While we celebrate Christmas, let us think about our brothers in faith: Christians in Africa and Asia for whom Christmas, as well as Easter, is an especially hard time. These important days, which are normally marked for celebration and worship, are instead marked by intensifying terrorist attacks and repression.
Only in 2022, 360 million Christians lived in countries characterized by repressions and discrimination of their faith. Close to 5,900 Christians were murdered this year solely because of their faith.
In addition, 5,110 churches — including those targeted in Europe — or other buildings of worship were attacked, destroyed or burned. Let us add that 6,175 of our fellow believers in the world were arrested without trial and sentenced to prison.
Another 3,829 Christians were executed.
To all those who want to make deals with the Taliban in Kabul, let me remind you that Afghanistan is at the top of the list of countries repressing Christians.
During this time, we should think about those who pay the highest price for their and our faith.
