Our friends at Mission Network News are reporting the following:

XINJIANG--In a stunning development to both the lawyers and family members, ChinaAid learned today that 36-year-old house church leader Alimujiang Yimiti received 15 years imprisonment for allegedly "providing state secrets to overseas organizations." He was allegedly read his verdict while in prison on October 27th. Mr. Li Dunyong, one of the Alimujiang’s lawyers, confirmed that he has already filed an appeal on Mr. Alimujiang’s behalf.

A few days ago we invited you to join VOM in giving Christmas to children in Vietnam with our Vietnam Christmas Care Packs.

Wow....I want to give a hat tip to my friend Glenn Penner at VOM Canada for sharing this story on his twitter account. You have to see this video, it's amazing.

Yesterday when I was at church listening to the sermon on serving, I couldn't help but think about all the volunteers in practically every ministry that exists. Some statistics I've heard regarding volunteers in church concern the 20-80 rule. This means that regardless of the size of the church, only 20% of the people actually serve in the ministry, while the other 80% sit back and receive.

Let us begin this week with another great devotion from the best selling book Extreme Devotion, which makes a great Christmas gift. You may buy a few here. :)

Where there is no cross, there is no crown. This lesson cannot be learned from books, and men do not usually taste this sweetness. This rich life does not exist in a comfortable environment. If the spices are not refined to become oil, the fragrance of the perfume cannot flow forth; and if the grapes are not crushed in the vat, they will not become wine.

We encourage you to continue writing him letters and to continue praying. We also encourage you to write to the Vietnamese government requesting Father Van Ly's release. Please send this e-mail to others who have a heart for persecuted believers, and encourage them to write. Get involved. Pray and write today! Click here to visit http://www.prisoneralert.com

This is a must read press release from our good friends at China Aid.