Every November, millions of Christians in over 130 countries around the world collectively bow before the throne of God on the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church (IDOP). Thousands of churches, of all denominations, spend much of their time and resources to come together in prayer for Christians who suffer under the burden of persecution in North Korea, Egypt, Pakistan, Iraq, Indonesia, and many other countries.

The IDOP is a global day of intercession that focuses on:

• Fervent prayer for oppressed and persecuted Christians everywhere, as well as for the salvation of their oppressors;
• Raising international awareness of the growing crisis of persecution; and
• Promoting ongoing advocacy and action among free Christians to increase support for the persecuted church.

WHY PARTICIPATE IN THE IDOP?

Although religious persecution has existed for centuries, the persecution of Christians has become a humanitarian crisis unlike any other -- and it is rapidly worsening. As the church continues to grow in countries where anti-Christian hostility is fuelled by politics or opposing extremist religions, hundreds of millions of believers remain at risk of being victimized by harassment, injustice, physical abuse, kidnapping, false imprisonment, or even martyrdom because of their faith.

The Bible is very clear about how we are to regard those who suffer injustice and oppression, especially fellow believers (Luke 12:29; Galatians 6:10; Hebrews 13:3). By actively participating in the IDOP, you can become an intercessor for Christians around the world who routinely suffer persecution for their faith. More often than not, the number one thing these brave men and women ask for is not for their persecution to end, but prayer to help them endure.

Sadly, most Christians in free societies have remained largely unaware of the terrible reality of persecution. By participating in the IDOP, however, you can help spread the word about the crisis of persecution and become a vital advocate for millions of afflicted Christians.

The 2011 International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church will be held on Sunday, November 13. So, whether you'll be alone in a special prayer closet or among dozens of family or church members, be sure to save this important date and plan to join millions of other believers around the world on this powerful day of intercession.

Taken from www.dayofprayer.org