Page 2 - Voice of the Persecuted Christians - Jul-Sep 2023 - 123

Welcome
by Paul Robinson, CEO
It’s that time of the year when many of us think about going on holiday, either here or abroad. We get excited as we look forward to visiting a new place for a week or two. When we return, hopefully refreshed, we may look back on a great time away but add ‘there’s no place
Please do share this pull-out map with others – it is ideal for church noticeboards – so that more people can pray for their persecuted family.
As you’ll read on page 21, many Christians we talk to in the UK still do not realise the extent of persecution around the world. That’s why it’s vital we share the message with our churches and many Christian friends.
In this edition of Voice focusing on those who have been forced to flee, you will read of those who
have left their own countries but have not had the option of returning to their homes. Their departure was forced and is permanent – unless there are dramatic changes in their homelands.
like home’.
Aster had to leave Eritrea (see page 10) after an horrendous time in prison; as did Priscilla and Matthew from Iran. Today believers like them can struggle to adjust to a new life, missing family and friends and having to adjust to a different culture and language in a society that does not necessarily welcome refugees, especially Christian ones.
One way Release International will be doing this in the summer is by attending Christian exhibitions and conferences. If you’re at one of these events please do come say hello at our stand. We’d love to see you.
However, their true home, as for all followers of Christ, is not on this earth. They know that; that is why they have borne the consequences of sharing their faith, which has included exile.
Another great way of getting the message out
is to be a Church Representative for Release International in your fellowship, providing updates on the persecuted and encouraging prayer and support. If you do not have a Church Representative in your congregation, then why not consider taking on this rewarding volunteering role yourself. Find out more on page 20.
Their testimonies point to another place – an eternal home. So let’s be inspired as we read their stories and, like them, live with a constant awareness of our ultimate destination.
Because of your generous support, our partners are able to provide practical and pastoral care
for those who sometimes have no option but to flee as a result of persecution. You can read how your gifts are making a difference to their lives on pages 15-17.
Cover photo: Aster © Release International 2023
On pages 12-13 you’ll find our special Flight Map, showing how and where today Christians are being forced to flee their homes – whether as internally displaced survivors of persecution in places such as Nigeria or as refugees.
PROVIDING A LIFELINE
PLAYING OUR PART
Remember Christians in flight
As well as attending these gatherings, we also provide speakers who are available to share the message in local churches. Contact details are on page 21.