Update 16 12.15: On Wednesday spokesperson for the Light Presbyterian Church issued press release.

“The family and the church leadership are aware of the trial and sentence. We entreat the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea to remember Reverend Lim’s heart for the people of the DPRK. The family and the church hope for a demonstration of mercy and compassion. Finally, we ask the global community for your continued support in prayers.”

A Korean-Canadian pastor detained in North Korea was sentenced to a life of hard labor on Wednesday for numerous charges, including attempting to overthrow the North Korean government, AP Pyongyang