’Keep quiet for the Gospel’ – an invitation from Release International
Christians in the UK and Ireland are being asked to stay silent for the sake of the gospel… Release International, which describes itself as the voice of persecuted Christians, is calling instead for a sponsored silence from November 25 to stand in solidarity with persecuted Christians who have been silenced for their faith.
‘Sometimes actions speak louder than words,’ says Release CEO Paul Robinson, ‘and by purposefully keeping quiet you will actually raise the issue of persecution with those around you.’
Release is calling the sponsored silence to raise prayer and financial support for, among others:
Pakistani Christian Asia Bibi, who is on death row in Pakistan – the first woman to be given the death sentence for blasphemy, a charge she denies.
Chinese Christian lawyer Gao Zhisheng, who has been repeatedly arrested, imprisoned and tortured by the authorities and is back behind bars.
Iranian pastor Behnam Irani, arrested while leading a Bible study, and severely beaten in jail. There is widespread concern over his deteriorating health.
17–year–old Eva Abdullah from Tanzania, who has been jailed for two years after being accused of desecrating the Koran.
Eritrean evangelist Mussie Ezaz, who was arrested in 2007 and is in prison in the capital Asmara.
Participants are being encouraged to stay silent for all or part of a day in the week beginning Sunday, November 25.
‘Being silent doesn’t mean being lost for words. If people ask you why you’re keeping quiet, then pass them latest edition of Release magazine, which has details of the campaign,’ says Paul Robinson. Release magazine is available for download here
‘Your lips may be sealed, but don’t be silent in prayer! Please pray in your heart for the many Christians worldwide whose governments or peoples are trying to silence them because of their stand for Christ.
‘We encourage you to get as many people at your church involved as possible – whether it’s to take part in the event or support those who are. We need your support to continue helping these courageous Christians.’
About
Through its international network of missions Release supports Christians imprisoned for their faith and their families in 30 nations. It supports church workers, pastors and their families, and provides training, Bibles, Christian literature and broadcasts. Release is a member of the UK organisations Global Connections and the Evangelical Alliance.