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Four Ways to Observe
Day of the Christian Martyr

Today, as we observe Day of the Christian Martyr, we remember and honor the faithful witness of Pastor Jean-Paul Sankagui. The pastor’s name has been added to the Martyrs Memorial at VOM’s U.S. headquarters as a reminder of the great cloud of witnesses that surrounds us as we continue our own race.

After boldly planting a church in a Muslim neighborhood in the Central African Republic, the pastor stood firm as chaos erupted around him. Many in his church left the area when a clash between the government and anti-balaka militias fueled hostility toward Christians. Pastor Jean-Paul, however, stayed behind in obedience to God. On Feb. 7, 2017, Islamists shot him to death outside his church.

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Day of the Christian Martyr downloadable resources

We have so much to learn from Pastor Jean-Paul’s devotion to God and his servant heart. Below are four ways you can honor Pastor Jean-Paul’s faithful witness as you observe this important day.

Watch the video
VOM Radio host Todd Nettleton shares the story of Pastor Jean-Paul Sankagui in front of VOM’s Martyrs Memorial. The video also highlights the process of etching Pastor Jean-Paul’s name onto the memorial at VOM’s U.S. headquarters. VOM President and CEO Cole Richards shares closing remarks and prayer.
Reflect
Download VOM’s free Day of the Christian Martyr resources, including a list of questions for reflection.
Pray
Pray for the pastor’s wife, Mary; their 11 children; and their 17 grandchildren. Also pray for his church in the CAR. Ask God to show you how you can faithfully, sacrificially and boldly serve Him and His kingdom.
Share his story
Those who killed Pastor Jean-Paul thought they had silenced his testimony. But by God’s grace, his story continues to inspire and challenge people all over the world to grow in obedience to Christ.

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