The Philippine churches goes red in solidarity with persecuted Christians in the world

Various dioceses, shrines, basilicas and universities spread throughout the country. Even the faithful invited to dress in red, in the context of the campaign #RedWednesdayPH campaign. Among the goals are educating the public on the vastness of persecution and encouraging the defense of the faith.


Manila (AsiaNews) - As a sign of solidarity with millions of persecuted Christians around the world, some churches and universities in the Philippines "are tinged" red today. According to the CbcpNews Episcopal Conference site, worship sites and research centers will illuminate their facades throughout the day, while prayers and services are celebrated in the afternoon.

The initiative, the promoters explain, is part of the "Red Wednesday" campaign and social networking through the hashtag #RedWednesdayPH campaign. On this day, the faithful are also invited to dress in red ì, in solidarity with those who suffer because of their Christian faith.

Echoing Pope Francis, Jomar Luciano, national director of Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) Philippines, the lead organizer of the said campaign said:" I hope that through this campaign, more Filipinos will be made aware of the reality and the severity of persecution of their fellow Christians”  and that this awareness leads to concrete actions of support through prayer, information, and charity.”

According to a briefer released by ACN Philippines, the #RedWednesdayPH campaign aims to achieve the following goals: Educate the public including the youth about the nature and scale of Christian persecution;Create awareness among Filipino Christians of their membership within a bigger global Christian family; Encourage Christians of all ages and traditions to stand up for faith and freedom and the right of Christians to practice their faith without fear or obstruction.

The international campaign also involves other nations, including the United Kingdom, Australia, Ireland, Italy and France. In the Philippines, the initiative is supported, among others, by the archdiocese of Manila, Zamboanga, Palo, Jolo apostolic vicarage, the diocese of Baguio and Antipolo, the basilica of the Black Nazarene and several shrines scattered throughout the country.