Never written to someone who’s suffering because of their faith? Try these tips to help your letter bring encouragement and hope!

PRAY BEFORE YOU START

Ask God to give you the right words to say

SHARE GOD’S WORD

Include one or two Bible verses. For other languages, visit www.biblegateway.com

BE SENSITIVE

Please don’t dwell on the recipient’s plight, or share about the blessings of life in your country

KEEP IT SIMPLE

Write in simple English, or if you are able, in the recipient’s language. Short letters cost less for us to post on and are easier to translate for those recipients who do not speak English. Feel free to include your details, it’s fine to include your name and country but NOT your full address.

SECURITY

Please do not mention Open Doors in your letters, criticise a country’s religion or religious extremists, its government, judicial system or political leaders.

POSTCARDS

If you are writing a postcard, please send it in an envelope rather than writing Open Doors’ address on the card.

HANDMADE CARDS

Get creative and make your own cards. You’ll see in the list of people you can write to that we’ve included a number of children and they would love to receive a colourful card. Please note that any cards or pictures sent must be small, light and not too fragile for posting.

GIFTS

Please DO NOT include money in your letter or card as Open Doors will not be able to forward your gift on. It is unsafe and can cause difficulties for the recipient

NORTH KOREA

We regret we are unable to forward letters to believers in North Korea.

Please do keep a prayerful attitude as you write your letter or card. Once you’ve sent your letter, remember to pray for the person you’ve written to.

Dear [recipient’s name],

I heard about your situation and wanted to write to you and let you know that you are in my prayers. Although we have never met, we are united as brothers and sisters in Christ.

I cannot imagine what it must be like to have to endure your sufferings. But I know that the Lord is with you – even in the hardest times. I pray that you will know His presence and His peace everyday. Keep looking to Him and trusting in Him, because He is a faithful God.

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
(Psalm 46:1)

With love in Christ

[Your name] [Your country – optional]