Ugandan Pastor Continues Treatment Following Acid Attack

Religion Today | Updated: Aug 13, 2013

Ugandan Pastor Continues Treatment Following Acid Attack

"I have so far undergone seven surgeries and have three more to go. The next one is scheduled for Aug. 28. It seems like a never-ending battle for me, but I am glad that I have not let it put me down. I have recently been encouraged by visits from some long time Ugandan friends. I also thank you so much for all your prayers and support. Please keep praying for me." These were the words written by Ugandan pastor Umar Mulinde recently from Israel, where he is continuing his stay for the sake of medical treatment. On Dec. 24, 2011, just after a Christmas Eve service at Gospel Life Church outside of Kampala, unknown attackers tossed concentrated acid into his face. Umar told an Open Doors worker who visited him within hours of the attack that he was approaching his car when he heard a voice shouting "Allah Akbar [Allah is greatest]!" Next he felt a stinging sensation in his face, followed by intense burning and eventually excruciating pain. The agony as the acid ate away at his flesh caused him to lose consciousness. He awoke at the Kampala International Hospital, and doctors reported that the acid had badly damaged his skin and some facial bones. It also blinded one eye. From there Umar was flown to Israel for specialized treatment, where he remains. The financial pressures of his situation are a constant concern for Umar, but he is thankful for the help and support he has received from Open Doors and other individuals and organizations. "I am trusting God for a quick recovery, and for the provision in all the needs of my family and ministry," he said. "For sure I have gone through challenging, painful moments of my life but I really thank you for quickly coming to my rescue at my very point of need. God bless you indeed."



Ugandan Pastor Continues Treatment Following Acid Attack