International (MNN) — Every year, the first two Sundays of November serve as a poignant reminder for Christians around the globe to unite in prayer for persecuted believers. This year’s focus shifts particularly to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), where many Christians face significant challenges and dangers.
“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” — James 5:16
According to reports, more than 310 million Christians worldwide are enduring severe persecution. Todd Nettleton from The Voice of the Martyrs USA emphasizes the importance of this dedicated time of prayer, explaining, “Every time we ask, ‘Hey, how can we help you?’ the first thing they say is, ‘Pray for us.’” This urgent call to prayer underscores the overwhelming need for spiritual support among those suffering for their faith.
Churches across various nations will gather during these days of prayer, uniting voices in lifting up the plight of those who find themselves in hostile environments. “They are lifting up our brothers and sisters and our Christian family in hostile and restricted nations. They [persecuted Christians] know they’re being prayed for, and it is an encouragement to them,” adds Nettleton, highlighting the impact of such devoted intercession.
Each year, the International Day of Prayer brings a specific nation or situation to the forefront, enabling believers to pray more personally and fervently. “Putting a face, a name, and a place in front of people helps make our prayers more personal. It helps make them more fervent as we understand specific situations,” explains Nettleton, making the abstract notion of persecution more tangible and real for those participating.
The spotlight this year is on the Democratic Republic of the Congo, a nation where armed groups relentlessly target Christians with violence. “There are over a hundred armed rebel groups active in DRC. Many of them are motivated by Islamist ideology that says Christians are the enemy. [They say] ‘We want to create a caliphate.’ And so the level of violence of some of these attacks is just mind-blowing,” shares Nettleton, painting a grim picture of the situation faced by believers in that region.
This unrelenting violence leaves Congolese communities grappling with grief and trauma. Yet amidst sorrow, stories of God’s presence and restoration continue to emerge. The VOM USA promotional video showcases how God is working through His people to bring comfort and healing to those who have suffered greatly.
“He is using Christians to come alongside our brothers and sisters in DRC, to listen to them, pray with them, and affirm them. Help them realize that even in suffering — even in violent suffering — God is still present, and God still has a plan,” adds Nettleton, highlighting the importance of community support in times of extreme hardship.
For those wishing to engage, free digital resources are available on the Voice of the Martyrs USA website, offering materials for churches and Bible studies. This is a reminder for everyone to pray for persecuted Christians around the world, especially for the Congolese believers enduring immense trials.
“It is a prayer for faithfulness in the face of persecution, in the face of suffering,” adds Nettleton.
As the global community prepares for this year’s day of prayer, there’s an open invitation to join in heartfelt intercession for persecuted believers. Visit Voice of the Martyrs USA to access the necessary resources and lend your voice in support.
Header photo: Prayer slide from downloadable materials, courtesy of VOM USA.