Dear partner of the persecuted Church,

Looking at the 2021 World Watch List, I see that once again the levels of persecution in many countries have worsened and that three more Sub-Saharan countries are on the list. Seeing all this, I want to cry out on behalf of our persecuted family: “How long, Lord, must I call for help” (Habakkuk 1:2).

Reading about the imprisonment conditions in North Korea and Eritrea
(p. 3) shocked me, but it also showed me how much Christians in these countries and other countries, love our Lord Jesus Christ. They’re willing to be His salt and light no matter the cost.

A few months ago, a brother in the Persian Gulf was recently sentenced to six years imprisonment for his involvement in spreading the Gospel. A co-worker of Open Doors assured him of our prayers by saying: “We will pray for you that the Lord may be with you in this furnace and trial, like Daniel and his friends and deliver you unharmed.” The brother replied with Daniel 3:18: “But brother, even if he does not, I will still be faithful to Him”.

Our persecuted brothers and sisters are willing to shine the light of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ even to the point of death. In this new year, they need our prayers and support more than ever before.

Thank you for standing with them in prayer and support. Your love ensures them that they are not alone, and it gives them hope!

As we join together in this new year to stand with our persecuted family in Christ, I pray that this year will be filled with the Lord’s peace, provision and love.

Jan Gouws
Executive Director
Open Doors Southern Africa