This issue of the Alert! takes readers from Geneva—where a remarkable movement of faith-inspired compassion helped shape modern humanitarian action—to some of the places where people continue to face persecution and displacement today. You’ll read about the challenges confronting religious communities in Nigeria and India, as well as efforts to provide care and protection for those fleeing violence along the Thailand-Myanmar border. We hope these stories inform, encourage, and remind us all of the importance of standing alongside those whose freedom of religion or belief is under threat.
From the Geneva Revival to the First Geneva Convention
During my 6 years of ministry in Geneva, I had the opportunity to worship on several occasions at the Chapelle de l’Oratoire, at 7 Rue Tabazan. After several worship services, my eyes rested on a plaque above one of the entrances. As a student and advocate of international humanitarian law, I suddenly realized I was standing on ground that helped shape the Red Cross movement. Read more here.
Kuki students organized a candlelight vigil following the Killing of three pastors. Photo credit: Kuki Student Organization
Standing for Peace with the Church in Manipur
On Wednesday, May 13, our 21Wilberforce team woke up to a flood of messages from India. Three pastors from Manipur, India—Rev. Dr. Vumthang Sitlhou, Pastor Kaigoulun Lhouvum, and Pastor Paogoulen Sitlhou—had been ambushed and killed while returning from a church gathering. They belonged to the Thadou Baptist Association. Read more here.
Leah Sharibu, who turned 23 last month, was captured in Nigeria by Boko Haram at age 14. Graphic credit: The Roys Report
#EndtheSilence: Standing for Leah Sharibu and Nigeria’s Missing Christian Women and Girls
Eight years ago, a 14-year-old Nigerian girl disappeared into captivity because she refused to renounce her Christian faith. Today, Leah Sharibu remains missing—and the world must not forget her. Read more here.
God’s Call to Comfort the Suffering
Wissam al-Saliby, President of 21Wilberforce, recently shared a message at the First Baptist Church in Woodville Texas that encourages Christians to find hope in God’s faithfulness, persevere through challenges, and become instruments of encouragement within the body of Christ. Watch here.
According to PEW research, Nigeria is among the 25 most populous countries with the highest levels of social hostilities relating to religion.
Submission to the UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief
In June 2026, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief, Nazila Ghanea, will conduct an official country visit to Nigeria at the invitation of the government. In advance of this visit, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights invited submissions from civil society organizations, faith groups, academics, and other stakeholders to help inform her assessment, meetings, and eventual report to the international community. 21Wilberforce, in collaboration with five Nigerian in-country partners, prepared this submission. Read more here.
Faith on the Frontlines: Forming Leaders on the Thailand-Myanmar Border
On some days, the classroom windows shake from bombs falling just across the river that separates Thailand from Myanmar. Jet fighters pass overhead, the ground trembles, and yet inside Kawthoolei Hope Theological Seminary—just kilometers from the border—students remain at their desks, studying Scripture and preparing for ministry. For Wapangrenba Imchen and Ashe Chakhesang, this is not a disruption to their work but the environment in which their calling takes shape. Read more here.
A Voice for the Forgotten: Gloria Puldu’s Fight for Nigeria’s Persecuted Girls
In Northeast Nigeria, where extremist violence has scarred entire communities and thousands of families still live with the trauma of abduction, displacement, and loss, one woman has become a relentless advocate for those the world too often overlooks. Gloria Samdi Puldu has spent years standing alongside persecuted women and girls — rescuing survivors, rebuilding lives, and speaking boldly on behalf of those silenced by fear and violence. Read more here.
A recent Baptist Standard article on escalating violence and a hostage crisis in Manipur, India, quoted 21Wilberforce President Wissam Al-Saliby, who called on the global Christian community to support local peacebuilding efforts and promote reconciliation among affected communities. Read here.
Save the Date: Join us for the 2026 Frank Wolf International Religious Freedom Award Program and Reception on October 27, 2026, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. at Columbia Baptist Church in Falls Church, Virginia. More information coming soon.
21Wilberforce is walking alongside churches and Christians in some of the world’s most challenging places, where faith is tested by persecution. By investing in leaders and local congregations—the frontline workers—we are helping to strengthen indigenous, sustainable advocacy for religious freedom. We invite you to join us in this journey of faith, fellowship, and unity with those who suffer, standing together as one body to advance hope and freedom.