I'll Wager Our Local MP Wasn't There!

 

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93 MPs HEAR FROM PERSECUTED CHURCH AT WORLD WATCH LIST LAUNCH Thank you so much for your prayers for the parliamentary launch of this year’s World Watch List – and for the thousands of you who invited your MP. Thanks to you, 93 MPs from across the political spectrum heard about Christian persecution, and what they can do to help. The event featured persecuted believers from China and Africa, as well as an update by a local expert on Afghanistan, which is number one on the list for the first time. “I was horrified – but sadly not surprised – to see that persecution is at its highest levels since the World Watch List began, with 360 million Christians facing persecution,” shared Fiona Bruce MP, the PM's Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief. Afterwards, she tweeted that she is ‘determined to redouble my daily efforts to tackle this increasing persecution’.  Find out more about the launch and if your MP attended.    PLEASE PRAY: Give thanks for the opportunity of the Open Doors World Watch List launch and the encouraging number of MPs who attended That the stories and statistics will remain long in the hearts and minds of MPs, stirring them to action For continued engagement and action, bringing real change for those who face persecution for their faith. Would you like to receive more regular updates about the persecuted church? Sign up for weekly emails for more stories of courageous faith and how you can pray.  AFGHANISTAN: CRAFTSMAN HOLDING ONTO HOPE (WORLD WATCH LIST #1) Sharifullah* is a craftsman from Afghanistan. “The Taliban want their ideology reflected everywhere, and so all signs of colour, life and hope have been removed,” he shares, following the extremist group’s takeover last year. “They’ve been replaced with Taliban slogans, which are a far cry from hope.” Sharifullah is one of the small number of Christians in Afghanistan. Like all Christians who live there, he must keep his faith secret. Even before last year, it was impossible to live openly as a Christian. With the Taliban now in power, the risk of discovery is greater and the obligation to follow Islamic rules and customs stronger. Despite worsening persecution, Sharifullah remains in the country and is holding onto Jesus. “We will never let that hope be silenced. We will make sure the world hears the gospel through every breath we take,” he shares. “Please continue to stand with us.” What’s it like to be a Christian in Afghanistan?  You can further support your brothers and sisters from Afghanistan by joining a global month of prayer for the country.  A prayer for Afghanistan Lord God, we know that You weep when You see Your children weeping. We know that You care more than we can express for the nation of Afghanistan. Please, Lord, work miracles in this country. Protect Your children and all others who face terrible human rights abuses in Afghanistan. May this nation turn from one of despair and cruelty to one that resounds with praises of Your name. Amen. *name changed for security reasons With many thanks for your prayers, Simon, Email Editor Blogger: I decided to check. My MP was nowhere to be seen.