We have recently become a Partner Church with Open Doors UK. One of the reasons we have done this is to help us to go deeper in support and prayer for our persecuted family around the world.
As part of the body of Christ, it is our privilege to stand alongside our courageous brothers and sisters who are persecuted around the world. That means letting them know they’re not forgotten. Strengthening them by our prayers and support.
Over a year ago, Syrian church leader, Pastor B, told Open Doors UK that he has huge hope for his nation because he can see God’s Spirit moving. He has a vision for Christians to respond with love and courage, not only to those who have suffered, but to those who are causing the suffering. As well as responding to the immediate crisis with emergency relief, they want to give children and adults a knowledge of the love of Christ. However, he knows they can’t do it alone. “We need you,” he says, “We need the whole church.”
In response to the needs of the Persecuted Church in Syria and elsewhere, we at HBC Chester have partnered with Open Doors UK so we can stand shoulder to shoulder with persecuted Christians. They are our brothers and sisters. If we don’t help them, who will?
As a Partner Church, we will:
Hold at least one persecuted church focused Sunday Morning Gathering per year
Pray regularly as a church for the persecuted church.
Engage with emergency appeals as and when we launch them
Share petitions that call on our political leaders to support persecuted Christians
Nick London and Ugo Eboh are our “champions” for Open Doors UK do speak with them or visit https://www.opendoorsuk.org for more information or resources.
“IF ONE PART OF OUR BODY HURTS, WE HURT ALL OVER. IF ONE PART OF OUR BODY IS HONOURED, THE WHOLE BODY WILL BE HAPPY. “
– 1 CORINTHIANS 12:26 (CEV)