'We Trust Jesus to Walk with You': Persecuted Christians Around the World Pray for Manchester

By Ruth Gledhill
Christian Today

Normally, it is Christians in the West who are accustomed to being asked to pray for their persecuted brothers and sisters around the world.

But now, persecuted Christians are themselves joining in prayer – for the victims of the Manchester terror attack.

According to the Christian persecution charity Open Doors, believers in some of the countries where it is most dangerous to be a Christian have shared their messages of support.

'It is precisely because they live under the constant threat of terrorism and violence that they are able to empathise with all of those caught up in this terrible attack,' said Open Doors.

One nun in Pakistan, who has helped many victims of terror in her own country, said: 

'I was a student in Manchester for three years. There, God called me to serve his Church. There I met people who prayed for the persecuted Church. I was moved by how believers really did pray for those who are suffering.

'Today, my team and I remember our praying friends and family in the UK. Today, we assure you that in your pain and grief and shock, in the trauma and tragedy of it all, we are standing by you and trusting Jesus, Emmanuel, to walk with you and comfort you and wipe your tears. We journey together.'

A pastor from Bangladesh said:

'I am shocked to hear this news as the UK is a highly protected country. I'm praying for the affected people and their families; may God pour His love and blessing over them. May God change the minds of the people who are behind the brutal attack, that they may also be caught by the fear of God. At the same time, we praying for our country, that God will save us all from these kinds of attacks.'

A church worker in Malaysia said: 

'I pray for those who have lost loved ones that God will comfort them in their sorrows. I also pray that this tragedy will help open our eyes to see the great need to share the truth of Jesus to all; for only His love can help them lay down their bombs.'

A young Christian, also from Malaysia, said: 

The first thought that came to my mind after I heard the bombing was "Why did he do it?" I cannot understand the reason why that man blew himself up and took the lives of others as well. But I can understand how you, our brothers and sisters in UK, feel. My heart goes out to you and I pray for God to comfort you in your grief.'

Photo of secret church leaders in Vietnam praying for

Manchester, blurred to protect identities. (Open Doors)

Christian Today Continues With prayers for Manchester Victims

Persecution Unveiled has been called by God to prick the consciences of this nation and all free people to speak up and act on behalf of those who have no voice.  Follow us on  Pinterest, and Google; like us on Facebook, and visit our website using this link.