Ronn Moyer EYN

Ronn Moyer, a lifelong member of Indian Creek Church of the Brethren, supported the Church's missionary efforts in the 1950's. His personal experience offers an interesting and moving commentary on what is going on in Nigeria today - specifically the persecution of Christians, mostly Church of the Brethren.

"Boko Haram, a radical Muslim group of insurgents, has during the past couple years destroyed more than 280 of our 456 churches in northern Nigeria, as well as nearly 1,400 church branches of those congregations. The death toll is inexact since thousands have fled their homes and villages, but there are at least 8,083 fatalities as of Christmas 2014. The EYN (Ekklesiyar Yan'uwa a Nigeria) which means Church of the Brethren in Nigeria has remained faithful to the peace stance taught them and has not resisted or fought the insurgents. They have merely tried to flee to safe ground if they can find such. The killing continues to this day (Jan. 2015.) Prayer support and financial assistance are urgently needed.

"Because of the turmoil and slaughter of Christians in northern Nigeria, the Church of the Brethren churches in the U.S. have heard the cry of our brothers and sisters in Nigeria and have sent personnel to aid in securing shelter and rebuilding of churches and homes which have been destroyed.  The people in Nigeria first requested prayer and fasting of us.  In addition to their steadfast faith as their primary means of survival, they also have shared that the costs for replacement and repairs is mounting plus the costs associated with helping the people to be safe and properly fed. Fund raising in our denomination has already exceeded 2.5 million dollars and both food, clothing and personnel have been and will be sent.

"Now, after establishing more than 450 congregations plus over 1,000 other preaching points, plus hospitals and schools, it just seems unreal and impossible that so many of the churches and people have been destroyed and killed, giving one the feeling that perhaps the effort was all in vain.  However, we know that thousands have come to know Jesus and many are already in heaven because of the efforts put forth.  Many others currently are praying and struggling to survive and hoping the devastation will soon end."

For information on how you can support the efforts in Nigeria, click here.