On Sunday, November 1, 2026, churches around the world will unite in prayer for Christians who face persecution because of their faith in Jesus Christ. The International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church is an annual opportunity to remember fellow believers who experience discrimination, imprisonment, violence, and even death for following Christ.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the international observance, which began in 1996. Its origins trace back to 1994, when Bishop Haik Hovsepian Mehr was murdered in Iran after defending a Christian pastor sentenced to death for apostasy. His death prompted an international call to prayer that eventually grew into a worldwide movement.
The Reality of Persecution Today
For millions of Christians, persecution is not simply a historical reality but a daily experience. According to the International Institute for Religious Freedom’s Violent Incidents Database, at least 4,652 Christians were killed in recorded violent incidents across 36 countries in 2025. The database also documented 2,832 abductions and 3,527 people displaced within their own countries.
The International Day of Prayer gives churches an opportunity to stand alongside persecuted believers through intentional prayer. Churches can pray for protection, courage, perseverance, opportunities to share the Gospel, and strength for families experiencing hardship because of their faith.
Free Resources for Churches
Two organizations have made free resources available to help pastors and churches participate in this year’s observance.
The International Day of Prayer website provides downloadable prayer guides, Bible studies, country-specific prayer information, posters, and other resources. Materials are available in multiple languages.
The Voice of Martyrs website offers free church bulletin inserts, prayer slides, family discussion guides, a sermon outline, and additional materials. Its mobile app also provides daily prayer requests throughout November.
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