Outreach Forbidden in Africa's Comoros - 98% Muslim
Comoros Harbour
The islands struggle between coups and unemployment leads to adoption of Islamic law.
Many years ago the Comoros Islands were known for their exports of perfume essences, as well as vanilla and cloves. Also famous is the prehistoric deep sea fish known as the coelacanthe, thought to be long extinct, which was discovered off the coast earlier this century. Today, however, the Comoros have become the "Forgotten Islands."
Comoros Islands
The Union of the Comoros (formerly Federal Islamic Republic of the Comoro Islands) consists of volcanic islands off the coast of Africa, 300 kilometers (200 miles) east of Mozambique. The Comoro are one of Islam's southern most strongholds, adhering to a strict branch of the Sunni faith introduced by the "Shirazi" Arab migrants in the early 1500s.
The Comoro are an underdeveloped and poor nation with high unemployment. Most people are subsistence farmers. They are an artistic people: the women engage in needlework, the men in woodwork. They are proud of their religion and do not easily accept other religions. There are approximately 1,400 mosques throughout the three islands (the forth is French).
All open witness is forbidden, preaching the Gospel is illegal and Comoran Christians are not allowed to gather for public worship. The Bible is available in French and Arabic, and portions of the scripture are available in Comoran, however, with a literacy rate of just 56.5% (2003 estimate), recordings of the Gospel are much more effective. One African linguistic programme has translated the Gospel into three Comoran dialects and a recent report said that some Comoran have already given their lives to Christ.
The Coup
Following a 1999 military coup, the May 2000 constitution did not allow for freedom of religion. The December 2001 constitution does provide for this freedom, however, it also makes Islam the state religion. There are two Roman Catholic churches and one Protestant church. Even before the 1999 coup the government had restricted the use of these churches to non-citizens only. Harassment and social discrimination of Christians is widespread.
Prayer Points
* Pray that the Gospel would be made available (written or otherwise) to all the wonderful people of Comoros and pray especially the children can hear it (Genesis 12:1-3). Pray for the translation work being done.
* A radio specialist came to the islands this year and determined that most people listen to small local stations, not shortwave overseas stations. Pray that Christian music and storying tapes can infiltrate the radio stations and touch the lives of people for Jesus.
* One cassette tape of Bible stories in the local language is now in use. Others are in the planning stages for the coming year. Pray that this project will be successful and bring people to Christ.
* Pray against fear, witchcraft, curses, and conversations with jinn (evil spirits). Comorian people are bound by the spirit of fear to these practices. Only the stronger power of Jesus Christ can release this stronghold on peoples' lives. (1 Peter 5:8, Matthew 10:28-30)
Background on Comoros (World Factbook)
Comoros has endured 19 coups or attempted coups since gaining independence from France in 1975, some attributed to France but difficult to prove. Its political infighting has lead to each island in the archipelago elected its own president and a new union president took office in May 2002. Although a tiny land area, it played a strategic role on the busy shipping lanes of the Mozambique Channel but the opening of the Suez Canal reduced the importance of the islands, hence, the "forgotten islands". South Africa, Mozambique, France and some Arab nations still have a keen political interest in this small nation.
They are a friendly and hospitable people. In the more remote hill areas the people are largely descended from African ex-slaves living in traditional houses made of banana and coconut leaves or lava cemented with chalk and sand. Those in the cities are descendants of Arab nobility and live in more modern houses.
Economy of Comoros
One of the world's poorest countries, Comoros is made up of three islands that have inadequate transportation links, a young and rapidly increasing population, and few natural resources. The low educational level of the labor force contributes to a subsistence level of economic activity, high unemployment, and a heavy dependence on foreign grants and technical assistance. Agriculture, including fishing, hunting, and forestry, contributes 40% to GDP, employs 80% of the labor force, and provides most of the exports. The country is not self-sufficient in food production; rice, the main staple, accounts for the bulk of imports.
Statistics on Comoros
Population: 773,407 (June 2010 est.). World rank #160
Life Expectancy at Birth: 63.83 years. World rank #172
Ethnic groups: Antalote, Cafre, Makoa, Oimatsaha, Sakalava
Religions: Sunni Muslim 98%, Roman Catholic 0.5%, Other 1.5%
Languages: Arabic (official), French (official), Shikomoro (a blend of Swahili and Arabic)
Literacy: 56.5%
School life expectancy: 8 years
Video: UNICEF:Protecting children from sexual violence in Comoros [2:08]
Dutch bishop says Christians should call God ‘Allah’
Dutch Bishop: 'Allah' is a very beautiful word to use instead of the word 'God'
A Roman Catholic Bishop in the Netherlands has proposed people of all faiths refer to God as Allah to foster understanding among religions.
Amsterdam, (CNA).- Bishop Martinus Muskens of Breda, Netherlands, suggested in an interview with Radio Netherlands that Christians should refer to God as Allah, which would promote better relations with Muslims.
The 71-year-old Bishop, Tiny Muskens, told Radio Netherlands that God did not mind what he was named and that in Indonesia, where he had spent eight years, priests used the word "Allah" while celebrating Mass.
Bishop Muskens: "Allah is a very beautiful word for God. Shouldn't we all say that from now on we will name God Allah?"
The bishop, who had worked in Indonesia, noted that even Christians use the term Allah for God there. The Dutch should learn to get on spontaneously with different cultures, religions and behavior patterns:
"Someone like me has prayed to Allah yang maha kuasa (Almighty God) for eight years in Indonesia and other priests for 20 or 30 years. In the heart of the Eucharist, God is called Allah over there, so why can't we start doing that together?" he was quoted as saying.
Some Dutch Muslims welcomed his comments as a valuable gesture of support coming just days after a far-right Dutch politician insulted the Holy Quran. Geert Wilders called for the Quran to be banned in the country.
Wilders, whose new party won nine seats out of the 150 in parliament in last November's elections, is well known for his negative remarks on Islam.
Bishop Muskens admitted that he did not think his suggestion would be welcomed readily and that it would take about 100 years before Catholics would feel comfortable calling God "Allah".
In an interview broadcast on Monday's edition of current affairs show "Netwerk," Muskens said he had worked in Indonesia where God is referred to as Allah in Christian services.
But a spokesman for one of the capital's leading mosques said he was not happy with the statement.
"We didn't ask for this, a spokesman for the Moroccan Mosque in Amsterdam told De Telegraaf. "Now it is as if we have a problem between Muslims and Christians."
Gerrit de Fijter, chairman of the General Synod of the Dutch Protestant Church, also rejected Muskens' suggestion. "I applaud every attempt to encourage dialogue with Muslims, but I doubt the sense of this maneuver," De Fijter told De Telegraaf.
Neither De Fijter nor Muslim community leaders returned calls seeking comment Wednesday.
Speaking to a local television network Wednesday, Muskens said he was pleased his comments had sparked debate. "That they are interested in how to get along with God, that is a positive result," he told Omroep Brabant.
Muskens is known for controversial statements. In 1996, he declared that it was acceptable for the hungry to steal bread. He also advocated condom use to prevent the spread of AIDS and urged the abolition of celibacy for priests.
In June, Muskens requested Pope Benedict XVI to grant him retirement from the bishopry. Muskens, aged 71, was appointed Bishop of Breda in November 1994.
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Comparison Study of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam Religion
Abrahamic Faith consists of Judaism, Christianity and Islam. These religions have something in common such as the belief of Adam is the first man created and the ancestor of all human beings, Abraham as a prophet, and the Torat as a revelation of God. Nevertheless there are also some significance differences among them.
Judaism is a tribal religion that can only confessed by a Jew tribe. This religion could not be spread to Non Jew. That is why the number of its follower is only a few. Around 14 million people in the world. Meanwhile the Christianity and Islam are spreading to
all people in the world and confessed by billions of people.
About God
Judaism and Islam regard there is only one God. The Jews call the God as Yahweh which is third singular person means “He who is.” Muslims call God as Allah which is singular form and genderless from ilah (God). In the Quran, chapter Al Ikhlas stated the unity of God:
Say: He is Allah, the One!
Allah, the eternally Besought of all!
He begetteth not nor was begotten.
And there is none comparable unto Him.
Actually in the Bible the Unity of God also stated in the Ten Commandments of God in Exodus 20:20:1 And God spake all these words, saying, I am the LORD thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.3 Thou shalt have no other gods before me. [Exodus 20:1-3]
Though in Judaism and Islam the Monotheism of God is absolute including of God’s essence, in Christianity there is a doctrine named Trinity that says God exists as 3 persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit who are united in one substance or being. The trinity consists of 2 words: Three and Unity. Three is One and One is three.
This concept is contradicted to Al Quran in Chapter Al Ikhlas that says God has no Father or Son. The Bible says:
“The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is blessed for evermore, knoweth that I lie not.”[2 Corinthian 11:31]
“Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort” [2 Corinthian 1:3]
The Bible verses above clearly said that God is the Father of Lord Jesus Christ. On the other hand, in Islam strictly stated the Oneness of God, that God is one, God has no Father or Son as follows:
“And say: Praise be to Allah, Who hath not taken unto Himself a son, and Who hath no partner in the Sovereignty,nor hath He any protecting friend through dependence. And magnify Him with all magnificence.” [Al Israa’:111]
Allah has no Son or Partner:
“Allah hath not chosen any son, nor is there any God along with Him; else would each God have assuredly championed that which he created, and some of them would assuredly have overcome others. Glorified be Allah above all that they allege.” [Al Mu’minuun:91]
About Jesus
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Terrible, a one-world religion with a one-world god with the economy collapsing around our heads. The book of Revelation is easier to understand as much of what is prophesied is coming to pass each and every day. I'll stick with Jesus as the only way to God, thanks just the same. And I'll call him God, not Allah, who certainly has no son and no wish to recognize Jesus as the Son of God.
Jesus (Isa) A.S. in Islam, and his Second Coming
Muslims do believe that Isa (A.S.) was sent down as a Prophet of Allah (God), but he (Jesus) is not God or Lord, nor the son of God. Muslims do not believe that Isa (A.S.), also known as Jesus by Christians and others, is dead or was ever crucified. We believe that he was raised to heaven and is there, and will descend at the appointed time, end all wars, and bring peace to the world. Like Jesus (A.S.), Muhammad (Peace be upon him) is also a Prophet and Messenger. Muhammed (P.B.U.H.) is the last Prophet, though, and there is none after him. Hence, Islam is the last religion, complete, with the Holy Qur'an as the unchanged and perfect word of God for over 1400 years, as God promised to preserve it till the last day for all of humankind, unlike sacred texts of other religions which have mulitple versions and are "revised" periodically. God, or Allah in Arabic, is Divine and Supreme Being and Creator.
His Descension
He will descend on a Jamaat (group) that will be righteous at the time and comprising of 800 men and 400 women. The people will be preparing for war at the time against Dajjal (the anti-Christ). It will be time for Fajr prayers, and Imam Mahdi will be the Amir (leader). From the darkness of the dawn, a sound will suddenly be heard that "one who listens to your pleas has come" -- the righteous people will look everywhere and their eyes will fall on Isa (A.S.). Briefly, at the time of Fajr, Isa (A.S.) will descend. When descending, Isa (A.S.)'s hands will be on the shoulders of two angels (according to another source (Kab Abrar), a cloud will carry him). On their insistence Hadhrat Isa will introduce himself. He will inquire about their enthusiasm and thoughts on Jihad against Dajjal. Hadhrat Isa (A.S.) will descend on the eastern side near the Minaret in Damascus (or in Baitul-Muqaddus by Imam Mahdi). At the time Imam Mahdi will have proceeded forward to lead the Fajr Salaat. The Iqamat of the Salaat would have been said (already recited) and Imam Mahdi will call Hadhrat Isa (A.S.) for Imamat (to lead the prayer), but he (Hadhrat Isa (A.S.)) will instead tell Imam Mahdi to lead the prayer since the Iqamat of that Salaat has already been said for him. Thus Imam Mahdi will lead the prayer, and Hadhrat Isa (A.S.) will follow him. After the ruku, he will make this statement: "Allah has killed Dajjal and the Muslims have appeared."
The Killing of Dajjal (anti-Christ) and the Victory of the Muslims
After the completion of Fajr Salaat (congregational dawn prayers), Hadhrat Isa (A.S.) will open the door behind him where Dajjal accompanied by 70,000 Yahudis (Jews) will be. He will indicate with his hand to move away between him (Hadhrat Isa (A.S.)) and Dajjal. Dajjal will then see Hadhrat Isa (A.S.). At that time every Kafir on whom the breath of Hadhrat Isa (A.S.) will reach, will die. His breath will reach up to the distance of his eyesight. The Muslims will then come down from the mountains and break loose on the army of Dajjal. There will be war, Dajjal will retreat, and Hadhrat Isa (A.S.) will pursue Dajjal. Hadhrat Isa (A.S.) will have two flexible swords and one shield with him and with these he will kill Dajjal at the Gate of Hudd. He willl show the Muslims the blood of Dajjal which will get on his shield. Eventually the Yahudis will be selected and killed. The swine will be killed and the cross broken. People will revert to Islam. Wars will end, and people will return to their respective countries. One Jamaat (group) of Muslims will remain in his service and companionship.
Hadhrat Isa (A.S.) will go to Fajr Rawha and perform Haj or Umrah (or both) from there. He will also go to the grave of Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) and present his greetings and Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) will reply. People will live comfortable lives. The wall of Yajooj and Majooj (Gog and Magog) will then break.
His Marriage, Death and Deputies
After his descension on earth, Hadhrat Isa (A.S.) will marry. He will have children, and he will remain on earth 19 years after marriage. He will pass away and Muslims will perform his Janaza Salaat and bury him net to Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam). (Tirmidhi)
I know alot of Comoronian people. Islam came to them through Sufi saints of Yemen. Even to this day their mystics dress similarly and revere the saints of Yemen, Hadramaut...
beautiful people and full of spirit.
A Muslim is not a Muslim if he/she doesn't believe in Jesus. But Muslims do not believe Jesus to be God simply because he has no father. Adam has no father; Mecheesedec has no father too, why you CHristian doent woship them? The whole world knows the status of the Bible - contradicts itself, totally unacceptable to modern science, containing pornograpy, the other Bible does not identical with the rest of versions King James, International Edition, Standard Revised Version etc). A book containing 'pornography' - yet you called it word of God !.. It is riddled with corruption, interpolation men..open your eyes, your heart ! Although it contains many intact verses that we mUslim believe, but irresposible hand of Paul and Peter (perhaps many more) made it book of contradiction, book of the "most confused ever printed in the world" (quote Sir William Campbell). Listen to Bart Ehrman (a scholar who teach religion at North Carolina University, Chapel Hill. Please listen on Youtube anytime.. Listen to former priest Yusus Estes (now Muslim preacher). Ponder again the status of the Bible. Heavily corrupted. Listen to Ahmad Deedat (a Bible Muslim scholar) as well.
Many more Christians of scolar status - Dr. Ingrid Mattson, Dr. Jeremiah McAuliffe, Dr. Jefry Lang, Dr. Gary Miller, and many more. Why they left christianity ? You lose nothing just to listen ! Visit them on Youtube live.
Poor Christians been fooled by the church for 2000 years, it is time to know the truth, READ AL QURAN , the most positive book in the world,the final word of God,you owe it to yourself and your offspring!
Bible proven wrong yet again.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wDrObm8aotM
, 2009
Yo Christians ! God does not come out of a vagina !
I do not mean to be rude to Christians. But desparate times needs desparate measures.Religious people need a heavy dose of the philosophy of Truth not just from their point of view but through other sources too.We cannot improve ourself without listening to our critics.Others are a mirror unto us.Religion has been called the opium of the people before and would be called the same nowadays. That is because religion cannot solve the economic problems of this world, never mind not solving the war problems that it created.The truth is religions of the world fall short of our expectations in an incredulous way.So bear with me as I take thee to reaffirm the real Truth.
You Christians say that God is "one and three".You say that Jesus and the Holy Spirit is God too besides God.This "Christian Truth" leaves a lot of questions unanswered
The following are the questions :-
1)how can Jesus be God if he is born out of the womb and vigina of his Mother???
Are you saying a mortal woman gave birth to God ,who is Jesus ,who is the Holy Spirit all at once??? And yet she is not God but a mortal woman. By Allah that is certainly mind boglingly illogical!!!Have you been conned by your priest ???
2)The bible says he was tempted by the Devil/Satan.How can God who owns all of the Kingdoms and Cosmos be tempted by Satan??? This again is mind boglingly illogical.
Is the Bible really Gods words???
I would agree to Christians using the word Allah if you can answer all the questions above. Otherwise you definitely don't deserve to use the word Allah,which means one God. Your God is Three God so it is more appropiate to call your God Trillah instead of Allah.
My appologies to all my Christian brothers and sisters. This is just an intellectual debate and a constructive criticism. We differ in our defination of God but that does not mean we cannot agree to a resolution to solve the economic and war problems in our own backyard and all over the world.
The way foward is as Allah says in the Quran 39:19 "Listen to all views.Choose the best.These are the guided,the intelligent."
Listen to all views means the views of Muslims,Hindu,Bhuddist,Christians,Jews,Communist,Socialist etc,etc. If the views are good it is Godly and Divine.
Yeah,yeah! We must have love for each other too. As the Malay proverb say "Sayang isteri tinggal2kan,Sayang anak pukul2kan"(Love your wife withdraw sometimes,Love your kid beat them sometimes) and as Pakyeh proverb goes "Sayang orang Christian,Muslim,Hindu,Bhuddist,kritik2kan"(Love the Christians,Muslims,Hindu,Bhuddist,criticise them).
Have a nice day. Peace.
Posted by pak yeh