In a tragic turn of events, a young Egyptian Christian’s steadfast faith has culminated in a harrowing loss. Milad Malak, a 20-year-old deacon from Egypt, was reportedly killed by ISIS militants in Libya after he refused to abandon his Christian beliefs and convert to Islam.
According to Open Doors, Malak was the only Christian among the group of Egyptian workers captured by ISIS. Despite enduring days of torture, he remained resolute in his faith. “Even if you cut me into pieces, I would never renounce my faith,” he reportedly told his captors, as noted by International Christian Concern.
Malak’s sister, Madonna Malek, recounted to Worthy News that a ransom had been paid for his release. However, his captors retained him due to his faith and subjected him to violence in an attempt to convert him.
Originally from Sebarbay, a village in Egypt’s Gharbia governorate, Malak had traveled to Libya on September 2 with two Muslim friends seeking employment. The group arrived in Zliten, Libya, but was captured by ISIS on October 4. His companions were released after a ransom payment and are now receiving medical care in Egypt.
Malak’s untimely death was confirmed to his family by the released friends. Efforts were made to retrieve his body, which was eventually returned weeks later. A gathering of mourners, including relatives and fellow Christians, paid tribute to his unwavering faith on October 28.
Libya ranks ninth on Open Doors’ World Watch List for countries where Christians face severe persecution. The nation has witnessed similar tragedies, such as the 2015 execution of 20 Coptic Christians and a Ghanaian by ISIS. These men were also captured in Libya for their faith and executed when they refused to convert to Islam.
Historically, Egypt and Libya have shared labor exchanges, with many Egyptians moving to Libya for work. However, the ongoing political instability since the 2011 uprising has exacerbated risks for foreign workers.
The Coptic Orthodox Church, the largest Christian community in Egypt, has recognized the sacrifices of such individuals. Coptic Christians, including Malak, have been acknowledged as martyrs by both Pope Tawadros II and Pope Francis.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
