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

Mary Finds Peace After Escaping Kidnappers

NIGERIA, AFRICA — Mary* from Nigeria was kidnapped by Fulani militants and experienced awful violence and sexual assault at their hands. After she was freed, Open Doors partners cared for her at a trauma care centre where she found peace. Sadly, shortly after Mary shared her story with us, she died from an unrelated illness… Continue reading Mary Finds Peace After Escaping Kidnappers

Susannah Koh Speaks Out on the Trial of Her Abducted Husband

MALAYSIA — More than six years after abducted husband, Pastor Raymond Koh, was kidnapped in Malaysia, his wife Susanna is pleased that a trial into the abduction has finally started. After two days of statements and questioning earlier this month, the trial resumed on June 20th.   Susanna shares her reflections on the trial of… Continue reading Susannah Koh Speaks Out on the Trial of Her Abducted Husband

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

Stephanie Escapes from Islamic Extremists in DRC

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

Ayuba’s Path to Peace After Losing His Father to Boko Haram

NIGERIA — Ayuba’s* father was killed by Boko Haram militants in 2020. Ayuba swore to take revenge on the man who had betrayed his father to the militants – but has found healing through a trauma centre, supported by Open Doors. *Ayuba is portrayed by an actor and his name has been changed for security… Continue reading Ayuba’s Path to Peace After Losing His Father to Boko Haram

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

Colombian Christian Leaves Behind Criminal Life

COLUMBIA — Like many of the youth in Colombia, Reina* was recruited to the illegal armed groups who fight to gain and control territory for drug trafficking and other criminal activities. Now according to Open Doors in her forties, Reina has found faith in Christ and left her old way of a criminal life behind.… Continue reading Colombian Christian Leaves Behind Criminal Life

Russia ‘Weaponizing Religion’ in Ukraine

UKRAINE — A new report from the Institute for the Study of War claims Russia is ‘weaponizing religion’ in its conflict with Ukraine. It says Russia is persecuting churches in the occupied areas. Here’s Andrew Boyd from Release International. The report says Russian forces have closed or taken over 76 places of worship, looted or… Continue reading Russia ‘Weaponizing Religion’ in Ukraine

Biglife Fundraises to Rescue 8,500+ Christians from Taliban Death Threats

NAPLES, FL — Biglife, a non-profit that empowers indigenous Christians to reach and disciple their local communities, has identified over 600 families — 8,500+ individuals, 80% of whom are women and children — under death threat by the Taliban because of their faith. Biglife aims to raise $4.5 million to secure the evacuation of these… Continue reading Biglife Fundraises to Rescue 8,500+ Christians from Taliban Death Threats

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

Ministering to Muslim-Background Believers

SOUTH EAST ASIA — Jade* is an Open Doors worker who supports Muslim-background believers in a country in south east Asia. Tragically, she lost her fiancé in an attack on a church. But despite the tragedy, it’s because of his example that Jade herself came to enter the ministry. *Name changed for security reasons Jade… Continue reading Ministering to Muslim-Background Believers

Life for Women in Afghanistan

AFGHANISTAN — Sitara* was already studying in a different country when the Taliban forcibly took control of Afghanistan in August 2021. Here she shares what life is like for the women who remain in Afghanistan. *Name changed for security reasons. Sitara* – Afghanistan Christian: Taliban took Afghanistan and everything changed, like the days changed to… Continue reading Life for Women in Afghanistan

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

Trauma Healing Provided for Religious Abuse Victims in East Africa

EAST AFRICA — Munah* is a young woman from east Africa and one of only a handful of Christians in her strictly Muslim tribe. Her family’s choice to forsake the beliefs and practices of their people group came at the considerable cost of isolation.But an Open Doors trauma care programme is helping her in healing… Continue reading Trauma Healing Provided for Religious Abuse Victims in East Africa

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

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

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

Laos Believers Strengthened by Literacy Training

LAOS —Khamsay* and his wife Mali* were attacked by their family and community in rural Laos, who follow local traditions and beliefs. Khamsay has taken part in literacy training run by Open Doors – now that he can read the Bible, he has been strengthened in his faith which he is keen to share with… Continue reading Laos Believers Strengthened by Literacy Training

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

Afghan Convert Shares Story of Fleeing Taliban

CENTRAL ASIA — Forty-year-old Abdulla*, his wife Nilufar* and their three children fled Afghanistan when the Taliban came to power in August 2021. Now living as a refugee in Central Asia, he shares his story about what life is like for Afghan people – and Christians – remaining in the country. *Name changed for security… Continue reading Afghan Convert Shares Story of Fleeing Taliban

Open Doors International Announces Lisa Pearce as the New CEO of Open Doors U.S. Office

SANTA ANA, CA — Open Doors, which for more than 65 years has supported persecuted Christians worldwide and awakened the global church to “strengthen what remains,” has appointed Lisa Pearce as Interim CEO of the U.S. national base. Pearce assumes the role immediately following the departure of the previous CEO, David Curry, who is now… Continue reading Open Doors International Announces Lisa Pearce as the New CEO of Open Doors U.S. Office

Former Persecutor Finds Christ in Colombian Prison

COLOMBIA — Thirty-year-old pastor John used to persecute Christians after joining a paramilitary group to seek revenge for his father’s death. But it was while John was serving time in the Colombian prison that he met Jesus – and his whole life changed. John – Colombia: “When I was not a Christian, I was one… Continue reading Former Persecutor Finds Christ in Colombian Prison

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

You Si-kun, Highest-ranking Taiwanese Official Allowed in U.S., To Reject CCP Authoritarianism with Pro-democracy, Pro-religious Freedom Address at IRF Summit

Photo by IRF Summit, Facebook

WASHINGTON — The International Religious Freedom (IRF) Summit, the world’s premier annual gathering of religious freedom advocates and activists, will be held January 31–February 1. The Summit, usually held in the summer, has been moved several months earlier in 2023 and coincides with the start of the National Prayer Breakfast. IRF Summit 2023 will be… Continue reading You Si-kun, Highest-ranking Taiwanese Official Allowed in U.S., To Reject CCP Authoritarianism with Pro-democracy, Pro-religious Freedom Address at IRF Summit

ChinaAid Announces Recipient of 2022 Lin Zhao Freedom Award

MIDLAND, TX — China Aid Association is pleased to announce Ms. Xu Qin as the winner of the Lin Zhao Freedom Award 2022. Ms. Xu is a well-known activist who served as the secretary general of the civil organization “China Human Rights Watch” and a spokesperson for Rose Team (玫瑰中国), a group committed to promoting… Continue reading ChinaAid Announces Recipient of 2022 Lin Zhao Freedom Award

Qatari Christians Call for Prayers During World Cup

QATAR — While Christian migrants are able to worship openly, native Qatari Christians are forbidden from having their own church or even entering one. Christians in Qatar are calling for prayers that the media coverage during the World Cup will provide an opportunity to reach more people. Qatar has been one of the countries participating… Continue reading Qatari Christians Call for Prayers During World Cup

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

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

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 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

Global Prayer for the Persecuted

CANADA — Reverend Gary Stagg, Executive Director of Open Doors Canada, talks about the Global Day of Prayer where Christians around the world will pray for the persecuted church. A global prayer event is coming up November 6th, 5pm mountain time with Christians around the world praying for believers who are being persecuted for their… Continue reading Global Prayer for the Persecuted

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?

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

Gideon’s Imprisonment – Eritrea

BURKINA FASO, WEST AFRICA — In 2019, Abraham* and Joel’s* church was attacked by jihadists in a village in Burkino Faso in West Africa. The two young men survived, but the horror of what happened has traumatized them. Open Doors provides trauma care counseling for many people impacted by attacks like these. Gideon:* “There are… Continue reading Gideon’s Imprisonment – Eritrea

Joel and Abraham Survive Jihadist Attack in Burkino Faso

BURKINA FASO, WEST AFRICA — In 2019, Abraham* and Joel’s* church was attacked by jihadists in a village in Burkino Faso in West Africa. The two young men survived, but the horror of what happened has traumatized them. Open Doors provides trauma care counseling for many people impacted by attacks like these. Abraham*: “That Sunday,… Continue reading Joel and Abraham Survive Jihadist Attack in Burkino Faso

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

Religious Freedom Eroding Fast, Warns U.S. Group

SITUATION CRITICAL: RELIGIOUS FREEDOM UNDER SIEGE: Media ministry SAT-7 USA (www.sat7usa.org) warns religious freedom is under increasing attack. Globally, an estimated 80% of people of all faiths face restrictions on freely expressing their religious beliefs, the organization says.

EASTON, MD — A U.S. media ministry warns religious freedom is under increasing pressure — fast reaching a tipping point it describes as “situation critical.” Globally, an estimated 80% of people of all faiths face restrictions on freely expressing their religious beliefs, says SAT-7 USA (www.sat7usa.org), a Christian media broadcaster in the Middle East and… Continue reading Religious Freedom Eroding Fast, Warns U.S. Group

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

Church Planters See Building Destroyed in Mexico

SAN ANDRÉS YAÁ, MEXICO — When Adolfina and her husband Imeldo returned to their hometown of San Andrés Yaá to plant a church, opposition from the community grew. The couple eventually had to leave the town but received support from Open Doors. “The only thing I ask of Open Doors and the brothers all over… Continue reading Church Planters See Building Destroyed in Mexico

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

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