TURKEY — Kouroush* is an Iranian Christian now living in Turkey, after he fled to escape persecution, leaving everything behind. We hear how, with Open Doors’ support, he is now opening a Center of Hope to help care for fellow refugees. Kouroush*, name changed for security purposes: “I didn’t murder anyone. I didn’t steal anything.… Continue reading Persecuted Iranian Christian Opens Refugee Center in Turkey
Results for "Christian Persecution"
We found 477 results for your search.
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
Stories of Christian Martyrdom, Spanning 2000 Years, Documented in New Book by Johnnie Moore, Jerry Pattengale
WASHINGTON, DC — Inspired by the iconic martyrology, Foxe’s Book of Martyrs, Johnnie Moore and Jerry Pattengale spent more than five years researching, excerpting and adding to this iconic work in order to produce an entirely new book which artfully integrates the historic Foxe’s text and modernizes it for a new generation. The New Book… Continue reading Stories of Christian Martyrdom, Spanning 2000 Years, Documented in New Book by Johnnie Moore, Jerry Pattengale
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?
Persecuted Christians in the Middle East Receive Vital Winter Supplies
MIDDLE EAST — As winter continues, persecuted Christians in the Muslim world are facing hunger and bitter cold. When humanitarian aid does make it to these areas for distribution, Christians are overlooked — intentionally left out by authorities because of their faith. They cling fervently to Christ despite all opposition and hardship.In response the Help… Continue reading Persecuted Christians in the Middle East Receive Vital Winter Supplies
Open Doors Urges Believers to Pray On ‘International Day of Prayer’ for Persecuted Christians, Nov. 6
SANTA ANA, CA — This Sunday, November 6, Christians will pray for fellow believers around the world who are suffering for their faith during the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church (IDOP). According to Open Doors’ World Watch List, more than 360 million Christians – 1 in 7 globally – live in places… Continue reading Open Doors Urges Believers to Pray On ‘International Day of Prayer’ for Persecuted Christians, Nov. 6
What Does Life Look Like for a Christian in Afghanistan?
AFGHANISTAN — Baset, a SAT-7 viewer in Afghanistan sent this profoundly moving message describing both the famine and soaring prices affecting everyone in his country and the dangers for anyone suspected of leaving the country’s major religion. Baset: Our lives have changed in Afghanistan. My name is Baset and I am a teacher. But my… Continue reading What Does Life Look Like for a Christian in Afghanistan?
New Open Doors Prayer App Connects American Believers with Persecuted Christians Around the World
SANTA ANA, CA — A new mobile prayer app developed by Christian persecution watchdog, Open Doors USA, gives users the ability to connect with persecuted Christians suffering for their faith. Available for free in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, the Open Doors Prayer App was created to help strengthen and support Christian… Continue reading New Open Doors Prayer App Connects American Believers with Persecuted Christians Around the World
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
Jumagul’s Story: Overcoming Persecution in Central Asia
CENTRAL ASIA — Jumagul’s* story is one of amazing redemption: after becoming a Christian, she was beaten and abused by her husband. But God heard Jumagul’s prayers and transformed her husband – and her marriage. After her husband’s death, Jumagul continues to follow Jesus – despite persecution from her local community. Jumagul* lives in a… Continue reading Jumagul’s Story: Overcoming Persecution in Central Asia
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
Ukrainian Christians Harassed by Russian Separatists
UKRAINE — As the front lines of war in Ukraine keep shifting, Christians from a number of Protestant churches in areas now under Russian separatist control are reporting harassment from soldiers and officials. Some say they have been forced to leave their buildings. Church leaders believe the Russians regard all Protestant churches as planted by… Continue reading Ukrainian Christians Harassed by Russian Separatists
Eritrean Christian Mother is Left Alone While Husband is Imprisoned
ERITREA — Twenty years ago, the Eritrean government brought in restrictions that allowed only Orthodox, Catholic and Lutheran churches. When Yael* was 8 months pregnant, her husband was imprisoned for belonging to another Christian denomination. But even during that time of trial, Yael knows that she was sustained by God and by the prayers of… Continue reading Eritrean Christian Mother is Left Alone While Husband is Imprisoned
Expert Helps Christian Journalists, Aid Workers ‘Understand Each Other’ in a Crisis
CHARLOTTE, NC — One of the nation’s leading experts in Christian media and crisis communications will help faith-based journalists and humanitarian aid workers decipher each other’s roles at a groundbreaking “crisis summit” this month. Veteran journalist and crisis communications specialist Palmer Holt, founder of InChrist Communications (ICC, www.inchristcommunications.com), will speak on “Getting the Best News… Continue reading Expert Helps Christian Journalists, Aid Workers ‘Understand Each Other’ in a Crisis
The Church is Growing Fast in Eritrea Despite Growing Persecution
ERITREA — Last month marked 20 years since the Eritrean government closed all churches that were not Orthodox, Catholic or Lutheran. It’s led to extreme persecution and one of the reasons Eritrea is at number six on the Open Doors World Watch List. In this video, three Eritrean Christians give a short insight into what… Continue reading The Church is Growing Fast in Eritrea Despite Growing Persecution
ChinaAid Releases Report Detailing Persecution and Key Findings for 2021
MIDLAND, TX — ChinaAid released its 2021 Annual Report, detailing persecution and key findings for the year. ChinaAid works closely with sources in China to expose abuses of human rights, religious freedom, and rule of law since 2002. While not an exhaustive list of cases, ChinaAid’s research represents one of the most comprehensive and accurate… Continue reading ChinaAid Releases Report Detailing Persecution and Key Findings for 2021
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
North African Convert Endures Persecution
NORTH AFRICA — Latifa’s* family threw her out of the house and even threatened to kill her after she became a Christian. Thankfully, she married a Christian man and Open Doors partners have found a place for them to live away from the persecution. But Latifa is still suffering from the rejection she experienced. Latifa*… Continue reading North African Convert Endures Persecution
Isolated Christians in Middle East Turn to New Streaming Service
EASTON, MD — Isolated Christians in the Middle East, including many struggling to survive, are using their smartphones to connect with other believers on the region’s first-ever faith-based video-on-demand service. Since launching a year ago, SAT-7 PLUS — a Netflix-type service of faith-based programs 24/7 in Arabic, Farsi and Turkish across the Middle East and… Continue reading Isolated Christians in Middle East Turn to New Streaming Service
Gulshan: Secret Christian From Afghanistan
AFGHANISTAN — It’s now more than six months since the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan. While tens of thousands have fled Afghanistan since the Taliban took control of the country in August 2021, those who remain continue to watch, wait and suffer. The United Nations recently released a report which stated that 400 civilians have… Continue reading Gulshan: Secret Christian From Afghanistan
Christian Aid Mission Helps Desperate Single Mother in North Africa
AFRICA — A single mother of three in dire need, Shahd* was desperate when she called the national missionary supported by Christian Aid Mission. The missionary responded with compassionate aid and support, providing Shahd with the means to establish her own business and empowering her to provide for her family. According to the mission organization,… Continue reading Christian Aid Mission Helps Desperate Single Mother in North Africa
Life as a Persecuted Christian in North Korea: Bae’s Story
NORTH KOREA — North Korean Persecuted Christian Bae* was sentenced to a lifetime of backbreaking labour and starvation rations – just for having a Bible. If you were to see Bae* during the day, you’d assume that her work was picking crops. Every morning in the village she’s forced to live in, Bae spends the… Continue reading Life as a Persecuted Christian in North Korea: Bae’s Story
Christian Kids and Youth Cling to ‘Digital Lifeline’ in Afghanistan and Iran
EASTON, MD — Children as young as 4 are risking their lives in Afghanistan because they want to “meet Jesus” and talk to other Christians, even as they hide from the Taliban. Desperate for hope, thousands of young children and teens – often the only Christians in their families – are turning to a Middle… Continue reading Christian Kids and Youth Cling to ‘Digital Lifeline’ in Afghanistan and Iran
Afghanistan the Most Dangerous Place to be a Christian
WITNEY, ENGLAND —Open Doors has revealed that Afghanistan has replaced North Korea as the most dangerous country to be a Christian in their 2022 World Watch List. Christian men are facing almost certain death if their faith is discovered. Women and girls may escape death but may be married to young Taliban fighters who want… Continue reading Afghanistan the Most Dangerous Place to be a Christian
Afghanistan: Christians Face Even More Opposition
CANADA — Long time humaritarian worker in Afghanistan John Weaver talks about the opposition and challenges Christians face in Afghanistan, now that the Taliban has taken over, but how the current situation may actually see more Afghans turn to Jesus. And CEO of The Voice of the Martyrs Canada, Floyd Brobbel, explains how they’re supporting… Continue reading Afghanistan: Christians Face Even More Opposition
Afghanistan: ‘Christian Taliban’ Ask to ‘Meet Jesus’
EASTON, MD — Despite the threat of persecution, Afghans are turning to Christianity in growing numbers — and creating a wave of “Christian Taliban,” a ministry to Afghanistan reports. “The word ‘Taliban’ actually means ‘student,’” said Dr. Rex Rogers, president of Christian media ministry SAT-7 USA (www.sat7usa.org), “and right now increasing numbers of Afghans are… Continue reading Afghanistan: ‘Christian Taliban’ Ask to ‘Meet Jesus’
Open Doors USA Invites Christians to March for the Martyrs
WASHINGTON — As Christians in Afghanistan pray to stay alive, this Saturday, US Christians are being called to D.C. for a first-of-its-kind large-scale march of solidarity for martyrs and persecuted Christians. March for the Martyrs aims to raise awareness about the plight of persecuted Christians by bringing together believers across all denominations to stand in… Continue reading Open Doors USA Invites Christians to March for the Martyrs
As Christians in Afghanistan Struggle for Their Lives, US Christians to March, Pray in Washington, D.C.
WASHINGTON — More than 340 million people around the world suffer persecution for practicing their Christian faith – making it the largest persecuted religious group. In solidarity with them, and to help raise awareness, the 2nd annual March for the Martyrs will take place in Washington, D.C., on Sept. 25, 2021. It’s the first time… Continue reading As Christians in Afghanistan Struggle for Their Lives, US Christians to March, Pray in Washington, D.C.
Christian Lawyer’s Legal Clinic for Persecuted Iraqi Believers
IRAQ — Iraqi law forbids a person from changing their religion from ‘Muslim’ to ‘Christian on their official ID. Believers who find themselves in this situation can be extremely isolated, treated with suspicion by the Christian community while also rejected by Muslims. Mr Youhanna* gives legal counsel to Christians like Matti* who suffers this discrimination.… Continue reading Christian Lawyer’s Legal Clinic for Persecuted Iraqi Believers
‘The Glenn Beck Program’ Listeners Raise over $32 Million to Rescue Christians Trapped in Afghanistan
DALLAS — As the world watched Afghanistan fall to the Taliban, multi-media personality and humanitarian Glenn Beck enlisted the help of loyal “The Glenn Beck Program” listeners to raise funds in an attempt to rescue thousands — mainly women and children — trapped in the country. While hosting the Premiere Networks-syndicated radio program on Wednesday,… Continue reading ‘The Glenn Beck Program’ Listeners Raise over $32 Million to Rescue Christians Trapped in Afghanistan
Christian Media Director Supports Vulnerable Women in Afghanistan
AFGHANISTAN – As the underground church of Afghanistan faces the continued threat of attacks by the Taliban who are going door to door in search of believers, the Director of the Christian run Middle East Women’s Leadership Network is calling for the international community to stand with the many vulnerable women working in the media… Continue reading Christian Media Director Supports Vulnerable Women in Afghanistan
Centre of Hope Transforms Life of Persecuted Syrian Christian
SYRIA — Anwar, a Syrian Christian was persecuted and thrown out when he became a Christian – he didn’t have a home or family, but he had the incredible hope of life lived with Jesus. Thanks to Open Doors, a Centre of Hope was able to give him somewhere to live, and the chance to… Continue reading Centre of Hope Transforms Life of Persecuted Syrian Christian
How Will Afghan Christians Survive Under the Taliban?
EASTON, MD — With Afghanistan in the news, interview a daring 50-year Christian media pioneer in the Middle East — and hear his surprising take on cultural and religious shifts in the red-hot region. Middle East Christian media pioneer Terence “Terry” Ascott, founder of SAT-7 (www.sat7usa.org) and author of the new book Dare to Believe!… Continue reading How Will Afghan Christians Survive Under the Taliban?
SAT-7 Supports Afghan Christians in Danger from Taliban
KABUL, AFGHANISTAN — Underground Afghan Christians are fearing for their lives as the Taliban is going door to door looking for believers who have the Bible on their phones. In response SAT-7’s Persian language television station is providing special broadcasts to help the believers in this troubled region. SAT-7 PARS is also running emergency on-screen… Continue reading SAT-7 Supports Afghan Christians in Danger from Taliban
Christian Orphanage Invaded and Destroyed
MIANGO, NIGERIA – Sunni Muslim Fulani Herdsmen invaded the Christian orphanage in Miango, Nigeria and burned every building. The 147 children and staff evacuated a few hours before the August 2, 2021 attack. The children were made orphans in previous attacks by Sunni Muslim terrorists such as the Boko Haram. As Fulani herdsmen advance in… Continue reading Christian Orphanage Invaded and Destroyed
Persecuted Iranian Christian Opens Refugee Center in Turkey
TURKEY — Kouroush* is an Iranian Christian now living in Turkey, after he fled to escape persecution, leaving everything behind. We hear how, with Open Doors’ support, he is now opening a Center of Hope to help care for fellow refugees. Kouroush*, name changed for security purposes: “I didn’t murder anyone. I didn’t steal anything.… Continue reading Persecuted Iranian Christian Opens Refugee Center in Turkey
Young Leaders Track of International Religious Freedom Summit 2021 to Train Teenagers and Young Adults to Advocate for Survivors of Religious Persecution
WASHINGTON — As part of International Religious Freedom Summit 2021, young leaders ages 15 to 35 are invited to participate in the Young Leaders Track, chaired by Nguyen Dinh Thang, president and CEO of Boat People SOS (BPSOS). The Young Leaders Track will take place Tuesday, July 13 through Thursday, July 15 virtually and at… Continue reading Young Leaders Track of International Religious Freedom Summit 2021 to Train Teenagers and Young Adults to Advocate for Survivors of Religious Persecution
Ministering to Muslim Background Chinese Christians
CHINA — When Muslims becomes Christians in China they become alienated from their people group and family. They are often socially marginalized, disowned by their family and rejected by their friends. In response Open Doors workers Philip and Pearl* take great to risk their own safety to visit and encourage these Muslim background believers or… Continue reading Ministering to Muslim Background Chinese Christians
Iranian Christians News Agency – Mohabat News
Record numbers of Iranian citizens have been coming to faith in Jesus Christ. Wherever and whenever people become discontent, they search for something better. Ultimately, the issue is whether they can actually find that something that is better. The Iranian people are looking for some good news. The Iranian Christians News Agency is offering them… Continue reading Iranian Christians News Agency – Mohabat News
ChinaAid Releases 2020 Annual Persecution Report
MIDLAND, TX — Today, China Aid Association released its 2020 Annual Persecution Report documenting the last year in state-mandated religious persecution of Chinese Christians. The report covering January-December 2020 points to an ongoing escalation of harassment of Christians by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Under the direction of President Xi Jinping, Chinese officials carried out… Continue reading ChinaAid Releases 2020 Annual Persecution Report
Vietnamese Christian Woman Refuses to Deny Jesus Despite Attacks
VIETNAM — Chu is a courageous Christian woman in Vietnam whose husband tried to force her to deny Jesus. He had come under pressure from his local community leaders who threaten to demote or retire tribal leaders if they allow Christianity into their villages. However even though he beat her there was no turning back… Continue reading Vietnamese Christian Woman Refuses to Deny Jesus Despite Attacks
Khalid’s Story: Ethiopian Christian Excluded by Muslim Family
ETHIOPIA — Like so many believers in Ethiopia, when Khalid became a Christian he was excluded by his Muslim relatives. Forced to leave he was left with no food, shelter or source of income. But persecution charity Open Doors stepped in to help him establish his own business. Khalid: “Persecution is tough. You are separated… Continue reading Khalid’s Story: Ethiopian Christian Excluded by Muslim Family
Supporting Persecuted North Korean Christian Women
NORTH KOREA — The persecution of Christian women and girls around the world is hidden, complex and violent. They are vulnerable for both their gender and their faith. As part of International Women’s Day on 8 March, Open Doors has been sharing stories of those who’ve been persecuted simply because they are Christian women. The… Continue reading Supporting Persecuted North Korean Christian Women
COVID-19 Fuels ‘Hidden Pandemic’ of Abuse Towards Christian Women
SOUTH ASIA — Covid-19 is fuelling a growing, hidden, “shadow pandemic” of gender-based violence, abduction and trafficking, directed towards Christian women and girls around the world. This is one of the findings of a new report commissioned by Christian persecution charity Open Doors, released on International Women’s Day (Mon Mar 8). Global Gender Persecution Specialist… Continue reading COVID-19 Fuels ‘Hidden Pandemic’ of Abuse Towards Christian Women
New Report Reveals Alarming Rise in Trafficking, Forced Marriage of Christian Women and Girls Globally
SANTA ANA, CA — There is a growing, hidden, “shadow pandemic” of violence, abduction and trafficking directed towards Christian women and girls around the world, according to a new report from Open Doors USA. “Same Faith, Different Persecution,” published ahead of International Women’s Day, explores targeted Gender-Specific Religious Persecution (GSRP) over 12 months between October… Continue reading New Report Reveals Alarming Rise in Trafficking, Forced Marriage of Christian Women and Girls Globally
Gospel for Asia Integrity & Credibility Affirmed by 30 Christian Leaders
• Francis Chan, Pastor & Author » • Palmer Holt, President, InChrist Communications » • David Mains, Radio & TV Broadcaster » • George Verwer, Founder, Operation Mobilization » WILLS POINT, TX – K.P. Yohannan and Gospel for Asia (GFA World), the organization he founded in 1979, have served the Lord faithfully in 18… Continue reading Gospel for Asia Integrity & Credibility Affirmed by 30 Christian Leaders
Secret Field Worker Supports North Korean Christians
CHINA — Since 2002, North Korea has been the place where Christians face the most extreme persecution. In response Open Doors secret fieldworkers are supporting Christians who’ve managed to flee to China, through underground networks. Across the river from North Korea, in China, they run secret safe houses for North Korean Christians who have managed… Continue reading Secret Field Worker Supports North Korean Christians
6 Ways to Remember Persecuted Christians in 2021
FALLS CHURCH, VA — As Christians face rising persecution worldwide, many of us are looking for ways to connect with those who suffer for their faith. Christian Freedom International – which helps persecuted Christians – has a few ideas. In hostile regions of the world, Christians risk beatings, imprisonment, discrimination, and death for their faith.… Continue reading 6 Ways to Remember Persecuted Christians in 2021
Open Doors Helps Persecuted Christian Families Celebrate Christmas
BANGLADESH — Ten-year-old Bijli from Bangladesh already knows the cost of following Jesus. Because of her faith, she is bullied at school and her family are ostracised in their Muslim-majority village. Bijli’s father, Badol, became a church leader after receiving biblical training through Open Doors partners. He was worried that his Muslim neighbours wouldn’t accept… Continue reading Open Doors Helps Persecuted Christian Families Celebrate Christmas