Our family is watching the Olympics and noticing how often athletes display the cross, either on a necklace or by making the sign of the cross as a gesture of prayer. For example, a Brazilian gymnast just finished his routine and then crossed himself in prayer. As you enjoy the Olympic competition, look for examples of the cross, which unites God’s people across the nations.
China Aid has reported in its 2015 Annual Report of Religious and Human Rights Persecution in China that as many as 20,000 people suffered religious persecution by the Communist Party throughout the year.
CHR Comment: The main cause of persecution is a beautification project that has resulted in the removal of numerous crosses from churches and the demolition of church buildings.
Source: China’s Persecution of Believers Swells to 20,000 in ‘Barbaric’ Round Ups, Report Finds
Pakistani Christian, Parvez Henry Gill, is funding the building of a 140 ft. tall cross in Gora Qabristan, one of the older cemeteries in Karachi. Muslim workmen are involved in the project.
Asia’s largest Cross being built in Karachi – The Times of India.
“Our prelates are hung and not shot. Respect our traditions!” Damaskinos replied to Gen. Jurgen Stroop, SS, when he threatened to have Damaskinos shot for arguing against the deportation of Jews from Greece. The Greek Orthodox Bishop Who Stood Up to the Nazis | Acton PowerBlog.
Christians in Iraq experience another form of persecution, characterized as idolaters.
ISIS Supporters Replacing Iraqi Church Crosses With Black Flags: Report.
