Persecution of Christians in Eritrea has been a deeply troubling and ongoing issue. The Eritrean government, under President Isaias Afwerki, has implemented a harsh policy of religious repression, targeting not only Christians but also other religious minorities. Many Eritrean Christians, particularly those who are not members of the officially recognized Orthodox, Catholic, and Lutheran churches, face severe persecution, including imprisonment, torture, and even death for their faith.

The Eritrean government's control over religious institutions and its demand for unwavering loyalty to the state have made it extremely difficult for Christians to practice their faith openly. Many have been forced to worship in secret, for fear of government surveillance and retaliation. This situation has garnered international concern and condemnation, with various human rights organizations and religious freedom advocates advocating for an end to the persecution of Christians and religious minorities in Eritrea.

the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church (IDOP) will be marked in Ireland on Sunday 5 November. Churches all over the country will devote time during their services on that day to pray for the Persecuted Church. The focus this year will be on Eritrea where there are more Christians now than ever in the thirty year history of the country. These Christians all face intense persecution and hundreds are in prison for their faith.

Will you join us in praying for our brothers and sisters in Eritrea?

Please ask your church leader to make time in the worship service on Sunday 5 November (if date not suitable, choose another Sunday in November) .

Church in Chains is providing three resources for IDOP:

Bookmark with Prayer Points for each person in church – order here.

Information Sheet for those leading prayers (sent with each order for bookmarks)

Video (approximately 3min) containing three prayer points – available to stream or download
Church In Chains, An Irish Voice For Persecuted Christians Worldwide.