Throughout the world, millions of people endure unimaginable hardship simply because of their faith. From discrimination and social exclusion to violence, imprisonment, and even death, the persecution of individuals for their beliefs is a global crisis. As Christians, we are called to respond to this suffering with compassion, solidarity, and action, bearing witness to God’s love for all people and shining a light on the injustices faced by the persecuted.
This year, Red Wednesday (20 November) offers us an opportunity to stand with our persecuted brothers and sisters. Initiated by Aid to the Church in Need (ACN), Red Wednesday invites Christians to gather in prayer and to light up our churches in red as a visible sign of support. This act of solidarity serves as a reminder to our communities and leaders that we cannot ignore the suffering of those who face repression for their faith. I ask each of you to consider joining me in lifting our prayers and standing in unity with those who suffer.
In response to this urgent need, the Church of England has launched a new set of resources designed to help churches and individuals engage more fully with the realities of religious persecution. These resources provide tools for prayer, reflection, and action, encouraging us to deepen our awareness and commitment. They include prayers and reflection guides as well as practical suggestions, such as participating in Red Wednesday, signing an open letter to the UK government, and marking other key dates like Contemporary Martyrs Day (15 February) and the UN International Day for Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief (22 August). You can find additional news and updates on these initiatives from the Church of England here.
I encourage each parish, school, and chaplaincy to explore these resources and consider how you might incorporate them into your ministry. As we live out our diocesan vision of Living God’s Love, let us inspire our communities to be a beacon of hope and justice, working together for a world where all people may worship freely, secure in their faith and upheld by God’s grace.
With every blessing,
+Alan
Bishop of St Albans
Prayer
Almighty God,
who sustained the apostles of your Son
through trials and imprisonment,
give strength and hope to all who are
persecuted for their faith.
Keep them under the shadow of your wings,
that they may trust in your unfailing love,
and stand steadfast in the face of trouble.
Help us, with them, to labour for the coming of your kingdom of righteousness and justice,
through the same Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Links and resources
- Sign the ACN Open Letter, and call on the Government to make persecuted Christians and other religious minorities a priority for taxpayer-funded UK aid.
The Assisted Dying Bill
In my letter to the Diocese, I invite you to reflect, discuss, and pray about the complexities of assisted suicide, and, if you feel called, to share your thoughts with your MP as we approach the upcoming debate on the Assisted Dying Bill.
A discussion on assisted suicide with Bishop Alan and Lord Geoffrey Filkin
An evening discussion on the complexities of assisted suicide.
When: Tuesday, 19 November, 7.30pm – c.9pm
Where: St Albans Cathedral
Can a ‘good death’ be assisted?: A Church Times webinar
Kim Leadbeater MP’s Private Member’s Bill on Assisted Dying has set the stage for a free vote on this critical issue. Join a panel of experts for a theological and ethical exploration of assisted dying, considering its impact on terminally ill individuals, those with chronic illnesses, and minority ethnic communities.
When: Thursday, 28 November, 6pm
Choosing Life: The Challenge of Assisted Suicide
A one-day conference addressing Christian and philosophical responses to assisted suicide, chaired by the Revd Professor Nigel Biggar.
When: Wednesday, 4 December, 10am–5.30pm
Where: St Giles, Oxford, Pusey House