16
Apr
2019CHINA CLAMPDOWN TIGHTENS
‘Bounty’ on underground Christians Cross removals continue London embassy refuses Release petition The Chinese authorities are offering cash rewards for information about so-called ‘illegal’ church services. It’s part of an ongoing crackdown on Christianity in the country. Officials are offering cash rewards…
15
Apr
2019SUDAN: ‘WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY’ TO END CHRISTIAN PERSECUTION – RELEASE INTERNATIONAL
As upheavals in Sudan continue, Release International sees a window of opportunity to end the persecution of Christians in that country. Protesters in Sudan are continuing to demonstrate for a civilian-led democracy, following last Thursday’s coup that ousted Omar al Bashir after…
09
Apr
2019Terrorist threat to Pakistan churches
Authorities in Pakistan fear that a terrorist linked to Islamic State is planning an attack that could target Christians in Punjab province at Easter. The bomber is likely to try to carry out a suicide attack in Lahore, our contact says. Please…
29
Mar
2019Supporting Christians in Flight
Interview with Trans World Radio, March 2019 Persecution and war have forced hundreds of thousands of Christians to flee for their lives. Release International has launched an appeal to help these refugees from countries such as Syria, Iraq and Eritrea. In Syria,…
21
Mar
2019Ban on church meetings in rebel-held Ukraine
Many churches in eastern Ukraine have stopped meeting after Russian-backed rebels ordered a ban on services. Rebel leaders in the self-declared Luhansk People’s Republic, seized from Ukraine in 2014, have declared all unregistered religious groups illegal. Protestant, Seventh Day Adventist and Pentecostal…
15
Mar
2019Church in India braced for more violence as elections loom
There’s been a sharp rise in attacks on Christians in India so far this year – and many fear that things could get worse with a general election on the horizon. There were 77 recorded incidents of hatred and violence against Christians…
13
Mar
2019ASIA BIBI’S DAUGHTER APPEALS TO PAKISTAN TO LET HER MOTHER LEAVE
Asia Bibi’s youngest daughter has appealed to Pakistan’s Prime Minister to let her mother leave the country, according to press reports. She’s encouraged Asia to have faith that God will bring her out. Asia Bibi, who has been declared not guilty of…
12
Mar
2019Rise in attacks on India’s Christians ahead of elections
Interview with UCB Votes are still being counted in the world’s largest democratic election in India. Polls opened on April 11, a process that’s expected to last six weeks, as 900 million people determine their country’s future. Ahead of that came reports…
11
Mar
2019INDIA ELECTION ANNOUNCED – MORE ANTI-CHRISTIAN ATTACKS EXPECTED
As India announces the world’s largest democratic election, there are reports of a sharp rise in attacks against Christians – and warnings that the elections could make that worse. Targeted violence and acts of hatred against Christians are up by 57 per…
04
Mar
2019Family’s desperate cry ignored after daughter abducted
Sadaf is 13 and has been kidnapped, forcibly converted and married to a Muslim. Yet, her family’s cries for justice are falling on deaf ears. It was the morning of February 6, when Sadaf was alone in her house in Bahawalpur, that…
27
Feb
2019NIGERIAN ELECTIONS – STOP THE ATTACKS AGAINST CHRISTIANS, MR PRESIDENT
As Nigeria re-elects President Buhari, Release International urges: ‘Protect your Christians, Mr President. Stop the attacks from the twin menaces of Boko Haram and armed Fulani herdsmen.’ Nigeria has re-elected President Muhammadu Buhari to govern his nation for a second term. As…
22
Feb
2019Highlighting Christian Persecution
New documentary on Trans World Radio features Release International Release International’s work in supporting Christians persecuted for their faith is highlighted in a new documentary on Trans World Radio. The report includes the story of Eritrean gospel singer Helen Berhane, who was…
22
Feb
2019Freeing Christians from oppression for their faith…
The story of Twen, imprisoned in Eritrea As Release International launches an appeal to help Christians who face oppression for their faith, Premier Radio wanted to find out more about one prisoner in particular – Twen in Eritrea. Twen was jailed almost…
15
Feb
2019Call for Christian leaders to support Church in China
Then and now. State pressure brought to bear on the church in Germany and China. (Picture VOM Korea) Release International partners have launched a campaign to call for religious freedom in China, where the churches are coming under growing pressure from the…
13
Feb
2019Crackdown on Iranian believers continues
Becoming a Christian in Iran is fraught with danger – as the recent arrest of many believers with a Muslim background makes clear. Two more were detained in Shiraz and Esfahan in January. These are just the latest in a wave of…
30
Jan
2019ASIA BIBI – BBC INTERVIEWS RELEASE INTERNATIONAL
BBC GOOD MORNING SCOTLAND INTERVIEW WITH ANDREW BOYD Pakistan’s Supreme Court has upheld its decision to free Asia Bibi. Asia spent 10 years behind bars, eight of them on death row, after being accused of blasphemy – accusations that the Supreme Court…
29
Jan
2019ASIA BIBI FREED! TWR INTERVIEW WITH ANDREW BOYD
Release International is welcoming the decision by the Pakistan Supreme Court to free Asia Bibi. The apex court upheld its earlier decision to acquit Asia Bibi on false charges of blasphemy. Asia is now legally free to leave the country, after 10…
29
Jan
2019ASIA BIBI FREED. PAKISTAN SUPREME COURT UPHOLDS ACQUITTAL
Release International welcomes the decision by Pakistan Supreme Court to uphold acquittal of Asia Bibi. Calls for Pakistan to protect Asia and Christian minority, review cases of 200 other Christians behind bars and repeal blasphemy laws. Release International welcomes the decision by…
23
Jan
2019Attack fears for Pakistan churches
Churches in Pakistan’s Punjab province are being instructed to put security measures in place by the provincial government. It is believed that an imminent attack is feared. The authorities have issued a notification to close or seal churches in the province if…
14
Jan
2019Radio Report – New Cathedral and fresh bomb attack on Egypt’s Coptic Christians
While Christians in Egypt faced a bomb attack over their Christmas celebrations, Egyptian President Al Sisi opened what has been described as the largest Christian cathedral in the Middle East. Trans World Radio’s Dave Piper asked Andrew Boyd of Release what Egypt’s…
10
Jan
2019Scores of Christians arrested in Iran
Please pray for our family in Iran amid a wave of arrests The church in Iran is on high alert after more than 150 Christians were detained in just a few weeks. In late-November, about 70 Christians were arrested near Karaj, Alborz…
03
Jan
2019Radio Reports – CHRISTIAN PERSECUTION SET TO RISE IN 2019
James Maidment Fullard interviewed Andrew Boyd of Release for Trans World Radio: Nigeria, India and China are countries where Christians face increased persecution in the coming year, according to Release International. The warning comes as Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt insists the UK…
31
Dec
2018CHRISTIAN PERSECUTION SET TO RISE IN 2019
AS JEREMY HUNT ANNOUNCES REVIEW INTO ATTACKS, RELEASE SAYS NIGERIA, CHINA AND INDIA ARE COUNTRIES OF SPECIAL CONCERN FOR THE COMING YEAR Nigeria, India and China are countries where Christians face increased persecution in the coming year, warns Release International. The warning…
26
Dec
2018Foreign Secretary hears the voice of persecuted Christians
Release International Board member, Revd Dr Berhane Asmelash, met with Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt MP at the Foreign and Commonwealth office on December 20th. The meeting was convened by the Human Rights and Democracy Department to hear the testimony of survivors of…
24
Dec
2018NORTH KOREA HITS BACK AT HUMAN RIGHTS SANCTIONS
North Korea has hit back at new US sanctions imposed to deter human rights violations. North Korean media has warned the sanctions against three of its top officials could lead to exchanges of fire and even derail the nuclear disarmament process. The…
24
Dec
2018LEADING CHINESE PASTOR ARRESTED
A prominent Chinese pastor has been arrested charged with ‘inciting subversion of state power’. Like many other Christians before him, Pastor Wang Yi is now seen, in effect, as an enemy of the state. Pastor Wang Li of the Early Rain Covenant…
19
Dec
2018THANK YOU FOR YOUR PRAYERS IN 2018
We praise God that ‘the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him’ (2 Chronicles 16:9). We know that our persecuted family are very much in his sight and on his heart – but we…
17
Dec
2018Chinese Pastors Courageous Essay
Why I must faithfully disobey – imprisoned pastor Wang Yi Last chance to sign Release China Petition, calling for freedom of faith A prominent Chinese pastor who has just been arrested has written an outstanding essay outlining his courageous stand on the…
29
Nov
2018Killing Fields of Nigeria
A Release partner is warning that Nigeria’s Christians face growing attacks by Islamist militants in the lead-up to next year’s general election on February 16, 2019. Archbishop Ben Kwashi is calling on the Nigerian government to provide security for Christian farmers in…
27
Nov
2018NIGERIA’S CHRISTIANS BRACE FOR ATTACKS AHEAD OF ELECTIONS
A leading Anglican is warning Nigeria’s Christians face escalating attacks by Islamist militants in the lead-up to next year’s general election. Archbishop Ben Kwashi is calling on the Nigerian government to provide security for Christian farmers in the north, who are being…
22
Nov
2018ASIA BIBI FAMILY ‘HUNTED DOOR-TO-DOOR’
Islamist extremists are reported to be hunting for Asia Bibi’s family ‘door-to-door’ in Pakistan, giving rise to fears she could be murdered before leaving the country. And Christians in Lahore have been warned that terrorist groups are planning to attack them. Release…
22
Nov
2018RELEASE PARTNER ON BBC FLAGSHIP NEWS PROGRAMME
Nigerian Archbishop Benjamin Kwashi has been describing the plight of persecuted Christians in Nigeria to BBC’s Today programme. Archbishop Benjamin Kwashi is on a speaking tour of the UK with Release International. He told BBC religion editor Martin Bashir: ‘As a priest,…
16
Nov
2018Nigeria – the focus for IDOP 2018
Nigeria has become a major focus for this year’s International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church on November 18. As Andrew Boyd of Release has been explaining to Peter Wooding, attacks are continuing against Nigerian Christians… mp3 7m 18s 192kbps
15
Nov
2018Asia Bibi might be free, but the battle for religious freedom in Pakistan is far from over
says Paul Robinson, the head of Release International. The story of Asia Bibi highlights the plight of many Christians in Pakistan – not only those who have been accused of blasphemy, writes Paul in a blog for Premier. You can read it…
15
Nov
2018Revelation TV have endorsed Release International’s call for prayer for Nigeria for this year’s International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church
IDOP, now in its 22nd year, takes place on Sunday, November 18. Release spokesman, Andrew Boyd explained to Revelation TV viewers why Nigeria was the focus of this year’s day of prayer… With thanks to Revelation TV.
15
Nov
2018RELEASE CHRISTMAS APPEAL
Release has launched its Christmas Appeal to support the families of Christians who have been killed for their faith around the world. Christians are being martyred in countries including Eritrea, Somalia, Kenya, Egypt, India, Pakistan and Nigeria. In Nigeria, Christians continue to…
14
Nov
2018NIGERIA IDOP PRAYER FOCUS AS CHRISTIAN ATTACKS GROW
Nigeria focus for International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church (IDOP), Nov 18. Nigerian Christians continue to be rocked by attacks by Islamist militants, including heavily armed herdsmen who slaughter villagers and drive them from their homes. The latest attacks claimed…
09
Nov
2018RELIGIOUS LIBERTY COMMISSION CALLS FOR PAKISTAN TO RELEASE ASIA BIBI
The Religious Liberty Commission (RLC), which includes Release International, is calling on Prime Minister Imran Khan to allow Asia Bibi to leave Pakistan. The Religious Liberty Commission of the Evangelical Alliance is formed of Release International, CSW and Open Doors UK who…
08
Nov
2018ASIA BIBI… AWAITING ASYLUM FROM PAKISTAN
Asia Bibi is still in Pakistan, according to national media there. News reports say she has been released from jail and flown to the capital Islamabad, where she is being kept in ‘protective custody’. According to reports, Foreign Office spokesman Mohammed Faisal…
08
Nov
2018Kyrgyzstan: Eldos was beaten unconscious – but will not be silenced
Eldos from Kyrgyzstan was beaten to within an inch of his life – for the ‘crime’ of turning to Christ. The Christian was hospitalised with serious head injuries, including a broken jaw, and his attackers threatened to kill him if he went…
08
Nov
2018ASIA BIBI FLOWN FROM PRISON – REPORTS
According to news reports, Asia Bibi has been flown to Islamabad after being acquitted by the country’s Supreme Court of blasphemy charges. Asia’s lawyer Saif ul-Malook told the news agency Agence France Presse that Asia has been freed from prison and put…
08
Nov
2018ASIA BIBI: Fact or fiction…
Reports that Asia Bibi has been flown out of Pakistan have been denied by ministers as ‘fake news’. UCB asked Release International spokesman, Andrew Boyd, to separate the fact from the fiction… mp3 192kbps 2m 30s
07
Nov
2018CHINESE EVANGELISTS ARRESTED – RELEASE PETITION CALLS FOR REPEAL OF TOUGH NEW RELIGIOUS RESTRICTIONS IN CHINA
China’s clampdown on Christians continues, as the authorities step up enforcement of tough new anti-religious regulations. Please sign Release’s online petition Release partner China Aid reports that police in Sichuan arrested more than 20 Christians who were sharing their faith on the…
06
Nov
2018ASIA BIBI: CALL FOR A MILLION TO MARCH TO SEE HER HANG
Protestors in Pakistan have called for a million marchers to flood the streets of Karachi on Thursday (Nov 8) to call for the death of Asia Bibi – the Christian woman declared innocent of blasphemy. Pakistan has been accused of caving into…
05
Nov
2018Asia Bibi Acquitted – Report on BBC Radio Shropshire
Listen below to a radio report given by Release’s Andrew Boyd on BBC Radio Shropshire as he speaks about the situation in Pakistan and the uncertainty facing Asia Bibi and her family following her acquittal. Asia Bibi Acquitted – Interview on BBC…
03
Nov
2018ASIA BIBI’S HUSBAND CALLS ON UK FOR ASYLUM
The husband of Asia Bibi has called on Theresa May to grant asylum for his wife and family, after Pakistan caved in to demands by extremists to prevent her leaving the country. The Pakistan government has conceded to extremist demands to impose…
03
Nov
2018ASIA BIBI – PAKISTAN GIVES IN TO PROTESTERS, ASIA FREE IN NAME ONLY
Pakistan moves to prevent Asia Bibi leaving the country, Pakistan press calls it ‘another surrender’, Release International says pray for Asia and Christian minority as danger level rises The Pakistan government has given in to protesters and is acting to prevent Asia…
02
Nov
2018ASIA BIBI – NATIONWIDE PROTEST CALL AFTER FRIDAY PRAYERS
In Pakistan, Islamists have called for nationwide protests after Friday prayers, following the acquittal of Asia Bibi on blasphemy charges. The Supreme Court threw out all blasphemy charges against the Christian mother of five on Oct 31. The imam who brought the original…
01
Nov
2018Asia Bibi Acquitted – Report on Premier Christian Radio
Listen below to a radio report given by Release’s Andrew Boyd as he speaks about the prospects for Christians today in Pakistan following Asia Bibi’s acquittal. Asia Bibi Acquitted – Interview on Premier Christian Radio, 1st November 2018. mp3, 130kbps, 6m…
01
Nov
2018AFTER ASIA… PRAY FOR CHRISTIANS BRACED FOR REPRISALS
Christians in Pakistan have been warned to be braced for reprisals following the acquittal of Asia Bibi on blasphemy charges. Protests are continuing across the nation the day after the Supreme Court threw out the charges of blasphemy against Asia. Protests by…
31
Oct
2018Asia Bibi Acquitted – Reports on TWR and UCB Radio
Listen below to two radio reports given by Release’s Andrew Boyd as he speaks about Asia Bibi’s acquittal, the implications that this has for her, her family and our wider Christian family within Pakistan and the reality of the blasphemy laws in…
31
Oct
2018Asia Bibi acquitted – and Pakistan erupts in fury
Asia Bibi has been acquitted by the Supreme Court in Lahore after spending eight years on death row for ‘blasphemy’. But the move is hugely controversial in this conservative Muslim nation. Already two churches have been attacked and large crowds of protesters…
31
Oct
2018ASIA BIBI UPDATE… THERESA MAY WELCOMES NEWS OF ASIA’S RELEASE
Prime Minister Theresa May has welcomed news of Asia Bibi’s release. She told the Commons during Prime Minister’s Questions: ‘The news out of Pakistan will be very welcome to her family and to all who have campaigned for her release.’ Asia Bibi…
31
Oct
2018ASIA BIBI UPDATE… PROTESTS CONTINUE IN PAKISTAN AFTER ASIA ACQUITTAL
Protests continue in Pakistan after the Supreme Court decision to acquit Christian Asia Bibi of blasphemy charges. Crowds have barricaded roads in Islamabad and other major cities, burned tyres and taken the streets in protest. The International News, Pakistan, reports: ‘Demonstrations broke…
31
Oct
2018ASIA BIBI UPDATE – RELEASE CALLS FOR PRAYER FOR CHRISTIANS
Release International has called for prayer for Pakistan’s Christians as large crowds gather to protest the acquittal of Asia Bibi. Angry protesters burning tyres have blocked highways and roads. Demonstrations have broken out in the capital Islamabad and other cities. ‘Please pray…
31
Oct
2018ASIA BIBI UPDATE… PROTESTS ERUPT IN PAKISTAN AFTER ACQUITTAL
Protestors have blocked major roads in Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad, putting up barriers and burning tyres, following news of Asia Bibi’s acquittal. Protests are also being staged in Karachi and Lahore. The Punjab authorities have banned people from gathering in public places. The…
31
Oct
2018ASIA BIBI OVERJOYED
Asia Bibi says she can scarcely believe that she has been acquitted. Overtuning the blasphemy ruling, the Supreme Court declared: ‘the prosecution has categorically failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt.’ News agency AFP said Asia Bibi could scarcely believe the news:…
31
Oct
2018ASIA BIBI ACQUITTED AMID PROTESTS – RELEASE CALLS FOR HER PROTECTION
PAKISTAN SUPREME COURT OVERTURNS DEATH PENALTY ON CHRISTIAN MOTHER ON DEATH ROW FOR BLASPHEMY Release International welcomes the decision to finally acquit Asia Bibi, who has been on death row for eight years. As protests break out, Release urges Pakistan to protect…
23
Oct
2018Our family in Sri Lanka are under pressure from extremists
The church in Sri Lanka is facing mounting violence and discrimination – as extremism extends its influence. Buddhist hardliners are not the only ones persecuting Christians now: Hindu extremists with links to India are gaining influence. Please pray that our church family…
15
Oct
2018PASTOR ANDREW BRUNSON RELEASED – Premier Christian Radio Interview
US pastor Andrew Brunson, who was accused of spying in Turkey, has been set free from prison following international pressure. Release International has welcomed the news, as, Andrew Boyd told Premier Radio: 5.5MB 3m 58s 192kbps
12
Oct
2018PASTOR ANDREW BRUNSON RELEASED
Release International is delighted that Pastor Andrew Brunson (pictured) has at last been released in Turkey, where he has been held on terrorism charges. According to news reports, Pastor Brunson, who has denied the charges, will soon be heading back to the…
10
Oct
2018ASIA BIBI AWAITS BLASPHEMY APPEAL RULING
The world is still awaiting Pakistan’s Supreme Court ruling on Asia Bibi, the Christian mother on death row for blasphemy. The court made a decision on Asia’s fate on Monday, but has withheld its ruling. Christians hope Asia will be set free,…
08
Oct
2018Help set the captives free! Our brothers and sisters need your prayers
Asia, Andrew, Jiang and Leah… all four are being held in captivity, simply because they are Christians. Please stand with us in praying for their release. Pakistani Christian Asia Bibi (pictured) will have to wait for a ruling on her final appeal today…
04
Oct
2018INSPIRE A NEW GENERATION
Show the Tortured for Christ DVD in your church and celebrate 50 years of supporting persecuted Christians. Fifty years ago, a Romanian pastor who had gone through torment for his faith at the hands of his communist jailers inspired Christians around the…
04
Oct
2018Emersion – a painting by Marcela Lopez.
Blind auction for painting. Marcela Lopez, a contemporary artist based in Surrey whose commissions can be found in offices and homes in Colombia, from where she comes, London, Paris, Venice and Texas, is offering one of her works for auction to help…
26
Sep
2018NIGERIA – Pray for Leah
The life of Leah Sharibu, the 15-year-old schoolgirl abducted by Boko Haram terrorists in northern Nigeria in February, is in immediate danger. Her abductors have threatened to execute her at the end of the month (September) if the Government does not meet…
19
Sep
2018Clampdown on Christians in Central Asia – Report on Premier Christian Radio
Release’s new DVD, Underground, was featured on Premier Christian Radio’s Newshour programme today. The DVD reports on the growing problem of persecution of Christians in Central Asia. You can listen to Release’s Tom Bradley’s report below. mp3 128kbps 7m 36s You…
18
Sep
2018CENTRAL ASIA CLAMPDOWN ON CHRISTIANS
Christians in Central Asia are facing worship bans, arrest and torture as Islamic nationalism gains ground in their countries. Pastors in the underground church have been describing their ordeal to Release International, which supports persecuted Christians around the world. Release has launched an…
11
Sep
2018URGENT – Imminent attack feared in northern Nigeria
Rumours are circulating that Fulani militants are poised to attack the town of Vom in north eastern Nigeria. The town lies on the major arterial road between Abuja, the capital, and Jos, the Plateau state capital. If this raid takes place it…
31
Aug
2018HELP THE COURAGEOUS CHRISTIANS OF IRAN
Iran is a tough country for Christians. In this radical Islamic republic, sharing the Christian faith is not tolerated. Fewer than 1 in 100 Iranians are believers. Converts from Islam face the toughest pressure – along with the Christians who lead them…
29
Aug
2018NIGERIA – Two pastors among scores killed by militants
Two congregations in Nigeria are mourning the death of their pastor after three days of violence across four states. Unidentified attackers shot Pastor Michael Akawu on a Saturday night in Gwagwalada, Abuja – just a few hours before suspected Fulani murdered Pastor…
29
Aug
2018CHINA: ‘REPEAL TOUGH NEW RESTRICTIONS’ – Interview on Premier Christian Radio
Release’s Andrew Boyd was interviewed on Premier Christian Radio this afternoon. He was speaking about persecution of Christians in China and how you can sign our petition to the Chinese Premier, Xi Jinping, asking him to repeal the new religious laws which…
29
Aug
2018CHINA PETITION – ‘REPEAL TOUGH NEW RESTRICTIONS’ – RELEASE
Release launches a petition calling for the repeal of tough new anti-religion laws in China that have led to a rise in persecution. Release partners say persecution in China is on the rise. And it’s not just Christians and church leaders who…
28
Aug
2018CHINA – CHRISTIAN PERSECUTION SOARS AS NEW LAWS BITE
It’s now six months since tough new restrictions on religious freedom came into force across China. Release International, which supports Christians under pressure around the world, says persecution has been rising dramatically. Partners report a five-fold increase in the number of Christians…
16
Aug
2018TAJIKISTAN – Christians arrested and fined
We have been informed through our partner that 10 Christians were arrested by the security police in Tajikistan on August 7. The group had gone to the Pamirs mountain area to share the gospel and hand out Christian literature in Russian, Tajik…
02
Aug
2018INDIA – Christians injured and ‘traumatised’ by mob attack
A partially blind girl was among those beaten by a mob of masked Hindu extremists during a recent attack on a church in Uttar Pradesh, northern India. After the attack in July, which ‘traumatised’ families, nine of about 50 injured Christians needed…
26
Jul
2018PASTOR ANDREW BRUNSON RELEASED FROM JAIL IN TURKEY
A US pastor accused of spying in Turkey has been released from prison and placed under house arrest following international pressure. Christians around the world are delighted that Pastor Andrew Brunson has at last been released from prison. He has been let…
26
Jul
2018ARCHBISHOP THANKS RELEASE FOR REPORTING NIGERIA ATTACK
Nigerian Archbishop Benjamin Kwashi has thanked Release International for raising international awareness of the recent attack against his home. Armed Fulani herdsmen raided the archbishop’s compound in Jos and stole his cattle. Archbishop Kwashi remained indoors to protect the many orphans in…
25
Jul
2018Pakistan elections – Christians likely losers as extremists tilt agenda
Whoever wins today’s Pakistan elections, Christians and religious tolerance are likely to be the losers, as extremists press into the mainstream, calling for tougher blasphemy laws. Whatever the outcome, Release International will keep campaigning for the notorious blasphemy laws to be repealed Whatever…
21
Jul
2018PREMIER RADIO – INTERVIEW WITH PETR JASEK, CHRISTIAN WORKER IMPRISONED IN SUDAN FOR SPYING
Listen to Petr Jasek being interviewed on The Profile at Premier Christian Radio today (Saturday July 21st) at 4pm. If you can’t make that time, the interview will be available to listen to as a podcast here.
19
Jul
2018Pastor Andrew Brunson sent back to jail
American pastor Andrew Brunson’s hopes of being released from jail in Turkey have been dashed yet again. Yesterday, a judge ordered Pastor Andrew to remain behind bars, despite intense international lobbying raising hopes he would be freed. Turkey has just declared an…
19
Jul
2018New developments in Eritrea
A report from our Eritrean partner: After Ethiopia appointed a new prime minister, Dr. Abiy Ahmed Ali, in April 2018, things started to change quickly in that country and their neighbours. Dr. Abiy Ahmed Ali has a Muslim father and an Orthodox…
12
Jul
2018Algerian Christians under growing pressure
Our Algerian family is facing mounting pressure – but standing strong. Officials in Algeria are using ‘legal technicalities’ to close down churches and put pressure on Christians. Release sources say Protestant churches are being subjected to ‘health and safety inspections’ – by…
11
Jul
2018Running 50 @ 50 in support of Release International
As Release International and Simon Harris both celebrate their 50th birthdays, please support Simon with his personal challenge to run 5 x 10km timed runs during 2018 or 50 @ 50! Simon writes, ‘As I celebrate my 50th year I’ve decided to…
11
Jul
2018Laurie’s 4000ft Cross-Scotland Trek
That’s not just walking 4000 feet – it’s walking across Scotland from Aberdeen to Fort William, up and down NINE 4,000 ft hills along the way!! Laurie writes, ‘Last year I had the opportunity to visit Egypt and see at first hand…
09
Jul
2018EXTENDED INTERVIEW WITH PETR JASEK, CHRISTIAN WORKER IMPRISONED IN SUDAN FOR SPYING
Listen here to an extended interview with Andrew Boyd in conversation with Petr Jasek. (You can also download a transcript of the interview here if you prefer.) Czech-born Petr Jasek, a champion of the persecuted church, was accused of spying in Sudan…
06
Jul
2018Tortured For Christ – The film: NOW SHOWING THROUGHOUT THE UK
Fourteen years in communist prisons could not break his faith! Last Autumn Release started to show a new 70-minute film produced by Voice of the Martyrs USA, which depicts Richard Wurmbrand’s best-selling testimony Tortured for Christ. Filmed entirely in Romania, this is a powerful…
05
Jul
2018Express reports Release concerns about Nigeria attacks
The Express has picked up on Release International’s story about the ongoing attacks against Christian in Nigeria. Their story headlined, Christianity crackdown: Church attacked by mob in Nigeria ‘genocide’ crisis highlights the crucial questions being raised by Release CEO Paul Robinson. The…
02
Jul
2018ATTACK ON HOME OF NIGERIAN ARCHBISHOP BEN KWASHI
Fulani raiders claim 11 more lives. Release warns of campaign to drive Christians from northern Nigeria, calls for government protection Cattle rustlers have attacked the home of the Nigerian Archbishop of Jos, Benjamin Kwashi. The Anglican Archbishop was at home at the…
02
Jul
2018AUDIO REPORT: Nigeria violence death toll ‘exceeds 200’
Andrew Boyd is interviewed on Premier Christian Radio about the continuing violence in northern Nigeria which has resulted in the deaths of over 200 people and the displacement of thousands.
02
Jul
2018PETR JASEK THANKS RELEASE SUPPORTERS FOR YOUR PRAYERS
Listen here to an interview with Andrew Boyd in conversation with Petr Jasek. (You can also download a transcript of the interview here if you prefer.) A Czech missionary who was facing death in Sudan for reporting on the persecuted church, has…
29
Jun
2018CHRISTIAN DEATH TOLL IN NIGERIA RISES. RELEASE WARNS OF STRATEGY TO DRIVE CHRISTIANS FROM NORTH
Release International warns of strategy to drive Christians from north Nigeria and asks: ‘Who is arming and training the attackers?’ As the death tolls mounts in Fulani attacks against Nigerian Christian villagers, Release declares June 29 Martyrs’ Day. The death toll from…
28
Jun
2018200 Nigerian Christians slaughtered in village attacks
200 Nigerian Christians slaughtered in village attacks More than 200 people in mainly Christian villages in Plateau are reported dead after Fulani herdsmen went on a killing spree at the weekend. Attackers armed with machetes and guns raided ten communities near the…
18
Jun
2018100 churches closed in China province
Scores of churches have been shut down in a central China province as the crackdown on Christianity continues. By the end of May, almost 100 house churches had been forcibly closed in Henan, according to Release partner China Aid. Even state-registered churches…
15
Jun
2018Release International’s Martyrs’ Day (June 29)
Be Prepared for Martyrs’ Day on 29 June 2018 ******************************************************* Please check back here for information about Martyrs’ Day 2019 (Saturday 29 June 2019) – coming soon. ******************************************************* In our 50th year we launched Martyrs’ Day – on June 29 – to remember…
06
Jun
2018MYANMAR MILITARY LAUNCHES BRUTAL ATTACKS ON CHRISTIAN AREAS
Our family in Myanmar are in desperate need of our prayers as the military renews its offensive against the Christian Kachin people in the north of Myanmar. Troops using artillery, helicopter gunships and infantry are reportedly setting fire to homes, forcing people…
05
Jun
2018BURMA: RELIGIOUS CLEANSING SPREADS TO CHRISTIANS
RELEASE CALLS FOR HALT TO ATTACKS BY MYANMAR MILITARY. The Burmese military has renewed its offensive against the Christian Kachin people in Myanmar (Burma), displacing thousands. Release International, which supports persecuted Christians worldwide, fears Christians face a repeat of the brutal ethnic…
05
Jun
2018Andrew Boyd Speaks about the recent attacks on Kachin Christians in Burma
Release’s Andrew Boyd speaks on UCB Radio and Premier Christian Radio about the recent attacks on Kachin Christians in Burma. UCB Radio Report (June 5th, 2018) mp3 6MB 4m 17s Premier Christian Radio Report (June 6th, 2018) mp3 6MB…
25
May
2018Andrew Boyd Speaks about the Great Outdoors Church Service
Click here to listen to Release’ Andrew Boyd speaking about the Great Outdoor Church Service on Premier Radio’s Newshour programme. mp3, 160kbps, 4m 35s
21
May
201850th Anniversary Service of Thanksgiving
Join us for a 50th Anniversary Service of Thanksgiving on Thursday 4th October, 7.30pm, at the Emmanuel Centre, 9-23 Marsham Street, London, SW1P 3DW. Download the flyer for more details. Entry is by advance FREE ticket only and spaces are…
21
May
2018THEY LISTEN IN SECRET
THEY LISTEN IN SECRET In Afghanistan, they still stone followers of Jesus. So, telling others about your faith is a risky business – for you, and for them. Encouragement is in short supply, as is sound Christian teaching. But both can be…
14
May
2018INDONESIA – Churches hit by horrific attacks
Our brothers and sisters in Indonesia urgently need our prayer – after a family with children launched suicide attacks on three churches in Surabaya city yesterday. A woman is believed to have blown up herself and two daughters in an attack on…
14
May
2018CALL FOR OPEN-AIR PRAYER TO STAND WITH INDONESIAN CHRISTIANS
CALL FOR OPEN-AIR PRAYER TO STAND WITH INDONESIAN CHRISTIANS Release International is calling on Christians to hold open-air services to stand in solidarity with Christians slaughtered in the Indonesian church bombings. Report of courage as security guard gives his life to save…
23
Apr
2018‘NOW IS THE TIME TO GET OUT OF OUR CHURCHES AND STAND WITH THE PERSECUTED’
Release invites Christians to hold open air services on May 27 to identify with believers whose churches have been destroyed Churches in the UK and Ireland are being challenged to take their services out into the open air in May, whatever the…
19
Apr
2018PAKISTAN: Christians shocked and fearful after third attack
Azhar and Rahib were shot in broad daylight on the streets of Quetta city this week – the third extremist attack on local Christians in just four months. Christians in southern Balochistan province are now living in fear as 15 believers have…
06
Apr
2018PAKISTAN: Four members of Christian family killed in Easter attack
Easter should be a joyful time for family gatherings but for one family in the Pakistani province of Balochistan their celebrations came to a sudden and brutal end. Four members of the same family, who had come together for Easter from different…
05
Apr
2018Egypt election – Premier Newshour Interview
Release’s Andrew Boyd speaks on Premier Christian Radio’s Newshour programme about the recent presidential election in Egypt. Click the icon below to listen. mp3 (6MB) 128kbps 6m 14s
03
Apr
2018Protect Your Persecuted Christians, Mr President
Abdel Fattah al–Sisi has been confirmed as President of Egypt after a low-turnout election for which there was no effective opposition. Most of Mr al-Sisi’s opponents declined to stand in the elections, citing intimidation. A former army chief was arrested after declaring…
19
Mar
2018GATHERING STORM IN CHINA
COMING STORM FOR CHINESE CHRISTIANS UNDER ‘EMPEROR’ XI Latest crackdown tears Christian mural from home, arrests pastor. Video clip. A leading campaigner has warned of a gathering storm for persecuted Christians in China. Release International partner, Bob Fu, says the persecution of…
06
Mar
2018Interview opportunity with leading China persecution campaigner Bob Fu, in the UK in March with Release International. Also new book on persecution.
Former house church leader, prisoner of faith, and one of the leading voices for the persecuted Church in China, Bob Fu contends that the persecution of Christians in China is worsening and is now as severe as at any time since the…
26
Feb
2018INDIA: 7TH STATE PASSES ANTI-CONVERSION LAW
‘Law is an instrument of persecution to prevent Christian witness’ – Release International A seventh state in India has become the latest to pass an anti-conversion law, which Christians say will be used as a tool of persecution by right-wing Hindu nationalists….
16
Feb
2018Thank God for the release of Lao Christians!
Six Christians in Laos who spent more than a month in jail for celebrating Christmas have now been set free. Release contacts say the Christians in Vientiane province were taken into custody because they had not sought official permission to hold a…
16
Feb
2018AUDIO REPORT: Chinese New Year – New restriction on Christians in China
A new year means new rules. Year of the Dog looks set to be Year of the Underdog for Christians in China. Release’s Andrew Boyd warns persecution is set to rise as new rules given to local authorities are being used to further…
15
Feb
2018CHINESE NEW YEAR HERALDS NEW RESTRICTIONS FOR CHRISTIANS
New year, new rules as Year of the Dog looks set to be Year of the Underdog. Release warns persecution set to rise as new rules clamp down on the Church. The Chinese New Year looks set to be a year of…
07
Feb
2018NK PRE-OLYMPIC MILITARY PARADE MUST TRIGGER PRAYER FOR PERSECUTED
The North Korean missile crisis must be turned into a rallying cry for prayer for persecuted Christians in that country, says Release International, which supports Christians under pressure around the world. North Korea is staging a massive show of military might ahead…
31
Jan
2018Theresa May in China – ‘Use your influence, Mrs May, to press for religious freedom’
Prime Minister Theresa May is in China for a three-day visit to bolster trade. But concern is growing about the rising persecution of Christians in China. In January, officials dynamited a 50,000-strong megachurch and have fined Christian leaders elsewhere for taking up…
26
Jan
2018New religion law in Vietnam fuels Christians’ fears
Please pray for our family in Vietnam as new laws on religion threaten to limit their freedoms. Vietnam’s Law on Belief and Religion, which came into force on January 1, has alarmed Christians because it insists religious groups must be registered and…
22
Jan
2018RELEASE 50YR MILESTONE PROMPTS PERSECUTION CALL TO ACTION
Release International has reached a significant milestone – the 50th year of its ministry in serving persecuted Christians around the world. ‘Since 1968, the prayers and gifts of supporters throughout the UK and Ireland have helped thousands of Christians who are persecuted…
19
Jan
2018CHINA: 200 Chinese Christians arrested in ‘cult’ crackdown
A crackdown on ‘cults’ in Yunnan province has led to mass arrests of Christians – with many now facing long jail sentences. Six members of a church in the Lincang area have just been handed sentences of up to 13 years –…
09
Jan
2018KYRGYZSTAN – ‘AMAZING SIGN’ ENCOURAGES CHURCH AFTER BOMB ATTACK
A church in Kyrgyzstan was badly damaged in a firebomb attack but one thing survived and has now inspired the congregation. Muslim militants used Molotov cocktails to set fire to the Evangelical Christian Baptist Church in Kaji-Say in the early hours of…
08
Jan
2018MILITANTS BURN BAPTIST CHURCH IN KYRGYZSTAN. ALTAR BIBLE SURVIVES BLAZE UNHARMED
Muslim militants have firebombed a Baptist church in Kyrgyzstan, causing extensive damage. The Bible on the altar survived the arson attack, encouraging Christians to stand firm in their faith. Radicals doused the Evangelical Christian Baptist Church with petrol and set it on…
29
Dec
2017MANY SPARED AS EGYPT CHURCH BOMB ATTACK FAILS
Terrorists strike as Egyptian churches brace for violence. Nine killed, but many spared as bomb attack fails. Release calls for prayer for Egypt’s Christians. The death toll in an attempted suicide bomb attack on a church in Egypt [Friday Dec 29] has…
28
Dec
2017PERSECUTION TRENDS 2018: AS CHINA TRIES TO BAN CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS RELEASE WARNS OF CHURCH CLAMPDOWN
Countries of concern for 2018 in new Release report include China, Nigeria and India. China has been cracking down on Christmas celebrations in some districts, banning Santa Claus and Christmas hats to further tighten its squeeze on Christianity. China is a key…
18
Dec
2017CHRISTIAN GROOMING EPIDEMIC IN EGYPT
Girls and boys targeted for kidnap and conversion. Release urges Egypt to protect its Christian minority. Christian girls in Egypt are being targeted for kidnapping, forced marriage and conversion, says Release International, which supports persecuted Christians around the world. Release describes an…
15
Dec
2017THANK YOU FOR YOUR FAITHFUL PRAYERS IN 2017
We believe in the power of prayer so we’re hugely grateful to you for interceding on behalf of our persecuted family this year. Your prayers help sustain prisoners behind bars, bring comfort to those who mourn and remind those who are suffering…
08
Dec
2017INDIAN PASTOR AND WIFE BEATEN UP
Please pray for Indian pastor David Livingstone and his wife Aram, who were beaten up when Hindu extremists attacked their church in north Karnataka. A group of about 25 extremists interrupted a church service, and dragged the pastor and his wife outside,…
29
Nov
2017Persecution turns to joy for Indian Christians
Next time you pray for someone to be healed, spare a thought for six Indian Christians who paid a heavy price for doing just that. As they prayed over a woman who was sick, Hindu extremists attacked them. Then, when police were…
16
Nov
2017PAKISTAN – PRAY FOR OUR BROTHER ZAFAR WHO IS IN PRISON AND IN DISTRESS
Our brother Zafar is facing the prospect of spending the rest of his life behind bars in Pakistan over false accusations of ‘blasphemy’ – and really needs our prayers. Zafar Bhatti, who is being held in Adyala Jail in Rawalpindi, was sentenced…
24
Oct
2017MORE SUDAN CHURCH LEADERS ARRESTED
Faced with the threat of arrest would you continue to worship God? That is the challenge being faced on a regular basis by Christian leaders in Sudan. On Sunday police arrested five Sudanese Church of Christ (SCOC) leaders after they refused to…
11
Oct
2017TURKEY – Worship rises from pastor’s prison cell
Our American brother Andrew Brunson is still behind bars in Turkey – a year after he was arrested – yet his faith remains strong. He faces four life sentences based on allegations that he was involved in the plot to overthrow the…
02
Aug
2017IRAN – MARYAM RELEASED FROM PRISON!
Thank you for your prayers for Maryam Naghash Zargaran, an Iranian convert to Christianity, who, we are delighted to report, was released from prison yesterday. Maryam has served a four-year sentence in the women’s ward of Evin Prison in Tehran. She was…
12
May
2017ANOTHER CHRISTIAN FALLS VICTIM TO PAKISTAN’S BLASPHEMY LAW
Zafar Bhatti faces the prospect of spending the rest of his days behind bars after a court in Pakistan sentenced him to life in prison for ‘blasphemy’. A judge in Rawalpindi found Zafar guilty of sending blasphemous text messages from his mobile…
11
May
2017YOUR PRAYERS ARE POWERFUL: THANK GOD FOR THE RELEASE OF PRISONERS IN SUDAN!
We’ve just heard that Pastor Hassan Abduraheem Kodi Taour and Abdulmonem Abdumawla have been freed from prison in Khartoum today. The two men have been in jail since they were arrested along with our Czech brother, Petr Jašek, in December 2015. In…
13
Mar
2017IRAN – ONE SMALL STEP FROM BAPTISM TO DETENTION
An Iranian mother and son have paid a heavy price for turning to Christ – just months after they were baptised. Veronika and Augustine were arrested in Urmia, northwest Iran, on February 20 and haven’t been seen since. Please pray that they…
27
Feb
2017SUDAN: FREEDOM FOR OUR CZECH BROTHER PETR
Czech Christian aid worker Petr Jašek is reported to be safely back in Prague after Sudan’s President pardoned him and released him from jail yesterday. The Czech Foreign Minister brought Petr home last night after flying out to Khartoum to negotiate his…
22
Feb
2017MALAYSIA: ABDUCTION FEARS FOR MALAYSIAN CHRISTIANS
Three Christians have gone missing in Malaysia – and friends fear they have been abducted because of their church work. Pastor Raymond Koh was reportedly taken from his car in Petaling Jaya city last week. Another pastor and his wife, who have…
21
Feb
2017MALAYSIA: ABDUCTION FEARS FOR MALAYSIAN CHRISTIANS
Three Christians have gone missing in Malaysia – and friends fear they have been abducted because of their church work. Pastor Raymond Koh was reportedly taken from his car in Petaling Jaya city last week. Another pastor and his wife, who have…
15
Feb
2017WILL THEY BE LASHED FOR TAKING COMMUNION WINE? IRANIAN CHRISTIANS AWAIT VERDICT
Three Iranian men are waiting to hear whether a court will uphold their sentence to 80 lashes for taking communion wine. Their appeal decision is expected within 20 days. Release International is calling on the Iranian authorities to overturn the sentence. Yaser…
04
Oct
2016CHINA – HOUSE CHURCHES ACROSS CHINA ‘ORDERED TO REFORM’
China’s house churches are under fire again – as the authorities step up the pressure on congregations across the country. Please pray for our Christian family in China, facing what appears to be an official crackdown spreading throughout the country. The warning…