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By Anugrah Kumar, Christian Post Contributor Sunday, October 13, 2024 Open Doors USOpen Doors US prays for persecuted Christians in sub-Saharan Africa, where more than 16 million believers have been displaced by religious violence, on November 3, the International Day of Prayer. He calls on churches around the world to do the same. We help intercede for churches and small groups.
Sub-Saharan Africa is one of the regions known for the harshest persecution of Christians and includes countries such as Nigeria, Kenya, Mozambique, Burkina Faso, and Uganda.
In a statement to The Christian Post, Ryan Brown, president and CEO of Open Doors US, said: “On November 3rd, we are dedicated to raising up the persecuted church. We invite Christians around the world to join us in this.” “This day reminds us that we are all part of one body and when one suffers, we all suffer.”
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The free resource collection prepared by the ministry is intended for church services, small groups, and personal reflection to foster meaningful prayer efforts. This resource aims to highlight the difficulties faced by persecuted Christians and encourage collective prayer.
Resources include quotes by persecuted Christians.
A man named Mahrul describes his personal tragedy: “She was carrying her 9-month-old son on her back. I went to the river and found her lying on the ground. There I saw them… I cried. I cried. It was very difficult.”
A pastor named Elisha describes the loss his community has faced: They took everything away. ”
Magdalene, a woman affected by violence, describes her unforgettable memories: Over and over again. That’s how they killed that boy. ”
“No one talks about it. We remain in the dark. How would you feel if you were forgotten?” asks Barnabas, a pastor from Nigeria.
In Nigeria alone, more than 16,000 Christians were murdered in the four years between 2019 and 2023, according to the African Religious Freedom Observatory.
According to the ministry, violent persecution in sub-Saharan Africa has reached unprecedented levels, severely impacting people’s lives. Christians in the region have faced brutal murders, attacks, and kidnappings. Millions of people have been forced to abandon their ancestral lands and move their families into makeshift refugee camps after being driven out by Islamist terrorist groups.
Life in the camp brings with it various challenges every day. Residents suffer from inadequate food supplies, inadequate sanitation, and extreme heat. Educational opportunities for children are non-existent and families grapple with grief and trauma. The pervasive sense of hopelessness is further exacerbated by the lack of concern for their plight.
According to Open Door US, insecurity and insecurity in the region are not only causing immediate suffering, but also threaten the future of the church. This situation has led to displacement, education and health crises, impacting the long-term well-being of entire communities.
