Captivity” might seem like a word that belongs in Old Testament history, but the reality for many Christians around the world is that following Jesus means the literal loss of physical freedom.

Last year alone, 4,277 Christians were detained without trial, arrested, sentenced and imprisoned because of their faith (Open Doors 2021 World Watch List). Another 1,710 Christians were abducted. This is what prompted Open Doors Canada to launch, One With Them: A Day for Christian Captives, an urgent call for believers to set aside an annual day of prayer focused on Christian captives. 

On June 27th, believers across Canada will join in prayer for Christians held captive for their faith. Canadians of all denominations are being challenged to pledge to a day of prayer, adding their name, publicly, to the thousands of Canadians committed to praying for our persecuted family on June 27th. Those who pledge to pray will receive a One With Them bracelet, serving as a constant reminder to pray for those held captive for their faith.

Captivity can take the form of imprisonment, forced marriage, abduction, and more. One heart-wrenching example is 14-year-old Leah Sharibu who was kidnapped from her school in Nigeria by Boko Haram, along with 100 other girls. While all the other girls were released, Leah remains in captivity because she refused to deny her faith in Jesus Christ. Leah is one of many Christian girls missing in Nigeria and she needs prayers.  

During the month of June, Open Doors Canada will be sharing stories, prayer requests and hosting a special Night with the Persecuted Church online event – all focused on educating the family of faith of the plight of Christian captives. All of this will culminate on June 27th when believers will stand united in prayer for our brothers and sisters who share our faith, but not our freedom. 

Today on Connections, Gary shares why this day is so important and how you can get involved.