IRF Summit 2022 Convenes Civil Society Congress to Innovate and Develop Solutions for Religious Freedom

WASHINGTON — In recent years levels of persecution and restriction based on faith or belief have increased around the world. This is despite a growing movement of people who are committed to protecting this fundamental human right. It is time to think big for religious freedom. The International Religious Freedom (IRF) Summit 2022 will convene… Continue reading IRF Summit 2022 Convenes Civil Society Congress to Innovate and Develop Solutions for Religious Freedom

Persecuted Religious Groups Speak up for Each Other on Capitol Hill, Urges Congress to Protect Religious Freedom

WASHINGTON — On June 27, one day ahead of the International Religious Freedom Summit 2022, the summit is hosting a Congressional Advocacy Day to encourage convening organizations to present their causes and discuss religious freedom concerns with members of Congress and their staff on Capitol Hill. The day will kick off with a breakfast meeting… Continue reading Persecuted Religious Groups Speak up for Each Other on Capitol Hill, Urges Congress to Protect Religious Freedom

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

Helping North African Persecuted Women Stay Strong

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… Continue reading Helping North African Persecuted Women Stay Strong

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

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

The International Religious Freedom Summit Returns to DC June 28-30

Photo by IRF Summit, Facebook

WASHINGTON — On June 28-30 religious freedom leaders, advocates and activists from around the world, spanning a wide range of faith traditions and political affiliations, will gather in Washington, D.C., for the second annual International Religious Freedom Summit. The Summit will highlight increasing threats to freedom of religion, conscience and belief, and it will once… Continue reading The International Religious Freedom Summit Returns to DC June 28-30

How a Smuggled Bible Changed Dhea’s Life

SOUTHEAST ASIA — Dhea in South East Asia didn’t want the Bible that a missionary gave her. She tried to destroy it. But something stopped her – and when she started reading it, she chose to follow Jesus. As a Christian and as a woman, she has faced extreme persecution – but remains hopeful and… Continue reading How a Smuggled Bible Changed Dhea’s Life

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

Lorena’s Loss – Mozambique

MOZAMBIQUE — Since 2017, the Islamist insurgency in Mozambique is thought to have claimed at least 2,500 lives. *Lorena’s* husband was one of its many victims; Lorena has also been displaced by the violence. Thanks to help from Christian charity Open Doors, Lorena has received emergency food aid and spiritual support to help her stand… Continue reading Lorena’s Loss – Mozambique

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

Nigerian Mother Gives Trauma Counseling to Forgive Attackers

GUYAKU, NORTHERN NIGERIA — Support from Christian charity Open Doors is helping believers like Charity from Nigeria. She was able to receive trauma healing after her village, Guyaku in northern Nigeria, was attacked by Islamic militants Boko Haram. And now, she herself is shining a light for others who have suffered trauma by offering them… Continue reading Nigerian Mother Gives Trauma Counseling to Forgive Attackers

Esther’s Pioneering Ministry to Central Asia

CENTRAL ASIA — Esther* was Open Doors’ first team missions leader in Central Asia. She first travelled to Uzbekistan in 1995, after the country regained their independence after the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. There she met a lady who helped her to make contact with local believers – and the ministry began…… Continue reading Esther’s Pioneering Ministry to Central Asia

Finding Jesus After Fleeing North Korea

NORTH KOREA — Timothy* grew up as an orphan in North Korea at the time of the 1990s famine. As a teenager, he decided to cross the Tumen River into China in a bid for survival. This is how coming across a safe house, run by Open Doors partners in China, set him on the… Continue reading Finding Jesus After Fleeing North Korea

Elias Chooses to Stay in Palestinian Territories

BEIT SAHUR, PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES — Elias lives in the Christian-majority town of Beit Sahur, close to Bethlehem. He shares why, even though the number of Christians in the area is declining, he and his family are determined to stay.

Afghanistan Tops Open Doors 2022 World Watch List

WITNEY, ENGLAND — Afghanistan is now the most dangerous place in the world to be a Christian, according to figures released today in the 2022 World Watch List (WWL). Afghanistan replaces North Korea at the top of the list after 20 years – this despite persecution also rising there this year. The WWL, which records… Continue reading Afghanistan Tops Open Doors 2022 World Watch List

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

ALONE IN AFGHANISTAN, IRAN, KIDS RISK ALL TO 'MEET JESUS:' One girl in Afghanistan tells media ministry SAT-7 (www.sat7usa.org) she would be "cut to pieces" by the Taliban if discovered watching Christian children's shows broadcast in the local Farsi and Dari languages. Thousands of young children and teens in Afghanistan and Iran – many of them alone and in hiding – are using secure phone apps to watch live Christian shows and connect with other believers.

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

After U.S. Withdrawal, Afghanistan Becomes No. 1 Most Dangerous Place on Earth to be Christian, According to 2022 World Watch List Ranking by Leading Persecution Watchdog Open Doors

SANTA ANA, CA — For the first time ever, Afghanistan is the most dangerous place on the planet to be a Christian, according to Open Doors’ 2022 World Watch List, which was released today. The World Watch List is a definitive, comprehensive research-based report that ranks the top 50 countries where it is most dangerous… Continue reading After U.S. Withdrawal, Afghanistan Becomes No. 1 Most Dangerous Place on Earth to be Christian, According to 2022 World Watch List Ranking by Leading Persecution Watchdog Open Doors

How Do Children of the Persecuted Church Celebrate Christmas?

SYRIA — How do children of the persecuted church celebrate Christmas? Despite conflict and persecution, children around the world are determined to celebrate Christmas. What are you doing for Christmas this year? It’s a question many of us are asking around the world. For children living in countries where believers are persecuted, it’s a question… Continue reading How Do Children of the Persecuted Church Celebrate Christmas?

Nigerian Boy’s Dream to be a Doctor

PLATEAU STATE, NIGERIA — Sele was very young when his father was murdered for his faith. It was part of a wave of violence in Nigeria’s Plateau State. Now Sele is 13, and has hope for the future to save lives a doctor through schooling paid for by Open Doors partners. For many Christian children… Continue reading Nigerian Boy’s Dream to be a Doctor

Giving Hope this Christmas to Iraqi Girl Who Lost Her Father

IRAQ – This Christmas, there will be an empty chair at the table for Rafif’s family in Iraq. Everything Rafif knows about her dad she has heard from her mum, and other people who knew him. Because when Raddif ran towards that bus filled with Christian students, warning them of the planned bombing, he saved… Continue reading Giving Hope this Christmas to Iraqi Girl Who Lost Her Father

Sabina Movie Set to Inspire the Power of Forgiveness

ROMANIA — Great character is sometimes forged amid great turmoil. Sabina: Tortured for Christ, the Nazi Years is the story of how God’s love transformed an ambitious, atheistic hedonist into one of the greatest Christian women of the 20th century. GNA reporter Peter Wooding spoke to Voice of the Martyr’s Todd Nettleton to find out… Continue reading Sabina Movie Set to Inspire the Power of Forgiveness

Open Doors Helps Fadi who fled Boko Haram in Cameroon Several Times

CAMEROON — Fadi is a Christian from Cameroon who has been repeatedly displaced from her home by Boko Haram violence – but has now received much-needed emergency aid from Open Doors partners. Fadi – Cameroon Christian: “When I was in my village Barawa in 2013 Boko Haram came to attack our village. They came by… Continue reading Open Doors Helps Fadi who fled Boko Haram in Cameroon Several Times

Afghan Girls ‘In Terror’ of Becoming Taliban Brides

AFGHAN CHRISTIAN GIRLS 'TERRIFIED' OF BECOMING TALIBAN BRIDES: Young Christian women and girls in Afghanistan are living in terror of being abducted as child brides for Taliban fighters -- and they're turning to a unique ministry for help. "(We) are terrified," 16-year-old Nisha told satellite and online Christian broadcaster SAT-7 (www.sat7usa.org).

EASTON, MD — Young Christian women and girls in Afghanistan are living in terror of being abducted as child brides for Taliban fighters — and they’re turning to a unique ministry for help. “(We) are terrified,” 16-year-old Nisha told satellite and online Christian broadcaster SAT-7 (www.sat7usa.org). “Everyone is afraid and scared of the Taliban. I… Continue reading Afghan Girls ‘In Terror’ of Becoming Taliban Brides

Open Doors USA Reacts to Missionary Kidnappings in Haiti

SANTA ANA, CA — Christian persecution watchdog, Open Doors USA released a statement today regarding the news of 17 American missionaries who were abducted in Haiti this weekend. According to several sources, the abductors are also responsible for the kidnappings of five priests and two nuns earlier this year. “We are deeply concerned for the… Continue reading Open Doors USA Reacts to Missionary Kidnappings in Haiti

Is Your Church Ready for the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church?

FALLS CHURCH, VA — Christian Freedom International (CFI) has designed a free church Prayer Kit to equip churches for the “International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church.” This annual event — held on the first Sunday in November — unites churches to pray for Christians worldwide who face persecution. “The catastrophe in Afghanistan — with Christians… Continue reading Is Your Church Ready for the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church?

Coptic Solidarity Commemorates the Deaths of 27 Copts at the 10th Anniversary of the Maspero Massacre

WASHINGTON — Ten years ago, on October 9, 2011, the Egyptian Army murdered 27 Copts and injured 327 others for peacefully protesting the destruction of a church, in what became known as the Maspero Massacre. Coptic Solidarity’s virtual Zoom program will honor the rally participants, heroes, and martyrs from that day. Register today to join… Continue reading Coptic Solidarity Commemorates the Deaths of 27 Copts at the 10th Anniversary of the Maspero Massacre

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’

AFGHANISTAN: 'CHRISTIAN TALIBAN' ASK TO 'MEET JESUS:' Despite the threat of persecution,, Afghans are turning to Christianity in growing numbers -- and creating a wave of "Christian Taliban," satellite television and online media ministry SAT-7 (www.sat7usa.org) reports. Viewers -- eager to meet Jesus -- are asking: "Is Jesus in the studio?"

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

A Personal Side of Dr. Billy Graham You Haven’t Heard

BAKERSFIELD, CA – Billy Graham asked his close friend of 10 years, Don Wilton, to be his pastor and what followed was a privileged 25 years of sitting at the feet of one of God’s pillar servants—nurturing a friendship and seeing a personal side of Billy that most people have never known, until now. “My… Continue reading A Personal Side of Dr. Billy Graham You Haven’t Heard

The Nations are Coming to Us

Carrie Johnson, Director of The Unreached Initiative CityServe

BAKERSFIELD, CA – We have seen the desperation of the Afghan people trying to escape as Taliban forces take over Kabul. The US Air Force C-17 plane was packed with 640 precious lives as countless others clung to the outside of the plane—risking life and limb to leave Afghanistan. As we process this grave situation,… Continue reading The Nations are Coming to Us

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.

‘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?

DARE TO BELIEVE: A veteran Christian media pioneer who lived through rocket attacks and car bombings in war-torn Beirut, Lebanon, says Christians in the Middle East have never been more willing to risk everything to put their faith on display. Dare to Believe! Stories of Faith from the Middle East -- a new book launched today -- tells how Christian television ministry SAT-7 (www.sat7usa.org) mushroomed into one of the Middle East's most-watched networks since the first broadcast exactly 25 years ago.

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?

Afghanistan: Gospel for Asia Calls on People to Pray, Fast Now for ‘Theater of Fear’

PRAY FOR AFGHANISTAN 'THEATER OF FEAR:' GFA World (www.gfa.org) is calling on Christians in the West not to carry on "like normal" while people in Afghanistan face terror, rape, and execution. "We need to be on our knees in prayer now," says K.P. Yohannan, the mission organization's founder. Join GFA World's prayer effort for Afghanistan: http://www.gfa.org/press/PrayNow

WILLS POINT, TX — One of the world’s largest mission organizations – Gospel for Asia (GFA World) is calling on Christians around the world not to carry on “like normal” while people in Afghanistan face terror, rape, and execution. “I pray that no church in the world worships and prays like it’s just another normal… Continue reading Afghanistan: Gospel for Asia Calls on People to Pray, Fast Now for ‘Theater of Fear’

Christian Persecution Set to Rise in Afghanistan

AFGHANISTAN – Christian charity Release International has issued an urgent call to pray for the underground church in Afghanistan as the persecution of Christians in the region is set to rise following the return of the Taliban regime. A Christian contact of one Release International partner describes the situation as ‘dire.’ Says ‘Micah’: ‘Our brothers… Continue reading Christian Persecution Set to Rise in Afghanistan

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

Jubal Band’s Message to Iran: Jesus is the ADHA in the Injeel

Photo by Jubal Band Ministries, Facebook

CYPRUS – When Jubal Band Ministries began in 2007, the concept was of a musical group producing online Christian worship videos. The group consisted of persecuted Iranian Christians living in Turkey. History By 2010, Jubal Band had added radio and television broadcasts in cooperation with existing Christian-owned networks and channels. 2013 was highlighted by the… Continue reading Jubal Band’s Message to Iran: Jesus is the ADHA in the Injeel

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

Loving South Sudan In Deed And Truth

Photo by In Deed And Truth Ministries, Facebook

TONJ, SOUTH SUDAN – According to the World Watch List, the secession of South Sudan from Sudan in 2011 left both countries in chaos. This was especially true on a personal level for thousands of Christians who were starving, killed, injured, or displaced during attempts to force Sudan to become an Islamic state. Sabet Kuj… Continue reading Loving South Sudan In Deed And Truth

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

Evangelist from Kenya Forgives Persecutors Who Tortured Him

TUCSON, ARIZONA — When evangelist from Kenya Okongo Samson went on his first mission trip as a teenage boy he was kidnapped, tortured and raped by terrorists. But through a series of miracles he escaped. That didn’t stop him traveling the world to preach the Gospel despite being arrested and abused by his captors in… Continue reading Evangelist from Kenya Forgives Persecutors Who Tortured Him

Ahead of International Religious Freedom Summit 2021, Diverse Coalition of Over 70 Religious and Civil-society Groups Issue ‘A Charter of Religious Freedom’

WASHINGTON — Ahead of the International Religious Freedom Summit 2021 (IRF Summit), co-chairs Samuel Brownback and Katrina Lantos Swett, along with the Summit’s over 70 partner organizations around the world, have issued A Charter of Religious Freedom, calling for the protection of the universal human rights of religion, thought and conscience: A CHARTER OF RELIGIOUS… Continue reading Ahead of International Religious Freedom Summit 2021, Diverse Coalition of Over 70 Religious and Civil-society Groups Issue ‘A Charter of Religious Freedom’

Exiled Chinese House Church in South Korea Threatened, Urgent Appeal for US Resettlement to Biden Administration

MIDLAND, TX — The Wall Street Journal published an article titled “A Christian Congregation Fled Xi Jinping’s China, but Escaping Control Had a Price” that follows an exiled persecuted Chinese church who fled to Jeju, a South Korean island, in hopes of gaining asylum, but have faced harassment and an ongoing fear of repatriation to… Continue reading Exiled Chinese House Church in South Korea Threatened, Urgent Appeal for US Resettlement to Biden Administration

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

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