DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO — Stephanie* was 18 years old when members of the ADF, an Islamic extremists group in the Democratic Republic of Congo, targeted her town. After five months in captivity, she escaped and walked to freedom. Although she is still recovering from her ordeal, she can still see God’s provision in her… Continue reading Stephanie Escapes from Islamic Extremists in DRC
Results for "Islam"
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Kenya Student Disabled Following Islamist Attack
KENYA — In 2015, Islamist terrorists attacked Garissa University in Kenya, leaving 148 people dead. Many victims were, like Ronald, Christian students who were singled out by the gunmen. Ronald shares some of the difficulties he has encountered since the attack. Ronald Moranga Magembe: “My name is Ronald Moranga Magembe a former Garissa University student,… Continue reading Kenya Student Disabled Following Islamist Attack
Alarming Rise in Islamist Violence Against Christians in Nigeria
NIGERIA — A new report highlights the alarming scale of rising violence in Nigeria as terrorists attempt to Islamise the nation — Much of that violence is directed against Christians. Andrew Boyd reports. Release International has warned that Nigeria is fast becoming a persecution hotspot. And Open Doors estimates more Christians are killed there than… Continue reading Alarming Rise in Islamist Violence Against Christians in Nigeria
Nigeria’s Government Agrees: Islamist Terrorists Target Christians | Christianity Today
NIGERIA – The Nigerian government now agrees with what church leaders have been complaining for years: Christians are the target of jihadist terrorism. “In the wake of a renewed onslaught by our tireless military against Boko Haram and their ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province) allies in recent times, the insurgents have apparently changed their… Continue reading Nigeria’s Government Agrees: Islamist Terrorists Target Christians | Christianity Today
Facing the Islamic Challenge
CHINO, CA – Have you ever wondered what Muslims believe? Have you ever wanted to know how to answer their objections to Christianity? Ministry to Muslims has been active for the last 20 years by training Christians in apologetics and polemics and leading outreaches all over the United States. We would like to offer you… Continue reading Facing the Islamic Challenge
The Islamabad Declaration
ISLAMABAD – News agencies out of Pakistan reported today that a petition has been filed in the Supreme Court requesting the imposition of Sharia Law as the governing law in Pakistan. Meanwhile, 500 senior Muslim leaders signed the Islamabad Declaration which denounces Islamic terrorism, violence committed in the name of religion, and fatwas issued by… Continue reading The Islamabad Declaration
Islamic State Lost Almost a Quarter of its Territory in 2016
By Nadavspi In-between the beginning of 2016 and the end, a land a little smaller than the state of Florida was recaptured by Iraqi and Syrian forces. Per Newsweek, “This means ISIS lost control of almost 18,000 square kilometers (6,900 square miles) over the last 12 months, bringing the totality of the landmass it holds… Continue reading Islamic State Lost Almost a Quarter of its Territory in 2016
Sudan pastors put on trial by Islamic-oriented government
Two Presbyterian pastors are on trial in the Republic of the Sudan on charges of waging war against the state, espionage, and undermining Sudan’s constitutional system. Each faces the death penalty if convicted. Sudan is holding two others, Czech aid worker Petr Jasek and Darfuri human rights activist Abduelmoneim Abdulmawla, on charges… Continue reading Sudan pastors put on trial by Islamic-oriented government
Challenge to Islam’s status as Bangladesh’s state religion rejected
Bangladesh’s High Court on March 27, 2016, rejected a 28-year-old petition to remove Islam from the constitution as the nation’s official religion. The constitutional challenge followed repeated attacks on non-Muslims by Islamic extremists in Bangladesh, the world’s third largest Muslim-majority nation. ISIS recently claimed responsibility for the murder of a Christian convert in northern Bangladesh,… Continue reading Challenge to Islam’s status as Bangladesh’s state religion rejected
Imprisoned, Sacked and Forced to Flee Iran
IRAN — Simin* from Iran has experienced hostility from the authorities, her work and even her own family. But her faith in Jesus is undiminished. Today, helped by Open Doors, she’s found a way to channel her experiences into helping other women back in her homeland, Iran. Simin*: With nothing but a little cash in… Continue reading Imprisoned, Sacked and Forced to Flee Iran
Christian Communities Living in Fear in Uganda
SYRIA — In Uganda, fear and attacks from Islamic ADF militants are increasing. But thanks to your prayers, local Open Doors partners are supporting affected Christians with trauma counselling and spiritual support. *Names changed for security reasons Edward Bamcwanira – Retired Bishop, East Rwenzori Diocese: We are living in fear. And whoever says there is… Continue reading Christian Communities Living in Fear in Uganda
Calls for Pakistan’s New Government to Protect Christians
PAKISTAN — Pakistan is expecting a change of government following recent elections. And one challenge that will face the new Prime Minister and his party will be to protect the country’s Christian minority from violence. The violence is often linked with accusations of blasphemy, as Andrew Boyd from Release International reports. There are calls for… Continue reading Calls for Pakistan’s New Government to Protect Christians
Global Audience Hears Stirring Stories from Persecuted Christians During The Voice of the Martyrs’ “I Am N” Event
BARTLESVILLE, OK — “Persecution is real, and it is biblical, and Jesus told us we will face persecution in this world,” said Pastor Hassan Abduraheem during The Voice of the Martyrs’ “I Am N” Virtual Event earlier this month. During the online event, Hassan and two other survivors of Muslim extremism shared their inspiring stories… Continue reading Global Audience Hears Stirring Stories from Persecuted Christians During The Voice of the Martyrs’ “I Am N” Event
Friends of Kidnapped Leah Sharibu Share How She’s Encouraged Them
NIGERIA, AFRICA — On the sixth anniversary of Leah Sharibu’s kidnapping in Nigeria, friends of kidnapped share how they’ve been encouraged by her courageous faith – and how they’re hopeful they’ll one day see her again. Leah Sharibu’s Friends: Leah is like a sister to me, a very good friend. At the boarding school, we… Continue reading Friends of Kidnapped Leah Sharibu Share How She’s Encouraged Them
Nigerian Pastor Receives Trauma Counselling Following Family Loss
NIGERIA — In May 2023, Pastor Zachariah returned home to find his wife and son had been killed in an attack by Fulani militants. His home had also been burnt to the ground. To help him deal with his devastating loss, Nigerian Pastor Zachariah received trauma counselling and practical support from Open Doors partners. It… Continue reading Nigerian Pastor Receives Trauma Counselling Following Family Loss
Survivors of Nigeria Christmas Eve Attack Share Their Stories
NIGERIA, AFRICA — On Christmas Eve, Islamic militants attacked several Christian villages in Plateau State, Nigeria. The attacks went into the early hours of Christmas Day, and at least 113 people were killed. Many more were injured or have lost their homes. In this video, recorded by Open Doors local partners in the region, Nigeria… Continue reading Survivors of Nigeria Christmas Eve Attack Share Their Stories
Iraqi Brothers Find Safety in Lebanon
LEBANON — Often when someone converts to Christianity in Iraq particularly from a Muslim background it can mean a death sentence even threats to your life from your own family. That was the case for two Iraqi brothers who were forced to flee for their lives. But Christian charity Help The Persecuted was able to… Continue reading Iraqi Brothers Find Safety in Lebanon
Open Doors’ World Watch List for 2024
NORTH KOREA — The Open Doors World Watch List 2024 ranks the countries where Christians count the highest cost for following Jesus. These are the 5 countries where Christians face the most extreme persecution. Could praying put you in danger? Could going to church risk your life? Could following Jesus cost you your job, your… Continue reading Open Doors’ World Watch List for 2024
Mary’s Testimony: A Christian Kidnapped in Nigeria by Extremists
NIGERIA, AFRICA — Mary*, 20 years old, was in church when Fulani militants attacked. In her village in northwestern Nigeria, there is always the threat of attacks from Islamic extremists. However, this does not prepare the community for the reality of experiencing an attack. Mary*: They attack Christians because we worship Jesus and they want… Continue reading Mary’s Testimony: A Christian Kidnapped in Nigeria by Extremists
Nigeria’s Kidnapping Epidemic Targets Christians
NIGERIA — New reports highlight the growing kidnapping crisis in Nigeria, where Christians are regarded as soft targets for abduction. Release International is calling on Nigeria to protect vulnerable Christian communities. Andrew Boyd has the details. New reports confirm that Christians are being targeted for kidnap and ransom in Nigeria, sometimes by bandits hungry for… Continue reading Nigeria’s Kidnapping Epidemic Targets Christians
Iran’s Warning to Christians
IRAN — The upsurge in violence in the Middle East has led to claims that Iran has been active behind the scenes in supporting the Hamas group that attacked Israel. A new report also accuses Iran of putting pressure on Christians to keep away from the country’s hijab protests. It warns that Christians who are… Continue reading Iran’s Warning to Christians
Challenges and Triumphs of Christians on the ancient Silk Road
CENTRAL ASIA — A journey along the ancient Silk Road in Central Asia. Experience the rich culture and traditions that define Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkmenistan, while maintaining a balance between ethnic diversity and the unity fostered by their authoritarian regimes, Muslim traditions, and strong family bonds. Immerse yourself in the moving stories of… Continue reading Challenges and Triumphs of Christians on the ancient Silk Road
Traore’s Story – Surviving a Jihadist Attack Fatherless in Burkina Faso
BURKINA FASO — Almost two million people in Burkina Faso have been displaced by extremist violence. Many are Christian widows and orphans. Traore* (17) is one of them. He moved to a safer area after a jihadist attack brought tragic loss to his family. Traore*: Sometimes, my heart is broken when I think about my… Continue reading Traore’s Story – Surviving a Jihadist Attack Fatherless in Burkina Faso
Farah’s Return to the Nineveh Plains
IRAQ — Farah was just one of around 70,000 Christians who fled to Erbil to escape the advancement of so-called Islamic State in 2014. When she returned, Open Doors partners helped her to restore her home and business in Nineveh Plains. Farah can well recall the day in 2014 when her family fled their home… Continue reading Farah’s Return to the Nineveh Plains
The Testimony of Abdiwelli Ahmed Stands Out on the Day of the Christian Martyr
SOMALIA —According to the tradition of the Church, June 29th marked the martyrdom of the apostle Paul. This year, several Christians around the world took time on June 29th and throughout that weekend to honor the legacy of those who sacrificed their lives for the advancement of the Gospel.Abdiwelli Ahmed descended from a long line… Continue reading The Testimony of Abdiwelli Ahmed Stands Out on the Day of the Christian Martyr
Four Persecuted Christian Women Shared Powerful Stories During Hearts of Fire Virtual Event from The Voice of the Martyrs
BARTLESVILLE, OK — “I love you and I forgive you,” Anita Smith said to husband Ronnie’s murderers during a national TV interview. Her Christlike words riveted reporters and inspired believers worldwide as they saw her faith in action after her husband was killed while living and working in Libya on mission to show Christ. Anita’s… Continue reading Four Persecuted Christian Women Shared Powerful Stories During Hearts of Fire Virtual Event from The Voice of the Martyrs
The Voice of the Martyrs Recognizes Somali Christian on 2023 Day of the Christian Martyr
BARTLESVILLE, OK — Christians around the world will observe Day of the Christian Martyr on June 29, 2023. In advance of Day of the Christian Martyr, The Voice of the Martyrs has released strategic prayer resources and a short video highlighting the life and legacy of Abdiwelli Ahmed, an ethnic Somali Christian killed for his… Continue reading The Voice of the Martyrs Recognizes Somali Christian on 2023 Day of the Christian Martyr
Ugandan School Massacre Claims 37 Lives
UGANDA — At least 37 schoolchildren have been killed in an attack in Uganda by militants linked to the Islamic State terror group. Militants linked to Islamic State have carried out a massacre at a boarding school in western Uganda, killing and kidnapping students. It’s been described as the deadliest attack in Uganda since 2010.… Continue reading Ugandan School Massacre Claims 37 Lives
Habiba’s Healing from Traumatic Kidnapping
BURKINA FASO, WEST AFRICA — When she was 13 years old, Habiba* was kidnapped by Islamic extremists in Burkino Faso. She eventually escaped, but she is still haunted by the traumatic memories of the kidnapping. *Name changed for security reasons Habiba*: I still remember the scene.I can’t sleep at night. I have nightmares. Sometimes I… Continue reading Habiba’s Healing from Traumatic Kidnapping
Nine Years Since Nigeria Kidnappings
NIGERIA — In the 2014 Nigeria kidnappings, Boko Haram kidnapped over 270 girls from their school in Chibok in northern Nigeria. Nine years on, nearly 100 girls are still missing, and their parents are in agony. Open Doors speaks to those mothers and fathers as they continue to deal with the trauma of their children… Continue reading Nine Years Since Nigeria Kidnappings
Mother’s Letter to Leah Sharibu on Her 20th Birthday
NIGERIA — This month, Leah Sharibu from Nigeria turns 20. Her teenage years were spent mostly in captivity after bravely refusing to renounce Jesus after she was among more than 100 girls kidnapped in February 2018. Open Doors caught up with her mother, Rebecca, to find out how she and her husband are doing as… Continue reading Mother’s Letter to Leah Sharibu on Her 20th Birthday
Displaced Christians in Komanda, DRC receive aid
KOMANDA — Violence is continuing to displace Christians in the Democratic Republic of Congo – but believers have not been forgotten. Thanks to the charity Open Doors displaced Christians in Komanda have received food and other relief aid. Man: It’s clear that the displaced people suffer enormously. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, ADF, an… Continue reading Displaced Christians in Komanda, DRC receive aid
Christians in Afghanistan Suffer Persecution Due to the Taliban
AFGHANISTAN — After the takeover of the country by the Taliban, Afghan Christians share their reality and needs. On August 15, 2021, the Taliban reached the capital of Afghanistan, Kabul, in the final step towards complete military takeover of the country. Later that month, the US military forces withdrew from the country, and the nation… Continue reading Christians in Afghanistan Suffer Persecution Due to the Taliban
Warnings of Further Humanitarian Crisis in Nigeria
NIGERIA — As violence escalates in Nigeria, there are warnings of a humanitarian crisis in the making. Partners of UK-based Release International, which serves persecuted Christians worldwide, warn if the new government doesn’t stop the violence, Christians will leave the country in droves. According to reports more Christians are killed for their faith each year… Continue reading Warnings of Further Humanitarian Crisis in Nigeria
Women Advocate for Religious Freedom in Iran and the Middle East
LOS ANGELES — Continuing the work of the Abraham Accords, the Marrakesh Forum (June 6-7, 2023) will gather leaders to build public awareness about the benefits of multi-faith collaboration, highlighting religious liberty and women’s rights. Seeking to promote peaceful pluralism, the women influencers will share the benefits of religious tolerance and equal citizenship. Government, academic,… Continue reading Women Advocate for Religious Freedom in Iran and the Middle East
Nadia Sees Prayer as Spiritual Bridge to Others in the Arabian Peninsula
ARABIA — In the Arabian Peninsula, with its predominantly Islamic faith and culture, choosing to follow Christ can be costly. Nadia* struggled with loneliness and isolation when she became a Christian – but she has seen the impact of prayer. *Name changed for security reasons. Nadia*, name changed for security purposes: If I look back… Continue reading Nadia Sees Prayer as Spiritual Bridge to Others in the Arabian Peninsula
Iranian Christian Woman Helps Other Persecuted Believers in Turkey
TURKEY — When Sahar became a Christian in Iran, she lost everything – her husband, her children and her freedom. But she never let go of God, and now she lives in Turkey, ministering to women who are going through similar situations for their faith. *Name changed for security purposes. Sahar* – Iranian Christian: I… Continue reading Iranian Christian Woman Helps Other Persecuted Believers in Turkey
Persecuted Christians in South Asia Bravely Translating Bible with Help from Wycliffe Associates
ORLANDO, FL — Wycliffe Associates, an international organization that empowers mother-tongue Bible translators and partners with local churches in the advancement of Bible translation, will participate in a New Testament dedication in South Asia nation (undisclosed for security reasons) this month, which is the first completed Bible translation project in a minority language. Local Bible… Continue reading Persecuted Christians in South Asia Bravely Translating Bible with Help from Wycliffe Associates
Why Are so Many Christians Killed in Nigeria?
NIGERIA — More Christians are killed for their faith in Nigeria than in the rest of the world combined. Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) faces a vast humanitarian catastrophe, as a wave of religiously motivated violence nurtured in Nigeria has swept across the region, targeting Christian populations at an alarming rate in countries like Burkina Faso, Cameroon,… Continue reading Why Are so Many Christians Killed in Nigeria?
The Voice of the Martyrs’ 2023 Global Prayer Guide Says Four African Nations Hostile to the Gospel
BARTLESVILLE, OK — Four more African countries have been added to the list of the world’s most dangerous and difficult places to follow Christ. The Voice of the Martyrs (VOM) added and designated Benin, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mozambique and Niger as “hostile” nations in their annual 2023 Global Prayer Guide. VOM added… Continue reading The Voice of the Martyrs’ 2023 Global Prayer Guide Says Four African Nations Hostile to the Gospel
North Korea Tops Open Doors World Watch List
NORTH KOREA — More than 360 million Christians worldwide suffer high levels of persecution and discrimination for their faith – that’s a staggering 1 in 7 believers. Open Doors has launched this year’s World Watch list highlighting the 50 countries where faith costs the most, with North Korea returning to number one as the world’s… Continue reading North Korea Tops Open Doors World Watch List
Calls for World Cup Host Qatar to Embrace Religious Freedom
QATAR — This year, Qatar will become the first Arab nation to ever host the World Cup. But behind the polished veneers of the sparkling stadiums things in Qatar aren’t as pristine as they seem, according to Christian charity Open Doors. Since winning hosting rights for the World Cup more than a decade ago they… Continue reading Calls for World Cup Host Qatar to Embrace Religious Freedom
Iran Alive Ministries Partners with Channel One to Reach Even More Viewers in Iran
LOS ANGELES, CA — Iran Alive Ministries (IAM) has officially partnered with Channel One (Kanal Yek TV), a Persian TV channel broadcasting from Los Angeles, CA to viewers in Iran, to obtain a primetime slot for IAM’s Gospel-centric programming. “With this partnership, we will gain many new secular-minded audiences who have already rejected Islam, so… Continue reading Iran Alive Ministries Partners with Channel One to Reach Even More Viewers in Iran
Ethiopian Convert Escapes Death
ETHIOPIA — When Ethiopian Daniel*, a staunch follower of Islam, came across a Bible, he decided to read it only so that he could disprove it. But encountering the gospel led him to convert and start following Jesus – and experience persecution from his family. *Name changed for security reasons. Daniel: “People noticed me… Continue reading Ethiopian Convert Escapes Death
Open Doors Enables Mimi’s Family to Stay in Iraq
IRAQ — Mimi (12) was very young when she fled her home in Bartella with her grandparents after so-called Islamic State invaded the Nineveh Plains. Until recently, Mimi’s parents were considering leaving Iraq – until they received a microloan to set up a farm through Open Doors partners. Mimi: “I love Iraq, because it is… Continue reading Open Doors Enables Mimi’s Family to Stay in Iraq
Open Doors Founder and Famed Bible Smuggler ‘Brother Andrew’ Dies at Age 94
SANTA ANA, CA — Anne Van der Bijl, the founder of international nonprofit Open Doors, and known around the world as “Brother Andrew,” died at the age of 94 at his home in the Netherlands, according to a family spokesperson. Brother Andrew was the founder of Open Doors, the oldest worldwide ministry to persecuted Christians.… Continue reading Open Doors Founder and Famed Bible Smuggler ‘Brother Andrew’ Dies at Age 94
Iraqi Christian Mother Separated from Family
QARAQOSH, IRAQ — When Islamic State captured the Christian-majority city of Qaraqosh, Iraq, Sana and her family were trapped in their home for almost three weeks. When they were discovered, Sana and her daughter were separated from Sana’s husband and two sons. Sana never saw them again. But Sana has not given up on God.… Continue reading Iraqi Christian Mother Separated from Family
Ijanada Hopes Again After Boko Haram Kidnapping
WEST AFRICA — Ijanada was a teenager when she was kidnapped by the Islamic militant Boko Haram. When she returned home in West Africa, her community rejected her. Thanks to Open Doors partners she is going through a healing process through trauma care. Ijanada, Boko Haram Survivor, 2019: I faced so much suffering, hunger, mistreatment… Continue reading Ijanada Hopes Again After Boko Haram Kidnapping
Nigerian Church Bigger Than Before Despite Extremist Attacks
NIGERIA — When Pastor Andrew’s community in North East Nigeria was attacked by Boko Haram, he courageously chose to stay and rebuild his church. Now, there are more Christians in the community than before. Find out how Open Doors helped Pastor Andrew to impact his village despite the devastation. Pastor Andrew: “I went out and… Continue reading Nigerian Church Bigger Than Before Despite Extremist Attacks
Social Media Targets Christians in New Kind of Genocide — Noel Yeatts | NewsMax
Noel Yeatts, President of World Help, an international, Christian humanitarian organization serving the needs of the impoverished around the world, discusses the suffering that Christians face, even by those who use social media as a tool to fan the flames of persecution. When you look at lists of the most dangerous places to be a… Continue reading Social Media Targets Christians in New Kind of Genocide — Noel Yeatts | NewsMax