The Stories of Hope: A Journey with Persecuted Christians
As the ex-director of Aid to the Church in Need UK, I have had the privilege of witnessing incredible stories of hope amidst the suffering of persecuted Christians around the world. Over the course of three decades, I have traveled to many places where Christians have faced persecution and oppression for their faith.
In today’s world, where conflicts and suffering seem to dominate the headlines, it may seem counter-intuitive to speak of hope. Yet, it is often in the midst of abandonment and despair that hope shines the brightest.
Persecution and oppression continue to plague many communities, with northern Nigeria being a stark example. In just 12 years, 43,000 Christians have lost their lives to fanatical terrorists, with countless churches and schools being attacked. Despite the darkness, hope still prevails.
I recall a moment in northern Iraq, where an elderly lady sheltered from the scorching heat of the sun, and in Aramaic, the language of Our Lord, she asked me to pray for her. Her family had fled in terror as ISIS forces closed in, yet she clung to her faith and her hope.
Among the refugees from ISIS in Erbil, I met a Yazidi woman who credited a compassionate priest for saving her life. In the midst of chaos and destruction, she found hope in the kindness of others.
These stories of resilience and faith are not unique. Around the world, persecuted Christians continue to endure suffering with unwavering hope in Jesus Christ. Their unwavering faith serves as a beacon of light in a world plagued by darkness.
In this Year of Hope, let us reflect on the words of Pope Francis and remember that hope is born out of love and sustained by the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. As we journey towards our encounter with the Lord, let us hold onto hope as our constant companion.
Through the embrace of the Church and the witness of persecuted Christians, we can rediscover hope and find strength in the knowledge that we are loved by Christ. The stories of hope that I have encountered over the years serve as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, the light of Christ shines through.
Written by Neville Kyrke-Smith, National Director of Aid to the Church in Need UK for 31 years. Awarded a Papal Knighthood of St Gregory in 2021 for his dedication to serving persecuted Christians worldwide.
