Gulnur Yimit issues call to prayer for husband Alimjan

On 28 October 2009, Gulnur's husband, house church leader Alimjan Yimit, was sentenced to 15 years in prison charged with 'providing state secrets to overseas organisations'.

Once a Muslim, Alimjan became a Christian more than 10 years ago and was soon active in the growing Uyghur church. He was initially arrested in January 2008 on an alleged national security issue and accused of using his business as a cover for 'preaching Christianity'.

Since his arrest, Gulnur and their two children (aged 5 and 8) have not been allowed to see Alimjan. Gulnur has found the situation extremely difficult, but she has been deeply moved by the letters of support the family has received from Christians around the world. "I am so touched that the world has not forgotten or abandoned us," she said. "This is such an encouragement."

In January she issued a video call to prayer for her husband. Here's some of what she said:

"I have been greatly moved by brothers and sisters who after hearing of Alimjan's arrest have been urgently interceding in prayer. Thank you so much. It is this that has sustained Alimjan and our family's strength and enabled us to miraculously keep walking to this day.

"During these trying two years, we have suffered much. Many times I felt helpless, weak to the point of not being able to lift myself off the floor, but the Lord through Romans 5:2-5 spoke to me.

"It was not just once that in tears I asked God, 'Why do you want to separate us? Even two years is still not enough, you want to add 13 more years?' Every night I can hear my son pray, 'Lord Jesus, you said if only two or three are gathered in prayer, you will answer their prayer, but there are now so many people praying together for Daddy and he still can't come back.'

"Now, Alim's case is at the appeal stage. This judgment will be the final verdict. I have watched my children hold on to the hope day and night that their daddy can soon return home. As a mother, I really do not want to see that look of disappointment on their faces again.

"Dear brothers and sisters, I earnestly hope you will once again offer up your most fervent prayers and move the hand of God to change this present situation. Grace be with you."

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