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Welcome
by Paul Robinson, CEO
At this time of year, in our celebration of Easter, we are reminded of the immense cost of salvation – and also of the hatred the world has for Christ and His church.
If you don’t believe the latter, a quick read through the pages of this magazine should convince you.
now more than 350 in Pakistan, a number of which are for impoverished Christian men.
Oppression against Christians in India is on the rise like never before (see pages 6-11) as militants promote a strong Hindu nationalist agenda. Yet there is much to be inspired by: pastors will not be cowed even by physical intimidation or actual violence against them or the very real prospect of imprisonment simply for sharing the gospel – something that would have been unthinkable in India not so long ago.
Thanks again to your support, our partners in Ethiopia are able to hold workshops to help believers to tackle trauma and find new skills that will enable them to earn a living (see pages 16-19). Some have fled the oppressive Eritrean regime while others have been persecuted in Ethiopia itself.
In Pakistan, converts are paying a high price for embracing Christ – yet are undeterred. They, like the early disciples, have encountered the risen Saviour and are passionate about sharing that truth with others, no matter what the cost.
Included with this magazine is a leaflet about legacies. Please do prayerfully consider how God may be prompting you to continue to support our ministry by leaving a gift to Release International in your will. We are so grateful to those people, often long-term supporters, who have left a bequest as their final action to help God’s suffering people and to raise their voice.
You can read their inspiring stories on pages 12 and 13.
At the same time in Pakistan communities
are being helped by Release International- supported Strength to Stand groups which have been empowering poor Christian women for many years now (see pages 14 and 15).
Your commitment to helping our persecuted sisters and brothers never ceases to inspire me. On page 21 we report on some of the latest fundraising initiatives – from singing to sponsored swimming. Thank you to all those who contributed. I’m sure your actions will encourage many more of us to get involved in the coming days!
Cover photo: Iffat © Release International 2024
As well as providing them with finance to start micro businesses they provide fellowship and prayerful support, so vital to those who may be living in repressive environments. In fact so successful have the groups been that there are
Help for those facing the world’s hatred
Projects such as the Strength to Stand groups in Pakistan and the workshops in Ethiopia have only been possible because of your generous support, sometimes over many years. We
are so grateful to you for that dedication and commitment.
WHAT KIND OF LEGACY WILL YOU LEAVE?
FABULOUS FUNDRAISERS