Red Wednesday: Global Monuments Light Up for Persecuted Christians

Prominent buildings worldwide turned red on November 20 as part of the annual Red Wednesday campaign organized by the papal foundation Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) to honour persecuted Christians and advocate for religious freedom. Events in over 20 countries including Masses, testimonies and concerts, highlighted the plight of persecuted Christians globally, with participation growing since the initiative's launch in 2016.

Hundreds of cathedrals, churches and public landmarks lit up in red, symbolizing the blood of martyrs, as part of the papal foundation ACN’s campaign. This year’s theme focuses on Christian children and young people displaced by violence and persecution, particularly in Africa and the Middle East. Countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, France and Australia hosted over 300 events ranging from prayer services to parliamentary discussions.

In the UK, Cardinal Vincent Nichols of Westminster endorsed the campaign, encouraging individuals and parishes to pray for suffering Christians. London’s iconic Westminster Parliament and other landmarks were illuminated in red, alongside a special Mass at Brompton Oratory. ACN-UK also urged citizens to sign an open letter to Foreign Secretary David Lammy, advocating for increased international aid to support persecuted religious minorities.

France hosted testimonies from survivors of persecution and ACN Germany live streamed a concert. Ireland participates by lighting 26 cathedrals in red. Notably, the Church of England is joining the campaign for the first time, offering resources for parishes to pray for persecuted Christians and highlighting dates dedicated to intercessory prayers.

Suggested prayers and specific dates are listed when Christians pray for their brothers and sisters in distress including February 15, the Day of Contemporary Martyrs, August 22, the Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief and the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church, on the first Sunday of November.

Courtesy: Vatican News