Vietnam-- Seven Christians from a Vietnamese hill tribe are sentenced to prison until 2011. Among them, a church leader received 10 years for seeking asylum in Cambodia last year. The men were found guilty of multiple charges, including "undermining state and Communist Party policy."

Philippines -- Abu Sayyaf militants are reportedly targeting foreign and local businessmen and tourists for ransom or murder.

International Aid's Billy Teninty says, "We try to facilitate everything we do through Christian organizations or through the local church. And so, our primary partner there is a Christian non-profit organization. We partner with them both in this training program in medical equipment repair, and in other relief works."

In providing medical help for missions needs, Teninty asks for prayers. He remarked, "It's a new work, so we would ask for prayers just for the Lord's protection and Lord's blessing on the work. We've got an excellent staff that are there as project coordinators. But, do be praying for us; be praying for the people of the Philippines. There's a lot going on in the country that people are concerned about."

By Pauline C.