World

Release warns of persecution threat against British Muslim converts

Some Muslim background believers in the UK lose their homes, possessions and even custody of their children - a picture replicated in many nations around the world, where former Muslims may even lose their lives for changing their faith.

Release International’s patron, Bishop Michael Nazir Ali has also been under police protection after receiving death-threats for expressing his concerns about some aspects of Islam in Britain. He endured similar threats in his homeland Pakistan, but never expected the same thing to happen in the UK.

Bishop Nazir-Ali said: "The story of the church is a story of persecution. The blood of the martyrs has been, and is, and will be the seed of the church."

Release International’s CEO Andy Dipper said: "Release has seen many such cases around the world. Now these things are beginning to happen in the UK.

"Converts from a Muslim background may be traumatised, having faced intense pressure, threats, blackmail and the loss of their families and homes. They often have to cope with either secrecy or intimidation, and may need emotional and spiritual counselling.

"These new Christians may have material needs, such as for shelter, food and clothing. We need to be hands-on in our help and to open the doors of our homes. We also need to equip and train more churches here in Britain in how they can best support new church members from a Muslim background."

Through its international network of missions Release International supports Christians imprisoned for their faith and their families in 30 nations. It supports church workers, pastors and their families, and provides training, Bibles, Christian literature and broadcasts. Release International is a member of the UK organisations Global Connections, the Evangelical Alliance and the Micah Network.


Yasmin's story is in the latest edition of Release International’s Witness magazine, available from www.releaseinternational.org.

• Imprisoned Lao Christians released but persecution continues
• Church leaders sense growing trust
• African leaders called to protect life and democracy in Zimbabwe
• CSW urges UN Secretary General to prioritise human rights in Myanmar
• Orissa bishops warn of 'master plan' to wipe-out Christianity

Church leaders sense growing trust

Leaders of the major denominations that make up the global body of Christ have expressed their continued commitment to..

• Orissa bishops warn of 'master plan' to wipe-out Christianity
• Faith will play big role in Obama's presidency, author predicts
• Imprisoned Lao Christians released but persecution continues