Christians around the world risk persecution and face suffering because of their faith. To mark the International Day of the Persecuted Church, we offer a prayer for those who don't have the freedom to worship openly.
Almighty God,
God of the silence
We pray for siblings across the world who may only whisper your name in praise.
May they know your presence in the quiet, silent air, yet full of faith.
God of the darkness
We pray for siblings across the world only able to meet at night, in secret or even alone.
May they know your creative Spirit hovering over the depths of their hope.
God of the outsiders
We pray for siblings across the world, locked out of places of worship by government authorities.
May they see your hand at work in the sanctuary of your creation and the signature of your love.
God of Justice, as we pray for siblings in the persecuted Church, for the freedom to worship you,
help us to avoid simplistic and wrong characterisations of other faiths, cultures and people.
May we see with your love, seek justice with your passion and stand in solidarity with all who seek to worship and express their faith free from fear.
Amen.