The Lausanne Congress unites thousands of church and ministry leaders from across the world to discuss, pray for and be inspired about opportunities in global mission – and this year Open Doors had the opportunity to share about Arise Africa and the World Watch List.
The congress was held recently in South Korea, and the plight of the persecuted church was a key focus. The Lord provided space for Open Doors staff to speak and inspire participants about the Arise Africa campaign, which aims to ‘stop the violence and start the healing’ – building the resilience of the church in sub-Saharan Africa in the face of persecution and ending jihadist attacks.
Thousands signed the Arise Africa petition
It was a powerful moment when thousands of participants signed the Arise Africa petition calling for protection, justice and restoration for the persecuted church in sub-Saharan Africa, as well as contributing prayers. The global petition is intended to be presented to the EU, the UN, the African Union and local governments around the world in 2026.
Open Doors spokespeople also led attendees in praying for each of the top 50 countries on the World Watch List, which ranks the countries where Christians face the most persecution. A representative from country received prayer on behalf of their nation – part of which is captured is this footage from the night.
“The Holy Spirit was moving in powerful ways. There was a palpable ‘weightiness’ in the room during the prayer and intercessions,” shares Andrew Richards, from Open Doors US. “It was an honour to serve together, and I pray we’re able to build on this momentum.”
“An answer to the prayers of many people”
“We’re so thankful for the chance to shine a spotlight on what our brothers and sisters in sub-Saharan Africa are suffering,” added Tiffany Barrans, Global Advocacy Director for Open Doors International, “and to highlight the potential for the campaign to build the resilience of the church and call for an end to the violence. It’s an answer to the prayers of many people that we would have access to such an influential space.”
Please pray that this God-given opportunity to raise awareness, action and prayer will bear fruit in the months ahead.
Praise God for the opportunity to share the Arise Africa campaign and the World Watch List with a wide audience of influential people
That many attendees of the congress would be moved to act, and take the Arise Africa campaign to their churches
For the Arise Africa petition to have a significant impact in bringing change for vulnerable Christians.
Sign the petition
You can add your voice to the Arise Africa petition, calling for protection, justice and restoration for persecuted church in sub-Saharan Africa. If you’ve already signed, why not share with friends at church?
