Join us on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at 8:30 p.m. in Piazza Tre Martiri in Rimini for a special moment of prayer dedicated to persecuted Christians. This initiative has been ongoing for a decade, organized by the Nazarath Committee. Each month, on the 20th, since August 2014, we gather for prayer, recitation of the Rosary, and to share testimonies of persecution around the world. Donations are collected to support those facing persecution.
This year, we are honored to have the presence of the Bishop of Rimini, Mgr. Nicolò Anselmi.
We sat down with Marco Ferrini, the creator of this initiative and head of the Nazarath Committee, to learn more about the origins and impact of this prayer gathering.
– How did the idea of praying for persecuted Christians first come about?
– Ten years ago, as ISIS took control of parts of Syria and Iraq, displacing thousands of Christians, we couldn’t stay silent. We started the “Appeal to the Human” prayer to show solidarity with all persecuted individuals, regardless of faith. Prayer is a powerful tool to bring about change and uphold the dignity of humanity.
– Why choose to pray in the public square instead of a church?
– Holding the event in the open square symbolizes Pope Francis’ call for the Church to reach out to everyone, not just within the walls of religious institutions. It’s a way to engage the community and draw attention to the cause.
– The Nun logo on your posters is intriguing. Can you explain its significance?
– The Nun symbolizes the Arabic letter used to mark Christian homes in the Nineveh Plain, identifying them for taxation and persecution. It’s a reminder of the challenges faced by our persecuted brothers and sisters.
– The Nazarath Committee invites witnesses of persecution to raise awareness. Who have you hosted in the past?
– Over the years, we’ve had various speakers—laypeople, clergy, and journalists—from countries like Syria, Iraq, Nigeria, and more. Their firsthand accounts shed light on the realities of persecution faced by Christians worldwide.
– Is the prayer initiative limited to Rimini or expanding to other regions?
– Our prayer gatherings now extend to multiple cities in Italy and abroad, uniting believers in solidarity. We hope this movement continues to grow and bring awareness to the plight of persecuted Christians globally.
– Pope Francis has been vocal about the persecution of Christians. How has his message inspired your work?
– The Pope’s words remind us of the challenges Christians face for living out their faith. His call to embrace martyrdom as a testimony to Christ’s light resonates with our mission to advocate for persecuted believers.
– This year, Pope Francis sent a heartfelt message of support. Can you share more about that?
– In a handwritten note, the Pope expressed gratitude for our efforts and urged us to seek Mary’s intercession for strength in times of trial. His encouragement motivates us to continue bearing witness to Christ’s glory through our work.
