Nigerian Christians call for urgent prayer after student’s murder

Christians in the northern Sokoto state of Nigeria are requesting urgent prayer after rioters upset over the arrest of two Muslims in connection with the barbaric killing of a Christian college student attacked church buildings and looted and damaged Christian-owned shops on…

NIGERIA: CALLS FOR NATIONWIDE PROTEST AFTER CHRISTIAN STUDENT STONED AND BURNED

Nigeria’s Christians have called for a National Day of Protest and government intervention after the stoning to death and burning of a Christian student in Sokoto for alleged blasphemy. Deborah Samuel (also known as Deborah Emmanuel Yakubu) was beaten to death and burned after giving thanks to Christ for passing her exams on her college WhatsApp chat.

ERITREAN CHRISTIANS MARK 20 YEARS OF CHURCH CLOSURES

Christians in Eritrea mark 20 years of state persecution this month. The East African dictatorship shut down most of its churches in May 2002, outlawing every religion except Sunni Islam, Eritrean Orthodox, Roman Catholicism and the Lutheran Church. And today, 20 years later, the persecution continues. Release International is calling for full religious freedom in the country, which has been described as the North Korea of Africa.

Killing of Nigerian Christians reaches new state

Six Christians were reported to have been murdered in the first terrorist attack of its kind in Nigeria’s northeastern Taraba state. After an explosion killed the six believers and wounded more than a dozen others at a Christian-owned market on April 19,…

IRAN: WOMAN CHURCH LEADER REPORTS FOR JAIL

Iranian Christians are calling for prayer as a Christian woman begins a two-year prison sentence for leading an evangelical church. Fariba Dalir was found guilty of ‘acting against national security by establishing and leading an Evangelical Christian Church’.

CHRISTIAN PERSECUTION GROWING IN NIGERIA, INDIA AND AFGHANISTAN, WARNS US COMMISSION

A leading US Commission is calling for India, Nigeria and Afghanistan to be designated countries of particular concern because of the growing threat to religious freedom in those nations. The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) has just published its 2022 Annual Report (Monday April 25). Its findings are in line with the recent Persecution Trends report published by UK-based Release International, which supports persecuted Christians around the world.

FURTHER ATTACK ON NIGERIA’S KADUNA CHRISTIANS

Thank you for praying earlier this month for Christians in Nigeria following the brutal killing of 50 believers in the northern Kaduna state and the abduction of 100 more by Fulani militants. Sadly just a few days later armed terrorists raided a…

NIGERIA – LATEST DEVASTATING ATTACK ON CHRISTIAN VILLAGES KILLS AT LEAST 80

Partners of Release International warn of Islamist agenda and accuse government of turning a blind eye. Gunmen have carried out a devastating attack on up to ten predominantly Christian villages in Plateau State, Nigeria. The militia, on motorcycles, killed at least 80 people and abducted 60 others during Sunday raids which continued unchecked for hours. The BBC put the death toll as high as 135.

NOW CHINA BANS MENTIONING ‘CHRIST’ ON THE INTERNET

The Chinese authorities have banned a church from using the word Christ on the Internet. In the latest crackdown on religious freedom in China, the authorities picked up on the use of the word Christ in a WeChat post published by the Early Rain Covenant Church – a regular target for the Chinese authorities.

NIGERIAN CHRISTIANS ENDURE RELENTLESS ATTACKS

Two weeks ago we asked you to pray for Christians in Nigeria’s northern Kaduna state after 30 believers were killed by Islamist militants. Sadly the violence has continued, with another 50 murdered in the same state and 100 abducted with homes burned…

CHRISTIANS TARGETED BY TERRORISTS IN SAHEL

Christians are being targeted by Islamist terror groups in the Sahel region of Africa. According to the latest Global Terrorism Index the Sahel has ‘become the new epicentre of terrorism’. The Sahel was identified as an emerging hotspot in the recent Persecution Trends report by Release International, which supports persecuted Christians around the world. Partners of Release say Christians are being executed by armed gangs who target their villages and stop cars and buses on the road.

RELEASE GOES GLOBAL ON SATELLITE TV

Release International features on Revelation TV’s The Persecuted Church programme. The April edition, co-presented by Andrew Boyd, focuses on Ukraine in an hour-long special.

INDIA PASSES ANOTHER ANTI-CONVERSION LAW. RELEASE INTERNATIONAL WARNS OF ‘RISING TIDE OF VIOLENCE TOWARDS CHRISTIANS’

Another state in India has passed an anti-conversion law amid growing violence from Hindu extremists.

‘As India’s election process gathers momentum Release International is seeing record numbers of attacks against Christians and other minorities,’ warns CEO Paul Robinson.

‘This new law will deny the poorest of the poor in India the right to choose their faith. We call on India to protect the rights and religious freedoms of all its citizens under its constitution.’

NIGERIA: ATTACK BY MILITANTS LEAVES MORE THAN 30 PEOPLE DEAD IN KADUNA STATE

Please pray for Christians in Nigeria’s Kaduna State after the latest attack by Islamist militants left more than 30 people dead. Extremists attacked the town of Kagoro on Sunday evening, destroying about 200 houses in the three-hour raid. One of Release International’s…

RUSSIANS ARREST EVANGELICAL PASTOR IN MARIUPOL, UKRAINE

Release International’s partner in Kyiv has called for prayer following the arrest by Russian forces of an Evangelical pastor in the besieged city of Mariupol. He reports a hunt for pastors has begun in areas now under Russian control.

UKRAINE: WARNING OF CHRISTIAN PERSECUTION IN RUSSIAN CONTROLLED AREAS

There are warnings that Christians in Ukraine could face persecution if Russia tightens its grip on the country. Release International is assisting partners in Poland working with churches to care for Ukrainian refugees and is appealing to help Christians in flight around the world.

WARNING OF TERROR THREAT TO NIGERIAN ELECTIONS

Release international partners in Nigeria are warning that Christians displaced by terrorism and conflict may be denied the opportunity to vote in the upcoming Nigerian elections.

NEW ONLINE CRACKDOWN ON CHRISTIANS IN CHINA

China has tightened its online crackdown against Christians – attempting to control every word and image of religious content on the internet. Tough new measures are being introduced on March 1.

UKRAINE: THE FEAR OF CHRISTIAN PERSECUTION UNDER RUSSIAN CONTROL

As the world looks on at Russia’s attack on Ukraine what could this mean for Christians in that country? In those parts of Ukraine that were already under Russian separatist control many Protestant churches have faced restrictions, with church services being closed…

VIGIL PLEA FOR NEWS ON KIDNAPPED PASTOR IN MALAYSIA

A vigil marking the fifth anniversary of the forced disappearance of Malaysian Pastor Raymond Koh has been held in Kuala Lumpur. The kidnapped pastor’s wife described her pain at not knowing the fate of her husband. ‘We are frozen in grief,’ she said.

‘RELEASE RAYMOND KOH’ – 5YRS SINCE PASTOR ABDUCTED IN MALAYSIA

It’s five years since Malaysian pastor Raymond Koh was abducted in broad daylight on the streets of Malaysia. The pastor was kidnapped in a military-style operation in February 2017 and hasn’t been seen since. Responsibility for his kidnapping, which was captured on…

COFE CONDEMNS RISING CHRISTIAN PERSECUTION

The Church of England has condemned the growing persecution of Christians around the world and called on its churches to pray and offer practical support. Release International, which supports persecuted Christians worldwide, has backs the call, warning ‘the world must wake up to the rise in violence against Christians.’

‘HIGHLIGHT CHINA PERSECUTION’ DURING BEIJING OLYMPICS

Refuse to let China sportswash its religious freedom abuses in China. ‘Three billion people are set to watch the Winter Olympics…’ says CEO Paul Robinson of Release International, which supports persecuted Christians around the world, ‘three billion opportunities to highlight the truth about how China is persecuting its religious minorities, including Christians.’

‘We need your prayers for God’s deliverance from these forces of evil’

Christians in northern Nigeria are appealing for your prayers after yet more attacks on their communities by extremists. It is understood that four believers were killed and a total of 22 girls kidnapped in Islamist raids in the Chibok area of Borno…

PERSECUTION TRENDS – WATCH THE RELEASE INTERNATIONAL REPORT IN THE MEDIA

Release International’s annual Persecution Trends report is featuring on Revelation TV’s flagship programme. The report, which has been picked up widely by the media, is also covered in an extended podcast by partner ministry, Voice of the Martyrs, Canada.

GROWING STATE OPPRESSION AGAINST CHINESE AND INDIAN CHRISTIANS

As we enter a new year let’s continue to commit to praying for our persecuted family, many of whom will be facing the severest challenges in the next 12 months. At the same time let’s thank God for all the ways in…

AFGHANISTAN DEEPENS CHRISTIAN REFUGEE CRISIS

Release International has launched an appeal to help Christians around the world who are fleeing persecution because of their faith. They include refugees who have fled Afghanistan to escape the Taliban. Christians are also being driven from their homes in troublespots including Nigeria, where thousands have been displaced, and Eritrea, where Christians face indefinite imprisonment for their faith.

PERSECUTION TRENDS REPORT: WEST AFRICA HOTSPOT FOR CHRISTIANS IN 2022

The Sahel and Nigeria are set to become hotspots for Christian persecution in 2022, according to Release International, which supports persecuted Christians around the world. Release International has just published its Persecution Trends report for the coming year. Countries of growing concern…

INDIA: POLICE BAN CHRISTMAS SERVICES OVER ATTACK THREAT

Asian Christians call for prayer for security over Christmas There are growing tensions in Karnataka, India, where police have clamped down on Christmas meetings in churches, halls and homes, because of the increasing threat of violence from Hindu militants, warns Release International….

‘REINSTATE NIGERIA AS COUNTRY OF CONCERN’ TO HALT WAR AGAINST CHRISTIANS

Partners of Release International warn of a ‘slow-motion war’ unfolding in Nigeria where ‘more Christians are being killed than anywhere else on the face of the earth.’ Release International is calling for Nigeria to be reinstated as a Country of Particular Concern, after its delisting by the US State Department.

#PLACE2WORSHIP – RAISE A CRY FOR CHRISTIANS IN IRAN

Release International has given its backing to a new campaign to support Iranian Christians being denied a place of worship. #Place2Worship is an initiative being supported by several Christian agencies in the UK and which seeks to challenge the restrictions currently placed on Iranian Christians who speak Persian (or Farsi, as it is known in Iran).

RELEASE INTERNATIONAL HIGHLIGHTS THE PERSECUTED CHURCH ON TV

Release International is playing a key role in highlighting the persecuted Church on satellite TV.
The Persecuted Church is one of the flagship programmes of Revelation TV, which broadcasts around the world on Sky, Freeview HD, Freesat and others. Each month, the 30-minute programme highlights areas of the world where Christians are suffering for their faith.

INDIA: PASTORS ARRESTED UNDER CONVERSION LAW

A number of pastors in Uttar Pradesh state have been arrested and detained without bail under the state’s anti-conversion law during the past few months.Police arrested and jailed Pastor Nandu Nathaniel and his wife Savita Singh early last month. Pastor Nandu has…

ERITREA AND ETHIOPIA PRAYER CALL FOR IDOP 2021

Release International has joined with the Evangelical Alliance, CSW and Open Doors in a call to stand in solidarity and pray for persecuted Christians. The focus chosen by Release International for the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church (IDOP) in November was Eritrea and Ethiopia. Eritrean troops have joined in the conflict in Tigray, Ethiopia, which is threatening to destabilise the region.

ATTACKS INCREASE AGAINST CHRISTIANS IN INDIA

In India, attacks against Christians are rising and more states are imposing anti-conversion laws. This comes as growing numbers of the Indian underclass, the Dalits, are turning to Christianity, and as right-wing Hindu nationalism is on the rise. As yet another state, Karnataka, is poised to impose anti-conversion legislation, there have been challenges in the Supreme Court to the constitutionality of limiting freedom of religion in India.

GOD’S FAVOUR AT WORK IN IRAQ

God is moving powerfully in Iraq through the ministry of Release International partner Jamal Liddawi. During a four-day online speaking tour for Release, Jamal, a Christian from a Muslim background, described how his Hand of Help organisation is giving new hope to Christian refugees in northern Iraq.

CHRISTIAN PRIESTS TARGETED IN TIGRAY

Contacts of Release International say Christian priests continue to be targeted and killed by Eritrean forces in the ongoing conflict in Tigray. Release International warns hostility towards Christians in Eritrea is being exported to neighbouring Ethiopia, where Eritrean forces have joined in the fighting. Release is calling UK churches to pray for Eritrea during the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church on November 7.

SUDAN COUP – NEW THREAT TO RELIGIOUS FREEDOM

Release International is warning of a new threat to religious freedom in Sudan, following a military coup in the country on October 25 2021. ‘A window of opportunity towards religious freedom in Sudan could be about to close,’ warns Paul Robinson, CEO of Release International, which supports persecuted Christians worldwide.

CHINA: Attacks on Christian education escalate

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is stepping up its attacks on the church by targeting Christian education. Last week police in Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, arrested five representatives of Abeka Academy – a Christian home-schooling programme founded in the US and used by believers…

Nigeria: ‘What we’ve got left is God and hope’

More than 30 Christians are believed to have been killed by militant Fulani herdsmen in one night in Nigeria’s northern Kaduna state. The herdsmen are reported to have attacked the worship service of the Evangelical Church Winning All in Gavaciwa, Kachia County,…

If Prison Walls Could Speak

If Prison Walls Could Speak is a powerful new production by the Artless Theatre Company, a Christian ministry partnering with Release International. Artless are touring churches across the UK, from September 2021, running through to November 2022.

CHRISTIANS TRAPPED IN AFGHANISTAN

Christians in Afghanistan have been fleeing the cities to escape the Taliban, according to partners of Release International, which supports persecuted Christians worldwide. Many Christians who remain are trapped inside the country, unable to leave through sealed borders. Some have received death threats. Others have fled to remote areas to escape the Taliban. Release is appealing for funds to support Christians forced to flee around the world.

ERITREA: 15 Christians re-arrested

The Eritrean authorities recently arrested 15 Christians in raids on their houses in the capital Asmara. All have previously been imprisoned for their faith – some for up to 16 years. This latest wave of arrests of men and women from different…

JAMAL LIDDAWI ONLINE SPEAKER TOUR, 2021

Christian Persecution in Iraq – When faith is forced to flee. A RELEASE INTERNATIONAL EVENING WITH GUEST SPEAKER Jamal Liddawi and Paul Robinson, CEO Release International. This November you have the opportunity to hear how your support is making a real difference…

CHRISTIANS IN AFGHANISTAN – CALL TO PRAYER

Release International is calling for prayer for Afghan Christians, following the rapid takeover of their country by the Taliban. It is also working to lobby for safe passage for Christian refugees whose lives could be at risk. UK-based Release International serves persecuted…

AFGHANISTAN: Urgent prayers requested

Following the return to power of the Taliban in Afghanistan there are great fears that the persecution of Christians will follow. Please pray as a matter of urgency for safety for believers inside the country – both foreign workers who remain and…

TALIBAN IN KABUL – CHRISTIAN PERSECUTION SET TO RISE WARNS RELEASE INTERNATIONAL

As the Taliban tighten their grip on Afghanistan, Release International warns attacks on Christians are likely to rise across the region as the Taliban’s swift advance emboldens extremists. ‘Please pray for Christians in Afghanistan and across the region,’ says Release International CEO…

INDIA MUST INTERVENE TO PREVENT GROWING ATTACKS ON CHRISTIANS

Release International is urging India to intervene to prevent the growing attacks against Christians accused of fraudulently converting Hindus. In the latest attack, Hindus set about a 23-year-old Christian woman with bamboo clubs and steel rods, threatening to kill her for sharing her faith with another Hindu.

Christian children kidnapped in Nigeria need our prayers

Please join us in praying for the safe return of more than 140 children who were abducted by gunmen from a Christian boarding school in Nigeria’s Kaduna state last week. The gunmen, suspected to be Fulani militants, overcame security guards and forced…

Christian children kidnapped in Nigeria

140 more Christian children kidnapped in Nigeria. Release International demands Nigeria is called to account As gunmen kidnap more than 140 Christian schoolchildren in Nigeria, Release International is again urging the international community to call Nigeria to account over its appalling failure…

The fellowship of their suffering

Day of the Christian Martyr How would you cope if someone you loved lost their life because of their faith? It’s not just the terrible shock of the moment they have to deal with, but the continuing grief and loss of a…

Persecution of Chinese church continues

Members of the Early Rain Covenant Church in Chengdu, Sichuan province, continue to face harassment as authorities attempt to shut down their unregistered congregation. While Wang Yi, the head pastor, is serving a nine-year prison sentence, other members of the church have…

Day of the Christian martyr (June 29)

Day of the Christian martyr (June 29) commemorates rising numbers of Christians killed for their faith As increasing numbers of Christians throughout the world are being killed for their faith, Release International is inviting churches to commemorate The Day of the Christian…

IRAN ELECTION SET TO INTENSIFY CHRISTIAN PERSECUTION

As hard-liners tighten their grip on Iran, Release International appeals to the country’s new president to allow full religious freedom The persecution of Christians is set to intensify in Iran, following the election of hard-liner Ebrahim Raisi as the Islamic Republic’s new…

BURKINA FASO: Christians on hitlist as jihad spreads

Please pray for Christians in Burkina Faso who are believed to be on the hitlist of jihadists after a recent deadly attack in the north of the country in which at least 100 people were killed. Our partners say the extremists are…

CHRISTIANS ON HITLIST IN BURKINA FASO

How the world’s media is waking up to the jihadist threat in Burkina Faso As jihadists launch their deadliest attack in Burkina Faso, there are warnings that Christians are on the militants’ hit list. Partners of Release International, which supports persecuted Christians,…

TIANANMEN MASSACRE ANNIVERSARY – RELEASE INTERNATIONAL URGES FULL RELIGIOUS FREEDOM AS CRACKDOWN CONTINUES

32 years on from the Tiananmen massacre, China’s crackdown on freedom continues. Christians are arrested for street preaching, officials beat up a pastor and threaten to kill him, and almost 200 weeks have passed since the disappearance of Christian human rights lawyer,…

COURAGE AND FAITH UNDER FIRE

Media coverage for All Out For God and Persecuted Church TV programme A huge thank you to Release International supporters who went barefoot to pray for persecuted Christians at our All Out For God event. Supporters were encouraged to take off their…

GO BAREFOOT FOR THE PERSECUTED

Christians in the UK are being asked to go barefoot on behalf of the persecuted on Sunday May 30, for Release International’s annual All Out For God event. Speakers from the persecuted Church will be describing their experiences. All Out For God asks UK Christians to take a stand in solidarity with those walking a tough road due to persecution. ‘One way of doing that is to leave your shoes behind and go outdoors barefoot,’ says Paul Robinson, CEO of Release International, which supports persecuted Christians worldwide.

RELEASE PARTNER HONOURED WITH PRESTIGIOUS AWARD

Release International partner Bob Fu of ChinaAid has been honoured with a prestigious Wilberforce Award for supporting Chinese Christians facing persecution.

Killing of Christians rising in Nigeria: Three new reports

Three new reports confirm the growing spread of violence against Christians in Nigeria. According to the latest report by the Nigerian NGO Intersociety, in the four months from January to April 2021 Nigeria ‘lost no fewer than 1,470 Christians… the highest number recorded since 2014’.

GO BAREFOOT ON BEHALF OF THE PERSECUTED

Christians in the UK are being asked to go barefoot on behalf of the persecuted on Sunday May 30.

Release international is calling on Christians to take a stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Christ who are walking a tough road due to persecution.

FAITH STORY OF 14-YR-OLD WHO FLED FROM ERITREA

A Christian who fled Eritrea at the age of 14, making a perilous journey across desert and sea, will be telling his story at the Hidden event on Friday, April 23. Hidden brings home reality of persecution for young people and asks how we would cope if persecution came to the UK.

MALAYSIA: Christian fears grow despite court ruling

A further 36 Christian prisoners have been released in Eritrea. Twenty-two are women who were rounded up by the Eritrean authorities at a prayer meeting in March in the capital Asmara. One male prisoner from this group is still being detained.

The second group to be released is 14 Christian men who were arrested four years ago and held in Dahlak Island Prison on the Red Sea.

36 MORE CHRISTIANS RELEASED IN ERITREA

A further 36 Christian prisoners have been released in Eritrea. Twenty-two are women who were rounded up by the Eritrean authorities at a prayer meeting in March in the capital Asmara. One male prisoner from this group is still being detained.

The second group to be released is 14 Christian men who were arrested four years ago and held in Dahlak Island Prison on the Red Sea.

GOD IS AT WORK IN IRAN

A MILLION IRANIANS TURN TO JESUS (See video below) God is at work in Iran, despite severe persecution. That was the encouraging message to supporters at four events focusing on the work of Release International partner 222 Ministries. Visions of Jesus Many…

RELIGIOUS FREEDOM HOPES DASHED IN ERITREA AS 35 MORE CHRISTIANS ARRESTED

Another 35 Christians have been arrested in Eritrea for conducting prayer meetings. The latest arrests dash hopes of a change of heart towards Christians in that country, where many have been imprisoned for their faith since Eritrea closed most of its churches in 2002.

EASTER PRAYER CALL AS CHURCH BOMBED IN INDONESIA

Release International is calling for prayer for Christians preparing to celebrate Easter in trouble spots around the world. This follows a church bomb attack in Indonesia, which wounded up to 20. A newlywed couple in their 20s are the prime suspects in…

ONLINE MAUNDY THURSDAY COMMUNION ON BEHALF OF PERSECUTED CHRISTIANS

BEHOLD THE LAMB OF GOD YOUTUBE EVENT What better way could there be to stand in solidarity with persecuted Christians than by joining together to take communion with those who represent them? And what better time than over Easter? Release International is…

INDIA: PASTOR CHARGED UNDER NEW LAW AFTER MOB STRIKES

Armed Hindu extremists in Madhya Pradesh reportedly disrupted worship services at two churches recently, beat congregation members and pressured police to arrest more than 20 Christians on suspicion of forcible conversion. Under a new anti-conversion law that came into effect in the…

ERITREA FREES CHRISTIAN PRISONERS BUT ATTACKS CHURCHES IN TIGRAY

More Christian prisoners of faith have been set free in Eritrea. A further 21 women prisoners have been released, making 171 Christians freed since August last year. At the same time, Eritrean forces have been accused of attacking churches in neighbouring Ethiopia…

GOD IS CHANGING THE SPIRITUAL LANDSCAPE IN IRAN

‘God is changing the spiritual landscape in Iran. The church is growing, but there is a price to be paid. Persecution is purifying the church. I wish there was a simpler way, but miracles are happening which now baffle the mind –…

CHINA: CHRISTIANS BRACED FOR TOUGH NEW YEAR

As China begins a new year, Christians in the country are readying themselves for further  crackdowns. China has developed a powerful system of digital surveillance, which it has integrated with the apparatus of the state. The country is said to have installed…

CHINESE NEW YEAR – MORE PERSECUTION IN PROSPECT

Interview with Bob Fu of ChinaAid below The Chinese New Year on February 12 looks set to herald another year of crackdown against Christians and religious minorities in the country, warns UK-based Release International, which supports persecuted Christians around the world. 2020…

UK GOVERNMENT SCUPPERS GENOCIDE TRADE AMENDMENT

Interviews with Premier Radio and Bob Fu of China Aid Moves to allow the UK High Court to rule on whether genocide was being carried out by China against the Uyghur people have been narrowly headed off by the government. Had the…

ETHIOPIA: Fears for Eritrean Christians

Release International partners have received reports that two of the refugee camps in the Tigray region of northern Ethiopia have been attacked in the recent conflict there and some refugees have been forcibly repatriated to Eritrea. Christians may have been among this…

ANTI-CONVERSION MOVEMENT SPREADS IN INDIA

Growing threat to Christianity, warns Release International Another state in India has passed a law banning religious conversions. Madhya Pradesh has replaced existing legislation with a tough new law intended to prevent Hindus changing their religion. Observers warn this is the harshest…

INDIA: Korean Christian arrested under new religion law

A South Korean Christian and three Indian nationals are in jail, accused of fraudulent conversion under new anti-conversion legislation in Uttar Pradesh state. The four were arrested after distributing food and other aid to people affected by the Covid-19 lockdown, sources told…

ISLAMISTS EXECUTE FIVE CHRISTIANS IN NIGERIA

Islamist militants have executed five Christians in Nigeria over Christmas. In a video of the killing, they declare: ‘This is a warning to Christians in all parts of the world and those in Nigeria.’ The terrorist group Islamic State West Africa Province…

CHRISTIAN PERSECUTION IN 2021 SET TO RISE IN INDIA AND CHINA

Christian persecution in 2021 is set to rise in China and India, forecasts Release International, which has just published its annual Persecution Trends survey. ‘Our partners tell us that attacks are on the rise under Communism in China, Islam in Iran and Malaysia, and under militant Hinduism in India,’ says Release CEO Paul Robinson.

STANDING TOGETHER TO SERVE IN 2021

Release International’s CEO, Paul Robinson, is one of 15 senior Christian leaders standing together in solidarity with the persecuted church this Christmas. Leaders of NGOs supporting the suffering church worldwide have come together to give thanks for the inspiration of courageous Christians…

Thank you for your prayers in 2020

Thank you so much for praying for all our brothers and sisters worldwide who have paid a high price for following Jesus this past year. Whether they are in prison or in hiding, in fear or on trial, we know that your…

THE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS?

Reflection for Cross Rhythms radio Christmas plans may have gone out the window this year, but the meaning of Christmas remains the same – Christ came, for all. His name is Emmanuel – God with us. And while our families may not…

BOKO HARAM BOASTS OF NIGERIA KIDNAP

Boko Haram has admitted responsibility for the latest attack on a school in Nigeria. More than 300 boys are still missing after the raid in Katsina. This follows similar kidnap raids on schools in Dapchi in 2018 and Chibok four years earlier….

CHRISTMAS DAY TV SLOT FOR RELEASE INTERNATIONAL

Release International is to feature in the Christmas Day Service on Revelation TV. Our friends at Revelation have asked Release International to produce a report on the persecuted Church to go out in their Christmas programming. Revelation’s Christmas Day Service is scheduled…

HELPING THOSE WHO HAVE LOST EVERYTHING

Release International has launched its Christmas Appeal to help the families of believers who have been killed for their faith. Christians like Margaret in Nigeria, whose husband was murdered on his doorstep by Fulani militants as he returned from church. After killing…

INDIA: Christian villagers in hiding after brutal attack

Several Christian families are reported to be in hiding after tribal animists in Chhattisgarh state, India, threatened to kill them for reporting a mob attack to police two weeks ago. Armed with bamboo sticks, iron rods, bows and arrows and iron sickles,…

DEATH THREATS WON’T STOP CHINAAID – BOB FU

Release International partner, Bob Fu, says death threats made against him and his work will not stop ChinaAid. The former Tiananmen Square protestor is a long-term partner of Release International. He’s been on the receiving end of death threats as part of…

DEATH THREATS FOR CHINA CHRISTIAN FREEDOM CAMPAIGNER

A leading campaigner for Christian freedom in China has received death threats and been hounded from his home. Bob Fu is a former Tiananmen Square protester and partner of UK-based Release International, which supports persecuted Christians around the world. Fu and his…

INDONESIA PRAYER CALL AS CHRISTIANS MURDERED IN ISIS ATTACK

Release International is calling for prayer for Indonesian Christians after four people were brutally killed in an attack in Central Sulawesi. Release contacts say one Christian was beheaded, two mutilated and another burned to death in an Islamic State-inspired attack on their…

FREE AT LAST – ASIA BIBI TELLS HER STORY

A new book about Asia Bibi, who was sentenced to death for blasphemy in Pakistan before finally being set free by the Supreme Court, is available here in the Release online bookshop. Free at Last is a short sequel to the original…

NIGERIA: Attacks on Christian villagers continue

Islamist militants in northeast Nigeria attacked a predominantly Christian village near Chibok, Borno state, on the morning of Sunday, November 1, killing 12 Christians and kidnapping women and children, Morning Star News has reported. In Takulashi, less than 10 miles from Chibok, where…

IDOP CALL AS CHRISTIAN PERSECUTION RISES IN PLAIN SIGHT

International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church Nov 15 – Global call for prayer as Christian persecution rises in the most populous nations on earth. All around the world the church is in lockdown – due to pandemic and persecution. Christian…

NIGERIA KILLINGS – GENOCIDE WARNING AS MILITANTS EMPLOY NEW WEAPONS TO DRIVE OUT CHRISTIANS

Hear Release Nigeria partner Hassan John live online this week (Nov 2 – Nov 5). Release International partners in Nigeria warn of a genocide-in-the-making. They say the West is turning a blind eye to the slaughter of Christians for fear of being…

CHRISTIAN BLASPHEMY FAMILY IN PAKISTAN GOES INTO HIDING

The wife and family of a Pakistani Christian have had to go into hiding after her husband was sentenced to death for blasphemy. Marilyn Asif and her four young children have had to flee for their lives after her husband, Asif, was…

Six-year-old among victims of Fulani militant attack; Release partner’s life threatened in US

Two young Christian women and a six-year-old boy were reportedly killed last week in the latest attack on believers by militant Fulani in Plateau state, Nigeria.  Herdsmen attacked Kpachudu village in Miango District, Bassa County west of Jos, on the evening of…

ERITREA – MORE CHRISTIANS ARRESTED AS OTHERS SET FREE

69 freed, but five more arrested – dashing hopes of a change of heart Release International can confirm that a total of 69 Christian prisoners of faith have now been released in Eritrea – while five more have been arrested. Release partners…

RELEASE INTERNATIONAL – A YEAR IN VIEW

Release International continues to go from strength to strength in its 51st year. The latest Annual Accounts show funding rose in 2019 by 24 per cent – enabling us to reach out to help the growing numbers of persecuted Christians. Total funds…

PASTOR KIDNAPPING IN MALAYSIA – WIFE VOWS ‘RELENTLESS ACTION’ – RELEASE PETITION EXTENDED

Release International petition extended to free pastor Raymond Koh – seized by a snatch squad from the streets of Malaysia. Hear an interview below with his wife Susanna Liew – International Woman of the Year. The wife of abducted Malaysian pastor Raymond…

Death sentence for Pakistani Christian accused of blasphemy

A Christian who has been held in custody awaiting trial since 2013 has been sentenced to death by a court in Pakistan. Asif Pervaiz, aged 37, was accused of sending offensive texts about Islam, the Koran and Islam’s Prophet Muhammad on a…

SIGNS OF HOPE IN ERITREA?

Release has broken the news that 27 Christians have been released from prison in Eritrea – and there are hopes that others could follow. This welcome development has been picked up by Premier Radio and Trans World Radio. James Maidment-Fullard of TWR…

BREAKING NEWS – CHRISTIAN PRISONERS RELEASED IN ERITREA

There are reports from Eritrea that the government has released 27 Christian prisoners of faith, and hopes are rising that more could follow. A trusted contact of Release International says the government has just set free 27 prisoners, most of whom have…

NIGERIA: Christian farmer gives his life to save family

Despite international and domestic condemnation of violence by militant Fulani herdsmen the death toll of Christians in northern Nigeria continues to rise, seemingly unabated. Nearly 40 Christians have now been killed in Nigeria’s northern Kaduna state this month. Please pray for all…

WIDESPREAD MEDIA COVERAGE FOR RELEASE INTERNATIONAL’S COVID APPEAL

There’s been widespread media coverage for Release International’s appeal to help Christians facing hardship and oppression under the Covid-19 lockdown. Reports from Release partners have been picked up nationally and internationally, highlighting growing discrimination against Christians during the pandemic.  Some Christians are…

OPPRESSED CHRISTIANS STRUGGLING UNDER COVID – RELEASE INTERNATIONAL APPEAL

Oppression and discrimination against Christians has increased during Covid, says Release International, which has launched an appeal to help Christians suffering during the pandemic. Many Christians have been denied food and relief aid and excluded from support systems during lockdown. They have…

CHRISTIANS IN INDIA TARGETED IN COVID LOCKDOWN

Christians in India are being targeted for hatred and violence under cover of the Covid-19 lockdown, according to the latest persecution report by the Evangelical Fellowship of India (EFI). The EFI says lockdown has created a sense of impunity which has ‘aggravated…

NOW CHINA ‘MAKES MOVES ON CHRISTIAN HOMES’

Premier Radio asks Release about new reports that Chinese officials are forcing Christians to remove crosses and pictures of Jesus from their homes. Press reports say Chinese officials have been forcing poor Christians to remove crosses and pictures of Jesus in their…

Teenager stoned to death amid spate of killings across India

Sixteen-year-old Samaru was a promising young pastor who led a tiny church in his village in Odisha. But Hindu militants resented the fact that Samaru’s and two other families had turned to Christ a few years ago. They drove out the church’s…

INDIA – MORE CHRISTIANS MARTYRED FOR THEIR FAITH

Hindu militants and followers of local gods target Christians. Attacks expected to worsen as covid crisis continues. Release partners report that attacks against Christians are continuing to gather momentum in India. In a recent attack a 16-year-old boy was stoned to death…

SUDAN – FREEDOM IN THE AIR

Great news for persecuted Christians as Sudan abolishes apostasy law There has been a swift media response to news sent out by Release International that Sudan has abolished the apostasy law. The new government has overturned 30 years of hard-line Islamist rule…

SUDAN ABOLISHES APOSTASY LAW

Good news for persecuted Christians The abolition of Sudan’s controversial apostasy law has been welcomed by Release International, which serves persecuted Christians around the world. Sudan scrapped the law that punishes Muslims who change their religion following pressure from human rights groups….

Coordinated raids and harsh sentences as Iran cracks down on Christians

Iranian officials have arrested at least 12 Christians in coordinated raids across three cities – and given harsh sentences to seven others. Last Tuesday, security agents raided a Christian meeting in Tehran. Seven believers  were handcuffed, blindfolded, abused and taken away; five…

MOVING INTERVIEWS HIGHLIGHT PERSECUTED CHURCH IN NIGERIA AND IRAN

Release commemorates The Day of the Christian Martyr Release International has hosted an on-line event to commemorate The Day of the Christian Martyr. According to estimates, some 11 Christians are killed each day – around 4,000 a year. Christian martyrs throughout the…

CHINA TIGHTENS FIST ON HONG KONG – RADIO INTERVIEW

China has been clamping down on protests in Hong Kong, as tough new laws come into force to bring the region into line with the mainland. It’s feared new national security laws could be turned against Christians, just as they have been…

NIGERIA KILLINGS – NEW REPORT HIGHLIGHTS ISLAMIST DIMENSION

Release International welcomes a new report by UK parliamentarians highlighting the religious element behind much of the growing violence in Nigeria. The report warns of the risk of an unfolding genocide and calls for UK aid to be linked to efforts to…

DEATH TOLL MOUNTS IN NIGERIA ‘JIHAD’

New report claims 620 Christians killed since start of year A new report from Nigeria claims the latest attacks by Fulani militants have killed 620 Christians in the first five months of 2020. A recent attack on a Baptist village killed 17,…

MEDIA FOLLOWING FOR ALL OUT FOR GOD

TV and radio join call to pray for the persecuted during lockdown ‘Lockdown gives us the opportunity to take our identification with the persecuted church to the next level.’ – Release CEO, Paul Robinson There has been widespread interest in the media…

CHRISTIANS IN LOCKDOWN CALLED TO STAND WITH PERSECUTED CHURCH ON SUNDAY – All Out For God, May 24

Christians in lockdown across the UK are being invited to stand in solidarity with the persecuted church around the world this Sunday (May 24), in an event called All Out for God. Release International has long been calling on UK believers to…

Seventeen dead after Fulani attack on Christian village in Nigeria

Fulani militants have continued their killing spree in north and central Nigeria with a brutal attack on a Baptist village in Kaduna on Tuesday night. Release partners say 17 people died in a midnight raid on Gonan Rogo village, near Makyali –…

China extends anti-Christian programme

The Chinese authorities appear to have stepped up their persecution of Christians – in unofficial and official churches alike. Authorities have banned all online services and officials have also accelerated their programme to remove and demolish crosses from church buildings, according to…

RELEASE ON THE RADIO

Fulani attacks claim children’s lives in Nigeria Release International has been speaking out on UCB radio over the latest attacks against Christian villagers in Nigeria. Fulani militants killed nine – including three children aged between three and five – in the latest…

NIGERIA: SLAUGHTER IN A TIME OF LOCKDOWN

As Fulani militants murder children in Nigeria, Release International calls on Nigeria to protect its Christian minority in the north. Fulani militants continue to carry out attacks against Christians in Plateau State Nigeria, in the midst of the coronavirus lockdown. In this…

NIGERIA AT A TIME OF CORONAVIRUS

The Bible that Refuses to Burn Release International’s Nigeria partner, Archbishop Benjamin Kwashi, has written a moving message for Release supporters about the church in lockdown in Nigeria. Coronavirus is just the latest challenge for Christians in Nigeria, who face attacks from…

CHINA TEARS DOWN CHURCH AT EASTER

Authorities demolish state-sanctioned church News has emerged from China that the authorities have torn down an official state-sanctioned church over Easter. The demolition of Donghu Church in Qinghai province shows the authorities are not just clamping down on the underground church, but…

‘Let’s see if your Jesus comes here to save you’

Believers in India were taunted, beaten and forced to pose ‘like Christ on the cross’ in police custody when extremists accused them of ‘forced conversion’. Pastor Indresh Kumar Gautam and four others were arrested after 30 Hindu extremists broke up their Sunday…

LESSONS ON LOCKDOWN FROM THE PERSECUTED CHURCH

Release report on Christians under lockdown covered by Trans World Radio Over Easter and beyond, many Christians around the world remain in literal lockdown – imprisoned for their faith in countries such as China, Eritrea and Iran. For those of us who…

THE PERSECUTED CHURCH – TV PROGRAMME FOCUSING ON THE WORK OF RELEASE INTERNATIONAL

Revelation TV is featuring the work of Release International in its latest edition of The Persecuted Church. The TV programme is being screened repeatedly around the world. It tells stories from Release of a Syrian Christian who lost a million dollars but…

PERSECUTED CHRISTIANS PREPARE FOR EASTER IN LOCKDOWN

As persecuted Christians around the world prepare for an Easter in lockdown, there are calls for prisoners of faith to be released from overcrowded jails where the virus could spread like wildfire. Partners of Release International, which supports the persecuted church, have…

PERSECUTED CHURCH RISES TO CHALLENGE TO BE GOOD NEWS

Can there be any good news in the middle of the coronavirus epidemic – especially for persecuted Christians? That’s what Trans World Radio wanted to find out from Release International. And as Andrew Boyd explained to Dave Piper, the best news of…

CHRISTIAN PERSECUTION RISING IN INDIA

Reports from India show that persecution against Christians is rising.  Release asks India to repeal its anti-conversion laws and protect its Christian minority. The latest annual report of the Evangelical Fellowship of India (EFI) lists 366 incidents where Christians were targeted in…

Oppressed churches respond to coronavirus impact

The gospel is continuing to bear fruit in countries opposed to the Christian message despite even more restrictions imposed as a result of the coronavirus outbreak. In China, where the pandemic started, the authorities in Shandong province have banned online preaching and…

MALAYSIA’S MISSING PASTORS

Public inquiry into another pastor disappearance A public inquiry is underway in Malaysia into another pastor who has disappeared under suspicious circumstances. Joshua Hilmy and his wife Ruth went missing in November 2016. He was being investigated after converting from Islam to…

WIFE OF KIDNAPPED MALAYSIAN PASTOR SUES GOVERNMENT

The wife of abducted Malaysian pastor Raymond Koh has launched a legal action to sue the country’s government and police over his disappearance. Raymond Koh was kidnapped in a military-style operation three years ago and hasn’t been heard of since. His abduction…

MALAYSIA – Where is Pastor Raymond Koh?

It’s been three years today since the abduction of Pastor Raymond Koh in Malaysia. On Monday morning, February 13, 2017 Pastor Raymond Koh (pictured) was driving his car to visit a friend’s house. He never arrived. He was stopped in Petaling Jaya,…

‘FREE KIDNAPPED MALAYSIAN PASTOR’

Release International is pressing Malaysia to set free a Christian pastor who was abducted in a military-style operation three years ago and hasn’t been seen since. CCTV cameras captured the moment Pastor Raymond Koh was snatched off the streets in Selangor by…

CHINA STOPS CHRISTIANS HANDING OUT FACEMASKS

China has been preventing Christians working to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, by stopping them giving out facemasks. According to reports emerging on social media, Christians in Wuhan have been barred from handing out facemasks supplied by overseas churches. Tough new…

CHINA STOPS CHURCH AID ON CORONAVIRUS

New rules to force churches to demonstrate ‘total devotion’ to Communist Party, warns Release International partner The Chinese government has rolled out tough new rules on religion, requiring religious leaders to ‘display complete devotion to the Chinese Communist Party’. Those rules limit…

FAVOUR FOR RELEASE PARTNER IN KURDISTAN

Developing the constitution and working with parliament Given a government award in recognition of help to refugees Speaking tour planned in UK Release International’s partner in Iraq is receiving increasing favour from the government in Kurdistan. Hand of Help has been asked…

Indian pastor crippled by brutal attack – then jailed on false charges

Pastor Jai is unable to walk after extremists took turns to beat him in a vicious assault earlier this month. His attackers are still at large – yet he has been charged with ‘forced conversion’. A huge mob surrounded his house church…

BOKO HARAM EXECUTION AN OWN GOAL?

Could the faith statement of a Christian leader who has been executed in Nigeria encourage Christians facing persecution in that country? Boko Haram has beheaded the Rev Lawan Andimi (pictured), a local chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). The Islamist…

BOKO HARAM EXECUTES CHRISTIAN LEADER

Islamist terror group Boko Haram have executed a state chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). They kidnapped Rev Lawan Andimi during a raid on Michika in early January. He was abducted by men in military uniform who drove into Michika…

New year brings wave of Fulani attacks and kidnappings in central Nigeria

Thirteen Christians died and three others were badly wounded when Fulani herdsmen suddenly attacked a village in Plateau – after living nearby ‘peacefully for a long time’. About 20 armed herdsmen attacked the mainly Christian village of Kulben in Plateau state late…

UK PLANS PERSECUTION SANCTIONS

UK Government affirms commitment to implement Truro Persecution Review The UK government has reaffirmed its commitment to put pressure on countries where Christians are facing serious persecution. Measures under consideration include sanctions and freezing financial assets. Concerns that promised action against persecution…

IRAN CRISIS – HOW WILL IT IMPACT THE CHURCH?

Tensions are mounting in Iran, where vast numbers have been gathering in protest at the killing of an Iranian general by a US drone strike. Iran has retaliated with missile attacks on US airbases in Iraq, including Erbil in Kurdistan. Fifty people…

BOKO HARAM KIDNAP CHURCH LEADERS

Islamist terror group Boko Haram have kidnapped a state chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria and released a video – which is a remarkable testimony to his faith. And in a subsequent raid, they kidnapped a second pastor and 40 others….

IRAN: CHRISTIAN PERSECUTION SET TO INCREASE IN 2020

Forced exodus of Christians underway Release has identified Iran as country of growing concern for Christian persecution in 2020. Release’s Iranian partner describes a ‘forced exodus’ of Christians as the government acts to ‘exterminate the Persian-speaking church’. A survey of Release International…

PASTOR WANG YI SENTENCED AS RELEASE ADDS CHINA TO PERSECUTION HOTLIST

Release has named China on its hotlist of countries where Christian persecution is set to rise in 2020. It comes as China sentences leading Pastor Wang Yi to nine years in prison for ‘subversion’. Pastor Wang was arrested with up to 100…

NIGERIA NAMED AS A KEY PERSECUTION HOTSPOT IN 2020

As Islamic State releases a video claiming to show the beheadings of Christians in Nigeria, Release International has named Nigeria as a country of special concern for 2020. Other persecution hotspots are likely to include Iran, Iraq, China and India. A splinter…

ISLAMIC STATE RECOVERING GROUND IN IRAQ

Fresh threat to Christians who are leaving in their droves Latest intelligence reports from Iraq reveal that Islamic State terrorists are regrouping in the country. According to the BBC, there are some 10,000 IS members in Iraq, who are digging in to…

THANK YOU FOR YOUR PRAYERS IN 2019

Thank you so much for praying for all our brothers and sisters worldwide who have paid a high price for following Jesus. Whether they are in prison or in hiding, in fear or on trial, we know that your prayers mean the…

CALL ON PM: ACT NOW TO PROTECT PERSECUTED CHRISTIANS

The newly-elected Conservative government is being encouraged to follow through on its pledge to make freedom of religion for persecuted Christians front and centre of British foreign policy. The last government accepted in full a set of recommendations by the Bishop of…

Pastor’s family repeatedly moving home to evade extremists

Pastor ‘Jabir’ (not his real name) and his family, whom we met on a recent trip to East Africa, narrowly escaped when his wife was followed home by an extremist. They have had to move home many times as a result of…

BORIS JOHNSON MUST ‘DELIVER ON PLEDGE TO PROTECT PERSECUTED CHRISTIANS’ – RELEASE INTERNATIONAL

Release International is urging Britain’s newly re-elected Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, to make good his government’s pledge to protect persecuted Christians. ‘We congratulate the Prime Minister on his success and renewed mandate,’ says Release International CEO Paul Robinson. ‘Release urges Mr Johnson’s…

Falsely Accused Radio Report

In Pakistan, just to be accused of blasphemy can mean the end of everything. If you’re found guilty, it can mean a life sentence or death. And if you’re found not guilty, vigilantes may try to kill you anyway. Or take their…

HOW INDIA’S NEW ANTI-IMMIGRATION BILL COULD FEED PERSECUTION

India is set to pass a new law denying citizenship to Muslim refugees fleeing persecution. There are concerns that the bill could fuel discrimination against the country’s Christian minority, who face increasing attacks. India has become a country of particular concern to…

PAKISTAN BLASPHEMY FEARS – RELEASE ON PREMIER RADIO

New reports support Release International’s call for repealing Pakistan’s notorious blasphemy laws. More than a year has passed since the country’s Supreme Court threw out the case against Asia Bibi on the grounds that the blasphemy charges levelled against her were based…

REFUGEES’ VISIONS OF JESUS

War, terrorism and insecurity in the Middle East has driven millions of people from their homes. Many Christians have left the region, but some Muslim refugees from Syria have been describing dreams and visions that have caused them to think again about…

REPORTS HIGHLIGHT PAKISTAN BLASPHEMY FEARS

Six months since Asia Bibi fled Pakistan, reports highlight the plight of blasphemy accused. New reports highlight continuing concern over Pakistan’s blasphemy laws, six months after Asia Bibi was finally allowed to leave the country. The reports come from sources as diverse…

CHINA: BRAINWASH CAMPS AND HK DEMOCRACY VOTE HIGHLIGHT GROWING RELIGIOUS PERSECUTION

Brainwashing camps are ‘tip of the iceberg’, believes Release International, as Hong Kong eyes religious persecution and votes for freedom The overwhelming pro-democracy vote in Hong Kong and revelations of brainwashing camps highlight growing intolerance in China towards religious minorities. It’s not…

CHRISTIAN UYGHURS ENDURE BRAINWASHING IN CHINA

New report reveals mass detention of Muslims – but Christians such as Alimujiang Yimiti are suffering too. Leaked documents from China have exposed the reality of massive detention camps for Uyghur Muslims. It’s claimed these are places of brainwashing and even torture,…

CHINA – WHERE EVEN STATE APPROVAL IS NO PROTECTION

Persecution is spreading against even the official state-sanctioned church in China. A Release partner says the government has set a quota to close two-thirds of the official churches. Pastor Zhang Shaojie’s trouble began when he posted plans to build a new church….

CHINA – WHERE US CITIZENSHIP IS NO PROTECTION FOR PASTORS

Even US citizenship is no protection for pastors in China. One pastor, Michael Yu, who led a large Baptist church in California, was detained, interrogated then barred from returning to the US. He was eventually released after a campaign by Release International’s…

IRANIAN CHRISTIAN SENT INTO EXILE

‘Evangelism activities… are considered to be in opposition to the regime of the Republic Islamic of Iran.’ – Court

WHEN THE WALL CAME DOWN

It’s been 30 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall, that symbol of repression that goes back to the roots of Release International It’s 30 years since the fall of the Berlin Wall. Release International’s roots go back to those dark…

WARNING OF FRESH EXODUS OF CHRISTIANS FROM IRAQ

The Turkish invasion of Syria and unrest in Baghdad could lead to a fresh exodus of Christians from Iraq, warns Release International partner Jamal Liddawi. In the year 2000, there were around 1.8 million Christians in Iraq. Today that number has dwindled…

NEW WAVE OF CHRISTIANS SET TO QUIT IRAQ – WARNING

Insecurity in Syria and Baghdad causing remaining Christians to ‘lose hope’ Growing insecurity in Iraq and on its border could lead to a fresh exodus of Christians from the country, warns a partner of Release International, which is supporting refugees in the…

ISIS LEADER KILLED IN IRAQ

Release assesses the impact of Islamic State Islamic State’s leader, Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi has blown himself up to escape capture by US forces. The IS leader drove Christians out of Iraq as he sought to establish his brutal caliphate. So what will…

China pulls down megachurch

Chinese Christians in Anhui are said to be ‘outraged’ after their state-registered church was demolished and their pastors arrested. The Chinese authorities have torn down another megachurch, beginning their demolition while Christians were still worshipping inside, according to Release partners China Aid….

Chinese officials demolish megachurch and arrest leaders

Chinese Christians in Anhui are said to be ‘outraged’ after their state-registered church was demolished and their pastors arrested. Demolition work (pictured) began at Funan County Christian Church on Friday, partway through a worship service. (More information and a short video clip…

INDIA: Pastor’s family in hiding after beating and false accusations

A retired pastor and his family in northern India have been badly beaten and forced into hiding after police took sides with their attackers. Pastor Patram Mangala, his wife Sarla and their two sons suffered multiple injuries when a mob of up…

RELEASE PARTNER’S POWERFUL MESSAGE FOR UK

Neither Bomb Nor Bullet features on UCB Radio A new book on Release partner Archbishop Ben Kwashi from Nigeria has been featured on UCB radio. Neither Bomb Nor Bullet, by Andrew Boyd, is nudging the Amazon bestseller list for religious biographies. UCB…

RELEASE SPEAKS OUT FOR PERSECUTION REPORT

Release International has been speaking in support of the Bishop of Truro’s report on persecuted Christians, following suggestions that the scale of the persecution might have been exaggerated. One response to the report has questioned the claim that 80 per cent of…

Boy ‘sees father killed’ in raid on Nigerian villages

At least two people have been killed and about six others wounded in a night raid on two predominantly Christian villages in Nigeria’s north-eastern Adamawa state. Gunmen ‘in large numbers’ went from house to house, shooting as they did so, in the…

NIGERIA ISLAMISATION – ‘WEST MUST WAKE UP’

Christians being wiped out in north, pastors killed and kidnapped, UN warns violence out of control There are warnings that religious violence in Nigeria is spiralling out of control. The United Nations describes a ‘pressure cooker of injustice’. And a leading US…

ASIA BIBI SPEAKS OUT FROM CANADA

Former blasphemy prisoner says remember others behind bars Asia Bibi has finally broken her silence in Canada and has been speaking out on video and in the press about her blasphemy case in Pakistan. In a video that reveals neither her face…

Iranian Christian heads to prison rather than renounce her faith

Iranian Christian Fatemeh Bakhteri is behind bars in Tehran’s brutal Evin Prison today – because she refused to renounce her faith. Fatemeh (also known as Ailar) has just started serving a one-year sentence because her Christian activities were deemed ‘propaganda against the…

Tortured for Christ on Revelation TV

Don’t miss Revelation TV’s showing of Tortured for Christ, our inspiring drama documentary about Richard Wurmbrand’s years in prison, on October 2 and 12. This dramatic retelling of Pastor Wurmbrand’s testimony, based on the book of the same name, will be shown…

HELPING HALLA, WHO WAS FORCED TO FLEE

‘Leave now! ISIS fighters are on the way…’ Release International is working with Christians who have been forced to flee for their lives in the Middle East and other parts of the world. Halla is one. Halla lived in the Iraqi city…

Radio Report: AFGHANISTAN – US CONSIDERS TROOP PULL-OUT

TWR interviews Release on impact on Christians. The United States is in talks with the Taliban about pulling its troops out of Afghanistan. But what would that mean for tiny Christian minority there? Release International is working with Christian partners to train…

‘Persecuted Church’ on Revelation TV

The September showing of Revelation TV’s programme The Persecuted Church is featuring Richard Wurmbrand with film from the last dvd we produced about Eritrea. You can watch the programme at the following times during September:   6th – 14:00hr (2pm) 11th –…

5-star reviews for Neither Bomb Nor Bullet

Neither Bomb Nor Bullet, the new book on Release partner Ben Kwashi, is gathering media coverage and five-star reviews. The Nigerian archbishop’s biography has been featured in The Times, Church Times, War Cry, and on Premier Radio and others. It has been…

Release Welcomes PM’s Pledge On Religious Freedom

Britain’s new Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, has pledged to follow through on the government’s promise to protect persecuted Christians. Mr Johnson has announced (Friday August 23) that the UK will do ‘everything possible’ to champion religious freedoms around the world. In his…

Radio Report – China Petition

As the world’s eyes are on the clampdown on democracy demonstrations in Hong Kong, Release International is calling for freedom for Christians in the whole of China. Tough new restrictions have led to the closure of thousands of churches and forbid many…

Pastor killed in Philippines amid surge in violent attacks

The murder of a pastor in Mindanao has fuelled fears that Christians are becoming political targets – in what bishops describe as ‘one of the most trying times in our history’. Pastor Ernesto Estrella, who led the United Church of Christ in…

China petition on Premier Radio

Growing tensions in Hong Kong are drawing the world’s attention to the calls for freedom from Chinese citizens and the attempts of the Chinese government to exercise ever tighter control. Release International recently sent a petition of over 10,000 names to the…

CHINA CRISIS – RELEASE INT. PETITION CALLS FOR REPEAL OF TOUGH ANTI-RELIGION LAWS

As tensions mount in Hong Kong, Release International is calling on China to grant freedom of religion to Christians who face increasing persecution on the mainland. But handing in a petition to the London Embassy is proving quite a challenge. ‘The scenes…

Indonesian churches face closure threat as hard-liners ramp up opposition

Two new churches in Java are facing the threat of closure as part of what many see as a rising tide of persecution in Indonesia. The Family of God Church in West Jakarta received its official permit earlier this month but has…

Release Supports New Book on Nigeria

Archbishop Ben Kwashi has sent a message of thanks to Release International for backing his new biography, Neither Bomb Nor Bullet: Archbishop on the Front Line. The book tells the remarkable story of his three escapes from death in Nigeria, and is…

LETTER TO OUR NEW PRIME MINISTER

The Rt Hon Boris Johnson, MP, Prime Minister, Office of the Prime Minister, 10 Downing Street, London SW1A 2AA Dear Prime Minister May I take this opportunity to offer you my warmest congratulations on your appointment. And also to say that…

NOTE TO NEW PM, DELIVER ON PLEDGE TO PROTECT PERSECUTED CHRISTIANS

Release International is urging Britain’s new Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, to follow through on the government’s recent pledge to make protecting persecuted Christians the heart of UK foreign policy. Release, which upholds the freedom of Christians around the world, congratulated the new…

Neither Bomb Nor Bullet, inspiring new biography of Release partner

Archbishop on the front line New biography of Release partner, Archbishop Benjamin Kwashi, of Jos, Nigeria. Available here through Release International ‘Three times they’ve tried to kill me. They’ve come close. But each time just makes me more determined to live my…

VIOLENT PERSECUTION ON THE RISE – MAJOR NEW REPORT

Christians face harassment in 143 countries, says Pew Report. But Release says findings downplay persecution in China and North Korea Christians face harassment in 143 countries, according to major new research. The latest Annual Pew Report uncovers a record increase in restrictions…

Release on Radio as Gov Accepts Truro Review

The UK government has pledged to accept all the recommendations of the Bishop of Truro’s Review into Persecuted Christians. ‘The Government has decided to accept every recommendation in full,’ Foreign Minister Sir Alan Duncan told the House of Commons on July 18. ‘We will put Freedom…

Commons Debate Backs Persecution Review

The government has accepted in full every recommendation made in the Bishop of Truro’s review of Christian persecution. Release International helped provide research for the Report, designed to propel the protection of Christians to the centre stage of UK Government policy. The…

GOVT ACCEPTS PERSECUTION REVIEW IN FULL

Freedom of Religion to be at heart of govt policy The government has pledged to accept in full all the recommendations of the Bishop of Truro to protect Christians from persecution – including imposing sanctions. An at times emotional debate in the…

Bomb attack on Syrian church confirms Christians’ fears

A car bomb attack on a church in northern Syria has confirmed fears that Christians remain a terrorist target. At least 11 people were injured in the explosion outside the Syriac Orthodox Church in the city of Qamishli during a prayer meeting…

STEPPING OUT

Release International is holding out this challenge – walk 100k to support persecuted Christians. Release is staging walks this summer across some of the most beautiful parts of England. One regular walker who has taken up the challenge for Release is retired…

Release Backs New Christian Persecution Review

Release International is backing new recommendations that would give the government teeth to tackle the growing problem of Christian persecution. A review by the Bishop of Truro makes a number of key recommendations to the government, including the possibility of setting up…

Christian Persecution Review Gives Govt Teeth

Release International welcomes recommendations published on July 8 that would give the government teeth to deal with Christian persecution. The Bishop of Truro’s review makes a number of key recommendations to the government to tackle the growing problem – which include the…

Hundreds homeless after Fulani raids on Nigeria’s Central Belt

Up to 13 people have been killed and hundreds left homeless after militants raided several mainly Christian villages in central Nigeria. Over 12 hours, Fulani attacked four villages in the area bordering Plateau and Kaduna states, burning homes, churches and farmland. Release…

Pastor’s wife released – but no respite for Early Rain Church in China

Early Rain Covenant Church is celebrating some good news: the release of Jiang Rong, wife of Pastor Wang Yi. But the relentless persecution of church members continues. Jiang Rong was freed on bail earlier last week, as was another church member, Li…

Interview with Kumar Swamy, National General Secretary of the All-India Christian Council

As part of his current UK Speaking Tour, the National General Secretary of the All-India Christian Council, Kumar Swamy, was interviewed by Release’s Andrew Boyd. If you were not able to attend one of Kumar’s speaking events you may like to listen…

China marks Tiananmen Square anniversary with church closures and censorship

As the world’s attention turns to Beijing to mark the 30th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre this week, Chinese officials continue their assault on religious freedom. In recent weeks, churches across China have been told to close and the Government has…

RELEASE CALLS ON INDIAN PM TO GUARANTEE RELIGIOUS FREEDOM FOLLOWING NATIONALIST ELECTION LANDSLIDE

International observers fear the landslide victory for nationalists in the Indian elections could spur a change in the constitution that would make persecution even worse for Christians. Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has been swept back into power with an increased…

ANOTHER CHANCE FOR YOUR GREAT OUTDOORS CHURCH SERVICE

Churches around the UK and Ireland have taken to the great outdoors to stand in the gap for persecuted Christians. But if your church missed the date, it’s not too late! Each year, Release International encourages Christians to head into the open…

INDIAN NATIONALIST LANDSLIDE COULD LEAD TO MORE ATTACKS AGAINST CHRISTIANS

Release calls on PM Narendra Modi to guarantee religious freedom The Indian elections have seen a landslide victory for the nationalist BJP, which has substantially increased its parliamentary majority in the world’s largest democracy. With the election results now in, the tightening…

ERITREA’S CHRISTIANS – THE PERSECUTION CONTINUES

Radio report A further 141 Christians have been rounded up in Eritrea… Their crime? Gathering to meet in private ahead of Independence Day. There is tight security on the streets ahead of May 24, when Eritrea celebrates independence from Ethiopia. Secret police…

ERITREA CHRISTIAN CLAMPDOWN AHEAD OF INDEPENDENCE DAY

Eritrea has been cracking down on Christians ahead of the country’s Independence Day on May 24. Eritrea has arrested more than 140 Christians who were meeting in private in the capital Asmara. Fourteen children are among the 141 detained, after the authorities…

More than 140 believers arrested on one day in Eritrea

More than 140 Christians were arrested as they gathered in a private courtyard in the Eritrean capital last Friday. Our partner Release Eritrea says that 104 of those arrested in the Mai Temenai area of Asmara were women. The others were 23…

NIGERIA: A DANGEROUS AGENDA Radio documentary by Release

Release International has produced a major radio documentary examining the growing number of attacks against Christian communities in Nigeria. The documentary features Release workers who arrived at the scene of an attack shortly after militants had left, leaving houses still burning. The…

NIGERIA: CALL FOR MORE SECURITY TO PREVENT FULANI VIOLENCE

Religious Liberty Partnership statement on crises in Central Nigeria There has been a call for the Nigerian government to increase security to protect largely Christian communities which are under attack by heavily armed militants. Thousands have been killed and driven from their…

Sudan: Release Welcomes Moves Towards Civilian Rule

Release International is welcoming moves towards civilian rule in Sudan. The military leaders have come to an agreement with the opposition to set up a three-year transition towards civilian rule. Release is calling for full religious freedom to be restored in Sudan,…

Asia Bibi Finally Free and Out of Pakistan

Asia Bibi has finally been allowed to leave Pakistan – six months after she was acquitted of ‘blasphemy’ and her life sentence quashed. She has arrived in Canada, where two of her daughters have already been granted asylum, her lawyer told CNN….

ASIA BIBI OUT OF PAKISTAN – RELEASE INTERVIEWED ON UCB

Asia Bibi is finally out of Pakistan. Her lawyer has told CNN that she is now in Canada, where two of her daughters have already been granted asylum. The Christian woman was acquitted of blasphemy by the Pakistan Supreme Court last year,…

ASIA BIBI FINALLY OUT OF PAKISTAN

Release International calls on Pakistan to repeal blasphemy laws and release 200 others. ‘Overjoyed that Asia is finally free – but why has it taken so long?’ Asia Bibi is finally out of Pakistan. Officials have confirmed that Asia has been released….

ASIA BIBI OUT OF PAKISTAN – REPORTS

Asia Bibi is finally out of Pakistan, according to news reports. Her lawyer has told CNN that she is now in Canada, where two of her daughters have already been granted asylum. The Christian woman was acquitted of blasphemy by the Pakistan…

REPORT ‘MAJOR WAKE-UP CALL ON CHRISTIAN PERSECUTION’

A new report on the persecution of Christians has come as a major wake-up call to governments, believes Release International, which supports persecuted believers around the world. UK Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt declared ‘We’ve all been asleep on the watch when it…

PERSECUTION OF CHRISTIANS ‘CLOSE TO GENOCIDE’

‘Calling out the inconvenient truth that the overwhelming majority – 80 per cent – of persecuted religious believers are Christians.’ ­– Report ‘We’ve all been asleep on the watch when it comes to the persecution of Christians.’ – Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt…

Persecution ‘spreading and more severe’ – Premier Radio interview

A new government report is warning that the persecution of Christians worldwide is spreading, increasing in severity, and has now reached levels approaching genocide in parts of the Middle East. The Bishop of Truro has carried out an independent review for the…

Faith and Fanaticism Tour

Join us to hear Pastor Kumar Swamy, a leading voice for persecuted Christians in India. As well as documenting cases and providing on-the-ground pastoral support, Pastor Kumar has spoken out for Indian Christians in the US Congress and UK Parliament. Each event…

BREAKING THE CYCLE OF VIOLENCE IN SRI LANKA

Sri Lanka remains on high alert amid warnings that Islamist bombers are still at large and hunting for further targets. Release partners are caring for victims and say Christians are heeding calls for forgiveness and reconciliation. Police in Sri Lanka have warned…

Sri Lanka Christians Respond To Easter Attacks With Forgiveness

Christians in Sri Lanka have been working to provide comfort, help and relief to victims of the Easter bombings. Despite fears of further attacks, Christians have been responding to the tragedy with an attitude of forgiveness. They say their aim is to…

SRI LANKA CHURCHES STILL ON HIGH ALERT

Amid cancelled church services and warnings of more attacks, Release partners bring relief to Sri Lanka Sri Lanka remains on high alert following the Easter bomb attacks against churches and tourist hotels, which killed upwards of 250 and wounded 500. Many churches…

SRI LANKA BOMBS – CHRISTIAN HERO SAVES CHILDREN’S LIVES. RELEASE PARTNERS PROVIDE EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE

The death toll in the Sri Lanka Easter bomb attacks would have been even higher, without the swift action of a church member who confronted a suicide bomber. The man, whose name was Ramesh, challenged a backpacker who was trying to get…

Sri Lankan Christians ‘deeply distressed’ by Easter Sunday bomb attacks

Please stand with our brothers and sisters in Sri Lanka after the Easter Sunday bomb attacks on churches and hotels that killed more than 320 people. Release partners say that Sri Lankan believers are ‘deeply distressed’ by Sunday’s co-ordinated attacks. They also…

Mourning in Sri Lanka

As Sri Lanka holds a national day of mourning for the victims of the Easter bomb attacks, many are questioning how could such a thing have taken place – and why were Christians at worship among the targets? The death toll has…

Sri Lanka Easter Attacks – Release Interviews

Security forces in Sri Lanka continue to investigate the bomb attacks against churches and hotels on Easter Sunday. The targeted bomb blasts, which have killed almost 300 and injured 500, were set off by seven suicide bombers, officials have confirmed. Three churches…

SRI LANKA EASTER CHURCH ATTACKS

The death toll continues to rise following Easter service bomb attacks against churches in Sri Lanka. ‘The scale of the horror takes our breath away,’ says Release International. News reports say bombers targeted three churches and a number of hotels in the…

PRINCE CHARLES ‘MOVED AND HUMBLED’ BY THE PERSECUTED

Prince Charles has declared himself moved and humbled by meeting persecuted Christians – many of whom have had to flee from their homelands. Writing in The Telegraph over Easter, Prince Charles said he had made a point of meeting believers – of…

Pray for an end to Christian Persecution in Sudan

As Sudan goes through a coup and regime change, Release International sees a window of opportunity to end the persecution of Christians in that vast Islamic country. Up to 2.5million people have been driven from their homes in a campaign of ethnic…

CHINA 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…

SUDAN: ‘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…

Terrorist 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…

Supporting 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,…

Ban 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…

Church 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…

ASIA 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…

Rise 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…

INDIA 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…

Family’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…

NIGERIAN 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…

Highlighting 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…

Freeing Christians from oppression for their faith…

The story of Twen Theodros, 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 Theodros in Eritrea. Twen was…

Call 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…

Crackdown 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…

ASIA 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…

ASIA 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…

ASIA 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…

Attack 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…

Radio 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…

Scores 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…

Radio 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…

CHRISTIAN 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…

Foreign 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…

NORTH 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…

LEADING 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…

THANK 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…

Chinese 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…

Killing 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…

NIGERIA’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…

ASIA 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…

RELEASE 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,…

Asia 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…

RELEASE 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…

RELIGIOUS 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…

ASIA 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…

Kyrgyzstan: 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…

ASIA 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…

ASIA 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

CHINESE 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…

ASIA 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…

Asia 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…

ASIA 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…

ASIA 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…

ASIA 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…

Asia 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…

AFTER 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…

Asia 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…

Asia 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…

ASIA 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…

ASIA 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…

ASIA 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…

ASIA 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…

ASIA 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:…

ASIA 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…

Our 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…

PASTOR 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

PASTOR 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…

ASIA 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,…

Help 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…

INSPIRE 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…

Emersion – 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…

NIGERIA – 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…

Clampdown 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…

CENTRAL 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…

URGENT – 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…

HELP 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…

NIGERIA – 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…

CHINA: ‘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…

CHINA 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…

CHINA – 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…

TAJIKISTAN – 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…

INDIA – 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…

PASTOR 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…

ARCHBISHOP 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…

Pakistan 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…

PREMIER 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.  

Pastor 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…

New 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…

Algerian 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…

Laurie’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…

EXTENDED 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…

Tortured For Christ – The film: NOW SHOWING THROUGHOUT THE UK

  Fourteen years in communist prisons could not break his faith! In Autumn 2017 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,…

Express 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…

ATTACK 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…

AUDIO 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.

PETR 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…

CHRISTIAN 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…

200 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…

100 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…

Day of the Christian Martyrs’ (June 29, 2020)

Be Prepared for Day of the Christian Martyrs’ on June 29, 2020 ******************************************************* Please check back here for information about Martyrs’ Day 2020 – coming soon. ******************************************************* In 2018, our 50th year, we launched Martyrs’ Day – on June 29 – to remember…

MYANMAR 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…

Myanmar military launch brutal attacks on Christian areas

Our family in Myanmar are in desperate need of our prayers as the military renews its offensive against Christians.  The army has stepped up its campaign of violence against the mainly Christian Kachin people in the north of Myanmar. Troops using artillery,…

BURMA: 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…

Andrew 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…

Andrew 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  

50th 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…

THEY 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…

INDONESIA – 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…

CALL 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…

‘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…

PAKISTAN: 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…

PAKISTAN: 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…

Egypt 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  

Protect 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…

GATHERING 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…

Interview 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…

INDIA: 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….

Thank 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…

AUDIO 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…

CHINESE 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…

NK 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…

Theresa 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…

New 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…

RELEASE 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…

CHINA: 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 –…

KYRGYZSTAN – ‘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…

MILITANTS 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…

MANY 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…

PERSECUTION 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…

CHRISTIAN 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…

THANK 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…

INDIAN 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,…

Persecution 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…

PAKISTAN – 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…

MORE 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…

TURKEY – 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…

IRAN – 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…

ANOTHER 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…

YOUR 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…

IRAN – 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…

SUDAN: 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…

MALAYSIA: 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…

MALAYSIA: 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…

WILL 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…

CHINA – 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…