Crisis Relief for the Persecuted Church

“If one part suffers, every part suffers with it.” – 1 Corinthians 12:26

Across the world, men and women are discovering new life in Christ — and choosing to follow Him, even when it costs them everything. In one community, a growing group of believers from Muslim backgrounds in the Middle East has embraced the Gospel with joy, courage, and contagious faith.

They are rejoicing in freedom, forgiveness, and fellowship. But they are also suffering — physically, socially, and in many cases, violently—because of that decision. If they are willing to bear the cost of fellowship with Christ — and with us — in their bodies, we can carry the cost of care on their behalf.

This past April (2025), $5,000 was urgently needed (see Emergency Evacuation Project under the Completed Projects tab) to help nearly thirty people evacuate during an attack to neighboring regions and countries, where they remained in safety until persecution relinquished and they were able to return to the city.

Now, local missionaries — who understand these communities’ challenges firsthand — are asking for GapFill donors’ help to establish a $25,000 Relief Fund. This fund will ensure resources are ready when the next crisis arises — a practical and immediate way to bring hope and protection to those at risk.

In the Arab Islamic world healthcare is not simply a matter of logistics — it is deeply social. Access often flows through family networks and shared insurance systems. Seeking care through these channels can unintentionally expose a believer’s faith — or even their location — to families that may respond with rejection, threats, or more violence. In multiple recent cases, family members — once alerted — have cut off access to care, or taken actions that placed the believer in even greater danger. These dynamics are not theoretical or exceptional. They are real and recurring.

This fund will directly support:

  •  Safe, discreet medical care outside family or public systems when necessary

  •  Emergency evacuation and relocation when lives are at risk

  • Short-term housing and daily needs for those forced to flee

  •  Flexible field response, empowering local leaders to meet urgent needs quickly and wisely

This community is not shrinking back. They are worshiping. They are gathering. They are growing. Because their joy is real, they are doing all these at cost. You can help carry that cost—and remind them they are not alone.

We echo that old Moravian slogan: “May the Lamb that was slain receive the reward of His suffering.”

And through your help, this church can continue what God has called them to:
bearing witness, making disciples, and participating in the mission of God — because whatever the cost, Christ counts the greatest.

Thank you for your support for those suffering for Christ!