2019 World Watch List

Open Doors prayer magazine | Apr-Jun 2019 issue

“Analysis of the World Watch List (WWL) 2019 Gender profiles of religious persecution confirms that global trends regarding religious persecution are gender-specific, broadly reflecting stereotypical gender roles of social context. Christian men are especially subject to economic harassment via business, work or job access, while Christian women in particular suffer sexually violent attacks.

Researchers found, based upon numerous field interviews in combination with detailed reporting on over 60 countries, that the experiences of religious persecution faced by Christian men globally is characterized as focused, severe and visible. In contrast, religious persecution endured by Christian women globally is characterized by being complex, violent and hidden.” (Source: Open Doors International)

In this prayer magazine, you will find the testimony of Esther from Nigeria. She was held captive by Boko Haram for more than three years. She felt that God has forsaken her. But praise be to the Lord our God for He reminded and showed her that He is present and will never abandon her. He called different people from all over the world to help Esther. She was able to join a trauma care program held by partners of Open Doors.

There are many women who feel alone because of persecution, and God can use you as His instrument in declaring to these women the truth that He will never leave them nor forsake them (Deuteronomy 31:6). One of the things you can do today is lift them up in prayer.

– BJ (Manager, Open Doors Philippines)