Throughout 2023, churches across the UK have welcomed our team into their Sunday services, small groups, prayer gatherings and other events. Whether in person or via video, it is always a privilege to be invited to share with you and your communities about those who are suffering for their beliefs. We are looking forward to meeting many more of you in 2024!
Hosting a speaker is one easy way for your church to make a difference in the year ahead. Our speakers are experts in their field who can help churches like yours gain a greater understanding of the harassment and persecution people are facing because of their beliefs. We can all play a part in working for justice for these groups, and we hope our words will encourage your community to stand up and speak out.
‘It's easy to forget the blessing and privilege we have here in the UK where we have freedom to follow beliefs, and worship where and when we wish,’ said a member of a church we visited in Ealing.
‘CSW gives us the opportunity to understand how many across the world suffer without such freedoms – and do something about it!’
They continued: ‘Among our congregation, we have a significant number who came originally from Nigeria, China, and Iran, so the issues resonate deeply with many of us.’
Learning leads to action
Our talks can also help congregations understand how their generous donations are used to make a difference to people suffering for their beliefs. We often focus on one specific person or community, which helps put a face and a name to the thousands of people experiencing injustice worldwide.
This past year, for example, we raised awareness for Pastor Lorenzo in Cuba, and Reverend Dr Hkalam Samson in Myanmar/Burma; both are unjustly imprisoned in connection with their beliefs. Many people heard their stories for the very first time, and many people were stirred to take action in response.
What does a speaking engagement look like?
No event is too big or too small! This past year we have spoken on stage at the Big Church Festival; given longer talks at churches of various sizes; and provided shorter video messages during the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church. Talks are always tailored to the needs of the church or community group, and often include a time of prayer afterwards. It is always so encouraging to continue the conversation over coffee, and see how people have been touched by what they’ve heard.
Our team of gifted communicators include staff members such as Founder President Mervyn Thomas, as well as volunteer speakers like our Church Ambassador Keith Davies. Keith has visited countless churches over many years, telling stories from around the world and encouraging prayer.
Encouraged by your compassion
Neil joined CSW as Partnerships Manager in 2022, but he has long been passionate about working for a world where everyone is free to believe. He said:
‘On a visit to Iraq in 2005, I made a promise to a pastor that when I returned home, I would share his stories with the UK Church.’ For nearly twenty years, this pastor’s stories have fuelled Neil’s desire to see more churches standing with all who face injustice. He regularly speaks at churches up and down the country. ‘I’ve seen how God speaks to us through these stories, and I’m thankful for every invitation to speak.’
‘I have been encouraged by the compassion of supporters who have been earnestly praying for people like Professor Solomon Tarfa in Nigeria,’ said Neil. Professor Tarfa had been serving an unjust prison sentence on false charges – but was acquitted and released in January 2023. While Professor Tarfa has been set free, we are still praying and advocating for the return of all the children of Du Merci orphanages, founded by the professor and his wife, Mercy. Raising awareness, as well as mobilising prayer and campaigning, are all ways that the Church can rise up against injustices like this.
‘I’ve been talking to churches about the difference our supporters have made for Professor Tarfa and Mercy. I’m praying that CSW can bless the Church in the same way the Church is a blessing to all those we seek to help.’ – Neil, CSW Partnerships Manager
Would you like us to come to your church or event in 2024?
Visit csw.org.uk/inviteaspeaker for more information.
Thank you!
We are so grateful to everyone who gave to our Christmas appeal. Thanks to generous supporters we were able to match donations pound for pound up to £83,100! Hundreds of you responded and to date you have given over £50,000 which will be put towards our work speaking up for people suffering for their beliefs. Thank you so much!
Special thanks also go to Anne Greig who swam the length of the English Channel in her local pool – 22 miles – over four months. Anne said:
‘What motivated me were the photos I picked up at Greenbelt some five years ago of four individuals suffering persecution... It was a delight, in the last week of the swim, to hear that one of them [Nguyen Bac Truyen] had been released from prison... What really encouraged me were the donations – as they came in, I knew increasingly that I’d finish.’
As a result of completing this impressive challenge, Anne raised over £2,300 for CSW and Release International. Congratulations, Anne!
Get involved
Could you take on a fundraising challenge in 2024? Find inspiration and more at csw.org.uk/fundraise