UK churches urged to pray for persecuted Christians during November observance

UK churches are being encouraged to set aside time in November to pray for Christians facing persecution around the world. The call is tied to the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church, which this year is marked on 1 and 8 November. Voice of Persecuted Christians is promoting participation with free resources under the theme “Light in the Darkest Places.”

The organisation said the materials are meant to help congregations move beyond general awareness of persecution and pray about specific situations facing Christian communities. The collection is intended for churches, small groups and individuals. It includes stories from Christians in Kenya, India and Ethiopia, suggested prayer points, a Bible reading, and guidance on how Christians can respond. It also contains an adaptable PowerPoint presentation and a Bible talk outline based on John 1:1–5. A six-minute film about Christians in Ethiopia is available through the organisation’s website.

One testimony highlighted in the resources is that of Sultan, a Christian convert. According to Voice of Persecuted Christians, Sultan was attacked after his family learned of his change of faith. The organisation says his father assaulted him with a metal bar, and that he was later beaten by a mob, which also set fire to his Bible, clothing and other possessions. Despite the violence, Sultan has since committed his life to spreading the gospel, and he says his ministry has led many others to embrace Christianity. Reflecting on his situation, he said, “If I carry this burden for the gospel, then the gospel can reach the whole world,” and added, “We are full of joy even though there is persecution.” Sultan’s suffering and his continuing witness are presented in the material as a point of comfort for those who pray for him (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).

The organisation is also preparing for a UK visit by its Ethiopian partner, Moti, who leads 10/40 Ministries in Ethiopia. According to the source, his ministry includes church planting, discipleship, leadership training and assistance for Christians experiencing persecution, particularly in areas where there are relatively few Christians.

Moti is expected to begin a speaking tour of the UK in November, during which he will share about Christian ministry and persecution in Ethiopia.

Source: Read the original report