Bishops in the US are asking the faithful to pray for victims of religious persecution and violence this Lenten season.
The Statement on Religious Persecution crafted by the US Conference of Catholic Bishops' Administrative Committee, was released in response to the oppression being suffered by believers for their faith, especially in the Middle East where religious conflict is prevalent.
Recently, 21 Coptic Christians were beheaded by ISIS terrorists in a show of force that shocked the world.
The video released by the group entitled "A Message Signed With Blood to the Nation of the Cross," showed the Christian hostages calling on the name of Jesus until their last moments.
The Coptic Church has since declared the 21 Christians as martyrs.
"On behalf of America's Catholic Bishops, we pause to listen and invite people of all faiths to join us in prayer for those facing the stark reality of religious persecution in the Middle East and elsewhere. The testimony of those 21 brave and courageous martyrs does not stand alone as thousands of families – Christian and other religions – find themselves fleeing from horrific violence," the US bishops continued.
They further urged people to work towards the protection of the marginalised and the persecuted in line with efforts being made by the Churches and the Church leadership .
The bishops added that Americans should join hands with the international community to uphold and protect the rights of minorities and civilians in line with international and humanitarian law.
The bishops underscored the need for increased humanitarian and development assistance for those who are affected by conflict.
"Lent is a season to meditate upon the Cross and unite ourselves even more closely with Christ's suffering. Let us use this season to unite with our suffering brothers and sisters and pray for them and with them in a special way. With hope, let us pray for the day when we can all share in the joy and lasting peace of Christ's resurrection," the statement read.
