TOMORROW’S SUNDAY

The Basilica of Sacré-Coeur in Paris sits majestically on the top of a hill and is one of the most imposing and beautiful churches in the world. Last week it looked even more spectacular than usual because it was illuminated by powerful blood-red spotlights, to draw attention to the many violations of religious freedoms around the world. All religions suffer persecution, of course, and have done throughout history. One of the less attractive features of human nature is that people can be hostile to anyone whom they judge to be “different”. In the UK, we are very fortunate to live in a country which is generally tolerant and values diversity rather than being threatened by it. In the UK our freedom to practice our faith is universally accepted and enshrined in law. Most people don’t realise which group is the most persecuted worldwide in the 21st century. As Angela Merkel, German Chancellor, stated recently, it is, in fact, Christians who suffer the most. Persecution of Christians, rather than being something from ancient history, is, in fact, alive and well in many countries, including some commonly regarded as “civilised”. On the TV news we have seen the tragedy of Christian communities in the Middle East conflict zones driven from the homelands in which they have lived for many centuries. However, persecution takes many forms, and in some countries it is the government, rather than extremists, who are the perpetrators. Maybe you are likely to experience difficulty getting a job, a house, or travel documents simply because you are a follower of Jesus Christ. The organisation “Aid to the Church in Need” has recently produced a report – Persecuted and Forgotten? – which makes disturbing reading. What can we do? The first step is to be aware. The second to pray for those who are suffering. Perhaps after that, visit the website of Aid to the Church in Need.