Today is the final day of BTJ’s VOP conference and the results have proven to be life changing.
BTJ hosted a Voice of the Persecuted Church conference over the weekend on the campus of Oxford University. It was the first time that BTJ has ever hosted such a conference in Europe, but it will most certainly not be the last.
We had 7 speakers from 5 countries, who served prison time in 4 different nations, representing 4 life sentences and 1 death row inmate.
Attendees flew from all over the world to attend the sold-out event.
“I have always wanted to attend a VOP conference,” said Tobias from Germany, “but never had the chance when it was hosted in the US. Now was my chance.”
“We were one a trip to Ireland,” said one attendee from Chicago, “and when we saw that the VOP was going to be in England, we immediately added a couple of extra days to our trip.”
“I have always been interested in Iran,” said one pastor who traveled with his wife all the way from Chile for the conference, “and you guys are one of the few voices out there sharing about what is going on.”
Brother Ren, a missionary to China for more than 44 years, shared about his unique experience of being shot at by Chinese police and what he experienced as a foreigner being arrested in China. It was one of the few times that Brother Ren has openly shared his experience in China.
This morning, we are looking forward to hear from Sister Esther Chang who is the only person alive to have served time in prison in both China and North Korea. She will share exclusive information about how she is still conducting ministry in North Korea today and give updates on the situation for the underground church.
We will also have the privilege to hear from Pastor Andrew Brunson who was given three life sentences in Turkey until God moved on his behalf. Pastor Brunson has just been appointed by President Donald Trump to the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom.
After the amazing response that we have seen in Europe, we will definitely have to do it again!
Listening and getting a small glimpse into what our Brothers and Sisters have been through and continue to do so to spread the Good news of Jesus was very Very humbling indeed. I was stunned and was very honoured to be listening to them. I will support this movement until the day I leave this Earth.
Nepal