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We are very sad to have to tell you that in the last few months there has been a sudden and terrifying upsurge in violent attacks on Christians in parts Nigeria, especially in the Middle Belt. The kidnapping and torture of priests and faithful has become rife. Many have been killed in horrific circumstances. On the night of 13^th June, as rain fell in the town of Yelewata in Benue State, Islamist militants descended and killed Christians en masse just as they were settling down for the night in IDP camps. First the extremists made for St Joseph’s Church, where displaced Christians were seeking refuge. Then the attackers turned their fire on the market square. What happened was too terrible to describe. Church leaders have now confirmed that 278 Christians were killed that night.

But, amid the heartbreaking suffering, there are shafts of light and hope: the commitment of the faithful to Christ is truly inspiring. Their faith in Our Lord and Saviour gives them the strength and the courage despite their hardship.

Throughout this year, ACN is focusing on helping the faithful in Nigeria by supporting projects to grow the Church, such as the training of seminarians and providing transport for priests to reach remote communities. We are also assisting with the creation of pastoral centres to help displaced families heal through trauma counselling and learn new skills. 

Visit our appeal page to find out more about the projects that ACN is supporting thanks to your generosity. You can also read a diary of our visit to Nigeria, featuring the stories of the amazing people we met and the experiences they shared with us. Any support you can give will help change the lives of our suffering brothers and sisters in Christ.

ACN NEWS

NIGERIA: "They beat me, but I thank God I survived"

Father Alphonsus Afina

A Catholic priest has miraculously survived being beaten, robbed, kidnapped and held captive for 51 days by Jihadi terrorists in Nigeria.

Father Alphonsus Afina was kidnapped by Islamist terrorists Boko Haram on 1^st June before being finally released on 21^st July with serious eye injuries, after which he returned returned to Maiduguri State to receive medical care.

Sharing his story with ACN Fr Afina said he was on his way to a workshop driving from Mubi to Maiduguri with two staff members when they passed a military checkpoint at Limankara.

Minutes later they drove by an explosive and heard gunshots.

“Armed men came out of the roadside bushes shooting at us. In the confusion of the moment, I abandoned my vehicle and ran.”

Read the full article>>

ACN #TEAMRED

THAMES MOONLIGHT 10 MILE WALK: FRIDAY 12^TH SEPTEMBER, 4:30PM 

#TeamRed action for this year’s #RedWednesday ‘Matched Challenge’ is well underway, with people and groups already setting up their fundraising activities.

Join ACN (UK) National Director Dr Caroline Hull on the exciting Thames Moonlight Walk to raise vital funds for suffering young Christians – ‘matched’ by generous benefactors. Enjoy the fantastic atmosphere en-route, as you pass Parliament, St Paul’s Cathedral and other landmarks, before celebrating with #TeamRed at the finish line!

• £49 registration

• £50 sponsorship

To express your interest email events@acnuk.org, and if you can’t do the Walk but want to sponsor Caroline and support suffering young Christians, click the button below.

ACN EVENTS

ACN YORK PILGRIMAGE AND WeBELIEVE FESTIVAL - THANK YOU!

These last couple of weeks have been very busy for our team, with multiple events happening across the UK.

A group of ACN pilgrims from across the UK journeyed in the footsteps of the Northern saints and martyrs last week. As well as reflecting on the past, we also learnt about – and prayed for – modern-day martyrs throughout the world. The pilgrimage concluded with Mass at the Shrine of St Margaret Clitherow in York.

ACN SHOP

FEAST OF THE ASSUMPTION