Rishi Sunak’s Easter message highlights persecuted Christians ‘unable to rejoice freely’ | Politics | News | EUROtoday

Rishi Sunak has put the highlight on the plight of persecuted Christians in his Easter message. The Prime Minister applauded the “incredible work of Christians in this country” however mentioned many might be considering of fellow believers who’re “persecuted because of their faith, who are unable to celebrate Easter freely”.

The spiritual freedom Open Doors claims almost 5,000 Christians have been killed for faith-related causes final 12 months, with greater than 365million struggling “high levels of persecution and discrimination”.

Mr Sunak paid tribute to “churches, charities, volunteers and fundraisers who live the Christian values of compassion, charity and self-sacrifice”.

Meanwhile, Labour chief Sir Keir Starmer expressed his “gratitude to the Christian community in the UK and beyond, for their generosity and compassion”.

He mentioned: “Faith is really important. It’s a place where people can invest a lot of themselves and find comfort, hope and a sense of security.”

“Happy Easter everyone. This weekend, as people come together to celebrate and reflect on the message at the heart of the Easter festival, I want to pay tribute to the incredible work of Christians in this country.

“To the churches, charities, volunteers and fundraisers who live the Christian values of compassion, charity and self-sacrifice, supporting those in need and demonstrating what it means to “love thy neighbour”.

“Many, I know, will also be thinking of those in pain and suffering around the world and Christians, persecuted because of their faith, who are unable to celebrate Easter freely.

“For many of us in the UK, Easter is a chance to pause and reflect and an opportunity to spend some precious time with our families and a moment to enjoy the start of spring.

“So this weekend, let me wish you all a very happy and peaceful Easter.”

“The Easter story is one of hope and renewal, of overcoming adversity and light prevailing over darkness. As families and friends gather to celebrate the holiday we turn our thoughts towards new beginnings, our future and how things can change for the better.

“Faith is really important. It’s a place where people can invest a lot of themselves and find comfort, hope and a sense of security. This Easter I’d like to express my gratitude to the Chrisitan community in the UK and beyond, for their generosity and compassion.

“At this time of optimism and new beginnings, I thank them for everything they do, and wish you all those celebrating a very Happy Easter.”