Persecuted Believers
1 Corinthians 12:26 says, “...we are one body. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.”
As a church we have learned Christians are the most persecuted religious group worldwide. An average of 180 Christians around the world are killed each month for their faith,[i] with over 100 million Christians persecuted worldwide.[ii]
Our hearts break for our brothers and sisters and in response to these difficulties, we feel a clear call to PRAY FOR and ENCOURAGE Persecuted Believers. We want to stand with those in persecution, let them know they are not forgotten, and above all, continue to lift them up before our Lord. Following is a sample prayer to use:
Lord,
Please be near our persecuted brothers and sisters. Provide them with the hope and peace only you can give. Holy Spirit please strengthen them and assure them of your unending love and final victory. Please have your hand of protection over them. Please give them courage, wisdom and boldness as they live as your light and witness in a threatening context. When they feel alone or are in danger please stir us to pray for them and remember them for we are one body. Amen.
As a church, we respond by supporting ministries and investing in relationships with the persecuted church in various parts of the Middle East and around the globe. Here in Red Deer we create opportunities for our congregation to pray and be updated from specific believers we know who need the cover of prayer. In all of this, as a recognition of the very real danger to our friends, details of the ministries are sensitive and will be shared accordingly.
[i] Open Doors USA
[ii] Reuters
