Libyan Christians Keeping Low Profile After Gadhafi's Death

Following the death of former Libyan dictator Moammar Gadhafi last week, the nation's small minority of persecuted Christians are continuing to keep a low profile, according to Open Doors USA. Under Gadhafi's rule, a tight security system monitored Christians and Muslims alike -- foreign Christians were allowed to express their faith publicly but Christian converts from Muslim backgrounds feared repercussions from relatives or the security service; they stayed quiet and suspicious, not knowing who they could trust or speak to about their faith. Carl Moeller, president of Open Doors, says it's unlikely the situation for Christians will change now. With the announcement this week that Islamic sharia law will be the main source of legislation for the new government, "Libya will certainly not experience a democracy like many countries in the West," Moeller said. "Without total freedom of religion, a democracy cannot function. It is vital that we continue to pray for these persecuted Christians and the future of the country."