When persecuted believers are asked how the American church can help, the common answer is “pray for us!” The global church is urged to do just that Nov. 7, the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church.
According to Open Doors’ 2021 World Watch List, more than 340 million Christians live in places where they experience high levels of persecution and discrimination.
Persecution occurs most often in countries with authoritarian regimes and those where the predominantly Islamic and Hindu religious cultures are hostile toward religious minorities generally and Christians specifically.
Resources to observe the day of prayer are available from several organizations, including International Christian Concern and Voice of the Martyrs.
‘Sabina’ releases Nov. 8
This year, VOM also is releasing a feature film, “Sabina,” which tells the story of Sabina Wurmbrand and her husband, Richard, VOM co-founders.
Set during World War II and spanning the years between 1938 to 1944, the film will take viewers on a journey through Romania to discover why Sabina, a Jewish Christian, would risk her life to offer a kind hand to German soldiers — enemies who killed her entire family. “Sabina” conveys the realities of religious persecution and the cost of following Christ when faith is forbidden, said Todd Nettleton, chief of media relations and message integration for VOM and host of VOM Radio.
“Richard and Sabina were exemplary biblical disciples. Their story pushes each of us to rethink our concept of forgiveness and what it looks like to love our enemies as Jesus instructed,” he said. “Sabina’s life is ultimately a testament of how God’s love can transcend pain and struggle — and even transform the lives of those around us. This story is truly inspiring. It will encourage every viewer to be transformed from the inside out by the power of God.”
“Sabina” will show in theaters Nov. 8–10. More information on the film is available at sabinamovie.com.
Resources for churches observing the annual day of prayer are available at idop2021.com and persecution.org/idop.
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