July 2022 Action
In 2015 Pastor Andrew, a leader of the church in Guyaku, northern Nigeria hid with his congregation in caves and remote areas while Boko Haram raided their village, murdering anyone they could catch, burning all but six homes down, and destroying Pastor Andrew’s church. Many Christians who survived the attack refused to return to Guyaku when they discovered their homes were rubble. However, Pastor Andrew—and several other believers in Guyaku—had been determined to remain in the village and to rebuild their homes and the church. This has been an incredible witness, and it has encouraged other Christians to return—continuing to let the light of the gospel shine in this persecuted region. When asked how the attack has affected his faith, Pastor Andrew was resolved. He said, “Come what may, I won’t turn back because I know there is a reward that awaits me.” Let’s write today to encourage Pastor Andrew and other believers in Guyaku! Below is the address for Open Doors, which will forward physical letters on to Pastor Andrew in Nigeria, as well as helpful guidelines for sending notes that will have the best impact. English is the official language in Nigeria.
Write to:
Writing guidelines:
- Greeting cards, children’s artwork and postcards are best.
- Feel free to share one encouraging Bible verse.
- Print clearly.
- Show sensitivity; please don’t dwell on Pastor Andrew’s challenges or share about the blessings of life in your country.
For security:
- Do not mention Open Doors in your letters.
- If you write a postcard, please send it in an envelope and do not write Open Doors’ address on the postcard.
- You may provide your name, but do not provide your full address.
- Do not criticize a country’s religion or religious extremists, its government, judicial system or political leaders.
- Do not send money or make proposals to help.