21 Wilberforce: Faith deserves freedom. April update

Live from the Siburt Institute

        Source:                       www.21wilberforce.com
Date:                            April 7, 2026

 PRESIDENT'S BLOG

The Hidden Blessings of the Church in Minority

The Beatitudes in Matthew 5 portray the blessedness of those who are poor in spirit, meek, persecuted, and without earthly power—showing spiritual strength apart from worldly authority. Without power, our worship, love of neighbor, humanitarian aid, calls for justice and righteousness, and challenge to religious persecution all strongly embody the eschatological hope we have in Jesus. READ MORE HERE.

We Need An Evangelical Board of Peace

Today’s moment calls for a senior, strategic, and well-resourced evangelical response to the growing threat of violent conflict. We owe it to our brothers and sisters suffering from armed violence and sometimes fighting one another. READ MORE HERE.

21WILBERFORCE: TURNING MISSION INTO IMPACT

Nigerian Authorities Must Act to Prevent Violence During Holy Week

We, the undersigned organizations, mourn the tragic loss of life following two attacks carried out around Palm Sunday that killed dozens of innocent civilians and left many others injured, or abducted. READ MORE HERE

A Partnership for Peace: First Step Forum's Strategic Visit to Nigeria

In March 2026, a delegation from the First Step Forum (FSF) traveled to Abuja, Nigeria, for a series of high-level engagements with religious leaders, civil society organizations and government officials. The visit — co-facilitated by 21Wilberforce in partnership with local Nigerian organizations — marked the forum’s first official visit to the country and an important step in strengthening international collaboration to address persistent religious violence and promote peaceful coexistence in one of Africa’s most influential nations. READ MORE HERE.

Podcast with Wissam al-Saliby: How the Church Can Support Persecuted Christians Worldwide

In this episode of Live from the Siburt Institute, host Myles Werntz, Associate Professor of Theology and Director of Baptist Studies at Abilene Christian University, welcomes Wissam al-Saliby, President of 21Wilberforce. The podcast, produced by the Siburt Institute for Church Ministry, brings together scholars and practitioners to explore the challenges facing the global church and the ways thoughtful theology can inform faithful leadership. LISTEN HERE.

Ken Camp Joins 21Wiberforce Board After a Life in Journalism

Early in his career, Camp had an experience that helped define his sense of purpose. He traveled to Mexico City following the 1985 earthquake (photo above), where he spent time with disaster relief volunteers serving people affected by the devastation. READ MORE HERE.

THE 2026 USCIRF REPORT: Why it Matters For the World and the Church

The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) has released its 2026 Annual Report documenting religious freedom conditions around the world in 2025. The findings are sobering. Yet the report is more than a catalog of atrocities—it is a warning and a call to action. READ MORE HERE.

FIELD STORIES

Remembering Keith Skaar

HUMBLE LEADER, GENEROUS SUPPORTER AND FOUNDING 21WILBERFORCE BOARD MEMBER DIES
21Wilberforce mourns the passing of Keith Skaar, a founding board member whose quiet faith, generous spirit and unwavering commitment to Christ helped shape the organization from its earliest days. READ MORE HERE.

Blessed are the Peacemakers: A Life Shaped by Faith and Moral Courage

Through prior work with the Burma Advocacy Group on advocacy initiatives addressing persecution and displacement in Burma and his service for the Baptist World Alliance, 21Wilberforce has come to know the leadership and witness of Rev. Dr. A. Roy Medley. His life story offers a powerful window into the faith, moral clarity, and interfaith commitment that animate this shared work. READ MORE HERE.

QUICK TAKES

Help us expand our impact by sharing this newsletter with others who care about defending freedom of religion or belief at the local level—where these violations are personal and deeply affect human dignity. Invite them to sign up for timely insights, resources, and ways to support at-risk communities through the work of 21Wilberforce. You can also share this link for our Alert newsletter sign-up: click here

A core part of 21Wilberforce’s mission is equipping you—and your church or faith community—with free resources to stand in solidarity with those facing discrimination, marginalization, and persecution for their faith.

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21Wilberforce is walking alongside churches and Christians in some of the world’s most challenging places, where faith is tested by persecution. By investing in leaders and local congregations—the frontline workers—we are helping to strengthen indigenous, sustainable advocacy for religious freedom. We invite you to join us in this journey of faith, fellowship, and unity with those who suffer, standing together as one body to advance hope and freedom.

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