In May 2017, IS-linked militants took over the city of Marawi. They entered homes and set buildings on fire, including a cathedral and a Protestant-run college. They also took over a dozen Christians hostage, including a Catholic priest, as Christians were a particular target, according to Open Doors. 40% of Marawi was destroyed and 98% of the population displaced during the five-month conflict. Marking the first anniversary of the liberation of the city, local Catholic and Muslim leaders said that the war had brought the two communities closer because of the ‘mutual feeling of having gone through the same struggle’. But many residents have not yet returned home, as Marawi is still dominated by rubble. 75 Christian families are living in temporary shelters, and the prelature is currently hosting over 35,000 Catholics. The government aims to complete the rehabilitation of the city by the end of 2021.
Philippines: thousands of Christians still displaced
Written by David Fletcher 25 Oct 2018Additional Info
- Pray: for the government’s work, beginning this month, to restore the city. May many residents be able to return soon. (Galatians 6:2)
- More: www.worldwatchmonitor.org/2018/10/one-year-after-marawis-liberation-from-is-thousands-of-christians-still-displaced/
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