When writing a letter on behalf of the Persecuted Church, it is important to remember that your words are never wasted. Mail sent by concerned believers can have a significant effect on the life of those who are suffering and even upon those who are inflicting suffering upon others.

• Letters to hostile and restricted nations demolish the theory that the West is indifferent to events within their borders.
• Letters demonstrate the unity that exists within the Body of Christ and further strengthens the Christian testimony of those in prison.
• Letters often lead to better treatment of Christian prisoners.
• Letters are a tremendous source of encouragement to prisoners and their families because they provide a tangible reminder that they are not forgotten.

What to write

• Tell them your name and that you know about their situation.
• Always be respectful and encouraging.
• Tell them that they are not forgotten and that they are being prayed for.
• Include a verse of Scripture although you may wish to avoid including the reference.

What not to write

• NEVER criticize their government or discuss politics as this could place Christian prisoners in danger.
• NEVER include your mailing address (you may state your name and country)
• NEVER send money or respond to requests for money. Unscrupulous individuals, claiming to be the prisoner or a family member, occasionally steal letters and solicit funds. Contact us if you require more information.
• NEVER mention The Voice of the Martyrs or any other source of information.

May I write in English?

Yes, write in English, but please watch your penmanship. Your note must be legible to be translated. Many people study English, so there will often be someone to translate your letter.

Can I do anything else?

You can also send notes, postcards even bookmarks. Attractive Christian greeting cards are especially cherished. Express your Christian love and mention you are praying (then do!).

If you want to make your letter even more personal and special, you may want to include a snapshot of yourself, your family or your prayer group.

Please do not send the letters to The Voice of the Martyrs Canada for mailing. The letters are more effective when the officials see persons have sent them from many different parts of our nation.

Encouraging your brothers and sisters around the world:
Around the world, our brothers and sisters daily face persecution for their faith in Jesus Christ. The Voice of the Martyrs' sister mission in the United States has created a online tool to help you to minister to and encourage our captive brothers and sisters through writing a letter in their language. Click here to learn more.

Prisoners List
A document (in .pdf format), containing the names and contact addresses of a number of Christians who are in prison for their faith, with practical guidelines on how towrite letters to governments and to prisoners. We attempt to update this list once a month. You can download this document by clicking here (PDF).