, be One With Them, the Tunisian Christians. Pray for courage and discernment in sharing the gospel; and for many to turn to Jesus, the Holy One, making Him the foundation of government and life. One With Them CHALLENGE Every year, Open Doors produces the World Watch List of countries where Christian persecution is most severe. Tunisia is currently ranked #30. Learn more about being a Christian in Tunisia at the WWL website. Click here. 2013.07.21

"You disowned the Holy and Righteous One and asked that a murderer be released to you.” (Acts 3:14))