Much Prayer Needed.

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Dear All, "Worship in the spirit and in truth" (John 4:24) Truth is such a powerful thing. Indian Christians are fighting for the truth - that they belong in their country just as much as people of other faiths - and Open Doors supporters around the world are standing for truth alongside them. Christians around the world face appalling persecution, simply for sharing the truth. And the truth will set us free (John 8:32). Particularly in our prayers this month are, of course, the small number of Christians in Afghanistan in the wake of the Taliban takeover. In this month's email, you can see the commitment that Christians around the world have to the great truth of the gospel - and find out how you can stand with them in powerful prayer. Thank you for all you do. #STANDFORTRUTHINDIA: ANSWERING THE CALL OF THE CHURCH On 15 August, Indian Indepence Day, many Open Doors supporters around the world answered the cry of the Indian church - sounding the alarm on Christian persecution by sharing #StandForTruthIndia selfies on social media. Thank you! You can keep raising awareness by sharing clips that reveal the truth about the violence Indian believers face every day. Watch the clips AFGHANISTAN: YOUR URGENT PRAYERS NEEDED Afghanistan is now held by the Taliban, and your prayers are needed - particularly for the small number of Christians living in the country. “It’s a heartbreaking day for the citizens of Afghanistan, and an even more dangerous time to be a Christian,” says Brother Samuel (name changed), Open Doors Field Director for Asia. 5 ways you can pray for Afghanistan AMONG THE ASHES: FREE RESOURCE FOR CHURCHES Lament is a biblical principle that isn't often discussed - but it can be central to difficult periods of our lives, and bring hope and comfort. Among the Ashes is a new Open Doors film and prayer resource, led by teacher and writer Ron Boyd-Macmillan, to use in a church service, prayer meeting or small group - connecting with and learning from the persecuted church. Download your copy today STANDING STRONG LIVE: MEET THE SPEAKERS Join Standing Strong Live on 25 September to hear from Pastor Samuel* in India, Father Araam in Iraq and Taher* from the Middle East. Gather together with your church, friends and family and join us online to grow your vision of church and deepen your faith. There's an event just for youth too, on 24 September. *Names changed Meet the speakers and book today MORE NEWS AND RESOURCES Bangladesh church attacks: Two recent church attacks in Bangladesh show the escalating violence faced by Christians there. Find out more, and how you can pray, at the link above Adrian's amazing fundraising: Adrian is an Open Doors supporter who celebrated his 60th birthday with 60 challenges to raise funds for the persecuted church - read all about his adventures Walk With Them India: Want to raise money yourself? Walk With Them India is a sponsored walk where you set the distance and the route - journeying alongside persecuted believers Myanmar: Open Doors partners are taking vital medicine to persecuted Christians in Myanmar in the midst of the Covid-19 crisis - thanks to your support and prayers Iranian prisoner: Please pray for Hamed Ashouri, an Iranian Christian who has begun a ten-month prison sentence for Christian activities. Simon, Monthly Email Editor