Churches across India rallied in prayer during the first two Sundays of November as part of the International Days of Prayer for the Persecuted Church (IDOP).
The global initiative, coordinated by the World Evangelical Alliance (WEA) and promoted in India by the Evangelical Fellowship of India (EFI), called on stakeholders to address Christian persecution, according to a report by Christian Daily Asia.
EFI’s latest report documented nearly 570 cases of violence and hate crimes against Christians in India during the first nine months of 2024, reflecting a troubling trend.
Rev. Vijayesh Lal, General Secretary of EFI, said the numbers “tell a story of communities under pressure,” adding, “Yet, what we’re witnessing through IDOP is remarkable – when we unite in prayer, we’re not just supporting our persecuted brothers and sisters, we’re demonstrating the resilience of the global Church.
“Despite these challenges, we find hope in God’s promise that He will never leave nor forsake us,” Lal said.
WEA Ambassador for Religious Freedom Godfrey Yogarajah reported approximately 5,000 Christians murdered for their faith in the past year, alongside over 14,000 attacks on Christian properties and over 4,000 believers detained under harsh conditions.
Estimates suggest that around 316 million Christians worldwide face severe persecution.
Organizers reported an overwhelming response to the event in Nagpur, Maharashtra, where over 180 people participated on November 3.
They noted that many attendees were encountering the realities of Christian persecution for the first time, leading to new commitments such as monthly prayer meetings and practical support initiatives for affected communities.
Some participants expressed interest in visiting affected areas, while others planned to organize clothing drives to assist persecuted believers.
In Chandigarh, approximately 80 Christians participated in a prayer gathering coordinated by Robert Masih.
Organizers emphasized that the initiative aimed to move beyond raising awareness, focusing instead on sustained prayer support for persecuted believers. Plans were also reported for regular prayer meetings to be held throughout the year.
Churches in Delhi dedicated their November 10 services to praying for persecuted Christians. In West Delhi, organizers highlighted the unity displayed across denominational boundaries during the special service.
They noted that testimonies of persecution not only inspired prayers but also strengthened faith commitments and underscored the responsibility to support those who suffer for their beliefs.
