How can you pray for persecuted Christians this week? Here are some specific requests for this week. (Feel free to print them out and take them with you to church this weekend to share with Christian friends and others who will pray with you.)

"Every time you kneel down and pray for Vietnam, you are working with us in Vietnam."

A new web site is live this week in conjunction with the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church (IDOP), which churches around the world will commemorate this Sunday, November 3.

This week offers a tremendous opportunity for prayer that those of the Muslim faith visiting Saudi Arabia encounter Christ.

One month from today—November 3—marks the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church (IDOP). On this special Sunday thousands of churches, literally from around the world, take time to “Remember the prisoners as if chained with them—those who are mistreated—since you yourselves are in the body also” (Hebrews 13:3).

Several years ago Heather Mercer, former prisoner for Christ in Afghanistan, visited VOM's offices. Her visit happened during Ramadan, and we asked Heather specific ways that Christians should pray for Muslims during Ramadan.

Today, we are praying and fasting together for “Rashid,” a new convert to Christianity in Jordan who is going through trials because of his faith. He is experiencing family problems and feels isolated in his new faith. His wife left him and is asking for a divorce. When a VOM worker told him we would be praying for him on July 1, he was amazed. Pray that he grows in his faith. Pray that he will be reconciled with his wife. Pray for more community for him. And pray for the many more brothers and sisters like him in the Middle East, along with the workers who are reaching them for Christ.

A VOM worker in Jordan sent this email yesterday:

Iranian forces arrested Rev. Robert Asserian on Tuesday, May 21 as he conducted a prayer meeting at the Assemblies of God church in Tehran where he serves as one of the pastors. Security forces raided his house earlier in the morning, confiscating belongings such as his computer and books before moving to the church to arrest him. He was taken to an unknown location.

Every week we like to end the week by sharing with you some prayer requests for the persecuted church. This week is no different, and since Christmas is early next week I'd like to also ask you to remember to pray on Christmas for our dear brothers and sisters in Christ in restricted nations, since persecution on Christian holidays often increases. Please share these requests with praying friends and family.