In this issue, we share powerful stories of faith, courage, and advocacy from around the world. From Ukraine’s National Prayer Breakfast, uniting leaders and believers in prayer for peace, to the launch of a new human rights workshop at Dallas Baptist University, we see hope rising. You’ll also find an invitation to join the Global Religious Freedom Gathering in Dallas, a reflection on placing individuals at the center of religious freedom, free resources to support the persecuted church, and a sobering update on the hidden toll of Eritrea’s ongoing repression. Each story calls us to awareness and action.
Dallas Baptist University and 21Wilberforce Launch New Human Rights Workshop
This fall, 21Wilberforce and The Global Religious Freedom Center at Dallas Baptist University, in collaboration with partner universities in Nigeria and Southeast Asia, will launch a three-week online workshop designed to equip students with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for effective human rights reporting. The program is tailored to address the unique socio-political landscapes of these regions, ensuring participants are prepared to engage with local realities in meaningful and impactful ways. Read more here.
Unity, Prayer, and Resolve at Ukraine’s National Prayer Breakfast
Elijah Brown, General Secretary and CEO of the BWA and Alan Donaldson,General Secretary of the European Baptist Federation, at Ukraine’s National Prayer Breakfast.
In a powerful expression of solidarity and faith, Ukraine hosted its second National Prayer Breakfast this year at the Mystetskyi Arsenal under the patronage of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Coinciding with Ukraine’s Independence Day, the event concluded a 24-hour global prayer initiative that brought together people across continents in collective intercession for Ukraine’s peace and future. Elijah Brown, General Secretary and CEO of the Baptist World Alliance, shared at the breakfast. Also in attendance was Alan Donaldson, General Secretary of the European Baptist Federation. Read more here.
You Are Invited to Join Us in Dallas
The Global Religious Freedom Gathering, held on the campus of Dallas Baptist University, will provide a space for believers to come together lifting up those who suffer for their faith and bearing witness to God’s love that extends to all people, regardless of belief. Hosted by the CAAP Network, Dallas Baptist University, and DBU’s newly established Center for Global Religious Freedom, this year’s Gathering introduces fresh workshops and interactive opportunities designed to deepen engagement and impact. We will also present the 2025 Frank Wolf International Religious Freedom Award at the dinner on October 20th. Read more and register here.
Beyond Tolerance: Recentering Religious Freedom on the Individual
What does religious freedom mean—to a community, or a person?
I recently participated in an online webinar on religious freedom, peacebuilding, and civil society in the Middle East and North Africa. Webinar participants came from Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and Sudan, representing both Muslim and Christian communities. They were all engaged in civil society, advocating for human rights, for women’s rights, or peace and reconciliation.
Once the main presentation concluded and we moved to the Q&A session, I noticed something rather surprising. Read more here.
Free Resources to Pray, Act and Stand with the Persecuted Church
Thousands of Christians in Myanmar have been forcibly displaced from their homes by military attacks.
A core part of 21Wilberforce’s mission is equipping you—and your church or faith community—with resources to stand in solidarity with those facing discrimination, marginalization, and persecution for their faith. To help you and your community take these steps, we’ve prepared free downloadable materials on our [RESOURCES page]. Whether for personal growth, small group study, or church-wide engagement, these tools are designed to inspire understanding and action. Access resources here.
The Hidden Toll: Eritrea’s War on Faith and Family
“In my distress I called upon the LORD, and cried to my God: and he did hear my voice out of his temple, and my cry did enter into his ears.” (Psalm 18:6)
Eritrean women praying. Credit: Reuters
“We really appreciate you being a voice for us. We are so glad we found someone to speak on behalf of our fathers, who have been incarcerated for two decades. Their absence has been incredibly tough on the families, especially on our mothers, who shouldered the burden of raising children while facing financial hardship and social exclusion. Read more here.
Quick Takes
Register to attend the October 20, 2025 21Wilberforce presentation of the Frank Wolf International Religious Freedom in Dallas. The award will be presented at a dinner during the two-day Global Religious Freedom Gathering held at Dallas Baptist University. Learn more about the award here.
Read Ashley Berryhill’s reflections on the recent Baptist World Congress held in Australia, The Church That Still Speaks: A Prophetic Reflection from BWA Congress
Ryan Foley of The Christian Post writes about the Eritrean Embassy Rejects A Petition Calling for the Release of Imprisoned Christian Leaders
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.