By Stefan J. Bos, Chief International Correspondent Worthy News
OMDURMAN, SUDAN (Worthy News) - Christian rights activists appealed for prayers Thursday as two church leaders detained during Bible class in Sudan could face jail on charges of “public nuisance.”
Pastor Kabashi Idris and evangelist Yacoub Ishakh were freed on bail hours after their detention on June 14th in the city of Omdurman, but concerns remain, Worthy News learned.
The incident occurred when a neighbor complained a second time about the Christian gatherings being held in the church building near his home, Christians said.
In May, his initial complaint was reportedly made because of their singing, but the two Christian leaders were released then after being interrogated.
“In June, however, the same neighbor told the police that his children had been singing the Christian songs and he was concerned that they may convert to Christianity,” said advocacy group Voice Of the Martyrs Canada (VOMC).
If found guilty of the charges, Pastor Kabashi and Yacoub could each face a fine and up to three months in prison, Christians said.
The court could also order that they cease all religious activities, VOMC told Worthy News.
It asked its supporters to “Pray for God's intervention in this situation.”
“May the charges against Pastor Kabashi and Yacoub be dropped” so they can resume their Christian activities, VOMC added.
There are nearly 2 million Christians among the 45 million people in Sudan who face “Islamic oppression,” said Christian advocacy group Open Doors.