Missions Update – International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church
- Missions Team
- Oct 29
- 3 min read
This Sunday 2nd November is the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church.
Sometimes we can hear about something like this, we can know that the need is huge, yet we think,
“I don’t even know where to start to pray for them.”
That’s understandable, but thankfully, we can help with that. Our mission partner in the field, Open Doors, has provided us with a one-week prayer guide to help us focus our prayers for our persecuted brothers and sisters around the world. People like Jemal, who prays over his kids each day that God would protect them, and that they would come home from school in peace. Because in their part of the world, that’s not a given. In one day Jemal’s family lost their home, his business, everything — but while their oppressors thought they had defeated them, Jemal responded,
“We will not fail. We have people who stand by us. They will support us. There are people out there who pray for us.”
Talk about courage under fire. And part of that courage comes from the prayers and support of people just like you. Watch the video to find out how Open Doors was able to help Jemal and his family.
Download your digital or printable prayer cards here, and let’s be praying together this week, knowing that every prayer truly makes an incredible impact. THANK YOU for praying for these Christians who endure so much for their faith every single day.
Meanwhile in our local communities, chaplains also continue to impact people’s lives by being there in moments of crisis or just in the midst of everyday struggles. From sporting fields to courthouses, prisons to police stations, schools to hospitals, foster care to shopping malls… and most recently in the PlayHouse! We caught up with PlayHouse Chaplains, Jemimah and Christy, to find out how it’s going…
How did this role come about for you?
It was just a matter of saying yes to God in this space. I never saw myself as a chaplain – didn’t think I was capable. But I’ve learnt that with Jesus I can come alongside other people.
Do you feel like you have been able to connect with people?
People were uncertain about approaching a chaplain the first couple of weeks, but it’s amazing how consistency pays off. By having a regular chaplain in a space, people's curiosity grew and allowed them to feel comfortable to start having conversations. I’ve had the chance to talk with all kinds of people, but mostly grandparents and mums and dads. One of the mums is going to start coming to the playgroup as she realises it’s important to be part of a village of other mums when raising children. Another lady I’ve spoken with a few times has really interesting and different views about God. Our conversations have challenged me to think carefully about my responses, but chaplaincy has helped me learn to simply listen without feeling like I need to give answers or push my own opinions. I’m hoping to keep connecting with her as our talks are always thought provoking!
What does a typical day as a PlayHouse Chaplain look like?
Every Monday is different; there are always new people to meet and conversations to have. During the LHCA terms, I spend time with the GrooveTot parents, homeschooling families, and others who come through the café. There are moments of quiet in between, and I’ve learned to be comfortable with that. I usually help by cleaning tables, delivering orders, and starting conversations when people seem open, but I also try to respect when someone just wants space. It’s the kind of role where you really have to trust God to bring the right people across your path or to lead you to someone who needs a listening ear.
Are you enjoying it?
I really am. It’s been a different kind of ministry, but a very rewarding one. I enjoy the conversations, the variety of people I get to meet, and those little moments when you can see that just being present has made a difference. Some days are quieter, but even then I feel like I’m where I’m meant to be.
Friend, never get tired of saying ‘Yes’ to God.
Yes to praying – for those in your sphere, and those you’ll never meet.
Yes to partnering with our great God – wherever, whenever, however He stirs you… and trust that He will bring great power and beauty out of every ‘yes’.
And as always, we’re praying for you as you go.
Grace, peace and love
from your Missions Team xoxo
