The persecuted church

Christian religious persecution is any type of hostile behavior experienced as a consequence of a person's identification with Christ, and can take many forms, including social discrimination and/or violence against physical integrity.

countries

Underground churches

Christians arrested

340 million+ Christians persecuted

With significant persecution.

They meet in secret to worship Christ.

Simply by living and sharing their faith.

While you read this page, thousands of brothers and sisters are secretly gathering to worship Christ.

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Persecution doesn't belong only to the past.

Many believe that persecution ended with the early church, but today more than 340 million Christians face discrimination, violence, imprisonment, and even death for following Jesus.

Some are forced to meet in secret.

Others cannot have a Bible.

Many lose their jobs, family, or freedom.

1 Timothy 2:1-2

I ask, first of all, that everyone offer prayers, petitions, intercessions, and thanksgivings to God for all people. Pray for those who govern and exercise authority, so that we may live in peace and quiet, praising God with dignity and all respect.”

Jesus warned us that there would be persecution for the sake of His name. Therefore, let us pray that the Lord continues to give us the freedom to speak of Him publicly and that our persecuted brothers and sisters may be strengthened and blessed more each day.

4.476

Christians killed because of their faith.

7.679

Churches or Christian sites attacked

209.771

Internally displaced Christians

4.125

Christians imprisoned because of their faith.

Data from the latest report by the Open Doors World Watch List.

How can you help?

Pray

Intercede for persecuted Christians and their families.

Inform you

Understand the reality of the persecuted church and the countries most affected.

Raise awareness among other Christians about this cause and use your voice.

Contribute

It supports ministries that serve and strengthen the persecuted church.

And you?

What are you doing with the freedom God has given you?

✓ Have you shared the gospel?

✓ Have you made disciples?

✓ Have you lived without shame for Christ?

+340 MILLION

CHRISTIANS AROUND THE WORLD FACE SOME FORM OF OPPOSITION AS A RESULT OF THEIR IDENTIFICATION WITH JESUS CHRIST

For more information, click on Open Doors or on the Observatory on Intolerance and Discrimination Against Christians in Europe.