Persecution – because of our faith in Jesus?

On 25^th January we celebrated the Conversion of Saint Paul. Paul, who had been the number 1 persecutor of followers of ‘The Way’, as Christians were initially known, was stopped in his tracks on the road to Damascus. His life, as he knew it, changed dramatically, and his legacy for us Gentiles is a rich tapestry of his writings to inspire, teach, encourage, explain and motivate us in following Jesus.

A few days before this feast day, the charity Open Doors (Home - Open Doors UK & Ireland) launched the 2026 World Watch List at the Houses of Parliament. Hosted by David Smith, MP, who is the UK's Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB), Open Doors announced the 50 countries in the world where it is most dangerous to be a Christian. Other religions are also persecuted (for instance followers of Islam in India) but the focus of Open Doors is on the persecution of Christians.

In the world, over 388 million Christians face high levels of persecution and discrimination – that’s one in seven believers worldwide. 4,849 Christians were murdered for their faith last year. More Christians are killed in Nigeria that in any country in the world.

This year’s World Watch List is as shocking as ever. Here are the top 10 Countries where it is most dangerous to be a Christian:

1.    North Korea	6. Syria
2.    Somalia	7. Nigeria
3.    Yemen	8. Pakistan
4.    Sudan	9. Libya
5.    Eritrea	10. Iran

How can you get involved? Open Doors currently request that we:

PLEASE PRAY

For the ongoing unrest and violence in Iran amidst protests and political fragmentation. Pray for the protection of believers and for justice to be brought about in the nation.

GIVE THANKS

For the safe escape of 80 Christians who were kidnapped by bandits from Kurmin Wali village, Nigeria, on 18 January during their Sunday church worship. Pray for the release of the remaining believers and for God’s comfort in their distress.

SUBSCRIBE

You could also subscribe to the monthly email to hear stories of courageous faith from the field and hear how you can make an impact for persecuted Christians.

I have ordered copies of the World Watch List for St Andrew’s and will leave a couple at the back of church for those who wish to explore this further at home.

Please hold our brothers and sisters in your prayers. We, who enjoy in this country the freedom to practise our faith freely, can also support Open Doors financially. Their work saves lives and encourages believers to keep going, whatever the cost.

Jenny Tomlinson