ireland diary

Rafif wasn't yet born when her dad was killed by Islamic extremists. Christmas is a bittersweet time for her, but she is learning more about the God her dad died for through Christian education classes supported by Open Doors partners. Please pray that her love for Jesus will grow as she draws...

Pastor Garcia ministers in Loxicha, an area controlled by a guerrilla group. He's preached in more than 100 villages - and has been shot and imprisoned as a result. "But it's been worth it," he says. "Many have accepted Christ" Pray that local church leaders, like Pastor Garcia, will be given...

Churches face increasing surveillance from the authorities. "Government officials have joined some WhatsApp groups the churches have set up, to monitor our activities," says Pastor Jorge. The pandemic has increased pressure, giving the authorities an excuse to tighten their grip. Pray for wisdom...

Over 400 children are graduated from the Children's Centre, which provides education and spiritual support for children affected by persecution. Finding ways to empower students in their faith and witness is a challenge, because of the risks it can entail. Pray that teachers will be given wisdom...

Andwele lost his livelihood after his parents discovered that he'd become a Christian. He worked as a farmer on his father's land. Ask the Lord to provide for the family and strengthen their faith. Thanks so much for praying, God bless. Taken from Open Doors UK and Ireland prayer diary

Diarra (28) was beaten and forced from her village when her Muslim family discovered her Christian faith. She is struggling to provide for her children, whilst her health is suffering since the attack. Please pray for healing, secure employment and a good church. Thanks so much for praying, God...

Please pray for Hamed Ashouri (31) who was sentenced to ten months imprisonment for activities deemed 'propaganda against the Islamic Republic'. He's been allowed to spend the remaining eight months of his sentence at home with an electronic tag. Ask the Lord to direct Hamed as he navigates life...

In August, Ebrahim Raisi was sworn in as president, succeeding Hassan Rouhani. He's seen as a hardliner with ultra-conservative Islamic views, which is concerning for the country's Christians who already face severe persecution by the state. Pray that President Raisi will honour the rights of...

Thanks to you, a group of missionaries and pastors has been given bikes to reach rural areas to disciple believers and tell others about Jesus. "I was praying for a bike, and God has blessed me with this!" shares Abraham. Praise God for the difference these bikes will make. Thanks for praying...

The new Chief Minister of Assam state is from BJP, a Hindu nationalist party. He's seeking to prohibit the sale of beef within a 5km radius of any temple and has asked Hindu's to build more temples. This could increase pressure on believers. Ask God to give Christians peace, wisdom and courage...

In many places, 'Ghar Wapsi' (homecoming) programmes are taking place. These are used by extremists to force people to return to Hinduism. Pray for God's protection over Christians targeted in this way and ask Him to help them stand firm in their faith. Thanks so much for praying, God bless...

Persecution is escalating in states with anti-conversion laws. Believers are being falsely accused of forced conversions, churches vandalised and closed, and pastors threatened and beaten. Ask the Lord to soften the hearts of influential local figures so that Christians are more widely accepted...

Practically all Christians in the country are secret believers Honour killings happen frequently, if anyone brings so-called shame upon the family. The taliban are actively seeking secret believers. Pray for God's protection. Thanks for praying, God bless, Taken from Open Doors UK and Ireland...

When the Taliban took over AFghanistan, may Christians fled. Pray for believers who have chosen to stay to be a witness for the Lord - for safety, strength and opportunities - as they adjust to life under the country's new leadership. Thanks so much for praying, God bless. Taken from Open...

In some Central Asian countries, it's illegal to share the gospel with children under 18. Alyana has been secretly going to a house church for two years. "Recently my mother found out about the church, that I sing, read the Bible, pray and meet other young believers. She forbade me to leave on...

Chinese authorities are redoubling their efforts to implement regulations that ban children under 18 from attending church meetings. In response, Open Doors is stepping up it's work to equip pastors to disciple young people, providing training seminars and contextualised resources for leaders...

Sele age 13 was just two when his father was shot dead in extremist violence in Plateau State. Sele has to help his mother Cecelia with the farm work, but Open Doors is also funding his schooling. Ask God to bless Sele in his studies. "One day, I want to be a doctor," he says. "I want to save...

Millions of children around the world face violence, discrimination or bereavement because they or their parents are Christians. This has a huge impact on their faith and self-esteem. Please pray for Open Doors partners investing in these children through Christian education, trauma care and...

Young Christians experience many challenges to their faith. Last month, Open Doors local partners hosted a discipleship course for youth in East Kalimantan. Pray that participants will have opportunities and courage to put into practise what they learnt. Thanks for praying, God bless. Taken...

At the time of writing, Myanmar is seeing a surge in Covid-19 cases. The country's healthcare system has been severely affected by Feburary's military coup. Over 70 Christian leaders have recently died because of the disease. Ask the Lord to heal the infected and comfort the bereaved. Thanks...