In March we held an event at the UN in Geneva where we heard the testimony of Heyeona Ji, a North Korean Christian currently living in South Korea. Between 1998 and 2007 she fled the country three times and was repatriated three times. During this time she endured unimaginable suffering, including torture, human trafficking and forced abortion. Sadly, her story is not unique - countless others have had similar experiences. Even as its leader engages in talks with world leaders from South Korea and the US, the North Korean regime remains infamous for its brutality and oppression. Every single aspect of daily life is controlled, and religion, or anything else that could be seen as a threat to the stranglehold of the state, is harshly punished.
Sunday 18 August
It is estimated that over 200,000 North Koreans are held in kwanliso prison camps, where they experience horrific torture and sexual violence and are forced into slave labour. Pray for the permanent closure of these brutal camps.
Monday 19 August
Pray for all who, like Ms Ji, endure repatriation, torture and imprisonment because of their faith. Even the slightest indication during interrogation that Ms Ji was a Christian would have meant being sent to a political prison camp or being executed. Ask God to grant strength, endurance and faith to all those who face such suffering today.
Tuesday 20 August
While recent meetings between the US and North Korean leaders have given rise to hope for a more peaceful future, human rights have not been a feature of these talks. Pray that future discussions would place human rights firmly on the agenda.
Wednesday 21 August
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? Romans 8:35. Pray this verse over North Korea today.
Thursday 22 August
China has a long-standing policy of returning North Korean refugees to their country of origin, regardless of the danger in sending them back. Pray that this policy would end and that China would instead allow them to cross safely into South Korea.
Friday 23 August
North Koreans suspected of having contact with South Korean or other foreign missionaries in China, and those caught in possession of a Bible, have been known to be executed, often in incredibly brutal ways. Pray for safety and protection for North Koreans who profess Christianity and practise their faith in secret.
Saturday 24 August
Lord God, you see everything that is hidden from us and you know each person suffering in North Korea by name. We lift them to you, God, and ask you to protect them and grant them a future of peace for both themselves and their nation. Amen.