23
Mar
2020CHRISTIAN 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…
19
Mar
2020Oppressed 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…
21
Feb
2020MALAYSIA’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…
20
Feb
2020WIFE 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…
13
Feb
2020MALAYSIA – 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,…
12
Feb
2020‘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…
06
Feb
2020CHINA 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…
04
Feb
2020CHINA 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…
04
Feb
2020FAVOUR 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…
28
Jan
2020Indian 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…
23
Jan
2020BOKO 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…
21
Jan
2020BOKO 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…
17
Jan
2020New 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…
16
Jan
2020UK 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…
08
Jan
2020IRAN 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…
08
Jan
2020BOKO 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….
31
Dec
2019IRAN: 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…
31
Dec
2019PASTOR 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…
30
Dec
2019NIGERIA 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…
23
Dec
2019ISLAMIC 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…
23
Dec
2019THANK 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…
23
Dec
2019CALL 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…
16
Dec
2019Pastor’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…
16
Dec
2019BORIS 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…
16
Dec
2019Falsely 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…
13
Dec
2019HOW 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…
10
Dec
2019PAKISTAN 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…
09
Dec
2019REFUGEES’ 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…
09
Dec
2019REPORTS 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…
25
Nov
2019CHINA: 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…
25
Nov
2019CHRISTIAN 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,…
17
Nov
2019INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER FOR THE PERSECUTED CHURCH
Interview with UCB Four out of five who are persecuted for their faith around the world today are Christians. So Release International and other Christian organisations are joining the call for Christians to pray for those suffering for their faith. November 17…
13
Nov
2019CHINA – 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….
13
Nov
2019CHINA – 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…
12
Nov
2019IRANIAN CHRISTIAN SENT INTO EXILE
‘Evangelism activities… are considered to be in opposition to the regime of the Republic Islamic of Iran.’ – Court
08
Nov
2019WHEN 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…
06
Nov
2019WARNING 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…
05
Nov
2019NEW 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…
28
Oct
2019ISIS 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…
25
Oct
2019China 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….
24
Oct
2019Chinese 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…
10
Oct
2019INDIA: 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…
01
Oct
2019CALL FOR PRAYER AS CHRISTIAN PERSECUTION ON THE RISE
International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church Nov 17 As evidence mounts that the persecution of Christians is on the rise, there’s a call for Christians to pray for those suffering for their faith. A coalition of Christian organisations is mobilising…
27
Sep
2019RELEASE 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…
26
Sep
2019RELEASE 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…
26
Sep
2019Boy ‘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…
24
Sep
2019NIGERIA 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…
17
Sep
2019ASIA 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…
10
Sep
2019Iranian 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…
09
Sep
2019Tortured 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…
06
Sep
2019HELPING 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…
04
Sep
2019Radio 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…
03
Sep
2019‘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 –…
30
Aug
20195-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…
23
Aug
2019Release 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…
16
Aug
2019Radio 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…
14
Aug
2019Pastor 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…
14
Aug
2019China 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…
14
Aug
2019CHINA 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…
31
Jul
2019Indonesian 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…
30
Jul
2019Release 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…
24
Jul
2019LETTER 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…
24
Jul
2019NOTE 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…
22
Jul
2019Neither 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…
22
Jul
2019VIOLENT 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…
19
Jul
2019Release 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…
19
Jul
2019Commons 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…
18
Jul
2019GOVT 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…
18
Jul
2019Bomb 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…
16
Jul
2019STEPPING 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…
16
Jul
2019WALK A WHILE IN THEIR SHOES
Put your best foot forward to support the persecuted and Release International over the summer. For the fleet of foot and strong of heart, there are challenges of up to 100k along the South Coast, Thames Path or North Downs. Each route…
08
Jul
2019Release 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…
08
Jul
2019Christian 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…
26
Jun
2019Hundreds 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…
17
Jun
2019Pastor’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…
07
Jun
2019Interview 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…
04
Jun
2019China 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…
29
May
2019RELEASE 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…
26
May
2019ANOTHER 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…
24
May
2019INDIAN 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…
22
May
2019ERITREA’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…
21
May
2019ERITREA 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…
20
May
2019More 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…
20
May
2019NIGERIA: 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…
20
May
2019NIGERIA: 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…
15
May
2019Sudan: 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,…
08
May
2019Asia 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….
08
May
2019ASIA 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,…
08
May
2019ASIA 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….
08
May
2019ASIA 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…
07
May
2019REPORT ‘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…
03
May
2019PERSECUTION 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…
03
May
2019Persecution ‘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…
30
Apr
2019Faith 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…
30
Apr
2019BREAKING 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…
29
Apr
2019Sri 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…
27
Apr
2019SRI 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…
24
Apr
2019SRI 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…
23
Apr
2019Sri 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…
23
Apr
2019Mourning 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…
22
Apr
2019Sri 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…
21
Apr
2019SRI 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…
20
Apr
2019PRINCE 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…
20
Apr
2019Pray 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…
16
Apr
2019CHINA CLAMPDOWN TIGHTENS
‘Bounty’ on underground Christians Cross removals continue London embassy refuses Release petition The Chinese authorities are offering cash rewards for information about so-called ‘illegal’ church services. It’s part of an ongoing crackdown on Christianity in the country. Officials are offering cash rewards…
15
Apr
2019SUDAN: ‘WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY’ TO END CHRISTIAN PERSECUTION – RELEASE INTERNATIONAL
As upheavals in Sudan continue, Release International sees a window of opportunity to end the persecution of Christians in that country. Protesters in Sudan are continuing to demonstrate for a civilian-led democracy, following last Thursday’s coup that ousted Omar al Bashir after…
09
Apr
2019Terrorist threat to Pakistan churches
Authorities in Pakistan fear that a terrorist linked to Islamic State is planning an attack that could target Christians in Punjab province at Easter. The bomber is likely to try to carry out a suicide attack in Lahore, our contact says. Please…
29
Mar
2019Supporting Christians in Flight
Interview with Trans World Radio, March 2019 Persecution and war have forced hundreds of thousands of Christians to flee for their lives. Release International has launched an appeal to help these refugees from countries such as Syria, Iraq and Eritrea. In Syria,…
21
Mar
2019Ban on church meetings in rebel-held Ukraine
Many churches in eastern Ukraine have stopped meeting after Russian-backed rebels ordered a ban on services. Rebel leaders in the self-declared Luhansk People’s Republic, seized from Ukraine in 2014, have declared all unregistered religious groups illegal. Protestant, Seventh Day Adventist and Pentecostal…
15
Mar
2019Church in India braced for more violence as elections loom
There’s been a sharp rise in attacks on Christians in India so far this year – and many fear that things could get worse with a general election on the horizon. There were 77 recorded incidents of hatred and violence against Christians…
13
Mar
2019ASIA BIBI’S DAUGHTER APPEALS TO PAKISTAN TO LET HER MOTHER LEAVE
Asia Bibi’s youngest daughter has appealed to Pakistan’s Prime Minister to let her mother leave the country, according to press reports. She’s encouraged Asia to have faith that God will bring her out. Asia Bibi, who has been declared not guilty of…
12
Mar
2019Rise in attacks on India’s Christians ahead of elections
Interview with UCB Votes are still being counted in the world’s largest democratic election in India. Polls opened on April 11, a process that’s expected to last six weeks, as 900 million people determine their country’s future. Ahead of that came reports…
11
Mar
2019INDIA ELECTION ANNOUNCED – MORE ANTI-CHRISTIAN ATTACKS EXPECTED
As India announces the world’s largest democratic election, there are reports of a sharp rise in attacks against Christians – and warnings that the elections could make that worse. Targeted violence and acts of hatred against Christians are up by 57 per…
04
Mar
2019Family’s desperate cry ignored after daughter abducted
Sadaf is 13 and has been kidnapped, forcibly converted and married to a Muslim. Yet, her family’s cries for justice are falling on deaf ears. It was the morning of February 6, when Sadaf was alone in her house in Bahawalpur, that…
27
Feb
2019NIGERIAN ELECTIONS – STOP THE ATTACKS AGAINST CHRISTIANS, MR PRESIDENT
As Nigeria re-elects President Buhari, Release International urges: ‘Protect your Christians, Mr President. Stop the attacks from the twin menaces of Boko Haram and armed Fulani herdsmen.’ Nigeria has re-elected President Muhammadu Buhari to govern his nation for a second term. As…
22
Feb
2019Highlighting Christian Persecution
New documentary on Trans World Radio features Release International Release International’s work in supporting Christians persecuted for their faith is highlighted in a new documentary on Trans World Radio. The report includes the story of Eritrean gospel singer Helen Berhane, who was…
22
Feb
2019Freeing Christians from oppression for their faith…
The story of Twen 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…
15
Feb
2019Call for Christian leaders to support Church in China
Then and now. State pressure brought to bear on the church in Germany and China. (Picture VOM Korea) Release International partners have launched a campaign to call for religious freedom in China, where the churches are coming under growing pressure from the…
13
Feb
2019Crackdown on Iranian believers continues
Becoming a Christian in Iran is fraught with danger – as the recent arrest of many believers with a Muslim background makes clear. Two more were detained in Shiraz and Esfahan in January. These are just the latest in a wave of…
30
Jan
2019ASIA BIBI – BBC INTERVIEWS RELEASE INTERNATIONAL
BBC GOOD MORNING SCOTLAND INTERVIEW WITH ANDREW BOYD Pakistan’s Supreme Court has upheld its decision to free Asia Bibi. Asia spent 10 years behind bars, eight of them on death row, after being accused of blasphemy – accusations that the Supreme Court…
29
Jan
2019ASIA BIBI FREED! TWR INTERVIEW WITH ANDREW BOYD
Release International is welcoming the decision by the Pakistan Supreme Court to free Asia Bibi. The apex court upheld its earlier decision to acquit Asia Bibi on false charges of blasphemy. Asia is now legally free to leave the country, after 10…
29
Jan
2019ASIA BIBI FREED. PAKISTAN SUPREME COURT UPHOLDS ACQUITTAL
Release International welcomes the decision by Pakistan Supreme Court to uphold acquittal of Asia Bibi. Calls for Pakistan to protect Asia and Christian minority, review cases of 200 other Christians behind bars and repeal blasphemy laws. Release International welcomes the decision by…
23
Jan
2019Attack fears for Pakistan churches
Churches in Pakistan’s Punjab province are being instructed to put security measures in place by the provincial government. It is believed that an imminent attack is feared. The authorities have issued a notification to close or seal churches in the province if…
14
Jan
2019Radio Report – New Cathedral and fresh bomb attack on Egypt’s Coptic Christians
While Christians in Egypt faced a bomb attack over their Christmas celebrations, Egyptian President Al Sisi opened what has been described as the largest Christian cathedral in the Middle East. Trans World Radio’s Dave Piper asked Andrew Boyd of Release what Egypt’s…
10
Jan
2019Scores of Christians arrested in Iran
Please pray for our family in Iran amid a wave of arrests The church in Iran is on high alert after more than 150 Christians were detained in just a few weeks. In late-November, about 70 Christians were arrested near Karaj, Alborz…
03
Jan
2019Radio Reports – CHRISTIAN PERSECUTION SET TO RISE IN 2019
James Maidment Fullard interviewed Andrew Boyd of Release for Trans World Radio: Nigeria, India and China are countries where Christians face increased persecution in the coming year, according to Release International. The warning comes as Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt insists the UK…
31
Dec
2018CHRISTIAN PERSECUTION SET TO RISE IN 2019
AS JEREMY HUNT ANNOUNCES REVIEW INTO ATTACKS, RELEASE SAYS NIGERIA, CHINA AND INDIA ARE COUNTRIES OF SPECIAL CONCERN FOR THE COMING YEAR Nigeria, India and China are countries where Christians face increased persecution in the coming year, warns Release International. The warning…
26
Dec
2018Foreign Secretary hears the voice of persecuted Christians
Release International Board member, Revd Dr Berhane Asmelash, met with Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt MP at the Foreign and Commonwealth office on December 20th. The meeting was convened by the Human Rights and Democracy Department to hear the testimony of survivors of…
24
Dec
2018NORTH KOREA HITS BACK AT HUMAN RIGHTS SANCTIONS
North Korea has hit back at new US sanctions imposed to deter human rights violations. North Korean media has warned the sanctions against three of its top officials could lead to exchanges of fire and even derail the nuclear disarmament process. The…
24
Dec
2018LEADING CHINESE PASTOR ARRESTED
A prominent Chinese pastor has been arrested charged with ‘inciting subversion of state power’. Like many other Christians before him, Pastor Wang Yi is now seen, in effect, as an enemy of the state. Pastor Wang Li of the Early Rain Covenant…
19
Dec
2018THANK YOU FOR YOUR PRAYERS IN 2018
We praise God that ‘the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him’ (2 Chronicles 16:9). We know that our persecuted family are very much in his sight and on his heart – but we…
17
Dec
2018Chinese Pastors Courageous Essay
Why I must faithfully disobey – imprisoned pastor Wang Yi Last chance to sign Release China Petition, calling for freedom of faith A prominent Chinese pastor who has just been arrested has written an outstanding essay outlining his courageous stand on the…
29
Nov
2018Killing Fields of Nigeria
A Release partner is warning that Nigeria’s Christians face growing attacks by Islamist militants in the lead-up to next year’s general election on February 16, 2019. Archbishop Ben Kwashi is calling on the Nigerian government to provide security for Christian farmers in…
27
Nov
2018NIGERIA’S CHRISTIANS BRACE FOR ATTACKS AHEAD OF ELECTIONS
A leading Anglican is warning Nigeria’s Christians face escalating attacks by Islamist militants in the lead-up to next year’s general election. Archbishop Ben Kwashi is calling on the Nigerian government to provide security for Christian farmers in the north, who are being…
22
Nov
2018ASIA BIBI FAMILY ‘HUNTED DOOR-TO-DOOR’
Islamist extremists are reported to be hunting for Asia Bibi’s family ‘door-to-door’ in Pakistan, giving rise to fears she could be murdered before leaving the country. And Christians in Lahore have been warned that terrorist groups are planning to attack them. Release…
22
Nov
2018RELEASE PARTNER ON BBC FLAGSHIP NEWS PROGRAMME
Nigerian Archbishop Benjamin Kwashi has been describing the plight of persecuted Christians in Nigeria to BBC’s Today programme. Archbishop Benjamin Kwashi is on a speaking tour of the UK with Release International. He told BBC religion editor Martin Bashir: ‘As a priest,…
15
Nov
2018Asia Bibi might be free, but the battle for religious freedom in Pakistan is far from over
says Paul Robinson, the head of Release International. The story of Asia Bibi highlights the plight of many Christians in Pakistan – not only those who have been accused of blasphemy, writes Paul in a blog for Premier. You can read it…
15
Nov
2018RELEASE CHRISTMAS APPEAL
Release has launched its Christmas Appeal to support the families of Christians who have been killed for their faith around the world. Christians are being martyred in countries including Eritrea, Somalia, Kenya, Egypt, India, Pakistan and Nigeria. In Nigeria, Christians continue to…
09
Nov
2018RELIGIOUS LIBERTY COMMISSION CALLS FOR PAKISTAN TO RELEASE ASIA BIBI
The Religious Liberty Commission (RLC), which includes Release International, is calling on Prime Minister Imran Khan to allow Asia Bibi to leave Pakistan. The Religious Liberty Commission of the Evangelical Alliance is formed of Release International, CSW and Open Doors UK who…
08
Nov
2018ASIA BIBI… AWAITING ASYLUM FROM PAKISTAN
Asia Bibi is still in Pakistan, according to national media there. News reports say she has been released from jail and flown to the capital Islamabad, where she is being kept in ‘protective custody’. According to reports, Foreign Office spokesman Mohammed Faisal…
08
Nov
2018Kyrgyzstan: Eldos was beaten unconscious – but will not be silenced
Eldos from Kyrgyzstan was beaten to within an inch of his life – for the ‘crime’ of turning to Christ. The Christian was hospitalised with serious head injuries, including a broken jaw, and his attackers threatened to kill him if he went…
08
Nov
2018ASIA BIBI FLOWN FROM PRISON – REPORTS
According to news reports, Asia Bibi has been flown to Islamabad after being acquitted by the country’s Supreme Court of blasphemy charges. Asia’s lawyer Saif ul-Malook told the news agency Agence France Presse that Asia has been freed from prison and put…
08
Nov
2018ASIA BIBI: Fact or fiction…
Reports that Asia Bibi has been flown out of Pakistan have been denied by ministers as ‘fake news’. UCB asked Release International spokesman, Andrew Boyd, to separate the fact from the fiction… mp3 192kbps 2m 30s
07
Nov
2018CHINESE EVANGELISTS ARRESTED – RELEASE PETITION CALLS FOR REPEAL OF TOUGH NEW RELIGIOUS RESTRICTIONS IN CHINA
China’s clampdown on Christians continues, as the authorities step up enforcement of tough new anti-religious regulations. Please sign Release’s online petition Release partner China Aid reports that police in Sichuan arrested more than 20 Christians who were sharing their faith on the…
06
Nov
2018ASIA BIBI: CALL FOR A MILLION TO MARCH TO SEE HER HANG
Protestors in Pakistan have called for a million marchers to flood the streets of Karachi on Thursday (Nov 8) to call for the death of Asia Bibi – the Christian woman declared innocent of blasphemy. Pakistan has been accused of caving into…
05
Nov
2018Asia Bibi Acquitted – Report on BBC Radio Shropshire
Listen below to a radio report given by Release’s Andrew Boyd on BBC Radio Shropshire as he speaks about the situation in Pakistan and the uncertainty facing Asia Bibi and her family following her acquittal. Asia Bibi Acquitted – Interview on BBC…
03
Nov
2018ASIA BIBI’S HUSBAND CALLS ON UK FOR ASYLUM
The husband of Asia Bibi has called on Theresa May to grant asylum for his wife and family, after Pakistan caved in to demands by extremists to prevent her leaving the country. The Pakistan government has conceded to extremist demands to impose…
03
Nov
2018ASIA BIBI – PAKISTAN GIVES IN TO PROTESTERS, ASIA FREE IN NAME ONLY
Pakistan moves to prevent Asia Bibi leaving the country, Pakistan press calls it ‘another surrender’, Release International says pray for Asia and Christian minority as danger level rises The Pakistan government has given in to protesters and is acting to prevent Asia…
02
Nov
2018ASIA BIBI – NATIONWIDE PROTEST CALL AFTER FRIDAY PRAYERS
In Pakistan, Islamists have called for nationwide protests after Friday prayers, following the acquittal of Asia Bibi on blasphemy charges. The Supreme Court threw out all blasphemy charges against the Christian mother of five on Oct 31. The imam who brought the original…
01
Nov
2018Asia Bibi Acquitted – Report on Premier Christian Radio
Listen below to a radio report given by Release’s Andrew Boyd as he speaks about the prospects for Christians today in Pakistan following Asia Bibi’s acquittal. Asia Bibi Acquitted – Interview on Premier Christian Radio, 1st November 2018. mp3, 130kbps, 6m…
01
Nov
2018AFTER ASIA… PRAY FOR CHRISTIANS BRACED FOR REPRISALS
Christians in Pakistan have been warned to be braced for reprisals following the acquittal of Asia Bibi on blasphemy charges. Protests are continuing across the nation the day after the Supreme Court threw out the charges of blasphemy against Asia. Protests by…
31
Oct
2018Asia Bibi Acquitted – Reports on TWR and UCB Radio
Listen below to two radio reports given by Release’s Andrew Boyd as he speaks about Asia Bibi’s acquittal, the implications that this has for her, her family and our wider Christian family within Pakistan and the reality of the blasphemy laws in…
31
Oct
2018Asia Bibi acquitted – and Pakistan erupts in fury
Asia Bibi has been acquitted by the Supreme Court in Lahore after spending eight years on death row for ‘blasphemy’. But the move is hugely controversial in this conservative Muslim nation. Already two churches have been attacked and large crowds of protesters…
31
Oct
2018ASIA BIBI UPDATE… THERESA MAY WELCOMES NEWS OF ASIA’S RELEASE
Prime Minister Theresa May has welcomed news of Asia Bibi’s release. She told the Commons during Prime Minister’s Questions: ‘The news out of Pakistan will be very welcome to her family and to all who have campaigned for her release.’ Asia Bibi…
31
Oct
2018ASIA BIBI UPDATE… PROTESTS CONTINUE IN PAKISTAN AFTER ASIA ACQUITTAL
Protests continue in Pakistan after the Supreme Court decision to acquit Christian Asia Bibi of blasphemy charges. Crowds have barricaded roads in Islamabad and other major cities, burned tyres and taken the streets in protest. The International News, Pakistan, reports: ‘Demonstrations broke…
31
Oct
2018ASIA BIBI UPDATE – RELEASE CALLS FOR PRAYER FOR CHRISTIANS
Release International has called for prayer for Pakistan’s Christians as large crowds gather to protest the acquittal of Asia Bibi. Angry protesters burning tyres have blocked highways and roads. Demonstrations have broken out in the capital Islamabad and other cities. ‘Please pray…
31
Oct
2018ASIA BIBI UPDATE… PROTESTS ERUPT IN PAKISTAN AFTER ACQUITTAL
Protestors have blocked major roads in Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad, putting up barriers and burning tyres, following news of Asia Bibi’s acquittal. Protests are also being staged in Karachi and Lahore. The Punjab authorities have banned people from gathering in public places. The…
31
Oct
2018ASIA BIBI OVERJOYED
Asia Bibi says she can scarcely believe that she has been acquitted. Overtuning the blasphemy ruling, the Supreme Court declared: ‘the prosecution has categorically failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt.’ News agency AFP said Asia Bibi could scarcely believe the news:…
31
Oct
2018ASIA BIBI ACQUITTED AMID PROTESTS – RELEASE CALLS FOR HER PROTECTION
PAKISTAN SUPREME COURT OVERTURNS DEATH PENALTY ON CHRISTIAN MOTHER ON DEATH ROW FOR BLASPHEMY Release International welcomes the decision to finally acquit Asia Bibi, who has been on death row for eight years. As protests break out, Release urges Pakistan to protect…
23
Oct
2018Our family in Sri Lanka are under pressure from extremists
The church in Sri Lanka is facing mounting violence and discrimination – as extremism extends its influence. Buddhist hardliners are not the only ones persecuting Christians now: Hindu extremists with links to India are gaining influence. Please pray that our church family…
15
Oct
2018PASTOR ANDREW BRUNSON RELEASED – Premier Christian Radio Interview
US pastor Andrew Brunson, who was accused of spying in Turkey, has been set free from prison following international pressure. Release International has welcomed the news, as, Andrew Boyd told Premier Radio: 5.5MB 3m 58s 192kbps
12
Oct
2018PASTOR ANDREW BRUNSON RELEASED
Release International is delighted that Pastor Andrew Brunson (pictured) has at last been released in Turkey, where he has been held on terrorism charges. According to news reports, Pastor Brunson, who has denied the charges, will soon be heading back to the…
10
Oct
2018ASIA BIBI AWAITS BLASPHEMY APPEAL RULING
The world is still awaiting Pakistan’s Supreme Court ruling on Asia Bibi, the Christian mother on death row for blasphemy. The court made a decision on Asia’s fate on Monday, but has withheld its ruling. Christians hope Asia will be set free,…
08
Oct
2018Help set the captives free! Our brothers and sisters need your prayers
Asia, Andrew, Jiang and Leah… all four are being held in captivity, simply because they are Christians. Please stand with us in praying for their release. Pakistani Christian Asia Bibi (pictured) will have to wait for a ruling on her final appeal today…
04
Oct
2018INSPIRE A NEW GENERATION
Show the Tortured for Christ DVD in your church and celebrate 50 years of supporting persecuted Christians. Fifty years ago, a Romanian pastor who had gone through torment for his faith at the hands of his communist jailers inspired Christians around the…
04
Oct
2018Emersion – a painting by Marcela Lopez.
Blind auction for painting. Marcela Lopez, a contemporary artist based in Surrey whose commissions can be found in offices and homes in Colombia, from where she comes, London, Paris, Venice and Texas, is offering one of her works for auction to help…
26
Sep
2018NIGERIA – Pray for Leah
The life of Leah Sharibu, the 15-year-old schoolgirl abducted by Boko Haram terrorists in northern Nigeria in February, is in immediate danger. Her abductors have threatened to execute her at the end of the month (September) if the Government does not meet…
19
Sep
2018Clampdown on Christians in Central Asia – Report on Premier Christian Radio
Release’s new DVD, Underground, was featured on Premier Christian Radio’s Newshour programme today. The DVD reports on the growing problem of persecution of Christians in Central Asia. You can listen to Release’s Tom Bradley’s report below. mp3 128kbps 7m 36s You…
18
Sep
2018CENTRAL ASIA CLAMPDOWN ON CHRISTIANS
Christians in Central Asia are facing worship bans, arrest and torture as Islamic nationalism gains ground in their countries. Pastors in the underground church have been describing their ordeal to Release International, which supports persecuted Christians around the world. Release has launched an…
11
Sep
2018URGENT – Imminent attack feared in northern Nigeria
Rumours are circulating that Fulani militants are poised to attack the town of Vom in north eastern Nigeria. The town lies on the major arterial road between Abuja, the capital, and Jos, the Plateau state capital. If this raid takes place it…
31
Aug
2018HELP THE COURAGEOUS CHRISTIANS OF IRAN
Iran is a tough country for Christians. In this radical Islamic republic, sharing the Christian faith is not tolerated. Fewer than 1 in 100 Iranians are believers. Converts from Islam face the toughest pressure – along with the Christians who lead them…
29
Aug
2018NIGERIA – Two pastors among scores killed by militants
Two congregations in Nigeria are mourning the death of their pastor after three days of violence across four states. Unidentified attackers shot Pastor Michael Akawu on a Saturday night in Gwagwalada, Abuja – just a few hours before suspected Fulani murdered Pastor…
29
Aug
2018CHINA: ‘REPEAL TOUGH NEW RESTRICTIONS’ – Interview on Premier Christian Radio
Release’s Andrew Boyd was interviewed on Premier Christian Radio this afternoon. He was speaking about persecution of Christians in China and how you can sign our petition to the Chinese Premier, Xi Jinping, asking him to repeal the new religious laws which…
29
Aug
2018CHINA PETITION – ‘REPEAL TOUGH NEW RESTRICTIONS’ – RELEASE
Release launches a petition calling for the repeal of tough new anti-religion laws in China that have led to a rise in persecution. Release partners say persecution in China is on the rise. And it’s not just Christians and church leaders who…
28
Aug
2018CHINA – CHRISTIAN PERSECUTION SOARS AS NEW LAWS BITE
It’s now six months since tough new restrictions on religious freedom came into force across China. Release International, which supports Christians under pressure around the world, says persecution has been rising dramatically. Partners report a five-fold increase in the number of Christians…
16
Aug
2018TAJIKISTAN – Christians arrested and fined
We have been informed through our partner that 10 Christians were arrested by the security police in Tajikistan on August 7. The group had gone to the Pamirs mountain area to share the gospel and hand out Christian literature in Russian, Tajik…
02
Aug
2018INDIA – Christians injured and ‘traumatised’ by mob attack
A partially blind girl was among those beaten by a mob of masked Hindu extremists during a recent attack on a church in Uttar Pradesh, northern India. After the attack in July, which ‘traumatised’ families, nine of about 50 injured Christians needed…
26
Jul
2018PASTOR ANDREW BRUNSON RELEASED FROM JAIL IN TURKEY
A US pastor accused of spying in Turkey has been released from prison and placed under house arrest following international pressure. Christians around the world are delighted that Pastor Andrew Brunson has at last been released from prison. He has been let…
26
Jul
2018ARCHBISHOP THANKS RELEASE FOR REPORTING NIGERIA ATTACK
Nigerian Archbishop Benjamin Kwashi has thanked Release International for raising international awareness of the recent attack against his home. Armed Fulani herdsmen raided the archbishop’s compound in Jos and stole his cattle. Archbishop Kwashi remained indoors to protect the many orphans in…
25
Jul
2018Pakistan elections – Christians likely losers as extremists tilt agenda
Whoever wins today’s Pakistan elections, Christians and religious tolerance are likely to be the losers, as extremists press into the mainstream, calling for tougher blasphemy laws. Whatever the outcome, Release International will keep campaigning for the notorious blasphemy laws to be repealed Whatever…
21
Jul
2018PREMIER RADIO – INTERVIEW WITH PETR JASEK, CHRISTIAN WORKER IMPRISONED IN SUDAN FOR SPYING
Listen to Petr Jasek being interviewed on The Profile at Premier Christian Radio today (Saturday July 21st) at 4pm. If you can’t make that time, the interview will be available to listen to as a podcast here.
19
Jul
2018Pastor Andrew Brunson sent back to jail
American pastor Andrew Brunson’s hopes of being released from jail in Turkey have been dashed yet again. Yesterday, a judge ordered Pastor Andrew to remain behind bars, despite intense international lobbying raising hopes he would be freed. Turkey has just declared an…
19
Jul
2018New developments in Eritrea
A report from our Eritrean partner: After Ethiopia appointed a new prime minister, Dr. Abiy Ahmed Ali, in April 2018, things started to change quickly in that country and their neighbours. Dr. Abiy Ahmed Ali has a Muslim father and an Orthodox…
12
Jul
2018Algerian Christians under growing pressure
Our Algerian family is facing mounting pressure – but standing strong. Officials in Algeria are using ‘legal technicalities’ to close down churches and put pressure on Christians. Release sources say Protestant churches are being subjected to ‘health and safety inspections’ – by…
11
Jul
2018Laurie’s 4000ft Cross-Scotland Trek
That’s not just walking 4000 feet – it’s walking across Scotland from Aberdeen to Fort William, up and down NINE 4,000 ft hills along the way!! Laurie writes, ‘Last year I had the opportunity to visit Egypt and see at first hand…
09
Jul
2018EXTENDED INTERVIEW WITH PETR JASEK, CHRISTIAN WORKER IMPRISONED IN SUDAN FOR SPYING
Listen here to an extended interview with Andrew Boyd in conversation with Petr Jasek. (You can also download a transcript of the interview here if you prefer.) Czech-born Petr Jasek, a champion of the persecuted church, was accused of spying in Sudan…
06
Jul
2018Tortured For Christ – The film: NOW SHOWING THROUGHOUT THE UK
Fourteen years in communist prisons could not break his faith! 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,…
05
Jul
2018Express reports Release concerns about Nigeria attacks
The Express has picked up on Release International’s story about the ongoing attacks against Christian in Nigeria. Their story headlined, Christianity crackdown: Church attacked by mob in Nigeria ‘genocide’ crisis highlights the crucial questions being raised by Release CEO Paul Robinson. The…
02
Jul
2018ATTACK ON HOME OF NIGERIAN ARCHBISHOP BEN KWASHI
Fulani raiders claim 11 more lives. Release warns of campaign to drive Christians from northern Nigeria, calls for government protection Cattle rustlers have attacked the home of the Nigerian Archbishop of Jos, Benjamin Kwashi. The Anglican Archbishop was at home at the…
02
Jul
2018AUDIO REPORT: Nigeria violence death toll ‘exceeds 200’
Andrew Boyd is interviewed on Premier Christian Radio about the continuing violence in northern Nigeria which has resulted in the deaths of over 200 people and the displacement of thousands.
02
Jul
2018PETR JASEK THANKS RELEASE SUPPORTERS FOR YOUR PRAYERS
Listen here to an interview with Andrew Boyd in conversation with Petr Jasek. (You can also download a transcript of the interview here if you prefer.) A Czech missionary who was facing death in Sudan for reporting on the persecuted church, has…
29
Jun
2018CHRISTIAN DEATH TOLL IN NIGERIA RISES. RELEASE WARNS OF STRATEGY TO DRIVE CHRISTIANS FROM NORTH
Release International warns of strategy to drive Christians from north Nigeria and asks: ‘Who is arming and training the attackers?’ As the death tolls mounts in Fulani attacks against Nigerian Christian villagers, Release declares June 29 Martyrs’ Day. The death toll from…
28
Jun
2018200 Nigerian Christians slaughtered in village attacks
200 Nigerian Christians slaughtered in village attacks More than 200 people in mainly Christian villages in Plateau are reported dead after Fulani herdsmen went on a killing spree at the weekend. Attackers armed with machetes and guns raided ten communities near the…
18
Jun
2018100 churches closed in China province
Scores of churches have been shut down in a central China province as the crackdown on Christianity continues. By the end of May, almost 100 house churches had been forcibly closed in Henan, according to Release partner China Aid. Even state-registered churches…
15
Jun
2018Day 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…
06
Jun
2018MYANMAR MILITARY LAUNCHES BRUTAL ATTACKS ON CHRISTIAN AREAS
Our family in Myanmar are in desperate need of our prayers as the military renews its offensive against the Christian Kachin people in the north of Myanmar. Troops using artillery, helicopter gunships and infantry are reportedly setting fire to homes, forcing people…
06
Jun
2018Myanmar 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,…
05
Jun
2018BURMA: RELIGIOUS CLEANSING SPREADS TO CHRISTIANS
RELEASE CALLS FOR HALT TO ATTACKS BY MYANMAR MILITARY. The Burmese military has renewed its offensive against the Christian Kachin people in Myanmar (Burma), displacing thousands. Release International, which supports persecuted Christians worldwide, fears Christians face a repeat of the brutal ethnic…
05
Jun
2018Andrew Boyd Speaks about the recent attacks on Kachin Christians in Burma
Release’s Andrew Boyd speaks on UCB Radio and Premier Christian Radio about the recent attacks on Kachin Christians in Burma. UCB Radio Report (June 5th, 2018) mp3 6MB 4m 17s Premier Christian Radio Report (June 6th, 2018) mp3 6MB…
25
May
2018Andrew Boyd Speaks about the Great Outdoors Church Service
Click here to listen to Release’ Andrew Boyd speaking about the Great Outdoor Church Service on Premier Radio’s Newshour programme. mp3, 160kbps, 4m 35s
21
May
201850th Anniversary Service of Thanksgiving
Join us for a 50th Anniversary Service of Thanksgiving on Thursday 4th October, 7.30pm, at the Emmanuel Centre, 9-23 Marsham Street, London, SW1P 3DW. Download the flyer for more details. Entry is by advance FREE ticket only and spaces are…
21
May
2018THEY LISTEN IN SECRET
THEY LISTEN IN SECRET In Afghanistan, they still stone followers of Jesus. So, telling others about your faith is a risky business – for you, and for them. Encouragement is in short supply, as is sound Christian teaching. But both can be…
14
May
2018INDONESIA – Churches hit by horrific attacks
Our brothers and sisters in Indonesia urgently need our prayer – after a family with children launched suicide attacks on three churches in Surabaya city yesterday. A woman is believed to have blown up herself and two daughters in an attack on…
14
May
2018CALL FOR OPEN-AIR PRAYER TO STAND WITH INDONESIAN CHRISTIANS
CALL FOR OPEN-AIR PRAYER TO STAND WITH INDONESIAN CHRISTIANS Release International is calling on Christians to hold open-air services to stand in solidarity with Christians slaughtered in the Indonesian church bombings. Report of courage as security guard gives his life to save…
23
Apr
2018‘NOW IS THE TIME TO GET OUT OF OUR CHURCHES AND STAND WITH THE PERSECUTED’
Release invites Christians to hold open air services on May 27 to identify with believers whose churches have been destroyed Churches in the UK and Ireland are being challenged to take their services out into the open air in May, whatever the…
19
Apr
2018PAKISTAN: Christians shocked and fearful after third attack
Azhar and Rahib were shot in broad daylight on the streets of Quetta city this week – the third extremist attack on local Christians in just four months. Christians in southern Balochistan province are now living in fear as 15 believers have…
06
Apr
2018PAKISTAN: Four members of Christian family killed in Easter attack
Easter should be a joyful time for family gatherings but for one family in the Pakistani province of Balochistan their celebrations came to a sudden and brutal end. Four members of the same family, who had come together for Easter from different…
05
Apr
2018Egypt election – Premier Newshour Interview
Release’s Andrew Boyd speaks on Premier Christian Radio’s Newshour programme about the recent presidential election in Egypt. Click the icon below to listen. mp3 (6MB) 128kbps 6m 14s
03
Apr
2018Protect Your Persecuted Christians, Mr President
Abdel Fattah al–Sisi has been confirmed as President of Egypt after a low-turnout election for which there was no effective opposition. Most of Mr al-Sisi’s opponents declined to stand in the elections, citing intimidation. A former army chief was arrested after declaring…
19
Mar
2018GATHERING STORM IN CHINA
COMING STORM FOR CHINESE CHRISTIANS UNDER ‘EMPEROR’ XI Latest crackdown tears Christian mural from home, arrests pastor. Video clip. A leading campaigner has warned of a gathering storm for persecuted Christians in China. Release International partner, Bob Fu, says the persecution of…
06
Mar
2018Interview opportunity with leading China persecution campaigner Bob Fu, in the UK in March with Release International. Also new book on persecution.
Former house church leader, prisoner of faith, and one of the leading voices for the persecuted Church in China, Bob Fu contends that the persecution of Christians in China is worsening and is now as severe as at any time since the…
26
Feb
2018INDIA: 7TH STATE PASSES ANTI-CONVERSION LAW
‘Law is an instrument of persecution to prevent Christian witness’ – Release International A seventh state in India has become the latest to pass an anti-conversion law, which Christians say will be used as a tool of persecution by right-wing Hindu nationalists….
16
Feb
2018Thank God for the release of Lao Christians!
Six Christians in Laos who spent more than a month in jail for celebrating Christmas have now been set free. Release contacts say the Christians in Vientiane province were taken into custody because they had not sought official permission to hold a…
16
Feb
2018AUDIO REPORT: Chinese New Year – New restriction on Christians in China
A new year means new rules. Year of the Dog looks set to be Year of the Underdog for Christians in China. Release’s Andrew Boyd warns persecution is set to rise as new rules given to local authorities are being used to further…
15
Feb
2018CHINESE NEW YEAR HERALDS NEW RESTRICTIONS FOR CHRISTIANS
New year, new rules as Year of the Dog looks set to be Year of the Underdog. Release warns persecution set to rise as new rules clamp down on the Church. The Chinese New Year looks set to be a year of…
07
Feb
2018NK PRE-OLYMPIC MILITARY PARADE MUST TRIGGER PRAYER FOR PERSECUTED
The North Korean missile crisis must be turned into a rallying cry for prayer for persecuted Christians in that country, says Release International, which supports Christians under pressure around the world. North Korea is staging a massive show of military might ahead…
31
Jan
2018Theresa May in China – ‘Use your influence, Mrs May, to press for religious freedom’
Prime Minister Theresa May is in China for a three-day visit to bolster trade. But concern is growing about the rising persecution of Christians in China. In January, officials dynamited a 50,000-strong megachurch and have fined Christian leaders elsewhere for taking up…
26
Jan
2018New religion law in Vietnam fuels Christians’ fears
Please pray for our family in Vietnam as new laws on religion threaten to limit their freedoms. Vietnam’s Law on Belief and Religion, which came into force on January 1, has alarmed Christians because it insists religious groups must be registered and…
22
Jan
2018RELEASE 50YR MILESTONE PROMPTS PERSECUTION CALL TO ACTION
Release International has reached a significant milestone – the 50th year of its ministry in serving persecuted Christians around the world. ‘Since 1968, the prayers and gifts of supporters throughout the UK and Ireland have helped thousands of Christians who are persecuted…
19
Jan
2018CHINA: 200 Chinese Christians arrested in ‘cult’ crackdown
A crackdown on ‘cults’ in Yunnan province has led to mass arrests of Christians – with many now facing long jail sentences. Six members of a church in the Lincang area have just been handed sentences of up to 13 years –…
09
Jan
2018KYRGYZSTAN – ‘AMAZING SIGN’ ENCOURAGES CHURCH AFTER BOMB ATTACK
A church in Kyrgyzstan was badly damaged in a firebomb attack but one thing survived and has now inspired the congregation. Muslim militants used Molotov cocktails to set fire to the Evangelical Christian Baptist Church in Kaji-Say in the early hours of…
08
Jan
2018MILITANTS BURN BAPTIST CHURCH IN KYRGYZSTAN. ALTAR BIBLE SURVIVES BLAZE UNHARMED
Muslim militants have firebombed a Baptist church in Kyrgyzstan, causing extensive damage. The Bible on the altar survived the arson attack, encouraging Christians to stand firm in their faith. Radicals doused the Evangelical Christian Baptist Church with petrol and set it on…
29
Dec
2017MANY SPARED AS EGYPT CHURCH BOMB ATTACK FAILS
Terrorists strike as Egyptian churches brace for violence. Nine killed, but many spared as bomb attack fails. Release calls for prayer for Egypt’s Christians. The death toll in an attempted suicide bomb attack on a church in Egypt [Friday Dec 29] has…
28
Dec
2017PERSECUTION TRENDS 2018: AS CHINA TRIES TO BAN CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS RELEASE WARNS OF CHURCH CLAMPDOWN
Countries of concern for 2018 in new Release report include China, Nigeria and India. China has been cracking down on Christmas celebrations in some districts, banning Santa Claus and Christmas hats to further tighten its squeeze on Christianity. China is a key…
18
Dec
2017CHRISTIAN GROOMING EPIDEMIC IN EGYPT
Girls and boys targeted for kidnap and conversion. Release urges Egypt to protect its Christian minority. Christian girls in Egypt are being targeted for kidnapping, forced marriage and conversion, says Release International, which supports persecuted Christians around the world. Release describes an…
15
Dec
2017THANK YOU FOR YOUR FAITHFUL PRAYERS IN 2017
We believe in the power of prayer so we’re hugely grateful to you for interceding on behalf of our persecuted family this year. Your prayers help sustain prisoners behind bars, bring comfort to those who mourn and remind those who are suffering…
08
Dec
2017INDIAN PASTOR AND WIFE BEATEN UP
Please pray for Indian pastor David Livingstone and his wife Aram, who were beaten up when Hindu extremists attacked their church in north Karnataka. A group of about 25 extremists interrupted a church service, and dragged the pastor and his wife outside,…
29
Nov
2017Persecution turns to joy for Indian Christians
Next time you pray for someone to be healed, spare a thought for six Indian Christians who paid a heavy price for doing just that. As they prayed over a woman who was sick, Hindu extremists attacked them. Then, when police were…
16
Nov
2017PAKISTAN – PRAY FOR OUR BROTHER ZAFAR WHO IS IN PRISON AND IN DISTRESS
Our brother Zafar is facing the prospect of spending the rest of his life behind bars in Pakistan over false accusations of ‘blasphemy’ – and really needs our prayers. Zafar Bhatti, who is being held in Adyala Jail in Rawalpindi, was sentenced…
24
Oct
2017MORE SUDAN CHURCH LEADERS ARRESTED
Faced with the threat of arrest would you continue to worship God? That is the challenge being faced on a regular basis by Christian leaders in Sudan. On Sunday police arrested five Sudanese Church of Christ (SCOC) leaders after they refused to…
11
Oct
2017TURKEY – Worship rises from pastor’s prison cell
Our American brother Andrew Brunson is still behind bars in Turkey – a year after he was arrested – yet his faith remains strong. He faces four life sentences based on allegations that he was involved in the plot to overthrow the…
02
Aug
2017IRAN – MARYAM RELEASED FROM PRISON!
Thank you for your prayers for Maryam Naghash Zargaran, an Iranian convert to Christianity, who, we are delighted to report, was released from prison yesterday. Maryam has served a four-year sentence in the women’s ward of Evin Prison in Tehran. She was…
12
May
2017ANOTHER CHRISTIAN FALLS VICTIM TO PAKISTAN’S BLASPHEMY LAW
Zafar Bhatti faces the prospect of spending the rest of his days behind bars after a court in Pakistan sentenced him to life in prison for ‘blasphemy’. A judge in Rawalpindi found Zafar guilty of sending blasphemous text messages from his mobile…
11
May
2017YOUR PRAYERS ARE POWERFUL: THANK GOD FOR THE RELEASE OF PRISONERS IN SUDAN!
We’ve just heard that Pastor Hassan Abduraheem Kodi Taour and Abdulmonem Abdumawla have been freed from prison in Khartoum today. The two men have been in jail since they were arrested along with our Czech brother, Petr Jašek, in December 2015. In…
13
Mar
2017IRAN – ONE SMALL STEP FROM BAPTISM TO DETENTION
An Iranian mother and son have paid a heavy price for turning to Christ – just months after they were baptised. Veronika and Augustine were arrested in Urmia, northwest Iran, on February 20 and haven’t been seen since. Please pray that they…
27
Feb
2017SUDAN: FREEDOM FOR OUR CZECH BROTHER PETR
Czech Christian aid worker Petr Jašek is reported to be safely back in Prague after Sudan’s President pardoned him and released him from jail yesterday. The Czech Foreign Minister brought Petr home last night after flying out to Khartoum to negotiate his…
22
Feb
2017MALAYSIA: ABDUCTION FEARS FOR MALAYSIAN CHRISTIANS
Three Christians have gone missing in Malaysia – and friends fear they have been abducted because of their church work. Pastor Raymond Koh was reportedly taken from his car in Petaling Jaya city last week. Another pastor and his wife, who have…
21
Feb
2017MALAYSIA: ABDUCTION FEARS FOR MALAYSIAN CHRISTIANS
Three Christians have gone missing in Malaysia – and friends fear they have been abducted because of their church work. Pastor Raymond Koh was reportedly taken from his car in Petaling Jaya city last week. Another pastor and his wife, who have…
15
Feb
2017WILL THEY BE LASHED FOR TAKING COMMUNION WINE? IRANIAN CHRISTIANS AWAIT VERDICT
Three Iranian men are waiting to hear whether a court will uphold their sentence to 80 lashes for taking communion wine. Their appeal decision is expected within 20 days. Release International is calling on the Iranian authorities to overturn the sentence. Yaser…
04
Oct
2016CHINA – HOUSE CHURCHES ACROSS CHINA ‘ORDERED TO REFORM’
China’s house churches are under fire again – as the authorities step up the pressure on congregations across the country. Please pray for our Christian family in China, facing what appears to be an official crackdown spreading throughout the country. The warning…