BILL MEFFORD
General Bd of Church and Society

I am not sure what I am more outraged by: Persecution of Christians or the silence of so many in the Church at the knowledge of such persecution.

If we know of persecution and fail to speak out, what does that say about who we are?

On Nov. 1 and 8, we can remember our sisters and brothers in Christ who are being persecuted. The first two Sundays of November are set apart to remember our brothers and sisters in Christ who are under attack. You can pray for them through the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church.

“If one member suffers, all members suffer alongside.” ~ I Corinthians 12:26

Please also remember to pray for God to stop persecution and allow people of all faiths the freedom to worship and evangelize. It is estimated that 100 million Christians worldwide face persecution for their faith. Violence, imprisonment and even death are part of daily life for persons in places like Nigeria, Sudan, Jerusalem, Indonesia, Iraq and Libya.

Remembering our persecuted sisters and brothers is always important and necessary, but the United Methodist General Conference, our denomination’s highest policy-setting body, has made this a priority. It has repeatedly passed a resolution that states:

Since The United Methodist Church opposes injustice, intolerance, and bigotry and believes in the power of prayer, we encourage United Methodist congregations to observe in November an International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church. It is through our earnest prayers that we grow in our sense of unity with Christians around the world, as well as with all members of religious groups who endure persecution.

Last Updated on December 22, 2022