Attack on CITA Ministry’s Daughter Church in Ethiopia

On the night of January 29, unknown assailants attacked and ransacked a daughter church of the Christ Is the Answer (CITA) ministry in the Welkait region of southern Ethiopia. Preliminary reports suggest that members of local Muslim groups may have been involved. An official investigation is ongoing.

According to Erubal Mulatu, senior minister of CITA ministry in Ethiopia, the attackers broke through the main gate and entrance doors, damaged the fence, and destroyed tables and all chairs.

They slashed banners, tore and burned Bibles, and stole all church documents.

“We are now planning to restore the church building. For now, gatherings are being held in the homes of church members. We are looking to rent another space and purchase some materials, so we are praying for financial support,” Erubal stated.

He believes this attack happened because the area is home to a majority of aggressively religious individuals. However, in other places where CITA churches operate in Ethiopia, such issues have not occurred.

“Despite what happened, we continue doing what we have always done—preaching the Gospel with even greater determination. Suffering is part of the Gospel; the Bible speaks of this in John 16:33. If we are spiritual, we will experience suffering in this world. But God is with us, so we remain steadfast and move forward,” shared the senior minister of CITA in Ethiopia.

Taras Sen, director of Christ Is the Answer Ministries, issued a call for support for the missionaries in Ethiopia:

“The ministry has planted 31 churches in Ethiopia, some of them in Muslim-majority regions where Christians often face hostility from Muslims and followers of other religions. Our missionaries have no intention of fleeing. Let us support them in prayer, asking for God’s protection, strength, and courage to continue preaching. God is mighty to intervene. Also, please pray for the restoration of church property. Thank you all for your support.”

CITA ministry launched its work in Ethiopia in 2021, establishing a church, a missionary center, and a media department. In February 2025, the ministry will host its 11th Gospel crusade.

CITA Ministry Press Center