On August 23, widespread violence erupted against Christians following the assassination of World Hindu Council leader Swami Lakshmananda Saraswati, the alleged mastermind behind the December 2007 attacks on believers in Kandhamal, Orissa State. Saraswati was killed with four of his followers. 30 men believed to be Maoist extremists, stormed a religious center in Kandhamal and opened fire, VOM contacts reported.

This week it feels like the Lord has got me thinking about age and the blessings He gives us as His children. Two chance encounters this week piqued my interest on the importance of staying involved in ministry irrespective of our age. I have been meditating on the scripture in Psalms 91:16, that promises that the Lord will satisfy us with long life, and how vital it is to give our time and extend God’s kingdom. I was reminded of this scripture when a couple that volunteers here at The Voice of the Martyrs shared with me that the husband had celebrated his 80th birthday this past weekend. Wow! What a blessing. This precious couple has served persecuted believers for years, while they continue to live active, full lives. After speaking to them, I was struck by their commitment to VOM and serving persecuted brothers and sisters around the world. I personally know that, apart from coming into the office and volunteering in different capacities, they pray for persecuted believers and have a heart for suffering Christians around the world.

Our partners at Release International sent out a unique “prayer-a-day” for the month of August. This has something you can pray for China for every day in August. I encourage you print this out and use these prayers each day. You can start any day you like. It will only take a few minutes, and imagine how you can impact the world by bringing China before our all-powerful God. Here are the prayers for Day 27 through Day 31.

I don't know about you all, but I absolutely LOVE it when children stand for Jesus! The Voice of the Martyrs Kids of Courage ministry is one of my favorite because anytime I want I can visit www.kidsofcourage.com and read about brave and passionate children who love Jesus. Isn't that cool :)

Recently, a Saudi member of the religious police cut his daughter’s tongue off and burned her to death for converting to Christianity.

Carpus was nailed to the stake, and as the flames took hold of him, he joyfully prayed, “Praise be to thee, O Lord, Jesus Christ, Son of God, that thou didst deem me, a sinner, also worthy to die a martyr as you did!” Then he gave up his soul to heaven.

The first episode of The Voice of the Martyrs podcast, Persecution Podcast, has just gone live. Listen to news and information on the persecuted church with hosts Todd Nettleton, Mark Sheppard and Mary Sue Leigh. Please check out the program and give us feedback on what you think and what you would like to hear in the future.

The following comes from our friends at VOM Canada. Please remember to pray for Indonesian believers, as they suffer tremendously for their faith in Jesus.