On 4 November we’re encouraging Christians around the world to get involved in Freedom Sunday to mark the International Day of Prayer for the persecuted Church (IDOP). Please use the prayer points below to guide your prayers each day over the next few weeks.

PLEASE PRAY:

• For God’s protection to be upon Christians in prison, guarding their bodies, minds and spirits.
• For strength, hope and courage for prisoners’ families and loved ones.
• That God would change the hearts of all those who persecute Christians.
• That God’s word would bring encouragement and hope to Christian prisoners.
• That God would grant freedom and justice to Christians in prison around the world.
• For those who have lost loved ones in outbreaks of religiouslymotivated violence in countries like Nigeria, Egypt, Indonesia and India.
• That God would move in power to bring justice and compensation to victims of violence and their families.
• For an end to the cycle of impunity in many of these countries and that the governments would take steps to ensure the perpetrators are dealt with appropriately.
• For the rebuilding of lives and communities shattered by violence. – For church leaders who have the responsibility of leading their congregations who face daily persecution or harassment of some form.
• For church leaders whose churches or communities have been devastated by violence. Ask God to show them how they can be part of His solution.
• For protection for church leaders in countries like Colombia, who are at risk of assassination.
• That God would bless and grant strength to church leaders who speak up for religious freedom.
• For God to bring His peace to ease the tensions between different faith communities, particularly where Christians live in predominantly Muslim countries.
• For strength and courage for converts to Christianity from Islam, who face great pressures and threats after their conversion.
• That God would enable those enduring persecution to forgive their persecutors.

ON SUNDAY 4 AND 11 NOVEMBER, PLEASE USE THE FREEDOM SUNDAY PRAYER:

Heavenly Father,

Thank You that You sent Jesus to set the captives free.

Thank You that in Christ, we are free.

Grant freedom to all Your children around the world who are living under the grip of discrimination, persecution or oppression.

Renew their strength as they wait and hope on You.

Lift them up on wings like eagles so that they may not grow weary or faint.

Show us how we can serve them as Jesus would have done. Help us to be Your hands and feet in bringing them freedom and justice.

Your kingdom come and Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

Amen