For so long, we in the US took for granted that religious persecution was something that took place in the past or places far away from us. In recent years, since Christianity has come under attack here in our own country, we have paid more attention to the religious persecutions that take place in different parts of the world. In the Middle East, the birthplace of Christianity, persecution of Christianity is a dire reality. We pray for those who are persecuted for their Christian faith in the Middle East. We pray for reconciliation and understanding.
From the US Bishops website
Pray: For our sisters and brothers in the Middle East; that through the intercession of the Apostles, who established these most ancient churches,
Christians and all religious minorities would be freed from violent persecution.
Reflect: In July 2015, Pope Francis said, “Today we are dismayed to see how in the Middle East and elsewhere in the world many of our brothers and sisters are persecuted, tortured and killed for their faith in Jesus…. [I]n this third world war, waged piecemeal, which we are now experiencing, a form of genocide – I insist on the word – is taking place, and it must end.” Today, Christians are among those religious minorities confronted with persecution, despite their having been critical to the vitality and pluralism of the region since the earliest days of Christianity.
Act: Catholic Relief Services, Aid to the Church in Need, Catholic Near East Welfare Association, and the Knights of Columbus have all worked to assist Christians in the Middle East. Consider getting in touch with these organizations and finding out how you can participate in their work.
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