NORTH AFRICA — Sarah* in North Africa has twice been thrown out of her home, simply because she loves Jesus. As a woman, she is particularly vulnerable – throwing her out endangered her.
Around the world, millions of women from religious minorities face persecution for their faith and their gender. Find out her story and how Open Doors provided vital help that enables her to stay strong in her faith.
Sarah:
“I’ve never forgotten that miraculous day. It was the day I prayed to welcome Jesus into my life. I was 16 feeling very nervous about my life. I remember passing by a church building. Out of curiosity, I entered the building to explore thinking I wouldn’t find any locals there, but I was surprised to find local Christians worshiping. That’s when my life with Christ began.”
Sarah was raised in a strict Muslim family in North Africa
“My father discovered I was a Christian when he found my Bible under a sofa. He beat me and insulted me calling me an ‘apostate.’ He wanted to wait for my brother so they’d kill me. I felt very worried, so I decided to pack my things and leave the house that night.”
As a woman on her own Sarah was extremely vulnerable. Through her church and Open Doors partners she was able to find somewhere safe to stay.
“My family spread negative rumors about me claiming I escaped with a man. All they said was they wouldn’t welcome me back home until I had a proper wedding.”
Through a friend Sarah met a man who seemed to accept her Christian faith. He asked to marry her.
“Since the first week of our marriage I was being beaten and insulted. I felt despicable like a prisoner locked in a house to serve him and satisfy him. That was my life then. There was a day when he was so aggressive that he beat me a lot and threw me out.”
Thankfully Open Doors partners are supporting Sarah as she rebuilds her life – with aid, discipleship and a job.
Sarah wants all believers to pray that every Christian woman in North Africa would receive the same help and encouragement that she has encountered.
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*Name changed for security purposes.
About Open Doors UK
For over 60 years, Open Doors UK has worked in the world’s most oppressive countries, empowering Christians who are persecuted for their beliefs. Open Doors equips persecuted Christians in more than 60 countries through programs like Bible & Gospel Development, Women & Children Advancement, and Christian Community Restoration.
Sources:
- Global News Alliance, Helping North African Persecuted Women Stay Strong
- Open Doors UK, Official Website